Do you think Wisconsin beaches have to involve crowds of people? Maybe for some, but not for us Wisconsinites! There are actually several beaches on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior that are as deserted as they are dashing. Here are a few of our favorite hidden beaches on Wisconsin’s Great Lakes. Without a doubt, we believe that these are five of the best beaches in Wisconsin that are sure to be delightful. Let’s check them out!

1. Newport State Park
475 County Rd NP, Ellison Bay, WI 54210, USA
Jenna Richardson/Google
If you’re looking for a crowd-free beach in Door County, Newport State Park is sure to please. In addition to the main beach, the park boasts several secluded pebble beaches. The pebble beaches are located off the park’s trails and require some hiking. Want to swim but not hike? No problem; simply park in Lot 3, where you’ll find a paved path that leads straight to the main beach which is great for kids since it features a gradual sandy slope. When it comes to must-see Great Lakes hidden beaches in Wisconsin, Newport State Park tops the list.

Address: 475 County Rd NP, Ellison Bay, WI, 54210
2. Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve
511 High Bluff Dr, Grafton, WI 53024, USA
Benjamin Bruening/Google
Located in a small town and unknown to many, Lion’s Den Gorge is a true hidden gem, which means crowds aren’t the norm and peace and quiet is. One hidden gem worth seeking out, the preserve features easy-to-navigate hiking trails, bluffs, a gorge, and…a beach, of course. Keep in mind that accessing the beach requires trekking down a long staircase.

Address: 511 High Bluff Dr, Grafton, WI, 53024

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3. Rock Island State Park
Best Beaches in Wisconsin
Rock Island State Park Road, Rock Island State Park Rd, Washington, WI, USA
Trollman/TripAdvisor
If you’re willing to put in some effort to escape the crowds, Rock Island State Park is the way to go. In order to access the park, you’ll have to catch two ferries – one to Washington Island and then a second to Rock Island. Once at the park, you’re sure to be pleased as you set your eyes on the park’s biggest perk – a sandy beach that stretches more than 2,000 feet. It's one of the best secret beaches in Wisconsin.

Address: Rock Island State Park Road Jackson Harbor, WI, 54246
4. Meyer’s Beach
Meyers Road, Meyers Rd, Bayfield, WI 54814, USA
Rogue Trip/Google
Meyer’s Beach is often considered nothing more than a launching point to explore the Apostle Islands’ popular sea caves. Most visitors are kayakers and hikers, who leave the beach immediately to venture along the coast in search of other sights. Because of this, the beach is often empty, so you’ll likely have the stretch of pristine sand and surf all to yourself. You'll love spending time at Meyer's Beach, one of the most peaceful Wisconsin beaches to visit.

Address: Meyers Rd, Bayfield, WI, 54814
5. Simmons Island Beach
Best Beaches in Wisconsin
5001 Simmons Island Rd, Kenosha, WI 53140, USA
Lee Paco industries/Google
Unlike the other beaches on this list, Simmons Island Beach is located in a large city. However, despite its locale, its existence remains unknown to many. Its under-the-radar reputation isn’t all the beach has going for it, though. It’s also large, well-maintained, and features a boardwalk, bike trail, two historic lighthouses, playground, and picnic pavilion.

Address: 5001 Simmons Island Dr, Kenosha, WI, 53140

Did you know that Milwaukee has some great beaches as well? Check out this cool YouTube video by UW-Milwaukee highlighting 3 of the most popular beaches in Milwaukee. 

So, did you know about these secluded swimming spots and Great Lakes hidden beaches in Wisconsin? Do you have any destinations to add to this list? Tell us in the comments section.

Looking for another great spot to cool off this summer? Check out this other beautiful Wisconsin beach.

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Great Lakes beaches in Wisconsin

Beth C. | March 31, 2021

Are there any hidden beaches in Wisconsin?

As you learned in the article above outlining some incredible Great Lakes beaches in Wisconsin, the state is filled with hidden gems that will make you feel like you're on the coast. However, the above list is by no means exhaustive. There are some more hidden beaches worth checking out. One in particular is known as Troll Beach. This destination can be found near Stoughton and it operates only seasonally. When you arrive, you'll be delighted to discover white sandy beaches and pristine water. Plus, with amenities like a concession stand, and chairs and umbrellas for rent, this hidden beach in Wisconsin will delight everyone in your family.

Here are 5 more beaches in Wisconsin that we would recommend:


Be sure to check out this previous article to read more about these beautiful beaches in Wisconsin.

What are the most beautiful lakes in Wisconsin?

Did you know that Wisconsin is home to nearly 15,000 lakes? That's a LOT of water to enjoy, and pinpointing some of the most beautiful lakes in Wisconsin can be something of a daunting task. Fortunately, we've scouted out some excellent places for you to start. At the top of the list is Black Oak Lake which is located approximately a mile from the Upper Peninsula. This impressive lake measures 564 acres and reaches a maximum depth of 85 feet. Filled with all kinds of native fish, the lake is also one of the clearest in the state. In fact, it has a seeing depth of nearly 30 feet! Learn more about this must-see lake in Wisconsin.

What are the best places to go swimming in Wisconsin?

When the weather is warm, there are few activities more rewarding than taking a dip in an old-fashioned swimming hole. Given the fact that Wisconsin has so much access to water, you won't be surprised to learn that there are tons of options! Some of the best places to take a dip in Wisconsin include Dells of the Eau Claire Park in Aniwa, Soo Lake in Newbold, Minooka Park in Waukesha, Turtle Creek in Beloit, and Amnicon Falls in South Range. Learn all about the best swimming holes in Wisconsin so you can be prepared for that hot summer day.

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