You don’t need to haul off to the West or East Coast to get your fill of the beach this summer. Wisconsin offers its fair share of beautiful lakeside beaches—complete with biking trails, golf courses, lighthouses and more—to enjoy on a hot day this season.
Peninsula State Park
Located in: Fish Creek
With more than 460 campsites, a summer theater, a golf course, an 1860’s lighthouse and bike trails galore, Peninsula State Park is oh-so much more than just a beach (though it does offer eight miles of gorgeous shoreline in Door County). Note that park passes are required, but not sold on site. For more information, visit dnr.wi.gov.
North Beach
Located in: Racine
In addition to winning a variety of awards from the likes of USA Today and Parents, North Beach is Wisconsin’s first beach to be designated as a Certified Blue Wave clean beach by the National Clean Beaches Council. The 50-acre beach hosts lifeguards from the first week in June through the first week in September. Parents will also be delighted to know that there is a nautical-themed playground for the littles to enjoy if they need a break from the surf and sand. For more information, visit www.realracine.com.
Schoolhouse Beach
Located on: Washington Island
A family-friendly favorite, Schoolhouse Beach is known for its small limestone rocks that fill its shores (just be sure not to take these pebbles home with you). It is one of only five beaches in the world like it and part of the Niagara Escarpment. This is also a popular spot for picnicking and for capturing family photos. For more information, visit www.doorcounty.com.
Kohler-Andrae State Park
Located in: Sheboygan
In addition to miles and miles of golden beach and glistening water, Kohler-Andrae State Park also features endless sand dunes, towering pines and wildlife. A truly special place with something for each family member to enjoy, Kohler-Andrae State Park is known as one of the last natural preserves along the Lake Michigan shore. dnr.wi.gov.
Simmons Island Park and Beach
Located in: Kenosha
Simmons Island Park and Beach is a 28-acre public Lake Michigan beach, complete with a boardwalk, a bike trail, a playground and a picnic pavilion in the park. While visiting the beach and park, guests can also check out the Southport Light Station Museum and the Kenosha History Center to squeeze in a little education. For more information, visit www.visitkenosha.com.