If you, much like us, are always looking for the next time you can head off to the beach without ever leaving Indiana, you’re in luck: thanks to enormous Lake Michigan, the Hoosier state has its very own beaches. It’s difficult, if not impossible, to decide on a “best” one, however, it’s quite possible that Central Avenue Beach is one of the best beaches in Indiana.

NPS.gov
If you begin your journey in the town of Pines, Indiana, the stunningly gorgeous Central Avenue Beach is pretty easy to find.
Wise Woman Wanderer/TripAdvisor
It's just one mile north of Central Avenue (hence the name) and US Highway 12 in Pines. It's open longer than most natural attractions that only allow guests from sunrise to sunset; from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Central Avenue Beach is open.
There's plenty to do here, from walking to swimming and birdwatching.
NPS.gov
During the warmer months, you can watch beautiful Bank Swallows going about their business in the dunes. It's a birdwatcher's paradise, but even folks who aren't into birdwatching can appreciate it here.

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An often-sandy boardwalk leads the way from the paved parking lot to the pristine beach.
Josh Reed/AllTrails
On Central Avenue Beach, the water of Lake Michigan is incredibly clear, and you can see the Chicago skyline across the water. It's excellent for a brief getaway or for longer-term camping.
It's very important to note that removing anything from this area is prohibited and illegal.
Jim Kile/AllTrails
You may see beautiful rocks, fossils, plants, and other objects that you'd love to pick up and take home. Remember, though, that they all need to stay in their own home at Central Avenue Beach.
The area is surrounded by forest that you cannot see.
Lou Donkle/AllTrails
Over the centuries, winds have driven the soft sands of the dunes over a local forest, and as a result, the area is quite literally a "buried forest." This has led to issues in the past, like on nearby Mt. Baldy, where a six-year-old was literally swallowed by a sand dune thanks to a tree buried beneath.
There aren't a whole lot of things we like more than walking on a sandy beach barefoot, feeling the warm sand between our toes and the cool water on our skin.
Brilynn1979/TripAdvisor
Central Avenue Beach is easily one of the best beaches in Indiana, and it's so underappreciated! It doesn't often make the lists you'll find of "Indiana's best beaches," but it's definitely worth a visit.

For more information about Central Avenue Beach, including relevant closures and more, please see the official Central Avenue Beach website.

What’s your favorite sandy beach in Indiana? Tell us about it in the comments!

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Town of Pines, IN 46360, USA