One of Moscow’s most famous summer getaways, Serebryany Bor is a forested peninsula with sandy beaches and clean swimming zones. It’s a mix of lively stretches and quieter coves, popular for swimming, volleyball, and sunbathing.
Location: Northwest Moscow, Moskva River bend
Getting There: Metro to Polezhaevskaya, then bus/shuttle
Best For: Families, picnics, active beachgoers
Facilities: Sunbeds, cafés, sports courts, rentals
Located on the Moscow River, Strogino has sandy banks and wide swimming areas. It’s less crowded than Serebryany Bor and has a more local, relaxed vibe.
Location: Strogino district, northwest Moscow
Getting There: Metro Line 3 to Strogino
Best For: Swimming, casual beach days
Facilities: Sunbathing lawns, kiosks, lifeguards (summer)
Set around a small lake, Troparevo is a family-friendly spot in southwest Moscow. It has designated swimming areas, green lawns, and playgrounds, making it perfect for a local summer outing.
Location: Southwest Moscow, near Troparevo district
Getting There: Metro to Troparevo, short walk
Best For: Families, relaxed swims, picnics
Facilities: Sandy shore, playgrounds, cafés
The Khimki Reservoir to the north of Moscow has several sandy beaches popular for both swimming and boating. It’s also home to yacht clubs and watersport activities.
Location: Khimki district, north Moscow
Getting There: Metro to Rechnoy Vokzal, then bus/taxi
Best For: Water sports, boating, summer hangouts
Facilities: Beach cafés, boat rentals, piers
A smaller but popular sandy stretch along the Khimki Reservoir, Levoberezhny attracts families and local swimmers. It’s easily accessible and has a neighborhood feel.
Location: Levoberezhny District, north Moscow
Getting There: Metro to Khovrino, then short bus
Best For: Families, relaxed afternoons
Facilities: Lifeguards, snack kiosks, playground
Inside Sokolniki Park, several ponds have small designated bathing areas. While not full beaches, they’re popular for quick dips and sunbathing after a walk or bike ride in the park.
Location: Sokolniki Park, northeast Moscow
Getting There: Metro to Sokolniki, walk into park
Best For: City convenience, quick swims, picnics
Facilities: Lawns, snack stalls, benches
A clean lake southwest of the city, Meshcherskoye offers sandy areas, cycling paths, and forest surroundings. It feels more like a nature retreat while still within Moscow’s limits.
Location: Near Solntsevo District, southwest Moscow
Getting There: Metro to Borovskoye Shosse, short bus
Best For: Families, quiet swimming, nature
Facilities: Sandy beach, snack kiosks, bike trails
Moscow may not have a coastline, but its rivers, reservoirs, and lakes provide plenty of places to beat the summer heat. From the lively beaches of Serebryany Bor to family-friendly spots like Troparevo and Meshcherskoye, the city offers a surprising variety of outdoor escapes within easy reach of its urban core.