Ah, summertime in Pennsylvania. The absolute perfect time to get away from it all. Preferably somewhere warm, with tropical breezes, white sandy beaches, and endless ocean views, right? You’re not alone if you spend your summers dreaming of island getaways. Sadly, not all of us have the time or funds to fly away on a dream vacation to the Bahamas. But that’s okay. We’ve got some pretty sweet spots right in the Keystone State. If you close your eyes, you will feel like you are in paradise in Pennsylvania.

1. Erie Bluffs State Park: 11100 W Lake Rd, Lake City, PA 16423
Erie Bluffs State Park, 11100 W Lake Rd, Lake City, PA 16423, USA
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Tranquility and sensational sweeping views await at Erie Bluffs State Park. This predominantly undeveloped state park in Pennsylvania features spectacular views from atop the 90-foot Erie Bluff. It's one of our favorite places to go to experience some peace (and shade!) on a hot summer's day. Unfortunately, you can't go swimming at this serene state park. But there's plenty of hiking fun to be had, and it's a great spot for a picnic or to go fishing in Lake Erie. It's not far from the more popular Presque Isle State Park and since it's less crowded, it's a much better way to connect with nature.
2. Laurel Hill State Park: 1454 Laurel Hill Park Rd, Somerset, PA 15501
Laurel Hill State Park, 1454 Laurel Hill Park Rd, Somerset, PA 15501, USA
Facebook/Laurel Hill State Park
Beach days, here we come! We have a surprising number of great beaches in Pennsylvania. One of the best is at Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset. You can enjoy the gentle lake breeze as you claim your spot on the 1,200-foot sandy beach. Soak up the golden rays as you lie in the sand at this Pennsylvania oasis. After a while, head into the cool water of the 63-acre lake to feel refreshed. Explore the lake by boat for a real adventure! If you feel like something a little less active, have a picnic, or maybe cool off with a cold treat from the concession stands. If you want to turn your beach day into a weekend getaway, there are lodges and cottages on site available for rental.
3. Bald Eagle State Park: 149 Main Park Rd, Howard, PA 16841
Bald Eagle State Park, 149 Main Park Rd, Howard, PA 16841, USA
Wikimedia Commons/User: Ruhrfisch
Pennsylvania may not border the ocean, but we've got our fair share of beaches in our many wonderful state parks. One of the best is Bald Eagle State Park. This 6,000-acre Pennsylvania oasis is absolutely magical. Lounge along the 1,200-foot sandy beach, or maybe you'd like to jump in the lake to cool off? Bald Eagle State Park's beach has everything you need for a relaxing family day: a snack bar, a playground, restrooms, and changing rooms. Of course, if you'd like something a little more active, you can find that here, too. You can go kayaking, boating, or hiking along one of the nearly 15 miles of trails.

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4. Presque Isle State Park: 301 Peninsula Dr., Erie, PA 16505
Presque Isle, Erie, PA 16507, USA
Trip Advisor/Rod H.
Looking for an unforgettable getaway? Escape to the beautiful white sands of Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie. Spend your day soaking up the sun along one of the park's numerous beaches, each boasting a slew of amenities. For example, you can enjoy bathhouses, public parking, and concession stands. If you like water parks, the wacky Waldameer Park and Water World is nearby.
5. Caribbean Wave Jamaican Jerk Restaurant: 701 E Chestnut St #3125, Lancaster, PA 17602
Caribbean Wave Jamaican Jerk Restaurant, 701 E Chestnut St #3125, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA
Caribbean Wave, 701 E Chestnut St #3125, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA
Ms Peters/Google Maps
What's a Caribbean paradise without a delicious meal? Indulge in authentic Caribbean dishes at Caribbean Wave Jamaican Jerk Restaurant. The unassuming eatery boasts an array of menu items. You'll find jerk chicken, jerk catfish, curry chicken, and brown stew chicken. Want something lighter? Opt for the salmon or jerk shrimp salad. Your taste buds will feel like they're in Jamaica! You can get more information from the restaurant's Facebook.
6. The Parador Inn: 939 Western Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15233
The Parador Inn, 939 Western Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15233, USA
Susan A/Tripadvisor
Stay in a tropical paradise at night and explore the Iron City during the day. The Parador Inn in Pittsburgh features a Caribbean theme. Here, you'll find aptly-named rooms such as Lady Palm and the Bird of Paradise. Relax in your island-themed room in the evening. Plenty of amenities are on site including your own fridge and fireplace. Kick start your morning with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore the city. This is one of our favorite hotels in Pittsburgh — it's so much fun!

What other Caribbean-like spots would you consider a paradise in Pennsylvania? Share your favorite places in the comments!

Are you the type of person that prefers to spend every free moment during your summer in the water? Even though Pennsylvania doesn’t have the ocean, there are plenty of beaches in our great state that are just as good. Visit some of our favorites to take your summer to a whole new level.

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Paradise In Pennsylvania

Lisa Sammons | May 16, 2022

What are some of the best beaches in Pennsylvania?

We know that the Keystone State is landlocked, but that doesn't mean we don't have some fantastic beaches. There are plenty of great beaches in Pennsylvania and one of our favorites is at Beltzville State Park. The sandy beach has remarkably blue water that will make you feel like you're in the Caribbean.

Are there water parks in Pennsylvania?

We have some great water parks in Pennsylvania. We also just so happen to be home to the largest indoor water park in the entire country. Kalahari Indoor Water Park provides indoor, heated fun so that you can enjoy the water even when it's snowing outside. The water park has over 220,000 square feet of rides, pools, slides, and more.

What is summer in Pennsylvania like?

Summers in Pennsylvania can get a little muggy, but not anything like some of the Southern states. The highs in the summer usually don't get much above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. We can receive a bit of rain during the summers and these storms can bring lots of moisture!

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