Manila Creek Pond

We went to the beach today! The beach was at a park in Pleasant Grove called Manila Creek Pond. This park was built last year and features a black sand beach and fishing facilities.

The beach covers much of the south side of the pond and has gently sloping, pebbly black sand. The water is nice, but there is no natural shade as the park. We took our pop-up shade pavilion as well as pails and shovels, water noodles, and beach towels. Next time we’ll want a frisbee or a ball to throw. The sign for park rules says that no flotation devices or boats are allowed on the pond, but we saw both. Also, there is no lifeguard on duty, so stay close to little ones. Our kids splashed and played for nearly 2 hours.

There is also fishing here, with a fish-cleaning station. We have never caught fish here, but we have watched plenty of people reel some in. Fishing is not allowed from the beach, so you will need to try the rocky side opposite the beach area. Also, make sure you have a current fishing license.

One drawback to this park is that there is no place to wash off the sand. There are restrooms, but no showers like you would see on a beach in California. That meant toweling off the sand as best you could. Luckily, the sand is not the fine Hawaiian sand that gets everywhere and travels with you on your next 3 vacations. It’s fairly gritty and wipes away easily.

This may be our favorite water adventure in the valley. The park is open from dawn to dusk and can be a little tricky to find if you’re not familiar with the area. Take State Street into American Fork and head north on 1100 East (the road that passes American Fork Hospital). This road turns into 900 E after you pass the LDS Mt. Timpanogos Temple. Take your 1st right after the temple (1100 N). This changes to 3300 N. Follow past two blue silos and turn turn right onto 900 W. The parking lot is on your left. The official address is 900 W 3300 N Pleasant Grove.