Best Lake Erie Beaches and Islands
Lake Erie’s shoreline is a gem, offering wide sandy beaches, gentle waves, and a welcoming freshwater charm. I explored family-friendly stretches near Toledo and Cleveland, and took ferries to quieter natural island retreats to find the best beaches for your next summer vacation.
Set against scenic horizons and dotted with vibrant lakeside towns, the lake blends relaxation with adventure in a uniquely Midwestern way. Lake Erie beaches invite you to slow down and soak in the simple beauty. Here are my favorites that I think you’ll enjoy too.
1. Lakeside Beach - 1.5 hours from Cleveland
I loved spending a couple of days at this relaxing Great Lakes getaway! Located along the southern shore of Lake Erie, the beach offered sandy stretches, a large pier, boat rentals, calm blue waters, and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. It had a charming, old-fashioned summer-resort atmosphere.
I think it’s one of the best weekend getaways you can take just 1.5 hours from Cleveland. We stayed at The 2-star Fountain Inn for two nights.
I spent my mornings walking along the shoreline and taking in gorgeous sunrise views, swam in the refreshing waters of Lake Erie, enjoyed kayaking and paddleboarding. I also explored the nearby Marblehead Lighthouse, one of the oldest continually operating lighthouses on the Great Lakes!
- Location: Map & Directions
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays in summer for smaller crowds
My favorite meal was at Sloopy’s because it was so easy and welcoming.
2. East Harbor State Park
While staying on the Marblehead Peninsula at Fountain Inn, we also checked out East Harbor State Park with its long sandy beach and sprawling wetlands. I found out that it's one of the largest state parks on Lake Erie, and it struck a great balance between quiet nature and family-friendly fun.
the park itself also has a huge campground that’s perfect if you want to immerse yourself right in the outdoors. My days were filled with hiking and biking the 11 miles of trails that weave through forests, meadows, and marshes. We loved how diverse the scenery was. You could start on a wooded path, then suddenly come out to a shoreline vista with the lake stretching before you.
- East Harbor State Park website
- Vibe: Nature-rich, active, kid-friendly
- Highlights: Beach swimming, bike trails, marshland hikes
For me, East Harbor State Park is one of the best Lake Erie beaches that makes every trip feel refreshing, memorable, and truly special.
3. Kelleys Island State Park
I took a short ferry ride across Lake Erie from Marblehead and arrived at Ohio’s largest Lake Erie island, Kelleys Island. It felt like a hidden gem, with a quieter, more natural vibe and plenty of room to explore.
I stayed at Kelleys Island Venture Resort for two days and hiked along forested trails, spotted monarch butterflies in the late summer, and admired the famous Glacial Grooves, a striking reminder of the Ice Age.
Cycling around the island was a highlight—the loop took me past vineyards, small cafés, historic homes, and scenic bluffs overlooking Lake Erie. Kayaking along the shoreline gave me a close-up look at the island’s limestone cliffs and nesting birds. Evenings were spent watching fiery sunsets from the park’s pier, and listening to the sound of the waves lapping against the rocks that completely won me over.
- Location: Map & Directions
- Vibe: Laid-back, natural, ferry-access adventure
- Food Nearby: Dockers Waterfront Restaurant
4. Maumee Bay State Park
I think Maumee Bay State Park is the best Lake Erie beach for Toledo locals, just 20 minutes from downtown. But if you are continuing your road trip from Lakeside Beach Marblehead, it's a 50 minute scenic drive along the shore.
I found Maumee Bay State Park's the kind of place that feels both wild and welcoming, with marshlands, woodlands, and a sandy beach stretching out along the lake. I stayed at the Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center, a modern but cozy resort right inside the park, with balconies overlooking the lake and easy access to trails. Each day started with a sunrise walk along the boardwalk through the wetlands, where I spotted herons, egrets, and even bald eagles.
The park is famous for birdwatching, especially during the spring migration when thousands of warblers pass through. I also walked along the 7-mile multi-use trail, which loops through prairies and shoreline habitats, and enjoyed watching kayakers in the calm bay waters. In the evenings, the sunsets were breathtaking with fiery skies reflected perfectly across the wetlands and lake.
- Maumee Bay State Park website
- Facilities: Lifeguards, picnic shelters, restrooms, lodge
- Location: Map & Directions
5. Headlands Beach State Park - 45 minutes from Cleveland
Located just east of Cleveland near Mentor, Headlands Beach State Park is home to Ohio’s largest natural sand beach, stretching nearly a full mile along Lake Erie’s shoreline. The sheer size of the beach felt dramatic, with rolling waves on one side and a backdrop of dune grasses and forest on the other.
I spent the day strolling along the shoreline, swimming in the warm summer shallows, and watching families picnic on the sand. At the far end of the beach, we walked out to the Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse, a historic beacon that adds a perfect photo stop.
The park also connects to the Headlands Dunes Nature Preserve, a rare and fragile dune ecosystem where I hiked along quiet trails and spotted wildflowers and migratory birds. It felt like a wonderful mix of classic beach day fun and protected natural beauty.
- Headlands Beach State Park website
- Best Time to Visit: Late morning to mid-afternoon
- Food Nearby: Pickle Bill’s Lobster House
For me, this is one of the best Lake Erie beaches where every weekend visit feels relaxing, refreshing, and unforgettable.
6. South Bass Island State Park
One of my favorite parts of visiting Lake Erie’s islands was simply getting there—by ferry! From the quaint town of Marblehead, Ohio, I boarded the passenger and vehicle ferry that runs regularly across the lake to Kelleys Island and South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay).
WhileSouth Bass Island has a reputation for its festive atmosphere, I found that South Bass Island State Park gave me the best of both worlds: quiet natural escapes combined with easy access to the action.
The park itself sits on a cliff overlooking the lake, offering incredible panoramic views and dramatic sunsets. I stayed in one of the rustic cabins for four nights (book well in advance!). though there’s also a large campground and even a few cozy yurts. Days were filled with kayaking along the shoreline, fishing from the pier, and biking into Put-in-Bay to explore its quirky shops, island restaurants, and historic sites.
One highlight was visiting Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. Evenings ended back at the park, where the lake breeze and fiery skies made it hard to leave the shoreline.
- Location: Map & Directions
- Food Nearby: The Boardwalk
7. Edgewater Park Beach
We left downtown Cleveland in the late afternoon as locals this month and drove just ten minutes west, the city skyline fading behind us as Lake Erie opened wide.
We pulled off the highway and within minutes were at Edgewater Park, where Cleveland’s skyline stood tall behind us and the lake spread wide in front. There was something special about the way the city buzz faded as we stepped onto the sand.
Edgewater Park Beach is one of my favorite beaches spots in Cleveland, and I think it’s one of the best underrated gems for a quick weekend getaway without ever leaving the city. I love how the wide sandy beach gives you the perfect place to relax, swim, or just stretch out under the sun with Lake Erie views all around.
We followed the smell of fried onions to Honey Hut Ice Cream at the nearby Edgewater concession area, where I ordered a grilled hot dog and a scoop of honey pecan ice cream. The hot dog had a satisfying snap and smoky flavor, and the ice cream? Creamy, cold, and just sweet enough to linger on my tongue as the sun began to lower.
- Location: Map & Directions
- Vibe: Urban beach energy with family-friendly space
8. Port Clinton City Beach
My second best option for Toledo locals, Port Clinton about 25 minutes east of Toledo has a lovely public beach right in town. Port Clinton City Beach gave me a relaxed, small-town vibe with wide sandy stretches perfect for an easygoing day on the water.
The beach sits right off Lake Shore Drive, so it’s super accessible. I spent the afternoon wading into the gentle shallows, watching kids build sandcastles, and enjoying the panoramic lake views with boats drifting by in the distance. It had a friendly, community. I also explored the town itself, where waterfront restaurants served up Lake Erie perch and walleye.
Just down the road, the Jet Express ferry departs for Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island, making Port Clinton a perfect launch point for those island adventures for Toledo locals as well!
We walked into town afterward and grabbed lunch at Jolly Roger Seafood House. I ordered the walleye sandwich, crisp and golden, with a buttery flake that melted in my mouth. The fries were hot and salty, the tartar sauce cool and tangy.
- Location: Port Clinton, OH
- Highlights: Central location, good swimming, walkable to town
For me, this beach is a favorite place where every weekend visit feels refreshing, easy, and memorable.
9. Cedar Point Beach
I didn’t expect a roller coaster to frame my beach day when I visited this month, but that’s exactly what happened at Cedar Point Beach. We left Lakeside in the afternoon and drove about twenty minutes west, the road crossing causeways with Lake Erie glittering on both sides. We stayed at 3-star Hotel Breakers for two nights.
Cedar Point Beach is one of my favorite places on Lake Erie, a perfect weekend getaway in Ohio. i love how this wide sandy stretch feels like a true coastal escape, even though it’s right next to the thrills of Cedar Point Amusement Park.
My favorite part is the balance where you can spend the morning riding roller coasters and the afternoon relaxing by the water, which makes it perfect for both romantic trips and family adventures.
- Location: Sandusky, OH (inside Cedar Point Amusement Park)
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds
- Food Nearby: Hugo’s Italian Kitchen
Conclusion
Here you have it! The best Erie Beaches to explore next summer. Just remember: if planning a stay in one of the state parks, book you cabin early (they take reservations a year in advance!). I also recommed my other article on Ohio beaches which is more focused on beach day tripping from the nearest city.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
