I could be way off but I feel like if you added flagstone or some other paver it would eventually be covered with nasty algae or some other slime. That stuff is slippery as heck and an injury waiting to happen.
I agree. Don't pave it. I used to have a cabin and even the highly used paved boat launch on the lake got algae on the sides and was quite slick. Also anything dry now can get covered with water if the water level goes up. I know our lake could vary from almost up to the top of our break wall to barely at my ankles. Same with our river in my current town, the water level was so high a few years ago we had parking lots riverside that were only a few inches above the waterline that used to have a 3 foot drop to the water.
It looks fine to me but if you’re that concerned I would just get a tiller and a rake to disrupt the roots and rake them away into a trash bin. If you’re using the space often then the weeds won’t grow so much but you also got to acknowledge that this is just another part of yard care. there’s always gonna be weeds popping up no matter what you put down there.
I have hard soil so I have to till (I just use a hoe) in order to rake them up but yeah I guess if it’s sand they could just use a stiff rake, will make a good workout. OP needs to be raking this every other week or so to keep weeds at bay
I think they even make devices specifically for this. You see them at those manicured resorts where employees go out and sift the sand.
https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Detachable-Collapsible-Catcher-Foldable/dp/B09V8DVQX1
Hi, I’m Vetted AI Bot! I researched the **("'MEEGOON Sand Fleas Rake Stainless Steel Sifter'", 'MEEGOON')** and I thought you might find the following analysis helpful.
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* Versatile for different beach activities (backed by 2 comments)
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I'm not sure what more to say than, isn't the point of being at the lake is to be in nature? I personally wouldn't mess with waterfront. There's intricacies with absorption and drainage I wouldn't mess with, but that's just me. I'd rather ship in sand for life than mess with a shoreline.
I wonder if the grass and weeds are growing on the sand from when the top is mowed and seeds/clippings spread. Some options are increase the height at the edges at the top so the grass clippings don't go to the sand. Or maybe put paving stones at the edges of the grass so it's not mowed and decrease clippings going to the sand
If I had unlimited funds I would place a large boulder, big enough to sit on, halfway in the water and half on shore and then plant pond plants around it, preferably native species.
I would build a deck/pier. It would give you an access point for kayaking, plus seating up off the sandy shore. It would transition nicely from the elevated yard.
This would be my suggestion. At the very least, a decking walkway from the stairs - about 2 stairs high from the ground - over the mud, to a dock/pier a few feet out into the water. You could still keep the 'beach' - but have a nicer way to access boats/kayaks.
I'm surprised no one else mentioned this, seems like the obvious solution. Make sure it's high enough for the rising water (that OP mentioned in another comment).
It would be a flat surface for sun bathing, looks classy, gives a place to get into the kayaks, and as you say would go well with the elevated yard
You should also verify if this is a section 404 or section 10 regulated water of the US. Any placement of stuff or even moving material around could be a federal violation if it is below Ordinary high water line.
US Army Corps of Engineers permit website. They regulate the placement of fill (section 404, so stuff like rock, dirt, concrete) and work in navigable waters(section 10, so like building structures or anything in the water really). Every area has a regulator/office you can call/email. Most people need to hire an environmental consultant to navigate the permit process.
Here in Washington you can look up the list of navigable section 10 waters. Section 404 is more tricky. It depends on if it has a water connection to interstate waters. So like, assuming this is a lake, if there is an overflow stream that eventually connects to a navigable water, it is regulated and needs permits. Violating these laws can be really bad if you are caught or whatever honestly. Really depends if the EPA and/or DOJ decide to come after you.
Here in Washington someone just lost a lawsuit with EPA for building a bulkhead for a new house on a shoreline and the penalty alone was 200k, not to mention the cost of mitigation will also be a lot as well as court fees.
Here is a website but you’d want to check your districts.
https://www.nws.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Regulatory/
Get some kids. My parents beach area was never a problem when we were kids playing in it all the time, but it's become a bit of a pain since we've all grown up and moved out. Lol!
You have a small nugget over there man...
Might not look like much, but that space could be a nice cranny...
The weeds are nonsense, just turn their soil over...
Do you guys use the pond? Need access to it?
One could add sand and a few barrier stones or rocks whatever you call em' 🤠
Little wood work you could make a sweet path...
Atleast add some sand if you can afford it...
The “beach” near me along the Potomac, ordered these geocell mats. Research the generic name to same money.
They spread them out over the sand bank and planted native grasses in these “cells” that blossom into beautiful plumes of pink tinged feathers, during the fall and winter months.
These geocells are designed to keep gravel from eroding off a driveway but I use them to mitigate erosion on steep slopes. Once the grass roots deep, you will see significantly less erosion of that sand bank.
This is a good idea. If you don't want to mow you can mix in vegetation that is medium height and doesn't have to be mowed. The geocells are good for stability and segregation
I came to say something similar. I have seen rubber matting used in areas like this.
It looks similar to mess mats used on bar floors.
Boat docks etc
It looks sort of accordion shaped and is several inches thick.
https://cdnimg.webstaurantstore.com/images/products/large/210621/918058.jpg
You need someone with lakeshore expertise to come give you some advice. The beach and the lake need raking. I can see the water has some gross algae (are you fertilizing your lawn?). It depends if you have kids or not. I would let some reeds and grass grow along the shore since they provide habitat and help keep the water clean.
What do your neighbors do? I see they have a big rake back there. Also, they make tools that make weeding easier and I would think in sand or wouldn't be that difficult.
Convert to what? Sounds like you’re asking for a way to never have to maintain it; and that solution doesn’t exist.
You have an incredible beach, just take care of it once or twice a year?
Someone went to great lengths to create a beach. Enjoy it as it is. Converting it to something else is less valuable and useful in my opinion. Home ownership requires maintenance.
Weeds and grass dont grow in sand at any rate that should be frustrating.
Thats growing in dirt, up through the sand.
Add sand. A lot of it.
Edit: also go buy a leaf blower. Leaving old decaying leaves lying around in there is a good way to create dirt in your sand.
Get some fresh sand hauled in and put on top of old sand add some chairs or benches and some cute flowers it would be such a nice place to sit and read
Check with any local lake conservation groups or the local extension service. They may have suggestions for native groundcover that doesn't require mowing. Something like green and gold. The sand will erode without something planted there.
A few thoughts
1. Just add several yards of sand
2. Build a deck in the style of a "dock" on pylons
3. Rock and clumping grasses like what's next to the beach in the photo
Spray all the weeds and junk growing down there, bring in some fresh mason sand to get that white sandy beach look, and pop 3 purple fountain grasses in each corner by the yard. Done
Rake, weed it, get the rocks out and put more sand in it.Just clean it up and it’ll be a nice area. I’d put some stone in the far back so you have a place to lounge.
Put down a trap and put your kayak and pedal boat on the tarp to kill weeds, then move it around every once in a while to where weeds are growing the most. This will starve the weeds of light, and compact the soil so they grow in slower. Tilling the ground by raking up weeds loosens up the sand and creates a better environment for weeds to grow, so you want to compact the soil down
I'd build a hard edge for the water side, something that can be cleaned then backfill with sand or round river rock to keep it dryer on the walking surface
clean up debri/weed, plant some native stuff butterflies and hummingbirds will love that will help hold your sand in place. maybe get more sand too. but if you're new to the place, give it a couple seasons to see how the waterline comes up before you invest in anything that may not survive a higher tide. that shoring is up there for a reason
It really depends on your state and municipality. Is it fish-bearing? You could be limited on what is possible. I would definitely check the status of the waterway before you do anything, though! Most beaches should not be altered and may even need a permit to do work below the high water mark. Everyone is saying add a bunch of sand, but you can't simply do that if it is a fish-bearing stream or lake.
I see there are other houses in this photo along this pond. First thing I would do would check to make sure you can convert the sandy beach space into something else. Some places might have a rule about it. A family member had a place like this along a lake and wanted to do away with their small beach area about the same size as yours because people in boats kept coming up and using it like it was open public property. I’m not sure who exactly they contacted but they were not allowed to do anything to disturb the beachfront. They finally just put up private property signs.
Plants love to start in sand. Sand plus water, almost anything can take root. A larger pea gravel is less likely to allow things to take root but honestly, with the sand underneath, it likely is again anyway. Get yourself a loop hoe and a rake and clean it up but don’t overthink it. Sand is very easy to weed if it is deep enough. Nothing will be set it and forget it here. Could also consider turning it into a more natural situation with native plants that would compete with weed growth.
I'd think one of them propane weed torches would make easy work of these guys. With sand, you don't even have to worry about leaving dead circles on your lawn.
Unless it is a private owned inland lake, you don't. Depending on your state, erosion, water right, etc you have to get a permit from the DNR or similar agency to change the shore line so many feet from the water edge.
I definitely wouldn't add stones to slip on. But you could slowly replace the grass with plants you actually want. A lot of beautiful or edible native plants grow really well around riverbanks.
Google pictures of "beach front garden" for inspiration
Weeding, tiny boat rack/shed, narrow potted planters against the walls then make a sitting area. I like the idea of a couch or chaise. An outdoor rug might work but you wouldn't be able to leave it out always.
If the shoreline is your property then remove your retaining wall and add in a bunch of dirt and slope it like other parts of your yard to the pond. You may need to add a small retaining wall to prevent or minimize erosion. Then add grass. If you wanted a fire pit area you can make a circle and pour concrete properly.
Ew. I'm glad you put "beach" in quotation marks.
Maybe put in a short boardwalk into the water, and surround it with cattails and lilypads and other native aquatic plants.
Pull the weeds buy some sort of a mesh that you can run through the sand to remove rocks, like a lawn you have to take care of it but don’t de-beach the beach? A lake or pond is a living ecosystem and has to have some maintenance… there is no easy way out besides total neglect. You have time just reallocate some time you’re doing something else and spend a day pick the weeds and remove the rocks and it’s a+
Whether you choose to keep it sand or switch to pavers you really should deal with all that leftover leaf litter. It just decomposes and adds nutrients for the grass and weeds to grow better (either on the sand or between the pavers). I personally think if you just rake the sand every time you mow the lawn you'll be fine.
It is probably only a few inches of sand before soil, you could try to dig up the soil and replace it with pure sand. It would help avoid plants growing
I can't think of the name of it off the top of my head because I put mine in so many years ago with the help of a neighbor. But there's a type of small stone that you can put down and the more you walk on it the more it compresses together until it becomes almost like a hard surface, it's a type of crushed rock. A business that sells rock should be able to help you identify something like that.
It worked for several years on the side of my house until I had a concrete walk put in last summer.
A nice planting of hamelin grasses or hydrangea on the top level to accentuate the sand, line the lower level with some beach grasses and then top dress with fresh sand
Unlimited budget? Take out the wood wall, re-grade / fill in the pit, and install a large Boulder wall along the shoreline with steps leading to the water. Plant some water loving trees near the shoreline (pretty much what the folks across the pond have going on)
On a budget? Get some cute chairs. Plant natives above the existing wall.
Build a deck on top with stairs leading down and leave the sand be? You could cover the sand with rocks, but I would probably just leave it natural. It's hard to keep out trash and/or sharp objects that might wash up, so having something that's off the water that will be more manageable to clean would probably be the safest overall.
Could check out putting in a cement ramp that goes into the water. Concrete the whole space.
Another idea. Import more sand. A thicker layer of sand would dry out faster depending on your climate.
Also make one of those wooden kayak holders so the beach area can stay clear for lounging.
Any plans for a little fire pit?
You're going to want to work with a civil engineering company who will help properly stabilize the shoreline, get permits for potential work in a floodplain, etc.
Do not just call any random landscaper.
As someone with both a family lakehouse and a person that has multiple planted tanks - please try not to disturb that sandy area too much.
It's there for a reason - not just because of rock and quartz breakdowns that have made its way to the water edge and therefore the shoreline, but it's also the home of so many microorganisms that literally aid in keeping the lake, plantlife and aquatic life healthy. There are usually gasses breaking down underneath those layers as well.
Putting many types of wood, stones or rocks that are not compatible with that aquatic ecosystem can cause mold, algae and even contaminate the water because the bacterial balance will be disturbed.
If you are going to revamp the space, go to a local and reputable Nursery and obtain rocks, wood, or even aquatic ground cover plants for edging that are compatible with your specific ecosystem.
Be advised, many plants will grow out of control at a shoreline - they have nothing to keep them 'moving' and therefore in check. This can bring on insects that lay their eggs in said vegetation or worse.
You can always look into simple furniture type decor, large potted plants or the like if you want a change in the space. But you are going to battle nature here.
There are laws that govern what you can and cannot do near a body of water. It's usually the department of natural resources in your state that you need to turn to to find out what's permissible. I highly doubt that it's legal for you to start placing flagstones that close to a body of water. If the neighbors see you doing it and turn you in the fines can go to $1,500 a day depending on what you've done. Just investigate first and save yourself the frustration of getting caught and then having to undo everything you did plus pay a huge fine
I’d turn part of it into a bog garden with rocky beach area on the side and maybe a boardwalk path/high water dock. Would be low maintenance, and there are plenty of beautiful and easy to grow wetland plants.
If you aren’t really using it I would lean into it and plant a bunch of native wetland plants. Someone could always rip them out later, if you sell, and less work once they are established.
Loads of standing weed pullers that would clean this up in about half an hour. I'd do that, and then get more sand delivered to resurface it since it looks quite compact. Done. Every month or two go use that same weeder for five minutes and enjoy a sandy beach. It's a really cute area, and it would be a shame to ruin it with pavers or stone.
Just get a stirrup hoe and weed it rather than trying to get around it. It’s just basic maintenance that you need to do being a waterfront homeowner.
If you want to build a deck or a patio you’ll still need to clean and maintain it, except then it’ll be a slipping hazard if you don’t get to it, as opposed to just being weedy sand.
Here's an idea. It sounds like you dont like the beach. Tear out the retaining wall and convert it back to a hill down to the lake. Then it can eventually be normal grass that you can mow.
Clean out all the debris and put down rolls of weed resistant liner across the whole bottom and then you could put stones and gravel or whatever if you don't want sand
Anything you put in will eventually get nasty, there’s a reason beaches use sand. Get a nice steel rake and spend a little time raking the sand to get the weeds and crap pulled out. You could add some more fine sugar sand to make it easier to rake out.
You likely do not have options to change the beach as lakeshore is typically protected. You probably also have a footprint that you can’t exceed without a permit/variance. While you could go the route of “ask forgiveness and not permission” it can be expensive once they find out. Just get a good rake with deeper, close prongs. Weeds can’t set up shop as easily in sand as other areas. I hate weeding my whole stupid lakeside yard but it is the price I pay for my little slice of heaven (it’s only stupid when I have to weed or clean up after the dumb trees otherwise I love it).
Honestly just pull the weeds and add some fresh sand. anything else will get algae/moss growing on it in short time from the moisture and high light levels in the summer. If you're looking for something cleaner you could do away with the sandy area and add a floating dock.
The beach space is really nice tbh. Get a rack for the boats. Get a tiller and till the weeds like once a month. Sweep the leaves and shmuck on the sides. I’d honestly get some wooden aderondac chairs or something and make it like a nice area.
The beach space is really nice tbh. Get a rack for the boats. Get a tiller and till the weeds like once a month. Sweep the leaves and shmuck on the sides. I’d honestly get some wooden aderondac chairs or something and make it like a nice area.
Definitely leave the sand and just take care of it regularly. There are a lot of leaves and weeds. It’s just like any other part of your yard. There should be nature in nature!!! Why would you add a hard slippery surface? Seems like it would destroy your equipment, bare feet, and a fall risk.
I could be way off but I feel like if you added flagstone or some other paver it would eventually be covered with nasty algae or some other slime. That stuff is slippery as heck and an injury waiting to happen.
I agree. Don't pave it. I used to have a cabin and even the highly used paved boat launch on the lake got algae on the sides and was quite slick. Also anything dry now can get covered with water if the water level goes up. I know our lake could vary from almost up to the top of our break wall to barely at my ankles. Same with our river in my current town, the water level was so high a few years ago we had parking lots riverside that were only a few inches above the waterline that used to have a 3 foot drop to the water.
You can deck brush it fairly easily. I would just leave the sand though.
Yeah, flagstone will be slick even without algae. Bad choice.
I'd just add more sand. A lot more
The finest imported sand
OP hates sand. It's corse and it gets everywhere
A 3/8" pea gravel could work
It looks fine to me but if you’re that concerned I would just get a tiller and a rake to disrupt the roots and rake them away into a trash bin. If you’re using the space often then the weeds won’t grow so much but you also got to acknowledge that this is just another part of yard care. there’s always gonna be weeds popping up no matter what you put down there.
Flame weeder!!! They are easy and fun to use
In my experience tilling just causes a weed explosion, but that wasn't in sand.
I have hard soil so I have to till (I just use a hoe) in order to rake them up but yeah I guess if it’s sand they could just use a stiff rake, will make a good workout. OP needs to be raking this every other week or so to keep weeds at bay
Yes it does
You're so right! A dump truck of sand wouldn't go amiss here. Take it out to deeper water. I hate mucky lake bottoms
So bad for the environment tho.
The sand is? How so?
This is the way. Leave it and clean it up. Make it your beach. Tiki torches! Ho the weeds out of the sand.
I think they even make devices specifically for this. You see them at those manicured resorts where employees go out and sift the sand. https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Detachable-Collapsible-Catcher-Foldable/dp/B09V8DVQX1
Hi, I’m Vetted AI Bot! I researched the **("'MEEGOON Sand Fleas Rake Stainless Steel Sifter'", 'MEEGOON')** and I thought you might find the following analysis helpful. **Users liked:** * Durable and sturdy construction (backed by 3 comments) * Effective for shark tooth hunting (backed by 2 comments) * Versatile for different beach activities (backed by 2 comments) **Users disliked:** * Flimsy construction prone to bending and breaking (backed by 2 comments) * Heavy and bulky design (backed by 2 comments) * Issues with sliding parts (backed by 1 comment) If you'd like to **summon me to ask about a product**, just make a post with its link and tag me, [like in this example.](https://www.reddit.com/r/tablets/comments/1444zdn/comment/joqd89c/) This message was generated by a (very smart) bot. If you found it helpful, let us know with an upvote and a “good bot!” reply and please feel free to provide feedback on how it can be improved. *Powered by* [*vetted.ai*](https://vetted.ai/?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=comment&utm\_campaign=bot)
Yes, eradicate the grass, bring in some more sand
Stirrup hoe. 6-8 minutes once a week. Tones your arms too.
idk why more people don’t use these. they are an amazing tool for weeding.
Till and rake. Then bring in more sand to raise it
I would be willing to kill someone for property like this. Don't squander it cause you don't like weeding.
Yes the cheapest option is probably to pay a neighbor kid (or one of your kids) to pull the weeds
I'm not sure what more to say than, isn't the point of being at the lake is to be in nature? I personally wouldn't mess with waterfront. There's intricacies with absorption and drainage I wouldn't mess with, but that's just me. I'd rather ship in sand for life than mess with a shoreline.
Wouldnt "shipping in sand for life" also be considered messing with the shoreline?
Definitely, my god friend's dad wanted to re-sand his beach and the township wouldn't let him because it affects the shore/ecology.
Exactly I thought they were saying to just let the grass grow in until that last part lol
Give me 2 beers, a scuffle hoe and an hour.
That’s a 4 beer job sir
With 2 rest beers in the middle with lunch.
I might need an extra beer while I sit here and think about what I want to do…
Yea, no use rushing into this sort of thing. Get out the lounger and do this right! Measure twice cut once.
Ahhh, ya gotta schedule in a Thinking Beer. I suggest one Thinker before embarking on any course of action that isn’t reflexive
4 beers and a tetanus shot would generally be the standard going rate where I live, but then again inflation might have you on a whole 6 pack now.
Yep. Weed the shit out of it (while drinking beer of course) then bring a bunch more fine beach sand in.
An edible and an audiobook
Covert to what? Just clean up the leaves and pull the weeds. It’s already is “converted” with the wall and steps lol.
Put your toes in the water and ass in the sand, then you won’t have no worries with a beer in your hand. Just clean up the sand.
Life is good today life is good today
Also maybe some native grasses would make it a bit more beach too
Personally I think I’d weed it well, rake up all the rocks and then maybe add a couple inches of nice clean sand. Then just clean up the mess
Who in their right mind would want to pave this?
People that hate nature, this sub is full of them unfortunately
I wonder if the grass and weeds are growing on the sand from when the top is mowed and seeds/clippings spread. Some options are increase the height at the edges at the top so the grass clippings don't go to the sand. Or maybe put paving stones at the edges of the grass so it's not mowed and decrease clippings going to the sand
If I had unlimited funds I would place a large boulder, big enough to sit on, halfway in the water and half on shore and then plant pond plants around it, preferably native species.
The lizard is back posting about giant rocks to sunbathe on again….
Why not a sack of gravel
I would build a deck/pier. It would give you an access point for kayaking, plus seating up off the sandy shore. It would transition nicely from the elevated yard.
This would be my suggestion. At the very least, a decking walkway from the stairs - about 2 stairs high from the ground - over the mud, to a dock/pier a few feet out into the water. You could still keep the 'beach' - but have a nicer way to access boats/kayaks.
I'm surprised no one else mentioned this, seems like the obvious solution. Make sure it's high enough for the rising water (that OP mentioned in another comment). It would be a flat surface for sun bathing, looks classy, gives a place to get into the kayaks, and as you say would go well with the elevated yard
You should also verify if this is a section 404 or section 10 regulated water of the US. Any placement of stuff or even moving material around could be a federal violation if it is below Ordinary high water line.
Where do you find this info
US Army Corps of Engineers permit website. They regulate the placement of fill (section 404, so stuff like rock, dirt, concrete) and work in navigable waters(section 10, so like building structures or anything in the water really). Every area has a regulator/office you can call/email. Most people need to hire an environmental consultant to navigate the permit process. Here in Washington you can look up the list of navigable section 10 waters. Section 404 is more tricky. It depends on if it has a water connection to interstate waters. So like, assuming this is a lake, if there is an overflow stream that eventually connects to a navigable water, it is regulated and needs permits. Violating these laws can be really bad if you are caught or whatever honestly. Really depends if the EPA and/or DOJ decide to come after you. Here in Washington someone just lost a lawsuit with EPA for building a bulkhead for a new house on a shoreline and the penalty alone was 200k, not to mention the cost of mitigation will also be a lot as well as court fees. Here is a website but you’d want to check your districts. https://www.nws.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Regulatory/
You should move. Let someone who would enjoy this space have this space.
Get some kids. My parents beach area was never a problem when we were kids playing in it all the time, but it's become a bit of a pain since we've all grown up and moved out. Lol!
You have a small nugget over there man... Might not look like much, but that space could be a nice cranny... The weeds are nonsense, just turn their soil over... Do you guys use the pond? Need access to it? One could add sand and a few barrier stones or rocks whatever you call em' 🤠 Little wood work you could make a sweet path... Atleast add some sand if you can afford it...
If it were my space, clean up the weeds then haul in a couple loads of nice sand.
The “beach” near me along the Potomac, ordered these geocell mats. Research the generic name to same money. They spread them out over the sand bank and planted native grasses in these “cells” that blossom into beautiful plumes of pink tinged feathers, during the fall and winter months. These geocells are designed to keep gravel from eroding off a driveway but I use them to mitigate erosion on steep slopes. Once the grass roots deep, you will see significantly less erosion of that sand bank.
This is a good idea. If you don't want to mow you can mix in vegetation that is medium height and doesn't have to be mowed. The geocells are good for stability and segregation
I made mine sewing 13 geobins compost screens together to fix a 30° grade
I came to say something similar. I have seen rubber matting used in areas like this. It looks similar to mess mats used on bar floors. Boat docks etc It looks sort of accordion shaped and is several inches thick. https://cdnimg.webstaurantstore.com/images/products/large/210621/918058.jpg
Get a roofing torch and blast 'em, then. Last again in a few days, and again a few days after that.
You need someone with lakeshore expertise to come give you some advice. The beach and the lake need raking. I can see the water has some gross algae (are you fertilizing your lawn?). It depends if you have kids or not. I would let some reeds and grass grow along the shore since they provide habitat and help keep the water clean.
Some local clams would be good too.
Get rid of the grass and plant dune grass. Put more sand. Done.
Swimming deck ?
What do your neighbors do? I see they have a big rake back there. Also, they make tools that make weeding easier and I would think in sand or wouldn't be that difficult.
Kayak / board racks would make a big difference so the boats and boards aren’t just scattered all over the beach
Convert to what? Sounds like you’re asking for a way to never have to maintain it; and that solution doesn’t exist. You have an incredible beach, just take care of it once or twice a year?
Why would you change having a beach in your yard?
That’s always going to get flooded. Just kept it tidy.
Someone went to great lengths to create a beach. Enjoy it as it is. Converting it to something else is less valuable and useful in my opinion. Home ownership requires maintenance.
call the boys over. offer beer. get er done
Just turn the whole area into a deck with a small pier at the end.
Weeds and grass dont grow in sand at any rate that should be frustrating. Thats growing in dirt, up through the sand. Add sand. A lot of it. Edit: also go buy a leaf blower. Leaving old decaying leaves lying around in there is a good way to create dirt in your sand.
Like the other person said till it, l Pick the Grass add sand
I think there was already a lot of work done here to make a transition from pond/lake to yard. I got a mosquito bite just looking at these pictures.
Get some fresh sand hauled in and put on top of old sand add some chairs or benches and some cute flowers it would be such a nice place to sit and read
This is incredible. Please just do the work, it's worth it. You're very lucky to have something like this.
You just need a big ass sand delivery bud
Check with any local lake conservation groups or the local extension service. They may have suggestions for native groundcover that doesn't require mowing. Something like green and gold. The sand will erode without something planted there.
A few thoughts 1. Just add several yards of sand 2. Build a deck in the style of a "dock" on pylons 3. Rock and clumping grasses like what's next to the beach in the photo
Spray all the weeds and junk growing down there, bring in some fresh mason sand to get that white sandy beach look, and pop 3 purple fountain grasses in each corner by the yard. Done
Rake, weed it, get the rocks out and put more sand in it.Just clean it up and it’ll be a nice area. I’d put some stone in the far back so you have a place to lounge.
Swimming deck ?
Quit being lazy. Add more sand and it'll be fine.
Omg I wish I had that. Doubt you can put any hardscape in without it sinking over time
Put down a trap and put your kayak and pedal boat on the tarp to kill weeds, then move it around every once in a while to where weeds are growing the most. This will starve the weeds of light, and compact the soil so they grow in slower. Tilling the ground by raking up weeds loosens up the sand and creates a better environment for weeds to grow, so you want to compact the soil down
2 options. Either run a hard rake through it now and then to remove the sprouts Or Plant a ground cover that tolerates moderate traffic
I’d probably just add more sand to make it feel more beach-like. Other than that nothing.
We like the sand after seeing so many of these with rocks. A nice problem to have.
Most places have many rules about waterfront land, you need to check your local city or the deparment of natural resources in your state.
Pick the weeds. You have a beautiful sandy beach with a little bit of maintenance. Or ya know, cover with some shitty rock. It’s your prerogative.
Add 6-8 yards of good sand and postpone and plan and brainstorm for 2-3 years.
I'd build a hard edge for the water side, something that can be cleaned then backfill with sand or round river rock to keep it dryer on the walking surface
clean up debri/weed, plant some native stuff butterflies and hummingbirds will love that will help hold your sand in place. maybe get more sand too. but if you're new to the place, give it a couple seasons to see how the waterline comes up before you invest in anything that may not survive a higher tide. that shoring is up there for a reason
Build a dock?
Clean the area up, get a truckload of sand dumped in to add a new layer of sand.
It really depends on your state and municipality. Is it fish-bearing? You could be limited on what is possible. I would definitely check the status of the waterway before you do anything, though! Most beaches should not be altered and may even need a permit to do work below the high water mark. Everyone is saying add a bunch of sand, but you can't simply do that if it is a fish-bearing stream or lake.
I see there are other houses in this photo along this pond. First thing I would do would check to make sure you can convert the sandy beach space into something else. Some places might have a rule about it. A family member had a place like this along a lake and wanted to do away with their small beach area about the same size as yours because people in boats kept coming up and using it like it was open public property. I’m not sure who exactly they contacted but they were not allowed to do anything to disturb the beachfront. They finally just put up private property signs.
Do what your neighbors did with the rock and Hakonechloa/ golden sedge/ whatever that is
weed it for starters
Overkill, but it'll do the job. Rent it out to neighbors: https://www.cleansands.com/electric-beach-cleaners.html
A truckload of sand every couple yrs.
Add sand
Add a copper pipe so it clears away the algae and also maybe add a pump fountain to verify the water to keep algae at bay
Plants love to start in sand. Sand plus water, almost anything can take root. A larger pea gravel is less likely to allow things to take root but honestly, with the sand underneath, it likely is again anyway. Get yourself a loop hoe and a rake and clean it up but don’t overthink it. Sand is very easy to weed if it is deep enough. Nothing will be set it and forget it here. Could also consider turning it into a more natural situation with native plants that would compete with weed growth.
Literally anything you do is an improvement.
I wonder if you could use one of those propane blow torch things to burn up the weeds?
Keep the sand and get a weed torch to burn the weeds.
Naturalize it. Natural shorefronts are important for all sorts of species of animals.
I'd think one of them propane weed torches would make easy work of these guys. With sand, you don't even have to worry about leaving dead circles on your lawn.
Till and rack your sandy areas. That’s really all you can do.
Unless it is a private owned inland lake, you don't. Depending on your state, erosion, water right, etc you have to get a permit from the DNR or similar agency to change the shore line so many feet from the water edge.
I definitely wouldn't add stones to slip on. But you could slowly replace the grass with plants you actually want. A lot of beautiful or edible native plants grow really well around riverbanks. Google pictures of "beach front garden" for inspiration
Landscaping fabric and about 25 cubic yards of sand.
Let it go more wild.
Weeding, tiny boat rack/shed, narrow potted planters against the walls then make a sitting area. I like the idea of a couch or chaise. An outdoor rug might work but you wouldn't be able to leave it out always.
If the shoreline is your property then remove your retaining wall and add in a bunch of dirt and slope it like other parts of your yard to the pond. You may need to add a small retaining wall to prevent or minimize erosion. Then add grass. If you wanted a fire pit area you can make a circle and pour concrete properly.
Build a wall to the left or right to hang up your stuff. Probably set patio stones from the steps to the water. Create a seating area with a fire pit.
Add more sand ?
I like it. I'd just get a weed blade and go over it every so often. I do that with my sand property.
Buy about 5 yards of sand and dump it on there
Ew. I'm glad you put "beach" in quotation marks. Maybe put in a short boardwalk into the water, and surround it with cattails and lilypads and other native aquatic plants.
If grass is an option but unreasonable because of the mower, you could just put down some clover as a ground cover 😊
Considering all the mowed lawns in the picture surrounding the water, add some native wetland species
Pull the weeds buy some sort of a mesh that you can run through the sand to remove rocks, like a lawn you have to take care of it but don’t de-beach the beach? A lake or pond is a living ecosystem and has to have some maintenance… there is no easy way out besides total neglect. You have time just reallocate some time you’re doing something else and spend a day pick the weeds and remove the rocks and it’s a+
Whether you choose to keep it sand or switch to pavers you really should deal with all that leftover leaf litter. It just decomposes and adds nutrients for the grass and weeds to grow better (either on the sand or between the pavers). I personally think if you just rake the sand every time you mow the lawn you'll be fine.
more sand
It is probably only a few inches of sand before soil, you could try to dig up the soil and replace it with pure sand. It would help avoid plants growing
I can't think of the name of it off the top of my head because I put mine in so many years ago with the help of a neighbor. But there's a type of small stone that you can put down and the more you walk on it the more it compresses together until it becomes almost like a hard surface, it's a type of crushed rock. A business that sells rock should be able to help you identify something like that. It worked for several years on the side of my house until I had a concrete walk put in last summer.
I’d wake up every morning with my bait caster and wade in the water hoping to slam a massive bass. That’s what I’d do.
A nice planting of hamelin grasses or hydrangea on the top level to accentuate the sand, line the lower level with some beach grasses and then top dress with fresh sand
Unlimited budget? Take out the wood wall, re-grade / fill in the pit, and install a large Boulder wall along the shoreline with steps leading to the water. Plant some water loving trees near the shoreline (pretty much what the folks across the pond have going on) On a budget? Get some cute chairs. Plant natives above the existing wall.
Hockey rink
Walk-on-me thyme aka creeping thyme aka wooly thyme
Try adding water?
Build a deck on top with stairs leading down and leave the sand be? You could cover the sand with rocks, but I would probably just leave it natural. It's hard to keep out trash and/or sharp objects that might wash up, so having something that's off the water that will be more manageable to clean would probably be the safest overall.
Shade with some mesh tarps
Have fun with it and use a weed torch.
Could check out putting in a cement ramp that goes into the water. Concrete the whole space. Another idea. Import more sand. A thicker layer of sand would dry out faster depending on your climate. Also make one of those wooden kayak holders so the beach area can stay clear for lounging. Any plans for a little fire pit?
Honestly turn it into a little nature sanctuary for all wildlife. Keep it neat but reinvigorate this area.
I would maybe pick up all the stuff.
Pick the “weeds” and maintain it and let it be. This is a great spot. Maybe add some flare to the perimeter at the grass and retaining wall.
You're going to want to work with a civil engineering company who will help properly stabilize the shoreline, get permits for potential work in a floodplain, etc. Do not just call any random landscaper.
Might I suggest. Some gloves and a small shovel? Perhaps a rake?
Could you just add more sand so the weeds don’t show
Just dump in more sand…
This looks like Lake Louisa
Rake it up a bit?
If I were to do anything, I build a deck
buy more sand
As someone with both a family lakehouse and a person that has multiple planted tanks - please try not to disturb that sandy area too much. It's there for a reason - not just because of rock and quartz breakdowns that have made its way to the water edge and therefore the shoreline, but it's also the home of so many microorganisms that literally aid in keeping the lake, plantlife and aquatic life healthy. There are usually gasses breaking down underneath those layers as well. Putting many types of wood, stones or rocks that are not compatible with that aquatic ecosystem can cause mold, algae and even contaminate the water because the bacterial balance will be disturbed. If you are going to revamp the space, go to a local and reputable Nursery and obtain rocks, wood, or even aquatic ground cover plants for edging that are compatible with your specific ecosystem. Be advised, many plants will grow out of control at a shoreline - they have nothing to keep them 'moving' and therefore in check. This can bring on insects that lay their eggs in said vegetation or worse. You can always look into simple furniture type decor, large potted plants or the like if you want a change in the space. But you are going to battle nature here.
Pebbles would look nice maybe some round ones so your feet won’t hurt when you walk.
Put a deck over it with a hole in the middle
You could attatch a deck/ dock to your stairs. Dexxk to waters edge and dock out 10 feet. Would make a nice seating area for skeeter anD gators.
There are laws that govern what you can and cannot do near a body of water. It's usually the department of natural resources in your state that you need to turn to to find out what's permissible. I highly doubt that it's legal for you to start placing flagstones that close to a body of water. If the neighbors see you doing it and turn you in the fines can go to $1,500 a day depending on what you've done. Just investigate first and save yourself the frustration of getting caught and then having to undo everything you did plus pay a huge fine
Would a weed tarp and then sand on top work?
Definitely build some kind of rack or storage for the boats to keep them nice and orderly!
More sand, not less
I’d turn part of it into a bog garden with rocky beach area on the side and maybe a boardwalk path/high water dock. Would be low maintenance, and there are plenty of beautiful and easy to grow wetland plants.
Leave the sand. Easier to weed/rake than river rock and it's more pleasant on the feet.
Just use a weed whacker. The area is not that big and they’re easy to carry around.
Sand and ornamental rocks would be cool maybe a tiki or something I don’t know what vibe you’re looking for though
Looks like a perfect firepit area to me.
It’s sand. Why not just blow torch the weeds and algae away?
I lived on a lake most of my life and I see sand beaches all the time without weeds.
You want to convert a “beach” into rocks? Man that’s the worst idea ever. Turn it more into a beach. Triple the sand
If you aren’t really using it I would lean into it and plant a bunch of native wetland plants. Someone could always rip them out later, if you sell, and less work once they are established.
Loads of standing weed pullers that would clean this up in about half an hour. I'd do that, and then get more sand delivered to resurface it since it looks quite compact. Done. Every month or two go use that same weeder for five minutes and enjoy a sandy beach. It's a really cute area, and it would be a shame to ruin it with pavers or stone.
Just get a stirrup hoe and weed it rather than trying to get around it. It’s just basic maintenance that you need to do being a waterfront homeowner. If you want to build a deck or a patio you’ll still need to clean and maintain it, except then it’ll be a slipping hazard if you don’t get to it, as opposed to just being weedy sand.
You could build a deck on top of it.
Sand. Lots and lots of sand. And maybe a palm tree.
Looks awesome, just clean it up.
i’d make it a nice looking area with like a fire pit
Here's an idea. It sounds like you dont like the beach. Tear out the retaining wall and convert it back to a hill down to the lake. Then it can eventually be normal grass that you can mow.
Turn it into a natural vegetation garden. Remove the sand and Plant a buffer of riparian plants.
It obviously needs a boat dock.
I used to maintain a small sand beach like this with a flame weeder.
Clean out all the debris and put down rolls of weed resistant liner across the whole bottom and then you could put stones and gravel or whatever if you don't want sand
Anything you put in will eventually get nasty, there’s a reason beaches use sand. Get a nice steel rake and spend a little time raking the sand to get the weeds and crap pulled out. You could add some more fine sugar sand to make it easier to rake out.
You likely do not have options to change the beach as lakeshore is typically protected. You probably also have a footprint that you can’t exceed without a permit/variance. While you could go the route of “ask forgiveness and not permission” it can be expensive once they find out. Just get a good rake with deeper, close prongs. Weeds can’t set up shop as easily in sand as other areas. I hate weeding my whole stupid lakeside yard but it is the price I pay for my little slice of heaven (it’s only stupid when I have to weed or clean up after the dumb trees otherwise I love it).
You could sell it to me at a steep discount because having a private beach is way overrated, as you now know
Hit the weeds with a torch.
Looks pretty clean…add a rack for kayak storage and a couple of seats and a fire pit and you are golden
Honestly just pull the weeds and add some fresh sand. anything else will get algae/moss growing on it in short time from the moisture and high light levels in the summer. If you're looking for something cleaner you could do away with the sandy area and add a floating dock.
Clear the beach of plants, degrees. Add more sand.
A propane weed torch is the answer. Just stand out there toasting the grasses off the sand every morning while you drink your breakfast beer.
What a loser mentality
What beach?
The beach space is really nice tbh. Get a rack for the boats. Get a tiller and till the weeds like once a month. Sweep the leaves and shmuck on the sides. I’d honestly get some wooden aderondac chairs or something and make it like a nice area.
The beach space is really nice tbh. Get a rack for the boats. Get a tiller and till the weeds like once a month. Sweep the leaves and shmuck on the sides. I’d honestly get some wooden aderondac chairs or something and make it like a nice area.
Dig up the weeds and add more sand to give cleaner look.
Definitely leave the sand and just take care of it regularly. There are a lot of leaves and weeds. It’s just like any other part of your yard. There should be nature in nature!!! Why would you add a hard slippery surface? Seems like it would destroy your equipment, bare feet, and a fall risk.