Indiana is one of those states that has four seasons, which we think can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it’s almost like no season is long enough (except winter, which can be TOO long more often than not), and on the other, it means new times and a fresh start are never too far ahead. But, sometimes, no matter which season it may be at the time, you crave a little bit of summer, and when that mood strikes, you know what to do. That’s right: read up on the most amazing beaches in Indiana – and maybe visit each one!

Each of the following amazing beaches in Indiana is beautiful all year long, and boy, do they give the Caribbean a run for its money. Read on to see what we mean!

1. Beverly Shores/Kemil Beach

Beverly Shores, IN, USA
Tom Gill/Flickr
Beverly Shores has the distinct honor of being both an amazing, dark-sky city, and for having some of the most pristine beaches Lake Michigan has ever seen. Kemil Beach is but a stone's throw away from some of the best shops and eateries in Beverly Shores, and it's stunning. Anyone who misses the ocean and feels "stuck" in the Midwest ought to visit this spectacular beach in Indiana no matter what (or when).

2. Washington Park/Michigan City Beach

Washington Park Beach, City Hall & 100 E. Michigan, Michigan City, IN 46360, USA
Tom Gill/Flickr
Though Washington Park Beach is its official name, you might also hear this beach referred to as "Michigan City Beach". Here, you'll find one of the most intriguing and photogenic sights in the whole state: a picturesque lighthouse in Indiana (you read that right) that's truly worthy of being put on a puzzle as it stretches into the almost endless horizon of Lake Michigan. Perfection.

3. Patoka Lake

Patoka Lake, Indiana, USA
LouisvilleUSACE/Flickr
Okay, here's one of the few on this list that aren't beaches on Lake Michigan, but in all fairness, only Lake Michigan is enormous enough to look and feel like the ocean. A close contender, though, is the Indiana beaches at Patoka Lake, a gorgeous hidden lake in Indiana worthy of an addition to your bucket list. The sunsets and sunrises just hit differently here. Come see how the next time you'd like to spend time at the beaches in Indiana.

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4. Marquette Park Beach

Marquette Park Beach, Gary, IN 46403, USA
Steve Johnson/Flickr
Okay, back to Lake Michigan. Marquette Park Beach is known as "where the dunes begin," as it's essentially the gateway to Indiana Dunes National Park. It is the westernmost beach on Lake Michigan, and its pristine, blue waters are like something out of a tropical island vacation. Nope, no need to pinch yourself - it's no dream. Just one of the best beaches in Indiana.

5. Hidden Valley Lake

Hidden Valley Lake, Hidden Valley, IN 47025, USA
ThaddeusCraig513/Flickr
Hidden Valley Lake is not unlike a hidden tropical beach paradise in Indiana that few people - even Hoosiers - seem to know about. Nothing is boring or traditionally Midwestern about this Indiana beach: Hidden Valley Lake is perfect for unleashing your inner surfer (or jet skier). Hang ten!

6. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Indiana Dunes National Park, Porter, IN 46304, USA
Tom Gill/Flickr
Finally, we return to Lake Michigan to admire the incredible beauty that is the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. This region has a very specific, very special trivia attached to it: it has the honor of being the first National Park in Indiana. By visiting Indiana Dunes, you'll be able to visit a couple of the Indiana beaches on this list, so we strongly recommend a day trip to experience them all.

So, no matter what time of year it is, at least know this, Hoosier friends: there’s always the beach, and there are amazing beaches even in Indiana. Which gorgeous Indiana beach is your go-to favorite? Tell us about it in the following comments section.

Do you know that some Indiana beaches have glass on them too? To learn where to go, take a look at our article about beach glass in Indiana. We suggest checking out AllTrails for hikes near beaches in Indiana too.

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Beaches in Indiana

Marla S. | March 07, 2024

What are some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Indiana?

Here are some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Indiana:

  • Dunbar Beach: Your furry pal is welcome to join you on this scenic beach as well as other areas that are east of Indiana Dunes National Park. However, they're required to be on a leash that's a maximum of 6 feet.
  • Fox Island County Park: The next time you'd like your pup to run free, head to the designated dog beach in this Fort Wayne Park.
  • Lake View Beach: If you're planning to spend some time in Beverly Shores, feel free to walk your pup along this pristine beach. Afterward, spend time enjoying the nearby dog-friendly shops.

 

What are some of the best hikes in Indiana?

In addition to visiting beaches any time of year, check out these best hikes in Indiana:

  • Trevlac Bluffs Bottomland Loop Trail in Helmsburg: This easy mile-long hike is a popular spot to take your furry pal for a walk in the winter.
  • Trail 8 in Brown County State Park: At 3.9 miles, expect to receive a nice workout when you hike this intermediate-level hike in Indiana.
  • Three Lakes Trail in Morgan Monroe State Forest: Your leashed dog is welcome to join you on this moderate hike that's open throughout the year.
  • Pixley Knob to Deam Lake in Clark State Forest: Since this scenic hike is rated hard, plan to spend at least eight hours to complete the 18-mile trail.

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