If you're looking for a relaxing getaway this summer, you might want to check out some of the best beaches in PA (Pennsylvania). Pennsylvania may not have an ocean coastline, but it has plenty of lakes and rivers that offer sandy shores and refreshing waters. With soft sands, refreshing waters, stunning sunsets, and family fun, Pennsylvania's beaches offer an unexpected coastal escape right in the heart of the Northeast. Here are some of the top beaches in Pennsylvania that you should visit.
1. Presque Isle State Park Beaches
Photo: PA Sports
Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that juts into Lake Erie and boasts 11 beaches for you to enjoy. It's the only "seashore" in Pennsylvania and one of the most popular destinations in the state. The sandy shores stretch for miles, offering a serene backdrop for sunbathing, picnicking, and building sandcastles. Beach 11 is the most popular beach for swimming and sunbathing. Other favorites like Beach 8 and Beach 10 also provide lifeguards and facilities. Walk the scenic trails to discover more secluded shorelines.
You can swim at the guarded beaches, where lifeguards are on duty from late May to early September. You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, bikes, and other equipment to explore the park. Don't miss the Presque Isle Lighthouse, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, and the many hiking trails that offer scenic views of the lake and wildlife.
2. Bald Eagle State Park Beach
Photo: wikipedia
Bald Eagle State Park is home to the Joseph Foster Sayers Reservoir, a 1,730-acre lake that features a 1,200-foot long sand and turf beach. The beach is open from late May to mid-September and offers a nice sandy swimming spot complete with a concession stand and bathhouse facilities. Spend a day swimming, boating or fishing on the lake's sparkling waters. The wide, sandy beach provides ample space to lay out towels and umbrellas for sunbathing.
Families will appreciate the gentle slope into the water, lifeguards on duty, and nearby playground. After working up an appetite swimming, stop by the snack bar for burgers, ice cream and more. With its easy access from I-80, this beach makes for a fun summer day trip.
3. Black Moshannon State Park Beach
Photo: Tripboba
Black Moshannon State Park is located near the largest bog in Pennsylvania and has a cozy beach on the 250-acre Black Moshannon Lake. The park features a grassy beach area on the bog-stained Black Moshannon Lake and is open from late May to early September. Enjoy swimming in the shallow waters or rent boats and kayaks from the marina to explore the entire 3,300 acre lake. Hiking trails like the bog trail and the Penns Creek trail surround this secluded state park located in west-central PA.
The beach offers pleasant spots to wade in the cool waters or simply enjoy a picnic lakeside. Due to the shallow lake and accumulations of vegetative humic acid, the water has an unusual yet beautiful dark tone. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and unique natural habitats. Don't miss the native orchids blooming along the unique bog habitat.
4. Poe Valley State Park Beach
Photo: World Atlas
Poe Valley State Park is nestled in a rugged mountain valley in Centre County and has a swimming beach on the 25-acre Poe Lake. Rent kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, paddleboats or fishing boats from the marina to fully enjoy the water. Play beach volleyball, horseshoes or disc golf nearby after working up an appetite swimming. 71 campsites and several pavilions allow for overnight beach trips or family reunions by the water.
Located in central PA just off PA-322, this hidden gem offers a wonderful beach setting surrounded by forested hills perfect for those looking to find a unique spot away from crowded shores.
5. Beltzville State Park Beach
Photo: wikipedia
Beltzville State Park is situated along the Pohopoco Creek and has a 525-foot long sand beach on the 949-acre Beltzville Lake. The beach is open from late May to mid-September and has restrooms and showers nearby. The clear blue waters of Beltzville Lake beckon swimmers and boaters alike. Surrounding the beach are picnic spots and hiking trails, making it a comprehensive destination for a day's outing.
Take the kids to Turtle Beach to look for turtles sunbathing on logs, then join them on kayak and canoe adventures. Anglers can cast from wooded shores for bass and panfish in Beltzville's mountain-ringed waters.
6. Laurel Hill State Park Beach
Photo: wikipedia
Laurel Hill State Park is located in the Laurel Highlands and has a sandy beach on the 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake. The lake offers a nice swimming beach with beautiful mountain views. Rent paddleboats or go fishing for trout, bass and panfish on the crystal clear waters. Changing areas, showers and picnic facilities provide convenience for a full day out. For overnight stays steps from the sand, reserve one of their rustic lakeside cabins.
Laurel Hill State Park offers nearly 14 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy lakeside loops to challenging rock outcroppings with rewarding views as well as opportunities to view wildlife like bald eagles.
7. Milford Beach
Photo: news forest escape
On the Delaware River just upstream from Port Jervis, Milford Beach offers scenic river swimming from its sandy shores in Pike County. The beach is open from late May to early September and has restrooms, showers, changing rooms, picnic areas with grills, a boat launch ramp, and a canoe access point.
A classic seasonal snack stand satisfies hunger after swimming and provides ice cream for the kids. Volleyball nets allow for friendly competitions along the shore. The wide beach area gives plenty of space for laying towels and relaxing riverside. Launch kayaks and canoes directly into the river for paddling adventures. You can also hike on the McDade Recreational Trail or visit the nearby historic town of Milford.
Pennsylvania has some amazing lake beaches that are worth visiting in the summer. They offer scenic views, relaxing atmosphere, and fun activities for all ages. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, picnic, or explore nature, you can find a beach that suits your preferences in PA.
Discover more best beaches in PA in this video below: