Top Toledo Beaches: Discover the Best Lakeside Spots Near You

Lake Erie Beaches Nearby

One of the most delightful parts of summer in Toledo and Northwest Ohio is the number of sandy beaches that dot the Lake Erie shore, stretching from Monroe, Mich., to Sandusky. Facilities vary at each location, providing diverse experiences for beachgoers.

Maumee Bay State Park

Located just east of Toledo, the 1,850-acre Maumee Bay State Park features a beautiful Lake Erie beach along with an inland lake beach. Visitors can enjoy various facilities, including a marina, ten miles of hiking trails, cottages, a lodge overlooking Lake Erie, beach concessions, restrooms, and an 18-hole golf course. Additionally, the interpretive boardwalk trail enhances the experience by educating visitors about the local flora and fauna.

East Harbor State Park

Situated at Marblehead, east of Sandusky, East Harbor State Park encompasses a 1,500-foot stretch of white sand beach that attracts visitors from across the region. However, flotation devices are not permitted, making this beach most suitable for older children capable of swimming. Facilities available include a marina, picnic tables, a concession stand, camping options, paid Wi-Fi, and hiking trails, ensuring a complete outdoor experience.

Kelleys Island State Park

Located in the heart of Ohio’s Lake Erie islands, Kelleys Island State Park spans 677 acres and features a 100-foot public white sand beach. This beach is favored by sunbathers and swimmers due to its suitability compared to the rockier beaches of nearby South Bass Island. Park amenities include camping and yurt rentals, boat rentals, fishing opportunities, and picnic facilities, with over six miles of hiking trails offering spectacular views of the water.

Camp Perry Beach Park

Nestled within the Camp Perry military reservation near Port Clinton, the public beach is part of the Camp Perry Lodging and Conference Center complex. Open from dusk to dawn, the beach features a stretch of white sand along with essential facilities such as restrooms and picnic tables. Additionally, nearby cottages and condos are available for short-term rentals, with discounts for members of the armed services.

Catawba Island State Park

This compact park, located at the tip of the Catawba Peninsula near Marblehead and the ferry terminal, offers a beach that is open during daylight hours, though without lifeguard supervision. Though just 10 acres in size, it provides ample facilities, including restrooms and picnic tables, and acts as a popular launch point for boats accessing Lake Erie.

The Beach at Cedar Point

The beach on the east side of the Cedar Point peninsula features one of the premier sandy beaches on Lake Erie. This well-maintained stretch of white sand includes a beach volleyball court and nearby dining options, creating a perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.

The Public Beach at Luna Pier

Located about 10 miles north of the Ohio-Michigan state line, the public beach at Luna Pier features nearly five miles of continuous shoreline with extensive amenities such as hiking trails, a bathhouse, a marina, bike paths, and picnic facilities, making it an ideal spots for outdoor enthusiasts.

Sterling State Park in Monroe, Michigan

About eight miles from the Ohio-Michigan state line, the 1,300-acre Sterling State Park is the only state park located on Lake Erie. It features over a mile of sandy beach along with seven miles of hiking trails, a boat launch, three fishing piers, and lakefront campsites.

Lakefront Park in Huron

Situated in Huron, about an hour’s drive east of Cleveland, Lakefront Park spans three acres and boasts 615 feet of Lake Erie shoreline and beach, complete with picnic tables, a playground, and restroom facilities. Notably, this area is adjacent to a wooded grove, providing ample shade and a serene environment.