One of the Best Swimming Lakes within the U.S. Has Sandy NY Beaches, Crystal Waters & Sunset Views for Miles

Lake Erie, one of many 5 Great Lakes, was simply named probably the greatest swimming lakes within the U.S. by USA Today—and whereas it’s not precisely in NYC’s yard, its sandy shores and jaw-dropping sunsets make it well worth the journey if you happen to’re craving a real summer season escape.

From family-friendly seashores to romantic lakeside cities, the sprawling lake straddles the U.S.-Canada border and provides a whole lot of miles of shoreline to discover.

If you’ve already crossed the Hamptons and the Jersey Shore off your record, Lake Erie would possibly simply be your subsequent nice weekend getaway.

So why is Lake Erie well worth the drive (and even quick flight) from NYC?

For one, it’s house to a number of the most beloved swimming spots within the area. Some of our favourite standout seashores embody:

• Woodlawn Beach State Park (New York): Just south of Buffalo, this hidden gem provides a sandy shoreline, picnic areas, and unimaginable sundown views throughout the lake.
• Evangola State Park (New York): Known for its arc-shaped shoreline and pure sand seashore, this peaceable park is a well-liked choose for swimming and tenting.
• Bennett Beach (New York): A serene, lesser-known stretch of shoreline in Erie County with large open views and smooth sand.
• Headlands Beach State Park (Ohio): The longest pure seashore in Ohio, with lifeguards, smooth sand, and calm swimming waters.
• Presque Isle State Park (Pennsylvania): A shocking 3,200-acre peninsula with 13 lifeguarded seashores and miles of scenic trails.

The water tends to remain a bit hotter than the opposite Great Lakes throughout summer season, making it particularly inviting for swimmers, kayakers, and sundown chasers.

There’s additionally loads of charming coastal cities, lakeside wineries, nature trails, and even the occasional lighthouse dotted alongside the best way.

And whereas Lake Erie is a little bit of a trek from NYC—count on a couple of 6–8 hour drive relying on the place you’re headed—it’s an excellent lengthy weekend choice for vacationers trying to cool off in one of many nation’s most picturesque freshwater escapes.

Plus, you may make an entire scenic highway journey out of it, with stops within the Finger Lakes, Western New York, and even Niagara Falls alongside the best way.