If you head about 65 miles east into the Inland Empire, you’ll find a completely different kind of coastal vibe. Nestled against the backdrop of the Bernasconi Hills is Lake Perris State Recreation Area — spanning 8,800 acres of diverse landscapes, and home to real sand, warm freshwater, and a mountain-rimmed horizon. For Angelenos looking to broaden their local travel horizons, Perris Beach provides a refreshing, easily accessible change of scenery.
The Two Main Shores: Perris Beach & Moreno Beach
Lake Perris features two expansive, designated swimming areas with clean sand and plenty of room to spread out a towel.
Moreno Beach (Lots 8–10): Located a bit further down, this spot offers stunning southern-facing views and a vibrant atmosphere. Like Perris Beach, it features wide stretches of sand perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles.
Perris Beach (Lots 1–4): The main hub of the lake. It features vast sandy shorelines, changing rooms, restrooms, and easy access. It is ideal for families looking to set up base camp for the day.
Beyond the Sand: A Full Ecosystem of Activities
An inland beach day doesn’t mean you are limited to just swimming. Lake Perris is a massive playground where the water activities integrate perfectly with the surrounding terrain.
1. Hit the Water
Speedboats, jet skis, pontoon rentals, kayaks, and paddleboards are all fair game here. There is plenty of room to wakeboard or simply drift. If you love fishing, the lake is well-known for its trophy largemouth bass, and it gets stocked with rainbow trout during the cooler months.
2. Bike or Hike the Loop
If you want to stretch your legs, the Lake Perris Loop Trail is a 9-mile paved path that completely circles the water. It’s relatively flat, highly scenic, and perfect for a casual bike ride or a morning run before the afternoon heat sets in.
3. Conquer “Big Rock”
For the adventurous type, the park features Big Rock, a massive 180-foot granite structure that draws rock climbers from all over Southern California. It features over 30 established routes catering to both beginners and seasoned climbers.
4. Immerse in Local History
Need a break from the sun? Take a quick detour to the Ya’i Heki’ Regional Indian Museum. It offers an incredibly insightful look into the history, culture, and traditions of the indigenous Cahuilla people and other local tribes who have called this land home for millennia.
🗺️ Address: Lake Perris State Recreation Area. 17801 Lake Perris Dr, Perris, CA 92571
