3 Surprisingly Beautiful Lake Erie Beaches Near Cleveland, Ohio

These three surprisingly beautiful Lake Erie Beaches are must-visit destinations that are less than an hour from Cleveland, Ohio. Firstly, enjoy East Coast vibes at Headlands Beach, then see 360-degree panoramic views at Lake Erie Bluffs, and finally enjoy a charming beach town atmosphere at Fairport Harbor. Keep reading to see why, without a doubt, these three beautiful Lake Erie beaches should be on your summer bucket list. (and really any time is a great time to visit!)

Feel Like You’re at the Ocean at Headlands Beach State Park

Welcome to Headlands Beach State Park, a charming oasis nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Erie, that’s basically only a 35-40 minute drive east of Downtown Cleveland, Ohio.

Without a doubt, you will be wowed by the expanse of its 35-acre beach. For instance, its sprawling shoreline, reminiscent of those dreamy ocean escapes along the northeast coast, this delightful public beach invites you to soak up the sun, splash in the refreshing waves, and create unforgettable memories amidst its utterly breathtaking beauty.

Get Major East Coast Vibes at Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve

Nestled up next to Headlands Beach is the Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve, one of the last of its kind in the state of Ohio. As a result of the interplay between wind, sand, and the lakeshore, a rare and distinctive protected environment has been formed. Find species more commonly associated with the Atlantic coastal plains such as Sea Rocket, Beach Pea, Purple Sand Grass, and more, all rare species in Ohio.

Indulge in breathtaking views from an accessible deck area that guides you through the towering dune grass and further toward the beach. Additionally, you can embark on a sandy-covered walk leading you to the magnificent Fairport Harbor Breakwater Light.

What to Know Before You Go

Headlands Beach State Park

Address: 9601 Headlands Road, Mentor, OH 44060
Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. 
Activities: Swimming (water quality), picnicking, fishing (with permit), hiking
Trails: The Buckeye Trail: 1.5 miles, easy, accessible, pet friendly (trail only). Follow blue blazes
Reservable Shelterhouse: Reservations can be made at www.reserveohio.com or (866) 644-6727. Nevertheless, when the shelter is not reserved, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Website: Visit the official website here
Map: View Headland Beach State Park Map here

• Whatever you take in, take back out with you
• Do not remove any naturally occurring items from the beach
• Observe all signage and do not enter areas that are roped off and protected

References: Ohio DNR Page, Wiki

Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve

Address: 9601 Headlands Road, Mentor, OH 44060
Hours: One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. 
Activities: Hiking, birding
Trails: 1 mile of hiking trails, a portion wheelchair accessible
Website: Visit the official website here

• Whatever you take in, take back out with you
• Do not remove any naturally occurring items from the beach
• Observe all signage and do not enter areas that are roped off and protected
• Picnicking is not permitted
• Stay on designated trails
• Pets not permitted

Get 360 Degree Views of Lake Erie and Beyond at Lake Erie Bluffs

This undeniably awesome hidden gem is part of Lake Metropark’s system and spans 670 acres and offers 9,000 feet of Lake Erie shoreline to explore and enjoy. However, the most exciting part of this park is the 50-foot tall coastal observation tower that sits on a 40-foot beach bluff that you can climb for epic 360-degree views of the lake and beyond.

In addition to the observation tower, you can enjoy several hikes in the surrounding area. In fact, one of the hikes was named one of the 25 Best Hikes to Beaches in the U.S. by Outside Magazine in 2022, how cool is that? There are several hikes, but our favorite trails are the Shoreline Trail, an easy .4-mile hike that takes you down to the lake, and the Lake View trail, another easy .6-mile hike that walks above the bluff with several scenic overlooks along the way.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also see some of the rare species of birds, bugs, as well as plants that call the bluffs home. Additionally, the Lake Erie Bluffs also offer primitive camping sites and a reservable shelter. Lastly, ample parking can be found at both addresses listed below.

What to Know Before You Go

Lake Erie Bluffs

Address: 2901 Clark Road, Perry Township, Ohio 44081 for the tower,
Hours: 6 am-11 pm
Activities: Biking, birding, boating, camping, fishing, geocaching, and hiking
Trails: Learn more on their official website here
Reservable Shelterhouse: 3301 Lane Road, Perry Township, Ohio 44081 for the Lake Erie Bluffs Lane Road Shelter
Reservable Campsites: Campsite A 3301 Lane Road, Campsite B 3301 Lane Road
Website:
Map: Visit Lake Erie Bluffs Map Here
Webcam: Check out the Bluffs before you go here

• Whatever you take in, take back out with you
• Do not remove any naturally occurring items from the beach
• Dogs and smoking are prohibited
• Avoid the tower when lightning is in the area
• Do not skateboard, bike ride, or climb on the sides of the tower

References: Lake Metropark’s Page

Enjoy Coastal Town Life at Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park

Though this 21-acre family-friendly beach town nestled on the shore of Lake Erie and bordered by the Black River could be mistaken for any small coastal town along the east coast. With its long stretch of beach, Breakwater Lighthouse in the distance, beautiful homes, and cute small town strip of shops and restaurants, this is undeniably a must-visit destination on my list of beautiful Lake Erie beaches.

What to Know Before You Go

Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park

Address: 301 Huntington Beach Drive, Fairport Harbor, Ohio 44077
Hours: 6 am-11 pm
Activities: boating, fishing, geocaching, swimming, and adapted programming
Reservable Shelterhouse: East Shelter, West Shelter
Website: Visit the official website here

• No smoking, alcohol, or glass bottles permitted
• Be respectful of others and keep your music at a reasonable level
• Dogs must be leashed and only allowed in parking lot or designated dog areas
• Lifeguard availability is limited, please supervise your children and others
• Whatever you take in, take back out
• Ample parking at a small fee
• Concessions and gear rentals are available from Memorial Day through Labor Day
• Much more information is available on their linked website above

References: Lake Metropark’s Page

What Beautiful Lake Erie Beaches Are You Excited to Visit?

Tell me in the comments which beach you are looking forward to visiting or which are your favorites.

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