Pennsylvania may not be the first state that comes to mind for beach getaways, but it boasts several beautiful lakeside and riverside beaches that offer the perfect escape from everyday life. From sandy shores along Lake Erie to calming beaches at state parks nestled in lush landscapes, these beaches provide scenic beauty, outdoor fun, and tranquil spots to relax.
Presque Isle State Park — Erie
Located on a sandy peninsula jutting into Lake Erie in Erie, Presque Isle State Park is Pennsylvania’s premier beach destination. It features nine distinct beaches with soft sand, lifeguard stations, picnic areas, playgrounds, and volleyball courts. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, it’s great for swimming, sunbathing, bird watching, and water sports. Visitors can explore hiking trails, lighthouses, and enjoy scenic boat tours around the peninsula.
Raystown Lake — Hesston
Raystown Lake is the largest lake completely within Pennsylvania, located near Hesston. Its two public beaches, Seven Points Beach and Tatman Run, offer playgrounds, picnic tables, showers, and concessions. Seven Points Beach also features water trampolines and docking stations for boating. The beaches are family-friendly and open Memorial Day through Labor Day, perfect for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
Ricketts Glen State Park — Benton
Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, Ricketts Glen also features a 600-foot beach open from late May to mid-September. This beach area includes concessions, boat rentals, and picnic spots. Visitors can swim and relax before or after hiking to some of Pennsylvania’s most dramatic cascades, including Ganoga Falls, the park’s tallest waterfall.
Bald Eagle State Park — Howard
Bald Eagle State Park in Howard offers a large 1,200-acre beach along the lake surrounding Bald Eagle Mountain. Families enjoy its playground, snack bar, restrooms, and the tranquil waters perfect for swimming or boating. The beach gives a refreshing mountain retreat vibe, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Moraine State Park — Portersville
Located near Pittsburgh, Moraine State Park has two sandy beaches on Lake Arthur: Pleasant Valley Beach and Lakeview Beach. Pleasant Valley offers a sand volleyball court and playground alongside the beach. Both beaches feature snack bars and changing facilities and are open for summer swimming and activities.
Parker Dam State Park — Penfield
Parker Dam State Park is home to a scenic man-made lake with a quiet beach area ideal for relaxation and family outings. In addition to swimming, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and rustic cabins. This park is known for peaceful retreats and unique events such as the pumpkin float and fall festivals.
Black Moshannon State Park — Rush Township
The large lake at Black Moshannon State Park features a popular beach that draws locals for swimming and relaxation. Surrounded by forest and wildlife, it’s a great spot for nature lovers who want a beach experience combined with hiking and birdwatching in the Allegheny Front region.
These 7 beaches in Pennsylvania provide a variety of experiences from lakeside fun and forested tranquility to family-friendly facilities. Whether near the shores of Lake Erie or nestled in serene mountain parks, these destinations offer a perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand, and peaceful nature in the Keystone State.
This article highlights the town locations and unique features to help plan a relaxing beach trip in Pennsylvania. Each beach is open primarily during the summer months and offers amenities suited for day trips or multi-day outings.
Sources
(https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g28959-Activities-c61-t52-Pennsylvania.html)
(https://www.visitpa.com/blog/post/sun-and-sandcastles-pennsylvania/)
(https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/pennsylvania-s-most-charming-beach-towns.html)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/Pennsylvania/comments/w8ef0k/what_are_the_best_beaches_to_experience_in_pa_for/)
(https://www.visitpa.com/things-to-do/parks-nature/lakes-beaches/)
