A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
When the summer sun cranks up the heat, there’s nothing quite like diving into the cool, refreshing waters of Wisconsin’s lakeside beaches. Whether you’re chasing the wild, rugged vibes of Lake Superior, the quirky charm of Lake Michigan’s shores, or the classic lakeside fun of Lake Geneva, these three beaches are your go-to spots for a perfect summer day.
Big Bay Beach – Madeline Island (Lake Superior)
First up, Big Bay Beach on Madeline Island is a true hidden treasure tucked away on the shores of mighty Lake Superior. Getting here means hopping on a scenic ferry from Bayfield, and trust us, the ride is half the fun. Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by miles of untouched shoreline, soft sandy beaches, towering pines, and those iconic sandstone cliffs that make for a beautiful backdrop.
The water here is crystal clear and refreshingly cool—perfect for swimming, wading, or just dipping your toes to beat the heat. Unlike the busy, crowded beaches you might be used to, Big Bay Beach keeps things peaceful and laid-back, so you can really unwind. Feeling adventurous? Take a stroll on the boardwalk through dunes and woods or rent a kayak to explore the stunning coastline. It’s a little slice of lakeside paradise you won’t want to leave.
Schoolhouse Beach – Washington Island (Lake Michigan)
Next, if you want a beach experience that’s totally out of the ordinary, you’ve got to check out Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island. Forget sand—this beach is covered in smooth, polished limestone rocks that have been shaped by glaciers and waves over thousands of years. The result? A sparkling shoreline with some of the clearest, bluest water you’ll ever see.
The calm waters are perfect for families and snorkelers alike. Plus, the beach’s unique geology makes it one of only five places in the world with these stunning limestone pebbles. Just a heads-up: it’s illegal to take the rocks home, so admire and snap photos, but leave them for the next lucky visitor to enjoy.
Big Foot Beach State Park – Lake Geneva
Last but definitely not least, Big Foot Beach State Park on Lake Geneva is where classic summer beach vibes come alive. This spot is perfect if you want a lively atmosphere with plenty of sandy shoreline and gentle, shallow waters that are great for swimming and splashing around.
The park is super family-friendly, with picnic areas, playgrounds, and easy access to restrooms and changing rooms. If you’re feeling sporty, rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide across the sparkling lake. And if you want to extend your stay, the campground lets you soak in the lakeside magic well into the evening. Plus, being just a short drive from downtown Lake Geneva means you can mix beach time with some fun shopping or dining.
Wisconsin’s lakeside escapes are truly the perfect way to cool off and soak up summer! So what are you waiting for? Grab your swimsuit, gather your friends, and dive into the fun that awaits!
Hailey Rose, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
