Sometimes we forget that spending a day at the beach does not necessarily require a trip out-of-state. Lake Erie and nearby lakes, it turns out, offer some stunning beaches, the likes of which are unrivaled in beauty and opportunity for exploration. These ten best beaches in Cleveland are all within driving distance, and each one is uniquely perfect for a day in the summer sun.

1. Huntington Beach, 28648 Lake Road, Bay Village
Huntington Beach, 28492-28648 Lake Rd, Bay Village, OH 44140, USA
Heather McLaughlin/Wikimedia Commons
Huntington Beach is one of the finest beaches in the Cleveland Metroparks. It is Blue Wave Certified by the Clean Beaches Council, so you can feel confident knowing that this distinguished beach is both fun and the first on Lake Erie to be awarded for its cleanliness. You'll love this vibrant beach and the views it offers of Downtown Cleveland! If you’re in Cleveland and looking for a "beach near me," check out this amazing beach!
2. Rocky River Park Beach, 20250 Beach Cliff boulevard, Rocky River
Rocky River Park, 20250 Beach Cliff Blvd, Rocky River, OH 44116, USA
Kevin Payravi/Wikimedia Commons
This beach is smaller than many others on the list, but that just makes it more intimate. Bring a picnic lunch and take advantage of this pristine location coveted by birdwatchers. We love this beach in Ohio!
3. East Harbor State Park, 1169 N Buck Road, Lakeside Marblehead
1169 N Buck Rd, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440, USA
Analogue Kid/Wikimedia Commons
This park truly offers unlimited outdoor activities. Over 1800 acres lay waiting for your exploration, and different parts of the shoreline offer swimming, boating, and fishing spots. We love this beach on a lake in Ohio!
4. Headlands Beach State Park, 9601 Headlands Road, Mentor
Headlands Beach State Park, 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, OH 44060, USA
LASZLO ILYES/Flickr
This beach is celebrated as the longest natural beach in Ohio. What sets it apart from other beaches is its flora, much of which is typically only found along the Atlantic coast. This is such a great beach in Ohio!
5. East Beach at Lakeview Park, 1800 W Erie Avenue, Lorain
Lakeview Park, 1800 W Erie Ave, Lorain, OH 44052, USA
Rona Proudfoot/Flickr
Everything about Lakeview Park is, to be put simply, magical. With stunning views of the Lorain Lighthouse, a rich history, and a breathtaking rose garden featuring over 2,500 roses, you won't ever want to leave this paradise. If you’ve been wondering, "Are there beaches in Cleveland?", wonder no more!

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6. Edgewater Park Beach, near 6500 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway, Cleveland
Edgewater Beach, Cleveland, OH 44102, USA
Erik Drost/Wikimedia Commons
Edgewater Beach is a natural wonder within the urban jungle of Cleveland. Just a stone's throw from downtown, this beach is home to one of the three cursive script Cleveland signs.
7. Wallace Lake, 213 Prospect Street, Berea
Wallace Lake Park, 213 Prospect Rd, Berea, OH 44017, USA
Chris Light/Wikimedia Commons
Located off of Valley Parkway is one of six Cleveland Metroparks beaches, and it is perhaps one of the most scenic. This manmade structure stretches over 17 acres and is surrounded by trails you have got to explore. This lake in Ohio is one of the best swimming beaches in the state!
8. Hinckley Lake, 1822 East Drive, Hinckley
Hinckley Lake, Hinckley Township, OH 44233, USA
Cleveland Metroparks/Facebook
Just below this stunning lake is a family-friendly beach with sand and a stunning view of the emerald forests of the Hinckley Reservation. Plan to explore after your swim, because the Hinckley Reservation trails are truly a treat. If you’re in Cleveland and looking for "beaches near me," check out this great one!
9. Punderson State Park, 11755 Kinsman Rd, Newbury Township
Punderson State Park, 11755 Kinsman Rd, Newbury Township, OH 44065, USA
Steven Miller/Flickr
Punderson State Park features a 140-acre lake with a 600-foot public beach. Plus, at the nearby lodge, there are additional swimming opportunities in the form of indoor and outdoor pools. This park is stunning year-round and is worth the drive. This beach in Ohio needs to be at the top of your list!
10. Cedar Point Beach off of Cedar Point Drive in Sandusky
Cedar Point Beach, Cedar Point, OH 44870, USA
Andrew Borgen/Flickr
If you've ever been to Cedar Point, you've doubtlessly glanced over the fence at the white sandy shores of Lake Erie. Did you know that the beach is available to all Cedar Point guests? Next time you head to the amusement park or take advantage of Cedar Point Resorts, you have to check it out! This is a must-see beach on the most famous lake in Ohio.

When planning summer days of leisure, there are a number of fantastic beaches that are local and lovable. Whether you want a big beach with lots of sand or a small intimate getaway from the real world, you can find what you are looking for all within the Cleveland area. What is your favorite local beach?

If you’re looking for more great things to do in Cleveland, check out these fun things to do with kids in Cleveland.

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More to Explore

Best Beaches In Cleveland

Megan McDonald | June 03, 2023

Does Cleveland have nice beaches?

Yes, Cleveland, Ohio, is known for having some nice beaches along Lake Erie. The city has made significant efforts to revitalize its lakefront and improve the quality of its beaches in recent years. 

Here are best beaches in Cleveland:

  • Edgewater Beach: Located in Cleveland's Edgewater Park, Edgewater Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the city. It offers a wide sandy shoreline, picnic areas, walking trails, and fantastic views of downtown Cleveland. It also has a beach house with concessions and amenities.
  • Huntington Beach: Situated in Bay Village, just west of Cleveland, Huntington Beach is another beautiful beach along Lake Erie. It features a mile-long sandy beach, picnic areas, nature trails, and a playground. It is known for its tranquil and family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Mentor Headlands Beach State Park: While not directly in Cleveland, Mentor Headlands Beach State Park is within a short drive from the city. It is Ohio's longest natural beach and offers picturesque views, a wide sandy shoreline, dunes, and a scenic lighthouse.
  • Euclid Beach Park: Although Euclid Beach Park is no longer an operational amusement park, the beach area still retains its charm. It is located in Euclid, just east of downtown Cleveland, and provides a pleasant beachfront experience with picnic tables, pavilions, and nearby amenities.

 

These are just a few examples of the nice beaches in and around Cleveland. They offer opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake Erie.

What is the closest beach to downtown Cleveland?

The closest beach to downtown Cleveland is Edgewater Beach, which is part of Edgewater Park. It is situated along the Lake Erie shoreline and offers a sandy beach area for visitors to enjoy. Edgewater Beach is located approximately 5 miles west of downtown Cleveland, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors looking for a beach experience without having to travel too far. It offers beautiful views of the lake and the city skyline, picnic areas, walking trails, and amenities such as restrooms and concessions. Edgewater Beach is a popular destination during the summer months and provides a convenient beach option for those in downtown Cleveland.

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