Sand Dune Beach sits along the Columbia River near Prosser in Benton County, offering visitors a peaceful riverside retreat in the heart of Washington wine country. This Columbia River access point features sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing and wading, with the warm waters of the river providing a refreshing escape during hot summer days. The beach area benefits from the surrounding agricultural landscape of the Yakima Valley, where hop fields and vineyards create a scenic backdrop to your river visit. Located near the confluence region where the Yakima River meets the Columbia, this spot attracts families seeking a quiet alternative to more crowded recreational areas. The sandy dunes that give the beach its name create natural windbreaks and add character to the landscape, while the relatively calm waters make it suitable for young children to play under supervision. Visitors can enjoy views across the wide expanse of the Columbia River, with the distant hills of the Horse Heaven region visible on the horizon.
Swimming and wading are popular activities at Sand Dune Beach, though visitors should be aware of potential swimmer's itch warnings that Benton County occasionally issues for parts of the Columbia River during warmer months. The sandy shoreline provides excellent space for beach games, sandcastle building, and picnicking, making it ideal for extended family outings. Fishing from shore attracts anglers targeting bass, walleye, and other Columbia River species, while the relatively protected waters make it possible to launch kayaks or paddleboards for exploring upstream and downstream. Bird watchers often spot waterfowl, herons, and other species that frequent the Columbia River corridor. The beach's location near Prosser means you are just minutes from the town's amenities while enjoying a natural riverside setting. During peak summer months, water quality monitoring is important - the Columbia River can experience harmful algae blooms, so checking current conditions through the Swim Guide app before visiting is recommended. The Benton Franklin Health District provides updates on water quality to ensure safe recreation.
After your beach visit, Prosser's downtown offers excellent dining options that showcase the region's agricultural bounty. The Prosser House serves chef-driven cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere, with rotating seasonal dishes highlighting local ingredients and an impressive selection of craft beers on tap from regional breweries. Wine o'Clock at Bunnell Family Cellar provides upscale casual dining with seasonal menus designed to complement their award-winning wines, featuring dishes like grilled salmon with herb butter and locally sourced steaks. Desert Wind Winery's restaurant offers Southwest-inspired cuisine with stunning views overlooking the Yakima River, including favorites like chipotle chicken tacos, mesquite-grilled ribeye, and fresh salads incorporating produce from nearby farms. Horse Heaven Saloon combines family ownership with passion for in-house craft beer and unique gastropub fare, serving items like hop-infused burgers, beer-battered fish and chips, and artisan pizzas. Whitstran Steaks and Spirits delivers classic steakhouse dining with perfectly aged beef cuts, seafood options, and an extensive wine list featuring Prosser-area vintages.
