Trip Experience
Wisconsin Beaches
Sand, Shore and So Much More
Break for the beach here in Wisconsin. With miles of freshwater shoreline, you can soak up sun from sandy shores, wade hand-in-hand into calm surf or lose track of time playing in the waves. Whether you’re a serious sandcastler, a max-relaxer or an adventure seeker looking for your next story-worthy splash, our beaches bring the vacation vibes to you and your crew. Our recommendation? Dive on in.
Escape to Secret Shores
Every Kind of Beach Within Reach
Skip the jet setting and find ocean-like beaches on the shores of Wisconsin’s Great Lakes.
State Park Stunners
Escape to Secret Shores
Not every day has to be an action-packed beach day, and that’s one of the many great things about Wisconsin’s Great Lakes. Here, the shores of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan set the scene for both spontaneous adventures and serene escapes. From uninterrupted lighthouse views to picnic-perfect sand, find special moments on our best-kept secret beaches.
Every Kind of Beach Within Reach
Skip the jet setting and find ocean-like beaches on the shores of Wisconsin’s Great Lakes.
Here, diverse landscapes are the norm—soft white sand, polished rocky shores and aquamarine water. Skip rocks across the waves, hunt for colorful beach glass, kayak the coastline or catch waves from sunrise to sunset.
State Park Stunners
Unexpected shorelines span all corners of the state. Coast the beaches of Wisconsin State Parks and experience untouched, natural beauty you won’t find anywhere else—from wave-washed Great Lakes shores to quiet inland beaches tucked among forests and bluffs.
Whether you’re skipping stones, gathering around a crackling beach fire as dusk settles in or watching the sun dip below the horizon, these wild coastlines invite you to slow down, warm up and savor the moment.
Island Finds
Comb Pebbled Coasts
If sand isn't your style, Schoolhouse Beach offers a rare alternative—millions of smooth, glacier polished limestone pebbles, perfect for skipping and building. Lining the shores of Washington Island, this geological marvel offers crystal-clear swimming with small-town charm for a bucket-list adventure.
Unexpected Coasts
Discover Wisconsin’s Must-See Beachfronts
From bustling urban beachfronts to secluded pillowy sands, Wisconsin's coast offers ways to play, connect in nature and soak up an ocean-like aesthetic. Whether you're dreaming of lush, Northwoods nature or a social vibe complete with outdoor bars and live music, we guarantee you'll find the perfect beach for your crew.
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6 Ocean-Like Beaches on Wisconsin's Great Lakes
Beachfront Boardwalks
Connect on the Coast of Kohler-Andrae
Surrounded by golden dunes and stunning coastline, you’ll find a breath of fresh air at Kohler-Andrae State Park. Lace up for miles of boardwalk-covered bay and soak up the views of Lake Michigan’s blue water in every season. Whether you visit with pals or take the kiddos, you're guaranteed to discover something special.
Coast It and Post It
Fun in the Forecast
Outdoor Events in Wisconsin
Feb
27
Willow Springs Round Barn Sled Dog Race
Feb
28
Fat Bike Birkie
Feb
28
Wild Game Feed and Sportsmen's Expo
Where to Reset
Wisconsin’s Destination Beaches
Where to Reset
Wisconsin’s Destination Beaches
By the Season
When to Visit Wisconsin Beaches
Spring sunshine brings Wisconsin beaches to life. While the water might be cool, the blooms, birds and warmer winds make for a glorious walk on the sand. If you catch even warmer weather, you might want to unpack your picnic blanket for lunch with a view.
Warm beach days mean sunny skies, glimmering water and fun always on the horizon. Jump on a surfboard. Grab your sandcastle gear. Dust off the tandem kayak. From swimming off freshwater shores to searching for natural treasures in the sand, there’s no wrong way to soak up the sun.
Sightseeing from Wisconsin beaches never goes out of season, even in the cooler months. Take in views of the shore ablaze with autumn colors, cozy up to campfire or sip a mug of steamy, marshmallow-filled cocoa as you watch the waves roll in. Or, hop in a kayak and tour the shoreline from the water!
If you thought Wisconsin’s winter months meant no swimming in our Great Lakes, well, we have news for you. Surfing here is a year-round sport, with surfers rising at dawn to ride rolling waves in wetsuits. Polar plunging is another popular winter rush, and you’ll find professionally hosted events and participants all across the state. Prefer to stay dry but still get outside? Beach hikes are beautiful this time of year—think pastel skies, icy surf and snow-dusted sand.
City Shores
Take an Urban Excursion to Bradford Beach
Just minutes from downtown Milwaukee, Bradford Beach blends big-city skyline with picture-perfect views of Lake Michigan. With skyscrapers as your backdrop, you can pick up a game of sand volleyball or grab some waterfront grub after strolling, swimming and sunbathing.
Great Lake Adventure
Find One-of-a Kind Gems in Bayfield
Explore sandstone sea caves, lakeside lighthouses, islands galore and so much more. This Lake Superior gem blends easy living with historic charm, a touch of luxe and some magnificent Northwoods scenery.
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Wisconsin Getaway: 48 Hours to Explore Bayfield
Escape to the Northwoods
Make Memories in Minocqua
Find an escape the whole family will love. With the highest concentration of fresh bodies of water in the world, there’s no shortage of fun for all. Boat on a glassy lake, traverse a wooded ATV trail or wade through a cranberry marsh and explore what makes Minocqua the gem of the Northwoods.
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Memories Made in Minocqua: A Northwoods Family Getaway
