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Who says a beach can’t be a car ride away? There are plenty of lakes and reservoirs with beaches near Indianapolis that are perfect day trip destinations. Some include boat rentals, water parks or even campgrounds. Use our guide below to find your family’s perfect nearby beach destination.
Note: Most Beaches in Indiana open on Memorial Day weekend. Make sure to check with the location for exact dates and hours.
Related Article: 100+ Things to do this Summer around Indy
Beaches Near Indianapolis:
Discover the best beaches close to Indianapolis for the perfect summer day.
Morse Beach
Address: 19777 Morse Park Lane, Noblesville
Phone: 317-770-4403
Cost: $6.00 per person; kids 2 and under are free
Pool noodles, life jackets and floaties are allowed at the beach. Coolers are also allowed for an additional $3.
Related Article: A Day at Morse Beach and Park
Geist Waterfront Park
Address: 10811 Olio Road, Fishers
Cost: Free for Fishers residents. Non-residents will need a day parking pass which is $50 and can be purchased online here.
Geist Waterfront Park, Indy’s newest beach, features sandy shores and a massive pirate-themed playground. The park offers a play area for toddlers, and facilities for launching kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and trails. Additionally, three small shelters, one large shelter, and public restrooms are available for visitors’ convenience.
Pine Lake Water Park
Address: 4640 Indiana Highway 218, Berne, Indiana 46711
Phone: (260) 334-5649
Cost: Ages 10+ $9, Ages 4-9 $7, Under 4 FREE
Pine Lake Waterpark, located four miles west of Berne Indiana, has been a family-run business since 1922. The park offers a large beach area and lots of fun attractions to make it a unique beach day!
Paynetown State Recreational Area
Address: 4850 S. State Road 446, Bloomington
Phone: 812-837-9546
Cost: $7 for in-state license plates; $9 for out-of-state license plates
Situated on the northeast side of Monroe Lake, this state-operated recreational area provides both electric and non-electric camping options along with a beach. Additionally, visitors can enjoy boat rental services, a marina with gas sales, and a camp store for their convenience.
Hidden Paradise Campgrounds
Address: 802 E Jefferson St, St Paul, IN 47272
Phone: 765-525-6582
Cost: Rates vary depending on activity. More info here.
Hidden Paradise Campground is truly a water lover’s paradise, as it surrounds Dream Lake and offers a plethora of aquatic activities. Guests can enjoy a floating trampoline, climbing rock, large slide, and various lounging devices within the quarry’s designated swimming area. Kayaks and canoes are available for exploring the Flat Rock River, or rent a paddle boat to explore the lake.
Related Article: 5 Best Places to go Camping near Indianapolis
Hardin Ridge Recreation
Address: 6464 Hardin Ridge Rd, Heltonville
Phone: 812-837-9453
Cost: $5 per car
A 300-foot sandy beach on Lake Monroe offers a place for children to play and swimmers to sunbathe and enjoy the water. The beach offers a combination of sand and sun, with a shady grass-covered hillside above.
Cagles Mill Lake
Address: 1317 W. Lieber Road, Cloverdale
Phone: 765-795-4576
Cost: $7 for in-state cars; $9 for out-of-state cars
Enjoy the beach, go hiking, use the volleyball courts, go camping and more.
Mounds State Park
Address: 4306 Mounds Rd, Anderson
Phone: 765-642-6627
Cost: Dependent upon activity.
This summer, the outdoor pool at Mounds State Park will remain closed through 2021. However, beaches, big lakes, and state forest properties are open, and have adequate space for guests to practice social distancing on the sand and in grassy areas in most locations. Property and concession operated boat rentals are available that can get you out on the water in many locations as well.
Related Article: Hidden Gems: Mounds State Park
Saxony Beach (Closed for the season)
Address: 13288 Pennington Road, Fishers
Phone: 317-595-3150
Cost: Free for Fishers residents; $7 for nonresidents and kids under 2 are free
From swimming to sandcastle building, there is something for the entire family at Saxony Lake & Beach. Outside food and coolers are permitted. Guests can swim, build sandcastles, rent kayaks or paddle boards, fish and more.
