Despite our location here smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, Wisconsin residents know that we have no shortage of spectacular beaches, both on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior as well as on our many inland lakes. Folks from elsewhere might be surprised, but we know that soothing water, sandy beaches and tons of activities are right at our fingertips. From North Beach in Racine to Big Bay Beach on Madeline Island, there are gorgeous summer spots all across Wisconsin.
One of the state’s prettiest, most active beaches is on Lake Geneva, in the southern part of the state. A quaint and fun town that is home to some of the state’s most opulent mansions, Lake Geneva is a great spot for a weekend getaway and Riviera Beach is located right in walking distance of much of what the town as to offer. In the center of the action, this beach looks like it could be located somewhere along the ocean if we didn’t know any better.
Located on Wrigley Avenue, just steps from the city's walking path and library, among other things, this pretty stretch of sand is happening in summer. There's often a number of boats out on the lake, enjoying fishing, water sports and more. Lifeguards on duty, access to a bath house and gorgeous water, this public beach has the feel of a place about 1,000 miles to the east or 2,000 miles to the west of us.
The beach gets its name from the Riviera Ballroom that sits right on the shore and unofficially marks one end of it. When you need a break from the water, check out the gorgeous fountain out front.
There is an admission fee to the beach - children under six are free, ages 7-12 are $4 and adults are $8. Locals with proof of residence get a discount and many of the local area resorts provide access to the beach for their guests. Season passes are available, as well. There are vending machines available and you'll be issued a wristband.
Those fees mean this beach is incredibly clean and lifeguards are on duty every day. The Riviera Beach is open during the summer
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. No pets are allowed. There are no glass containers or alcohol allowed, but food is.
The beach does get busy in high season, but even then it's still super enjoyable and doesn't feel like you're getting squeezed out. There's room for you to spread out on the sand and there's plenty of water for everyone to enjoy. It's a great place to spend the day. Bring a picnic lunch, pack plenty of toys and spend some time unplugged with your family.
When you're feeling like you've spend enough time in the sun, there's plenty to see and do in the town of Lake Geneva. Pack it up for a bit and head into town for a meal or a stroll among the shops before heading back to lay out on the beach. In summer, Lake Geneva is for all intents and purposes a beach town. Folks here expect you to be in cover-ups and flip flops.
Despite its small and somewhat secluded location, Lake Geneva is a heck of a town, especially in the summer. Originally a retreat for rich and famous folks, there's always something going on here. There's an amazing summer concert series, stellar food and drink and all kinds of reasons to keep coming back. Who needs the Jersey shore or California coast when Lake Geneva is right here?
You'll love knowing that this little escape is within driving distance. This beach provides all the amenities you need to provide your family with a fabulous day on the water or weekend getaway. It's a perfect little slice of heaven right here in Wisconsin.
Riviera Beach in Lake Geneva is one of the best spots to be in the summer. Soak up some rays, cool off in the water, rinse and repeat. And then unwind at the end of the day with an amazing sunset. Folks never knew summer in Wisconsin could be so good.
