A Guide to The 21 Best Beaches in Indianapolis

The Best Beaches in Indianapolis 

When you think of Indianapolis, beaches may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, with its proximity to the Great Lakes, Indianapolis has several great beaches for residents and visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a place to swim, relax, or play volleyball, there's a beach for you. Here are the 21 best beaches in Indianapolis.

Table of Contents

1. Eagle Creek Beach
2. Morse Beach
3. Geist Reservoir Beach
4. Indiana Dunes State Park
5. Lake Michigan Beach
6. West Beach
7. Porter Beach
8. Michigan City Beach
9. Whihala Beach
10. Ogden Dunes Beach
11. Marquette Beach
12. Kemil Beach
13. Cowles Bog Beach
14. Mount Baldy Beach
15. Dunbar Beach
16. Central Beach
17. Stop 2 Beach
18. Washington Park Beach
19. New Buffalo City Beach
20. Jean Klock Beach
21. Warren Dunes State Park

1. Eagle Creek Beach

Eagle Creek Beach is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. The beach is located on the west side of Indianapolis and offers a beautiful view of the lake. Eagle Creek Beach is a popular recreational area located within Eagle Creek Park in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. It is a man-made beach that offers a wide range of water activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing.

The beach is situated on the western shore of Eagle Creek Reservoir, which covers an area of 1,400 acres and has over 10 miles of shoreline. The beach itself is approximately 1,400 feet long and offers plenty of space for visitors to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the scenery.

In addition to the beach, Eagle Creek Park offers a variety of other recreational activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. The park covers over 3,900 acres and is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States.

Eagle Creek Beach is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and admission is charged per vehicle. Visitors can also rent boats, canoes, and kayaks from the park's marina, which is located nearby.

2. Morse Beach

Morse Beach is a great place to spend a summer day. The beach is located in Cicero and has a large swimming area, as well as a playground and picnic tables. Morse Beach is a public beach located on the eastern shore of Morse Reservoir in Noblesville, Indiana, USA. The beach is part of Morse Park, which covers over 23 acres of land and includes a variety of recreational facilities.

Morse Beach offers a sandy shoreline for swimming and sunbathing, as well as a grassy area for picnicking and other activities. The beach is relatively small, but it is well-maintained and provides a peaceful setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the water.

In addition to the beach, Morse Park offers a variety of amenities, including picnic shelters, playgrounds, a disc golf course, and a boat ramp for easy access to the reservoir. There are also several hiking and biking trails in the park, as well as a fishing pier for those who want to try their luck at catching fish.

Morse Beach is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and admission is charged per vehicle. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own beach chairs, towels, and sunscreen, as these items are not provided on site.

3. Geist Reservoir Beach

Geist Reservoir Beach is located on the northeast side of Indianapolis and offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. Geist Reservoir Beach is a popular recreational area located on the northeastern edge of Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. It is a man-made beach that offers a variety of water activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing.

The beach is situated on the southern shore of Geist Reservoir, which covers an area of 1,900 acres and has over 10 miles of shoreline. The beach itself is approximately 20,000 square feet and offers plenty of space for visitors to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the water.

In addition to the beach, Geist Reservoir offers a variety of other recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The reservoir is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species including bass, crappie, and catfish.

Geist Reservoir Beach is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and admission is charged per vehicle. Visitors can also rent boats, jet skis, and other watercraft from the marina, which is located nearby.

Geist Reservoir Beach is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy outdoor activities and spend time in nature while in Indianapolis. With its beautiful scenery, variety of recreational opportunities, and convenient location, it is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

4. Indiana Dunes State Park

Indiana Dunes State Park is located on the southern shore of Lake Michigan and offers 15 miles of sandy beaches. The park also has hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. Indiana Dunes State Park is a public park located on the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Indiana, USA. It is known for its beautiful sand dunes, beaches, and diverse natural habitats.

The park covers over 2,000 acres and offers a wide range of recreational activities, including swimming, hiking, camping, and birdwatching. It is home to more than 350 species of birds, making it apopylar destination for bird enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of Indiana Dunes State Park is its sand dunes, which can reach heights of up to 200 feet. Visitors can climb to the top of the dunes for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.

The park also features several miles of pristine beaches, including a designated swimming area with lifeguards on duty during the summer months. Other amenities include picnic areas, a nature center, and a campground with over 140 sites.

Indiana Dunes State Park is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is charged per vehicle, and camping fees are charged separately.

5. Lake Michigan Beach

Lake Michigan Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located on the southeastern shore of Lake Michigan and offers beautiful views of the lake. Lake Michigan Beach is a public beach located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes of North America. The beach is situated in the state of Michigan, but it is easily accessible from nearby cities in Indiana and Illinois.

Lake Michigan Beach offers a wide expanse of sandy shoreline and clear, blue waters for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is relatively quiet and peaceful, making it a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the lake.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Lake Michigan Beach can also enjoy a variety of other activities, including fishing, boating, and picnicking. The beach has several picnic areas with grills and tables, as well as a playground for children.

Lake Michigan Beach is open year-round, although the swimming season typically runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Admission is free, although there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

6. West Beach

West Beach is located in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, hiking, and camping. West Beach is a popular public beach located in the Indiana Dunes National Park on the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Indiana, USA. The beach is known for its beautiful sand dunes and clear, blue waters.

West Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, hiking, and birdwatching. It is also a popular spot for picnicking and sunbathing, with several picnic areas and a large expanse of sandy shoreline.

One of the main attractions of West Beach is its sand dunes, which can reach heights of up to 200 feet. Visitors can climb to the top of the dunes for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.

The beach also features several miles of hiking trails, including a trail that leads to the top of the dunes. The trails offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests, and are a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area.

West Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is charged per vehicle, and there may be additional fees for parking, camping, and other amenities.

7. Porter Beach

Porter Beach is a public beach located in the Indiana Dunes National Park on the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Indiana, USA. The beach is known for its clear, blue waters and beautiful sand dunes.

Porter Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has a large expanse of sandy shoreline, with several picnic areas and a playground for children.

One of the main attractions of Porter Beach is its sand dunes, which can reach heights of up to 100 feet. Visitors can climb to the top of the dunes for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.

The beach also has several miles of hiking trails that wind through the sand dunes and surrounding forests. The trails offer scenic views of the lake and are a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Porter Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is charged per vehicle, and there may be additional fees for parking, camping, and other amenities.

8. Michigan City Beach

Michigan City Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located in Michigan City and offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan. Michigan City Beach is a public beach located in the city of Michigan City, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The beach is known for its soft sand, clear waters, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Michigan City Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has a large expanse of sandy shoreline, with several picnic areas and a playground for children.

The beach also features several amenities, including showers, restrooms, and concessions. Beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Michigan City Beach can also enjoy a variety of other activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. The beach has several miles of hiking trails that wind through the sand dunes and surrounding forests, offering scenic views of the lake and surrounding area.

Michigan City Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is free, although there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

9. Whihala Beach

Whihala Beach is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. The beach is located in Whiting and offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan. Whihala Beach is a public beach located in Whiting, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The beach is known for its wide expanse of sand, clear waters, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.

Whihala Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has several picnic areas and a playground for children, as well as a concession stand for refreshments.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Whihala Beach can also enjoy a variety of other activities, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach also features a beach volleyball court and several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding dunes.

Whihala Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is free, although there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

10. Ogden Dunes Beach

Ogden Dunes Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is located on the southeastern shore of Lake Michigan and offers beautiful views of the lake. Ogden Dunes Beach is a public beach located in Ogden Dunes, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The beach is known for its wide sandy shoreline, clear waters, and scenic views of the lake and surrounding area.

Ogden Dunes Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has several picnic areas and a playground for children, as well as restrooms and showers.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Ogden Dunes Beach can also enjoy a variety of other activities, including fishing and hiking. The beach has several miles of hiking trails that wind through the sand dunes and surrounding forests, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.

Ogden Dunes Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is free, although there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

11. Marquette Beach

Marquette Beach is located in Gary and offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, hiking, and fishing. Marquette Beach is a public beach located in the city of Gary, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The beach is known for its wide expanse of sand, clear waters, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.

Marquette Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has several picnic areas, a playground for children, and restrooms.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Marquette Beach can also enjoy a variety of other activities, including fishing and hiking. The beach has several miles of hiking trails that wind through the sand dunes and surrounding forests, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.

Marquette Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is free, although there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

12. Kemil Beach

Kemil Beach is located in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, hiking, and camping. Kemil Beach is a public beach located in the town of Beverly Shores, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The beach is known for its picturesque views of the lake and surrounding area, as well as its clear waters and sandy shoreline.

Kemil Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has several picnic areas, as well as restrooms and showers.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Kemil Beach can also enjoy a variety of other activities, including hiking and birdwatching. The beach has several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding dunes and forests, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.

Kemil Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is free, although there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

13. Cowles Bog Beach

Cowles Bog Beach is located in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, bird watching, and photography. Cowles Bog Beach is a public beach located in the Indiana Dunes National Park in the town of Beverly Shores, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The beach is known for its pristine beauty, clear waters, and unique natural setting.

Cowles Bog Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. The beach has several hiking trails that wind through the surrounding dunes and forests, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.

In addition to hiking and swimming, visitors to Cowles Bog Beach can also enjoy birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The beach is home to a variety of bird species, including ospreys and sandhill cranes, as well as other wildlife such as deer and foxes.

Cowles Bog Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is free, although there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

14. Mount Baldy Beach

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and is known for its towering sand dunes and panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Mount Baldy Beach is a public beach located in the Indiana Dunes National Park in Michigan City, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The beach is known for its towering sand dune, which rises 126 feet above the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Mount Baldy Beach offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. Visitors can climb to the top of the sand dune for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area, or explore the surrounding dunes and forests on one of the many hiking trails.

In addition to hiking and swimming, visitors to Mount Baldy Beach can also enjoy birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The beach is home to a variety of bird species, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons, as well as other wildlife such as deer and foxes.

Mount Baldy Beach is open year-round, although some facilities and activities may be limited during the off-season. Admission is free, although there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

Mount Baldy Beach is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Lake Michigan. Its towering sand dune, clear waters, and variety of activities make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. However, it's important to note that visitors should exercise caution when climbing the sand dune, as it can be steep and unstable in some areas.

15. Dunbar Beach

Dunbar Beach is located in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.

16. Central Beach

Central Beach is located in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, hiking, and camping.

17. Stop 2 Beach

Stop 2 Beach is located in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, hiking, and bird watching. Stop 2 Beach is a public beach located in the city of Michigan City, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking during the summer months.

Stop 2 Beach is a relatively small beach, but it offers visitors stunning views of Lake Michigan and easy access to the water. The beach has a small parking lot and restroom facilities, and visitors can also find picnic tables and grills for public use.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Stop 2 Beach can also enjoy fishing and birdwatching. The beach is home to a variety of bird species, including gulls and terns, as well as fish such as trout and salmon.

Stop 2 Beach is open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and admission is free. However, visitors should note that there are no lifeguards on duty at the beach, so swimming is at your own risk.

18. Washington Park Beach

Washington Park Beach is located in Michigan City and offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, fishing, and boating. Washington Park Beach is a public beach located in Michigan City, Indiana on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities during the summer months.

The beach is part of the larger Washington Park, which also includes a marina, playground, picnic areas, and a zoo. Visitors to Washington Park Beach can enjoy amenities such as restrooms, showers, and concession stands, as well as umbrella and beach chair rentals.

Washington Park Beach also offers a variety of recreational activities, including volleyball and basketball courts, as well as a beachfront boardwalk and hiking trails in the surrounding park. Visitors can also rent paddleboats, kayaks, and other watercraft from the marina.

The beach is open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and admission is free. However, visitors should note that there may be fees for parking and other amenities.

19. New Buffalo City Beach

New Buffalo City Beach is located in New Buffalo, Michigan, and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. New Buffalo City Beach is a public beach located in the city of New Buffalo, Michigan on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities during the summer months.

The beach is a wide expanse of sandy shoreline that stretches for several hundred yards along the lakefront. It features crystal clear water and pristine white sand, and is often crowded with beach-goers on sunny days.

Visitors to New Buffalo City Beach can enjoy a variety of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and changing facilities. The beach also has lifeguards on duty during peak season to ensure safe swimming conditions.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors to New Buffalo City Beach can also enjoy beach volleyball, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are also picnic areas and barbecue grills available for public use.

The beach is open to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and admission is free. However, visitors should note that there may be fees for parking and other amenities, and alcohol is prohibited on the beach. Overall, New Buffalo City Beach is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Lake Michigan.

20. Jean Klock Beach

Jean Klock Beach is located in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and offers a wide range of activities, including swimming, hiking, and fishing. Jean Klock Beach is a public beach located in Benton Harbor, Michigan on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities during the summer months.

The beach features over a mile of sandy shoreline and crystal clear water, with stunning views of Lake Michigan. Visitors to Jean Klock Beach can enjoy amenities such as restrooms, showers, and changing facilities, as well as umbrella and beach chair rentals.

The beach also has lifeguards on duty during peak season to ensure safe swimming conditions. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can enjoy beach volleyball, fishing, and hiking trails in the surrounding park.

Jean Klock Beach is part of the larger Jean Klock Park, which also includes picnic areas, playgrounds, and a golf course. The park is open year-round, and admission to the beach and park is free. Jean Klock Beach is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Lake Michigan, as well as the amenities and activities of a larger park setting.

21. Warren Dunes State Park

Warren Dunes State Park is located in Sawyer, Michigan, and offers 3 miles of sandy beaches, as well as hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas.

Whether you're looking for a place to swim, relax, or play, Indianapolis has plenty of great beaches to choose from. From the serene Eagle Creek Beach to the towering sand dunes of Mount Baldy Beach, there's a beach for everyone.  Warren Dunes State Park is a public recreation area located in southwestern Michigan, on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The park covers over 1,900 acres and features some of the highest sand dunes in the state, reaching up to 240 feet in height.

The park has three miles of sandy shoreline, which makes it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities during the summer months. Visitors to Warren Dunes State Park can also enjoy hiking, picnicking, and camping in the surrounding forested areas.

The park offers a variety of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and changing facilities, as well as concession stands and a gift shop. There are also playgrounds, volleyball courts, and other recreational facilities available for public use.

Warren Dunes State Park is open year-round, with the beach and campgrounds open from April through October. The park does charge a fee for admission, and visitors should note that alcohol is prohibited on the beach. So why not grab your sunscreen and head to one of these 21 best beaches in Indianapolis for a day of fun in the sun?

Conclusion

In conclusion, Indianapolis may not be known for its beaches, but it certainly has a lot to offer in terms of scenic lakes and sandy shores. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these 21 beaches are sure to provide you with endless hours of summer fun.

FAQs

• Are these beaches free to access?

Most of the beaches listed here are free to access, although some may have a small entrance fee.

• Are there lifeguards at these beaches?

Some of the beaches listed here may have lifeguards on duty, but it's always a good idea to check before you go.

• Can I bring my dog to these beaches?

Some of the beaches listed here may allow dogs, but it's always best to check their pet policies before you go.

• Are there any restaurants or concessions at these beaches?

Some of the beaches listed here may have restaurants or concessions nearby, but many do not, so it's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks.

• Can I camp at these beaches?

Some of the beaches listed here offer camping facilities, but it's always best to check their camping policies before you go.

Indianapolis Map