There are plenty of places within the state of New York that will make you feel as though you’ve been transported to somewhere new, from whimsical adventures to out-of-of-this-world vacations – our state has it all! If you’re ready to feel as though you’re right by the ocean without ever having to step outside of Western New York and our Thousand Islands Regions, then see what it’s like to explore some of the best Lake Ontario beaches the state has to offer!

1. Fair Haven Beach State Park
Heather Horn/Google
Made up of more than 1,000-acres along the southeastern shores of Lake Ontario, Fair Haven Beach State Park is one destination within the Empire State that's bound to make you feel like you're at the ocean. People from all around New York State and beyond make their way to this state park to enjoy the scenic views, and of course, the picture-perfect lakefront views. To find out more about this gorgeous and entertaining lake, be sure to check out the Fair Haven Beach State Park website.
2. Southwick Beach State Park
Michael L/TripAdvisor
Out in Jefferson County where you're by the town of Henderson, Southwick Beach State Park has its own 3,500-foot beach. Sink your toes into the sand and gaze out at the never-ending views of Lake Ontario, a popular destination that's known to see upwards of 100,000 visitors each year. To find out more information to help plan your visit, be sure to check out the Southwick Beach State Park website.

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3. Ontario Beach Park
Skeets37/TripAdvisor
Another picture-perfect location within New York, you'll want to be sure to bring your camera with you during any of your trips to Ontario Beach Park. A natural gem of Monroe County, Ontario Beach Park is just one of the many beaches that make Rochester so breathtaking. Learn more so that you can plan an enjoyable visit by checking out the Ontario Beach Park website.
4. Hamlin Beach State Park
Larry W/TripAdvisor
Another amazing beach of Monroe County, Hamlin Beach State Park is one of New York's most visited beaches along Lake Ontario. Within the state park, you'll find beautiful and well-kept hiking trails, but it's out along the lakefront and beach where you'll want to spend your time the most. With plenty of picnic tables and places to plant your feet for the day, there's nothing like making a visit out here. To find out more, visit the Hamlin Beach State Park website.
5. Sodus Point Beach Park
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In case you needed a reason to pay the beautiful village of Sodus Point a visit, Sodus Point Beach Park is so dreamy - it even has its own lighthouse! With views of Lake Ontario for as far as the eye can see and soft, sandy beaches that you'll never want to pull yourself away from, it's beaches like these that make us so grateful to live in the state of New York! To find out more information, be sure to spend some time checking out the Sodus Point website.

Do you agree that these are some of the best Lake Ontario beaches? Are there other beaches you like to visit? Summer on Lake Ontario in New York is filled with plenty of fun activities. Let us know in the comment section what your favorite beaches and summer activities are – we would love to hear from you!

If you’re wanting to spend more time along our state’s amazing lakes, then be sure to check out how These Quaint Cottages On The Shores Of Lake George In New York Will Make Your Summer Splendid!

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More to Explore

Visiting Lake Ontario

Katie Feldkamp | June 16, 2023

What are some fun things to explore around Lake Ontario?

What Lake Ontario lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty. There are several great ways to explore the great lake. Consider adding some of the following to your summer bucket list:

  • The Great Lakes Seaway Trail. This is a 518-mile trail that takes you to more that take you to scenic villages and other stunning bodies of water
  • On the eastern edge of Lake Ontario, relax with a glass of wine at Coyote Moon Vineyards
  • Spend a weekend exploring The Thousand Islands
  • For the history buffs, there’s Fort Niagara, built in the 1700s

For more information on these activities and more, check out this article on Lake Ontario activities for New Yorkers to enjoy.

What are some charming towns near Lake Ontario?

Picturesque small towns are scattered along the shores of Lake Ontario, and they make the best visits for both day trips and weekend trips. The next time you’re looking for a lakefront town, consider the following:

  • Sackets Harbor in Jefferson County
  • Watertown
  • Rochester
  • Olcott

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