Summer officially begins on June 21, but you couldn't fool me with the hot weather we have already been dealing with. No doubt, this summer is going to be hotter than ever, and what better way to cool off than at a tropical beach?

Sand Island

I couldn't believe it when a friend told me about Sand Island on Norfork Lake in Arkansas. What I found looked like a tropical oasis with white sand with blue-green clear water, I thought I was dreaming, this couldn't be in Arkansas. Boy, was I wrong?

Rolando Martinez, YouTube
Rolando Martinez, YouTube
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Of course, the only way you can reach this island is by boat or watercraft on Norfolk Lake. People have discovered this little paradise and are coming from all over the country to indulge in its beauty which is surrounded by the scenic views of the Ozark Mountains.

Rolando Martinez, YouTube
Rolando Martinez, YouTube
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What's that old song? "Don't Worry, Be Happy" If you don't have a boat there are plenty of places near there that offer boat rentals and houseboats for larger groups.

Rolando Martinez, YouTube
Rolando Martinez, YouTube
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The white sand that surrounds the island is perfect for sunbathing or sinking your toes in the sand while you sip on a cool one on the beach or in the water.

Rolando Martinez, YouTube
Rolando Martinez, YouTube
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According to their website, Sand Island is called the Caribbean of the South. Now I know why!

Rolando Martinez, YouTube
Rolando Martinez, YouTube
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Sand Island is worth the drive from Texarkana about 5 hours and if you want to spend the night there are several cabins in the area like Hand Cove Resort. There are also campsites, picnic areas, and great fishing holes on Norfork Lake

YouTube
YouTube
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With more than 550 miles of shoreline, the lake is so clear and clean it makes for great scuba diving as well.

Rolando Martinez, YouTube
Rolando Martinez, YouTube
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What Lies Beneath Lake Norfork?

Scuba Divers will love exploring the remnants of two towns that were sunk with buildings, ruins, and even a cemetery underneath the lake when the dam was built in the early 1940s.

Rolando Martinez, YouTube
Rolando Martinez, YouTube
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So, you see if you are looking for a great place for some fun in the sun with a tropical vibe, Sand Island on Norfork Lake in Arkansas is the best place to go without breaking your pocketbook.

Find out more about Sand Island here.

Take a look at this amazing drone footage.

Arkansas Lake House For Breezy Summer Nights

Looking for a summer vacation on an Arkansas Lake? This place is for you!

Gallery Credit: Lisa Lindsey

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