The 8 Best Beaches in Pennsylvania

Although the state of Pennsylvania may be landlocked, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a beach experience while living or visiting here. Even though the state doesn’t have access to the ocean, there are still many lakes and reservoirs where you can cool off in the hot summer months. Many Pennsylvanians enjoy a variety of water activities, including fishing, swimming, and various water sports. So, whether you’re from the state or plan on visiting it in the summertime, here are the eight best beaches in Pennsylvania that are worth going to. Our list will explain exactly where each beach is located and what things you should bring with you in order to have the best time! Each of these locations featured has different amenities, activities, and other fun facts that will help you decide which ones you’ll want to check out.

1. Presque Isle State Park

Located right on Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park is a gorgeous destination for anybody looking to soak up the sun. The state park offers visitors 11 different beaches to choose from. Each beach has different amenities that it offers as well, such as lifeguards on duty, easy parking, restrooms, and concession stands. Some of the beaches are even popular spots for water activities such as surfing and scuba diving — so make sure to bring your gear! There is a beautiful lighthouse known as the Presque Isle Lighthouse that is definitely worth visiting as well. Once you’re done with the beach, you can head out and explore the town of Erie as well.

2. Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach

If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach location, then look no further than Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach. This beach is located in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, which is only 12 miles away from Hershey and about a two hours’ drive from Philadelphia. The recreational facility here has been a popular summer spot for families! There is an admission fee to get inside, but once you’re in, you get access to 8 acres of beach, lawn, and picnic areas. The sandy beach here is right on the lake, which gives you the opportunity to swim and even jump in, thanks to the water swing. There are also lifeguards on duty in the summertime, so you can feel safe letting your kids swim and play. Overall, this is a great spot for summertime fun!

3. Black Moshannon State Park

Visitors head over to Black Moshannon State Park in order to enjoy all of the absolute beauty the park has to offer. In addition to camping and hiking, however, there is a beautiful sandy beach area where you can enjoy the 250-acre Black Moshannon Lake. The lake is actually a unique black tea color, which is how it got its name. The beach is relatively quiet and offers you a relaxing getaway from everyday life. While you can definitely lay out beach towels here and simply sunbathe, there are also other options available. You can also choose to rent a kayak or pontoon boat to further explore the lake. The state park is located in Centre County nine miles west of Philipsburg.

4. Bald Eagle State Park

Located on Foster Joseph Sayers Lake in northern Pennsylvania is the absolutely stunning Bald Eagle State Park. The Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir is a man-made lake in Centre County that visitors from all over come to enjoy. Once you’re at the lake, you’ll find a 1,200-foot-long sand and grassy beach. At the beach, you’ll also find an assortment of amenities such as a playground, public restrooms, convenient parking, and a snack bar. You can easily lay out a beach towel and chairs and soak up the sun here — or hop into the lake to cool down. If you’re feeling more adventurous, then you’ll be happy to know that you can also rent boats here at the marina. You’ll have your choice from pontoon boats to rowboats and even canoes. The beach is open from the start of Memorial Day all the way through Labor Day.

5. Laurel Hill State Park

When you’re at Laurel Hill State Park, you’ll feel as if you were transported right into the best parts of nature. The state park is located in Somerset County in the townships of Jefferson and Middlecreek. When you’re here, you’ll be greeted by a 1,200-foot sandy beach along Laurel Hill Lake. The water here is cool and refreshing; you’ll love lounging around here. Additionally, if you’re looking to be more active, the beach also offers tons of boat rental options. Beachgoers can rent kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and paddleboards. If you happen to consider yourself an angler, then you’ll want to bring your fishing gear as well. There are tons of great trout streams around here that many anglers take advantage of. Overall, this is a fantastic lake-side beach where you can choose to lazily lounge around or rent a canoe and paddle away on the lake!

6. Beltzville State Park

Nestled in Carbon County in the southern foothills of the Poconos is Beltzville State Park. This state park is well-known thanks to the beautiful Beltzville Lake. This lake is a popular spot for swimming activities, fishing, and even boating. The sandy beach here is about 525 feet and has a lot of amenities to offer, such as a bathhouse and showers. There are also concession stands here if you’d like a drink or something to snack on. The beach is open to the public between late May to mid-September. Outside of simply dipping your toes in the water, you can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and even pontoon boats. If you love to fish, then you’ll definitely want to bring your gear here. The lake is home to a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, trout, and walleye.

7. Poe Valley State Park

If you’re looking for a wooded experience while at the beach, then head to Poe Valley State Park. When you’re at Poe Valley State Park, you’ll be blown away by the gorgeous scenery as you’re surrounded by tons of forest. There is a beautiful beach along Poe Lake that is perfect for hanging out in the sun and swimming in the gorgeous water. The beach is available for use from late May to early September. Along with a concession stand, there is also a boat rental facility as well.

Here you can rent different things such as kayaks or canoes in order to enjoy yourself out on the lake. The lake is manmade and was created during the Great Depression. Although you can swim in the water, we definitely advise caution, especially with little ones, as there are no active lifeguards on duty at the lake. Overall, this is a fantastic beach option in Centre County if you’re looking to sunbathe, and there are even grills throughout the park that you can make use of after you’re done at the beach.

8. Conneaut Lake

When it comes to family-friendly beach outings, we highly recommend checking out Conneaut Lake. Conneaut Lake features a beautiful spring-fed lake and beach area. When you’re here, you can spend time relaxing on the beach or taking a stroll on the boardwalk. You’ll find this lake in Crawford County, where the closest town is Meadville. If you happen to live in Pittsburgh, you’ll be happy to know that the lake is only 90 miles away!

Summary of the 8 Best Beaches in Pennsylvania

Here’s a recap of the eight beautiful beaches located in Pennsylvania that we took a look at.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © PioneerMountainHomestead/Shutterstock.com