10 Best Beaches On Lake Erie For Families
Lake Erie’s beaches cater to every type of traveler, from serene escapes to family-friendly destinations packed with amenities. Here are 10 must-visit beaches for families, complete with addresses, highlights, and detailed descriptions to help you plan your perfect lakeside adventure.
If you are planning a family vacation to Lake Erie this summer, here's a list of my favorite beaches—in no particular order—for families with kids to enjoy summer days on Lake Erie.
1. Presque Isle State Park (Erie, Pennsylvania)
Address: 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505
- Highlights:
- 13 sandy beaches to choose from.
- Ideal for swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
- A birdwatcher’s paradise with over 300 species spotted.
Presque Isle is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. This peninsula offers a diverse range of beaches, each suited for different activities, from swimming and sunbathing to watersports and hiking. Nature enthusiasts will love the scenic trails and opportunities for birdwatching, while families can enjoy the picnic areas and calm waters.
2. Headlands Beach State Park (Mentor, Ohio)
Address: 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
- Highlights:
- Ohio’s longest natural sand beach.
- Family-friendly with a designated swimming area.
- Nearby trails for nature lovers.
Stretching over a mile, Headlands Beach is the longest natural sand beach in Ohio. It’s perfect for a laid-back day, whether you’re sunbathing or taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Families love the dedicated swimming area, while nearby nature trails offer a chance to explore Lake Erie’s surrounding beauty.
3. Nickel Plate Beach (Huron, Ohio)
Address: Nickel Plate Dr, Huron, OH 44839
- Highlights:
- Soft sand and a quieter vibe.
- Volleyball courts and picnic tables.
- Close to Huron Lighthouse for stunning views.
Nickel Plate Beach is a hidden gem, offering a more relaxed atmosphere compared to busier spots. With soft sand, volleyball courts, and plenty of picnic areas, it’s ideal for a casual day by the water. The nearby Huron Lighthouse adds a charming backdrop for photos or a peaceful evening walk.
4. Cedar Point Beach (Sandusky, Ohio)
Address: 1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870
- Highlights:
- Located next to Cedar Point Amusement Park.
- Clean sandy shoreline with umbrella and chair rentals.
- A perfect mix of thrill and relaxation.
Located right next to Cedar Point Amusement Park, this beach lets you combine rollercoaster thrills with the tranquility of Lake Erie’s shores. It’s well-maintained, with plenty of space to spread out. Rentals for beach chairs and umbrellas are available, making it easy to unwind after a day of excitement.
5. Long Point Beach (Ontario, Canada)
Address: Long Point Provincial Park, Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0, Canada
- Highlights:
- UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
- Shallow, warm waters—great for families.
- Sand dunes and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
A natural wonder, Long Point Beach is part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The shallow, warm waters are perfect for young children, and the surrounding sand dunes create a unique landscape to explore. It’s also a top spot for birdwatching, with a variety of species calling this area home.
6. Geneva State Park Beach (Geneva, Ohio)
Address: 4499 Padanarum Rd, Geneva, OH 44041
- Highlights:
- Smaller, tranquil beach.
- Trails, picnic areas, and a nearby marina.
- Close to Ohio’s wine country for post-beach relaxation.
Geneva State Park Beach offers a quieter experience for those looking to escape the crowds. Surrounded by lush trails and a picturesque marina, it’s an excellent spot for nature lovers. After a day at the beach, take advantage of its proximity to Ohio’s wine country for a relaxing evening.
7. Bay Village Beach (Bay Village, Ohio)
Address: 31065 Lake Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140
- Highlights:
- Quiet and peaceful setting.
- Perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
- A great spot for sunset views.
Bay Village Beach is the perfect spot for a peaceful outing. Its quiet atmosphere is ideal for couples or solo travelers looking to unwind. Bring a picnic and enjoy the stunning sunset views over the water—it’s the perfect way to end the day.
8. Crystal Beach (Fort Erie, Ontario)
Address: Erie Rd, Fort Erie, ON L0S 1B0, Canada
- Highlights:
- Stunning sandy beach with clear waters.
- Great for swimming and paddleboarding.
- Charming nearby shops and restaurants.
Crystal Beach is known for its powdery sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a hotspot for swimming and paddleboarding, with plenty of rental options nearby. After a day on the beach, stroll through the charming shops and enjoy a bite at one of the local restaurants.
9. Walnut Beach Park (Ashtabula, Ohio)
Address: 1550 W 1st St, Ashtabula, OH 44004
- Highlights:
- Wide sandy beach with volleyball courts.
- Family-friendly with picnic areas and playgrounds.
- Excellent fishing opportunities nearby.
Walnut Beach Park is a great destination for families. Its wide, sandy shore is perfect for games like volleyball, and there are playgrounds to keep the kids entertained. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby opportunities to cast a line.
10. Edgewater Beach (Cleveland, Ohio)
Address: 6500 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway, Cleveland, OH 44102
- Highlights:
- Located in Cleveland Metroparks, offering city and lake views.
- Perfect for swimming, picnics, and watersports.
- Host to summer events and food truck gatherings.
Edgewater Beach combines the natural beauty of Lake Erie with the energy of downtown Cleveland. With designated swimming areas, picnic spots, and opportunities for watersports, it’s a versatile beach for any outing. Don’t miss the food truck gatherings and events that make this beach a local favorite.
Lake Erie’s beaches have offered incredible fun for families for generations, and I hope this guide helps you create some wonderful memories with those who mean the most to you this summer.
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Sara Miller
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