Summer has finally arrived, and that means (hopefully) long, sunny days are upon us. But before you pack up and head south for the ocean, make sure you’ve checked out these Ohio beaches, all within a day’s driving distance of Cleveland. Even if you aren’t much of a swimmer, the sunset views are killer, and most of the beaches offer dozens of recreational activities for everyone to enjoy.
Headlands Beach State Park
9601 Headlands Rd., Mentor, 440-466-8400
As the longest natural beach in Ohio, Headlands Park offers a great view and opportunity for a peaceful sandy stroll.
Photo via notmarkthomas/InstagramCedar Point Beach
1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, 419-627-2350
If you tire easily from the bustle of Cedar Point Amusement Park, seek refuge at the beach. Visitors have a great view of the rides and the calm waters, and those looking to stay a while can even rent a room at a seaside hotel.
Photo via garymussell/InstagramGem Beach Marina
3000 N. Carolina St., Port Clinton, 419-797-4451
This marina is a great spot for boaters and for guests to enjoy the lakeside view, as well as the dozens of gorgeous lake houses.
Photo via rfkay22/InstagramHuntington Beach
355 Dover Center Rd., Bay Village, 216-515-0029
Huntington Beach was recently recognized as a Blue Wave Beach, meaning that it has a noticeable focus on human health and the environment. So, not only do visitors enjoy a view, but also a litter-free space to relax.
Photo via hfansler42/InstagramGeneva State Park
4499 Padanarum Rd., Geneva, 440-466-8400
This state park is along the Lake Erie shoreline and offers several gazebos perfect for watching the sun set … or rise for that matter.
Photo via klawren3/InstagramLakeview Park
1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain, 800-526-7275
This park has a perfect view of the Lorain Lighthouse and Lake Erie. However, the park is best known for its restored Rose Garden — an amazing sight with 48 beds of lush rose flowers.
Photo via misskrieg/InstagramConneaut Township Park
480 Lake Rd., Conneaut, 440-599-7071
Conneaut Township Park is a small, .4-mile long beach with a nice view of Lake Erie and several spots to picnic and enjoy.
Photo via edensweden/InstagramMaumee Bay State Park
1400 State Park Rd., Oregon, 419-836-7758
Maumee Bay is truly one of those stunning areas worth the drive from Cleveland. It’s great for those who enjoy hiking as well as lounging by the beach. The park offers several areas to bike and walk, perfect for a weekend getaway.
Photo via Maumee Bay State Park/FacebookKelleys Island
1169 N Buck Rd., Lakeside Marblehead, 419-746-2546
Kelleys Island is a popular Ohio vacation spot with tons of restaurants, shopping areas and, of course, scenic views of Lake Erie.
Photo via __qzb__/InstagramAtwood Lake Park
9500 Lakeview Rd., Mineral City, 330-343-6780
Complete with summer festivals and tons of camping areas, Atwood Park is ideal for those looking for a beautiful nature view and lots of family-oriented activities.
Photo via melissathegeek/InstagramFairport Harbor Lakefront Park
301 Huntington Beach Dr., Fairport Harbor, 440-639-9972
Fairport Harbor is a popular and beautiful beach spot, with a bustling downtown offering restaurants and other activities when you need a break from the sun.
Photo via candidlyvanessa/InstagramEast Harbor State Park
1169 N Buck Rd., Lakeside Marblehead, 419-734-4424
East Harbor provides a spectacular view of the Great Lake, as well as several wetland areas where visitors can observe shorebirds and other wildlife.
Photo via leighleigh34/InstagramBuck Creek State Park
1976 Buck Creek Ln., Springfield, 937-322-5284
This 2,120 acre lake makes for endless opportunities for water-based activities, and the chance to enjoy a sunset view over the rows of boats.
Photo via ryan.ruppel/InstagramIndian Lake State Park
12774 OH-235, Lakeview, 937-843-2717
Indian Lake has two swimming beaches great for a day in the sun. For those looking to book a longer camping trip, several cabins are available for reservation.
Photo via danivvvx/InstagramLake Logan
30443 Lake Logan Rd., Logan, 740-385-6842
Lake Logan is known for its fishing areas, which double as great (and usually very quiet) views of the lake. Plus, if you’re an early riser, the fog over the lake in the morning is breathtaking.
Photo via megspire/InstagramWalnut Beach Park
Walnut Blvd., Ashtabula, 440-993-7036
This beach is typically not too crowded and has a wide, natural selection of beach crystals, plus a killer view of crashing waves.
Photo via gkos79/InstagramHinckley Lake
Hinckley Lake, Hinckley Township, 330-278-4544
Hinckley Lake is the ideal spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. This popular lake is close to Whipp’s Ledges, a must-see for any routine hikers.
Photo via laur_handley/InstagramNickel Plate Beach
Nickel Plate Dr., Huron, 419-433-8487
Nickel Plate Beach is a smaller area and a bit of a walk from the parking lot, but provides a great view of Lake Erie and a playground for children to explore.
Photo via deadlifts_and_dominoes/InstagramSalt Fork Lake Beach
14755 Cadiz Rd., Lore City, 740-432-1508
As the largest state park in Ohio, Salt Fork offers tons of recreational activities. The lake view is stunning, the woods offes time in the shade, and, for those who don’t enjoy lake swimming, there is even a pool.
Photo via dailydownwarddog/Instagram
