Activity: Longview Lake Beach

Location: Take I-470 to Raytown Road and turn south, go approximately two miles, turn left.

Website: Longview Lake Beach

Ages: Appropriate for All

Cost: $3.00 for children under 15, $5.00 for adults

Hours of Operation: WEEKDAY

May 31 - June 10	3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m
June 13 - August 12	1:00 p.m - 7:00 p.m.
August 15 - August 19	3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS

May 28 - September 5

11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Review:
This is the second great lake beach we have found in the KC area. In the summer, it's a great place to go.

Located on west side of Longview lake, it can be a bit difficult to find. But just drive around the lake and you'll come across the facility that serves as the gate for the beach. A word of caution though, the gate to get in can be a bit tricky if you are carrying a load of stuff that going to the beach with children requires. But be patient and persistent, the beach is worth it.

This is a large beach, probably a bit smaller than a football field. It's covered with good sand, not the crap that you can sometimes find at lake beaches. This sand extends into the lake itself so there is no mud or seaweed that could freak the kids out. However, there is no shade or chairs on the beach itself so you will need to bring an umbrella (if you have it) and chairs. Or you could just lay down on a towel which is fine but just remember that the sand can get mighty hot. Bring sandals or flip flops for the whole family to make it past some of the hotter spots.

But once the kids get down to the water, it's all play. Sand castles, moats, little wars between good and evil, it's perfect. The water itself also slopes gently and goes for a pretty long way so it is deceptive about how deep it is. Make sure you keep a good eye on the kiddos when they are out there.

There are also a couple of beach volleyball courts out there for a couple of you more athletic dads. As for locker rooms and bathrooms, I honestly can't say as we had no need for them.

This is worth several trips in the summer where you can spend a great day at the beach.

j