Does It Snow On The Beach? (Full Answer)

Updated: February 19, 2020 | Bucketlist

When you think of snow, the beach usually isn’t the first place that comes to mind.

We’ve had quite a few people DM us on our Instagram account asking if it’s possible to get snow on the beach.

So, we’re here to bust myths and let you know once and for all if it does snow at the beach – or in any tropical destination for that matter.

Does it snow on the beach?

The short answer is yes, it does snow on the beach. Many cities and towns around the world experience snowy conditions in winter, but also have sandy beaches to enjoy in summer – once the snow has melted.

To some people, this is the best of both worlds, but to others, it’s a nightmare.

Where does it snow on the beach?

Here are some popular destinations that have snow-covered beaches in winter.

First, Iceland is home to quite a few beautiful and unique beaches, like its famous Black Sand Beach. In winter, you may even see an iceberg float by!

snow on the beach under aurora lights
Tobias Bjørkli / Unsplash

Another European snowy beach destination is the Lofoten Islands in Norway. The archipelago sits in the Norwegian Sea and transforms into a winter wonderland every year. Snow on the beach and the Northern Lights – what a winning combo.

snow on the beach in Norway
Maria Pablo-Romero / Unsplash

Finally, in the United States, you’ll find snow-covered beaches every winter, across the country.

From The Great Lakes region to the East Coast, there’s no shortage of snow on the beach. This includes the beaches on Lake Michigan in snowy Chicago to coastal states like New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Maine.

Does it snow in tropical destinations?

Tropical destinations like Australia, Mexico, and Hawaii don’t normally get snow. However, there are always exceptions to this rule. For example, in the tropical north of Australia, it never snows. But if you head south you’ll find snow during the winter along the Australian Alps and in Tasmania, which is known for its scenic beaches.

As for Hawaii, there are three places with an elevation of over 10,000 feet that do receive snow…

Below is an image of snow on Mauna Kea, Hawaii.

Snow on Mauna Kea, Hawaii
Alexey Kamenskiy / ShutterStock

This is the same in Mexico, as high peaks like Iztaccihuantl and Popocatepetl regularly receive snow in winter. But if you stick to the beach, you’ll be safe from the snow year-round in tropical destinations around the world.

So, are you going to bundle up and visit a snow-covered beach this winter, or skip the snow and head to a tropical destination where it’s summer year-round?

Snow on the beach pictures

surfing on a snowy beach in Norway
Christoffer Engström / Unsplash
cold winter day on a snow covered beach
ppl / ShutterStock
Clare James / ShutterStock