Upstate New York offers abundant opportunities for things to do. One of the most popular vacation destinations for local and foreign tourists, the region is home to some of the most beautiful lake beaches in the US, providing plenty of recreation, including water sports, relaxation, and sightseeing.
Owing to popular family attractions in Upstate New York, quirky New York roadside attractions, and beautiful Upstate New York towns (that are even more beautiful in the winter!), summer is the perfect time to head out to the great outdoors and explore the natural beauty of this delightful region – and one of the best ways to cool off is to hit the beach at one of the area's beautiful lakeshores.
Easily worthy of a place among the most beautiful places in Upstate New York, each one of these exciting lake beaches offers something for everyone, especially in the summer when the warmer, sunnier weather transforms the region into an enticing vacation destination. Pack that sunscreen and head out to one of these beautiful Upstate New York lake beaches this summer!
10 Lake George Beach
Located in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake George is one of the most beautiful places in New York state (which is probably why it is also known as America's original vacation spot). Perfect for a day of swimming, water sports, and sunbathing, Lake George Beach has crystal-clear waters and a beautiful sandy shore that stretches for miles.
Travelers should bring water shoes to protect their feet from rocks and shells. The beach can get crowded during peak season, so it is advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
9 Mirror Lake Beach
Located in the Kootenay Valley on the western shore of Kootenay Lake, Mirror Lake got its name from its calm and reflective qualities, as no ripples tend to mark its surface. Nature has bestowed Mirror Lake with a rare union of a small warm water swimming lake, the stunning hundred-mile-long Kootenay Lake, and the towering Selkirk and Purcell Mountains that encircle it.
Nestled in the heart of the village of Lake Placid, Mirror Lake Beach is a beautiful spot for a day of relaxation and sightseeing. With its calm waters and sweeping views of the Adirondack Mountains, this beach is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Travelers should be aware that this beach has a lot of shade from trees, but that doesn't mean they shouldn't bring sunscreen. Insect repellant will come in handy in the shaded areas, too.
8 Canandaigua Lake Beach
One of the largest glacial lakes of the Finger Lakes Region (stretched over 15.5 miles with a maximum depth of 276 feet), Canandaigua Lake is recognized for being one of the cleanest lakes in New York. Its beach is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has a wide expanse of sand and clear blue waters, and it's perfect for families with young children.
Travelers are advised that the water is clear and clean, making it perfect for swimming and fishing, so they should pack their fishing gear. There are also BBQ grills and picnic tables available for public use.
7 Skaneateles Lake Beach
Meaning "long lake" in Iroquois, Skaneateles Lake is a picturesque lake located in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York. Its beach is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing, and it offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding hills. Due to its higher altitude than the other Finger Lakes, the lake is occasionally called "The Roof Garden of the Lakes".
Travelers should bring their own kayaks or paddleboards as there are usually no rental options at this beach. There are spacious picnic areas, restrooms, and playsets for younger travelers as well. Moreover, when lifeguards are present, visitors may swim in the specified section of the lake, which has concrete steps instead of a beach. While village inhabitants swim at no cost, non-residents are required to pay a nominal fee.
6 Seneca Lake Beach
Seneca Lake is another beautiful Finger Lakes lake with a stunning beach. Perfect for a refreshing swim or a laid-back picnic, the breathtaking Seneca Lake State Park is known for the stunning blue waters it overlooks.
Little ones are in for a treat with its incredible Sprayground and Playground facilities, designed to keep them entertained and engaged all day long. With the first-ever built Sprayground in New York State Parks boasting over 100 jets, travelers can keep their kids thrilled with joy as they frolic and jump around under the splashing water!
5 Sodus Bay Beach
Sodus Bay is a large, shallow bay on Lake Ontario's southern shore that's a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The beach has a beautiful expanse of sand, and there are plenty of opportunities for water sports and relaxation.
The main beach, with its vast swim area and soft sand, mimics the ocean's charm. The beach waves are perfect for playing, and abundant views of the lighthouse and docks offer a breathtaking sight. The beach's beauty is unparalleled, and the neighboring town of Sodus Point is a unique and exciting destination to explore.
4 Lake Erie Beach
Lake Erie is the fourth-largest lake in North America and has some of the most beautiful beaches Upstate New York has in store for visitors. Lake Erie Beach is a particularly popular spot for swimming, lakefront camping, and sunbathing, with its crystal-clear waters and wide expanse of sand.
The shallow Lake Erie waters make this sandy beach a popular choice for families. It's also a great gathering spot for witnessing Erie's famous sunsets on the lake. Other amenities include trails, woodlands, play areas, horseshoe courts, a beach area, a boat launch, and picnic grounds. Two picnic complexes with full kitchens and restrooms are also available.
3 Chautauqua Lake Beach
Chautauqua Lake, located just 6 miles away from Lake Erie, offers a peaceful setting, delightful village getaways, and a range of outdoor activities suitable for the whole family (fishing, boating, swimming, sunbathing, and other outdoor sports).
Popularly known for its summer programs is the Chautauqua Institution, which has been running since 1874 and operates around the four pillars of arts, education, religion, and recreation. In addition, concerts, theatrical performances, and operas are also held during summer. The public can access four swimming beaches on Chautauqua Lake, including Children's Beach, Pier Beach, Heinz Beach, and University Beach, with lifeguards available during designated swimming hours.
A gate fee is charged for adults.
2 Oneida Lake Beach
Oneida Lake is the largest lake in New York State and has a beautiful beach – with clear waters and a wide expanse of sand – that's perfect for a day out in the sun. Ideally suited to late spring, summer, and early fall travelers, anglers, and Central New Yorkers looking for a quick getaway, Oneida Lake Beach is a favorite spot for families and water sports enthusiasts.
Oneida Shores County Park remains open throughout the year, offering seasonal beach and boat launch passes, which are available for purchase. As a part of its eco-friendly policy, the park follows a carry-in-carry-out system and also provides litter bags for convenience. However, the park prohibits glass and allows limited alcohol consumption – only one six-pack per legal adult, no beer kegs. Although pets are permitted, they must be inoculated for rabies, leashed, and not left unattended except on the beach area. All areas of the park, excluding the beach, are accessible to visitors.
1 Cayuga Lake Beach
Extending northward from the city of Ithaca (which is Upstate New York's most beautiful city!) through Tompkins, Cayuga Lake ranks second in size among the Finger Lakes. Also the longest of the Finger Lakes, it has a beautiful beach that's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. With its wide expanse of sand and clear blue waters, Cayuga Lake Beach is a favorite spot for families and nature lovers.
Travelers should know the water is clear and shallow, making it an excellent spot for kids to splash around. The beach also has a playground, picnic tables, and restrooms.