Beaches in Pennsylvania – Lake Erie Shores, State Parks & Summer Lake Escapes

Pennsylvania may not have ocean beaches, but it offers some of the best freshwater beaches in the Northeast. With the sandy shores of Lake Erie, numerous state park swimming beaches, and dozens of sparkling inland lakes, the beaches in Pennsylvania are perfect for family vacations, swimming, kayaking, and summer relaxation.

From the famous Presque Isle State Park to peaceful lakefront escapes in Pocono Mountains and Central PA, the state offers a surprising variety of beautiful, clean, and scenic beach destinations.

Why Visit Beaches in Pennsylvania?

  • Soft sandy beaches on Lake Erie
  • Clean freshwater with no jellyfish or sharks
  • Beautiful state parks with swimming areas
  • Family-friendly facilities & calm water
  • Picnic areas, trails & wildlife viewing
  • Great for kayaking, paddleboarding & fishing

Best Beaches in Pennsylvania

These beaches offer swimming, scenery, recreation, and some of the top lake experiences in the state:

Presque Isle State Park (Lake Erie)

The most famous beach in Pennsylvania — 7 miles of sandy shoreline, waves like the ocean & beautiful sunsets.

Bald Eagle State Park Beach

A 1,200-foot sandy lake beach with clear water, mountain scenery & excellent swimming conditions.

Shawnee State Park Beach (Poconos)

Calm lake swimming with mountain views — perfect for families & boat rentals.

Mt. Pisgah State Park Beach

A peaceful lakeside beach surrounded by nature — quiet, scenic & relaxing.

Beltzville Lake Beach

A long sandy swimming beach in the Poconos with clear water and picnic areas.

Things to Do at Pennsylvania Beaches

  • Swim in clean, refreshing freshwater lakes
  • Relax on sandy Lake Erie beaches
  • Kayak, canoe or paddleboard in calm waters
  • Fish on peaceful inland lakes
  • Walk the scenic trails in state parks
  • Watch sunsets over Lake Erie
  • Visit nearby mountain towns in the Poconos
  • Have lakefront picnics with friends & family

Where to Stay Near Pennsylvania’s Best Beaches

Erie / Presque Isle

  • Lakefront hotels & family-friendly stays
  • Closest access to all Lake Erie beaches

Pocono Mountains Beaches

  • Cabins, mountain resorts & lake cottages
  • Perfect for Shawnee, Beltzville & Tobyhanna beaches

Central Pennsylvania Lakes

  • Lodges, campgrounds & small inns
  • Best for Bald Eagle & Raystown Lake

Best Time to Visit Pennsylvania Beaches

Season Highlights
Summer (June–Aug) Warmest water, peak swimming season & family activities
Early Fall (Sept) Warm water, mild weather & smaller crowds
Spring (May) Beautiful scenery (cold water)
Winter Frozen lakes & winter recreation

🌡️ Pennsylvania Beach Water Temperatures

  • Lake Erie (Summer): 68–75°F
  • Inland Lakes (Summer): 70–80°F
  • Spring: 45–55°F
  • Fall: 60–70°F

🚗 How to Get to Pennsylvania’s Beaches

✈️ By Air

  • Erie International Airport (for Lake Erie)
  • Wilkes-Barre / Scranton Airport (for Poconos)
  • Harrisburg Airport (for central PA lakes)

🚗 By Car

  • I-90 → Presque Isle State Park (Erie)
  • I-80 → Poconos region
  • State routes → Dozens of inland lake beaches

🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Pennsylvania

  • Presque Isle: dog-friendly sections along trails & certain beach zones
  • Pocono lakes: many pet-friendly shoreline parks
  • State parks: dogs allowed in designated areas on leashes

What to Pack for Pennsylvania Beaches

  • Sunscreen, towel & beach chairs
  • Floaties or paddleboards
  • Cooler with drinks & snacks
  • Water shoes (some lakes have rocky areas)
  • Bug spray (inland lakes)

⭐ Best Pennsylvania Beaches by Category

Best for Families

  • Presque Isle – Beach 8 (Pettinato Beach)
  • Bald Eagle State Park Beach
  • Beltzville Lake Beach

Best for Scenery

  • Presque Isle Beach 6
  • Shawnee Lake
  • Mt. Pisgah Beach

Best for Swimming

  • Bald Eagle State Park
  • Presque Isle Beach 11

FAQs About Pennsylvania Beaches

Does Pennsylvania have real beaches?

Yes — Lake Erie has long sandy beaches that look and feel like ocean coastlines.

What is the best beach in Pennsylvania?

Presque Isle State Park is the most popular and beautiful beach area in PA.

Is Lake Erie good for swimming?

Yes — summer water temperatures reach 70–75°F.

Are Pennsylvania beaches clean?

Yes — most are maintained by state parks and tested regularly for water quality.

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