About Crystal Beach
Crystal Beach is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Mohave County, Arizona, with a population of 282 in 2022, up from 250 in 2020 and 279 in 2010. Located 7 miles north of Lake Havasu City and bordered by Desert Hills to the south, Crystal Beach is a small, retiree-friendly community in western Mohave County, known for its proximity to the Colorado River and affordable desert living.
History and Origins
Crystal Beach emerged in the mid-20th century as a residential area tied to the growth of Lake Havasu City, spurred by the development of Lake Havasu following the construction of Parker Dam in the 1930s. The community likely took its name from the clear waters of the nearby lake, attracting retirees and seasonal residents seeking affordable homes near water-based recreation. While lacking a distinct founding event, Crystal Beach grew as a quiet suburb of Lake Havasu City, benefiting from the region’s tourism and boating culture.
Geography and Environment
Located at 34°34′17″N 114°23′33″W, Crystal Beach spans 0.34 square miles, all land, at an elevation of approximately 500 feet. Situated along Arizona State Route 95, it lies in a desert valley drained by the Colorado River, with the Mohave Mountains to the east. The semi-arid climate features hot summers and mild winters, ideal for outdoor activities. The area has a moderate earthquake risk, high UV exposure, and good air quality (83.55% of days rated good), with no significant hurricane or tornado risks.
Demographics and Economy
Crystal Beach has a median household income of $29,792 (2022) and a median home value of approximately $150,000, making it more affordable than 90% of Arizona neighborhoods. Housing consists primarily of mobile homes, RVs, and small single-family homes, with 90.8% of residents owning their properties. The median age is 65.1, reflecting a retiree-heavy population, with 88.3% White (Non-Hispanic), 8.51% Other (Hispanic), and 3.19% Two+ (Non-Hispanic). The poverty rate is low at 8.9%. The economy employs 92 people, mainly in retail trade (24), utilities (15), and healthcare (13), with many commuting to Lake Havasu City (average commute: 38.5 minutes).
Did You Know? Crystal Beach’s proximity to Lake Havasu City makes it a prime spot for cliff jumping and boating, with local spots like Crystal Beach on the lake drawing adventure seekers for water-based thrills.
Education and Community Services
Crystal Beach has no public schools within its boundaries, with students attending schools in Lake Havasu City, such as Smoketree Elementary or Thunderbolt Middle School, served by the Lake Havasu Unified School District. Emergency services are provided by the Desert Hills Fire Department and Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, with medical facilities like Havasu Regional Medical Center 7 miles away. Residents rely on Lake Havasu City for amenities like shopping, libraries, and dining.
Recreation and Attractions
- Lake Havasu: Just 7 miles south, the lake offers boating, fishing, cliff jumping, and events like the Lake Havasu Boat Show, with Windsor Beach (10 miles away) ideal for camping. [](https://www.tripmondo.com/united-states/arizona/mohave-county/crystal-beach/)
- Topock Gorge: 20 miles north, accessible via boat or Route 95, this scenic Colorado River stretch is popular for kayaking and jet skiing. [](https://trip-suggest.com/united-states/arizona/crystal-beach-census-designated-place)
- Lake Havasu City Airport: 2 miles east, this general aviation hub offers scenic flight tours over the lake and desert.
- Desert Hills: 2.5 miles southeast, a neighboring CDP with golf courses and community events, enhancing local recreation.
Lifestyle and Appeal
Crystal Beach offers a quiet, retiree-focused lifestyle with a population density of 829 people per square mile. The average commute to Lake Havasu City is 38.5 minutes, where most residents work. The community appeals to those seeking affordable, low-maintenance homes near water recreation, with 83.3% health coverage (36.9% Medicare). Community events are minimal, but residents enjoy Lake Havasu City’s festivals and markets. The area has moderate earthquake risks and high UV exposure but low crime rates.
Plan Your Visit
Reach Crystal Beach via Arizona State Route 95 from Lake Havasu City (7 miles south) or Interstate 40 from Needles, California (30 miles north). Enjoy boating or cliff jumping on Lake Havasu, explore Topock Gorge, or visit Lake Havasu City’s London Bridge. For extended trips, Bullhead City (42 miles north) offers Laughlin’s casinos, and Las Vegas is 150 miles northwest. Crystal Beach is a serene base for desert adventures and Colorado River fun.