Erie’s warm summer temperatures and soothing waters provide numerous reasons to escape the worries of everyday life. One of the best ways to do that is to spend a day at one of Erie’s sandy beaches!
Presque Isle State Park is a National Natural Landmark that curves into Lake Erie, featuring seven miles of sandy beaches, and the only surf swimming in Pennsylvania. With its miles of beaches and acres of waterfront outdoor recreation, Presque Isle provides the perfect summer getaway. In a 2024 USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice poll, Lake Erie was named Best Lake and Best Lake for Water Sports in the country, and was ranked third in the Best Lake for Swimming category. Swimming is permitted on guarded beaches, which are numbered and marked throughout the park. Guarded beaches are updated daily on a sign at the entrance to the park. Presque Isle’s beaches are open year-round and are also popular spots for kite flying, watching world-class sunsets, and picnics.
Click here for frequently asked questions about Presque Isle State Park.
Swimming Information
Presque Isle's beaches are guarded and open for swimming from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day, from 12 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. unless otherwise posted. Beaches marked "open" are guarded and open for all activities, including swimming. When a beach is marked "closed," that simply means it is unguarded. Beachgoers can still access closed beaches for many activities (perfect for sunbathing, reading or picnicking!), but be advised that no lifeguard is on duty, and visitors can only go in the water up to their knees. Swimming access is subject to change. Check the sign at the entrance to Presque Isle for daily updated information.
Presque Isle Express
Your free ride around Presque Isle State Park begins in downtown Erie! The EMTA will offer free rides to Presque Isle State Park on Wednesdays and Saturdays from June 12 to August 26, 2024, departing from French Street at 7th, and making a loop around Presque Isle State Park. Bus stops include the Tom Ridge Environmental Center and Presque Isle beaches.
Seasonal Information
Presque Isle State Park is open every day of the year, from 5 a.m. to sunset, unless otherwise noted. Day-use areas close at dusk. After sunset, only tenants and people engaged in evening driving are allowed in the park. There is no parking permitted after sundown.
The cooler is packed and the sunblock is on.. all that's left is the perfect playlist! Park your chair at Beach 8 and let this playlist accompany your Presque Isle Beach Day. Check out all of VisitErie's playlists here.
Life's a beach when you visit Erie, Pa. Gather ideas for your next escape to our beaches here.
Erie's sunsets are among the best in the world. Relax and watch the sun go down over the lake at one of these spectacular sunset spots.
A trip to Presque Isle State Park is a trip in and of itself. Here are seven recommendations for spending a summer day at Presque Isle.
Your pup will love a day on one of Erie's beaches! Plan a trip with your best friend at these dog-friendly locations.
On the shores of Lake Erie, Shades Beach is located at 7000 E. Lake Road in the town of Harborcreek. This sandy beach is a popular spot for families because of its shallow Lake Erie waters, and it’s a great gathering spot to watch Erie’s famous sunsets on the Lake. There are trails, woodlands, play areas, horseshoe courts, a beach area, boat launch and picnic grounds including two picnic complexes with full kitchens and restrooms.
Known as a quiet beach area without all the crowds, Avonia Beach Park is a small 3.6-acre park situated along the western shores of Lake Erie in Fairview, PA. This quaint park has benches and a charming gazebo that provide just the right setting for peaceful sunset gazing. Avonia Beach Park also has a public walkway, small sandy beach area and a fishing platform.
Freeport Beach is a small community beach located in the quaint town of North East in eastern Erie County. The rocky coastline is a haven for visitors searching for beach glass and using metal detectors. The beach has picnic areas, a playground, washrooms, volleyball nets and a snack bar. It is guarded from 10 a.m. to sunset every day from June 4 to Labor Day. (Pictured left)
Located approximately 15 minutes south of Erie in the college town of Edinboro, Pat Crawford Beach sits on Edinboro Lake, a peaceful 245-acre lake that’s a perfect, quiet getaway. The beach is open for swimming Memorial Day to Labor Day and is guarded from noon to 4 p.m. An adjacent playground and picnic area provides plenty of space to unwind and relax. two free public boat launches with public parking and a handicapped accessible fishing pier. The lake is unlimited horsepower rated, allowing for water skiing and the use of personal watercraft.
The Erie County Department of Health works with the managers at all area beaches to ensure that the public is aware of the current swimming status. Every Sunday and Monday for Presque Isle beaches and every Monday for Freeport Beach, from Memorial Day weekend to mid-September, water samples are collected and analyzed from 36 total sites. The Erie County Health Department wants everyone who visits Erie to enjoy its beaches and be able to make informed decisions based on the current swimming status for themselves, their families and their pets.
Q: What are Presque Isle's hours?
A: Presque Isle State Park is open year-round from 5 a.m. to sunset. Guarded beaches are open for swimming from 12 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Q: Does Presque Isle charge admission?
A: Admission and parking at Presque Isle State Park are free.
Q: Are the beaches dog-friendly?
A: Yes! On guarded beaches, leashed dogs are permitted in the tree line. On unguarded beaches, dogs are permitted both on the sand and in the water. In all spaces, dogs must be leashed at all times. For a list of popular dog-friendly beaches, and more information on dog-friendly attractions in Erie, click here.
Q: Are there handicapped-accessible beaches in Erie?
A: Yes! ADA-accessible restrooms, picnic tables, fishing areas, swimming areas, and parking spaces have been designated throughout Presque Isle State Park. For ADA-accessible swimming, check out Beach #8 (Pettinato Beach) and Beach 11 for the best water access. Beach wheelchairs are available at Presque Isle State Park free of charge on a first come, first served basis. They are available during the regular swimming season and weekends in September at Beach 8 and year round (weather permitting) at the Ranger Station/Public Safety Building from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can read more information on beach wheelchairs at Presque Isle State Park here.
Q: Does the park allow alcohol?
A: Alcohol is not permitted on any part of the park.
Q: Does the park allow smoking on the beaches?
A: Beaches 3 and 11 are designated clean-air beaches and smoking is prohibited. For visitors who smoke and still want to use the beach, designated areas adjacent to the beach are provided.
Q: I had plans to go to a beach that is marked "closed" at the entrance to the park. Does that mean I can't go there?
A: Not necessarily. When a beach is "closed" that simply means it is unguarded. Beachgoers can still access closed beaches for many activities (perfect for sunbathing, reading, or picnicking!), but be advised there is no lifeguard on duty and you are only allowed to go into the water up to your knees. Beaches marked "open" are guarded and open for all activities, including swimming.
Q: Which beaches offer concessions?
A: Food concessions are not available at Presque Isle State Park, however food trucks are often present on select beaches. There are many great restaurants near the entrance to Presque Isle State Park, but if you're planning to spend the day at the beach, it's best to pack a picnic. To find out when and where food trucks will be at Presque Isle, click here.
Q: Can I grill at the park?
A: Presque Isle has a number of picnic facilities, tables and grills located throughout the park, including the beaches. Just remember to clean up after yourself and do your part to keep the park beautiful.
Q: What beaches are best for families with young children?
A: Beach 11 is popular for families with young children due to its large, flat beach and shallow waters. There is also ample parking and a natural playground on site.
Q: Can you camp overnight at the beach?
A: Camping or any type of overnight is not permitted at Presque Isle
Q: Is there lodging nearby Presque Isle?
A: Yes, there are several places to stay within 5 minutes of the park: Sure Stay Plus Hotel by Best Western, Bayfront Inn, Steelhead Inn
814-434-3307
12670 Edinboro Road
Edinboro, PA 16412
814-833-7424
Foot of Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505
Tia Book Cellar is an independent bookstore offering new and bargain books, unique gifts, puzzles, and games for all interests and ages. Located across from Gibson Park in North East, their brand embodies the local business model and the local grape heritage. Tia's believes that "there is always … local, an alternative, and a story." They look forward to helping you discover your next read or gift here.
Five Iron Golf is blurring the lines between indoor golf and entertainment. State-of-the-art simulators and world-class instruction meet premium events and amenities plus delectable food and cocktail menus.
Erie’s favorite globe-trotting “little orchestra,” Pink Martini, brings its 30th anniversary tour to Mercyhurst University’s Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 7:30 p.m. Led by pianist Thomas Lauderdale and featuring the captivating vocals of China Forbes, Pink Martini boasts a multilingual repertoire and a sound that mixes classical, tango, samba, pop, swing, and jazz.
Located on the southeast shore of Lake Erie, the Port of Erie has been promoting industrial, commercial, and recreational opportunities on the waters of Lake Erie since 1959.
Erie’s own local craft beer pubs are a must-visit! With 4 great locations, just pick one that’s convenient for you! A casual, family friendly dining experience with something for everyone! To view our menu, check out what’s on tap, or get to directions to our pubs, learn more now!”
Happy Fall Y’all! Come enjoy the farm during Fall Harvest season September 14 – October 31. Grab your friends and family and enjoy a variety of fall themed activities for every age. With over 25 attractions, our guests create long-lasting memories worth repeating. General admission includes wagon rides, an 8-acre corn maze, slide mountain, ball zone, game garden, pedal carts, corn box, Kid’s Village, animal exhibits, mindbender mazes, trike track, tire fort and so much more! Plan a birthday party with a campfire spot! PLUS, enjoy themed events and character visits!
UPMC Hamot is a 458-bed hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services. The hospital serves as a regional referral hub and is the only accredited trauma center in the region.
NOW OPEN! ASCEND fosters a community-centered climbing, fitness, and yoga experience by serving individuals and groups of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Located in Downtown Erie, ASCEND welcomes Erie visitors to stop in and give climbing a try!
Savor an exquisite waterfront dining experience at Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel, where culinary excellence meets panoramic views. This signature restaurant invites you to indulge in a delectable journey with a menu showcasing locally sourced ingredients and global inspirations while overlooking the serene waters of Lake Erie.
Edinboro Community and Economic Development is a regional Edinboro area non-profit committed to fostering positive community-wide growth. Through economic and civic initiatives, the ECED seeks to empower the Edinboro community to effectuate targeted change to meet current needs and build regional resilience. Edinboro is a unique area where rural and urban values intersect, and the best "small town America" qualities shine.
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Erie Events manages a four facility entertainment complex that includes the Warner Theatre, Erie Insurance Arena, Bayfront Convention Center and UPMC Park. These four venues host a variety of events that include world-class entertainment, family friendly shows and sporting events.
The Mazza family welcomes you to explore 3 unique locations in Lake Erie Wine Country. Sip and savor award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA, and be sure to visit their combination winery, distillery and brewery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, in nearby Westfield, NY.
If you live more than 50 miles from Millcreek Mall, stop by the Customer Service Center to register. You’ll receive a Guest Rewards Tourism Program Luggage Tag. Scanning the QR Code on it will reveal special offers from participating mall merchants. If you spend $200 or more that day, take your receipts back to the Customer Service Center and you’ll get a FREE $20 Mall Gift Card. You get rewarded just for shopping!
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Voted Erie’s Choice Best Hospital for eight years in a row
Experience 84 degrees all year at one of the top water parks in the country.
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Find true action with slots, table games, sports book, and horse racing.
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