Tingley Beach

The basics

Tingley Beach is technically part of the ABQ BioPark, which includes the Zoo, Aquarium, and Botanic Garden. There is a small “beach” lining the fishing ponds, but Tingley’s appeal is in its easy-access nature, rather than its small stretch of sand. Here, you can rent paddle boats, walk the nature trails, fish in the ponds, watch for wildlife, and stroll the banks of the Rio Grande. There’s even a narrow-gauge railroad connecting Tingley Beach with the BioPark’s other facilities, making this a fun day out for locals and visitors alike.

Things to know before you go

• Tingley Beach is free to the public, but you’ll need tickets to enter the other ABQ BioPark sites.

• Anglers aged 12 and older will need an Arizona fishing license.

• Public restrooms are located at the south end of the train station.

How to get there

The Albuquerque BioPark has ample free parking at the entrance. If you have a vehicle, find it just west of downtown on Tingley Drive. Otherwise, consider walking, biking, or taking a taxi or rideshare. ABQ RIDE, the local bus system, stops just outside the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, which is a short walk from Tingley Beach.

When to get there

Tingley Beach is open every day of the week from dawn to dusk. For the most crowd-free experience, visit early in the morning or later in the evening, which is also when the wildlife is typically most active. As for seasons, spring and fall bring the mildest temperatures, while summer can get quite hot.

To the beach and beyond

Tingley Beach connects to Albuquerque’s impressive trail system along the Rio Grande on both sides of the river. If you’re looking for a hiking getaway in the city, this is it: Start at Tingley Beach, and wander along the water. Trails go beyond Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, all the way north to the Sandia Valley. It’s a major part of Albuquerque’s hiking cred.