Guide to the best beaches Door County, Wisconsin, has to offer for a fun day out in the sun
Are you planning a beach getaway in Wisconsin? Well, then, Door County is the perfect place for you.
With over 300 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, there are many beaches in Door County that you can add to your list of Wisconsin vacation ideas.
Door County is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the beaches are no exception. No wonder they’re often considered as one of the best things to do in Door County.
From kids-friendly beaches like Fish Creek Beach to the romantic Egg Harbor Beach, here are some of the best beaches in Door County!
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Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Door County posts? Have a look at my other posts:
- Where To Stay In Door County For Couples
- Things to do in Door County in March
- Door County Cabins On The Water
Table of Contents
Overview: Top 5 Beaches in Door County
- For families: Nicolet Beach
- To escape the crowds: Lakeside Park
- For a beautiful sandy beach: Whitefish Dunes Beach
- For the ambiance: Ridges Beach
- Something different: Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island
1. Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach Door County may not be the first thing that comes to mind when talking about the best beaches in Door County.
However, Door County Pebble Beach can be a real treasure to find, especially if you’re looking for a less crowded Door County beach.
Instead of the typical sandy coastline like some of the best Door County beaches, Pebble Beach is covered by limestone pebbles.
Tucked away from the bustling city areas, Pebble Beach is more popular for the locals but it’s worth visiting if you’re looking for a secluded beach in Door County.
Unlike most public beaches in Door County, Pebble Beaches doesn’t have extensive amenities, and the parking spot is also limited.
However, the beach provides scenic views where you can relax while listening to the soothing sound of the water.
Suitable for adults, you can bring your own chair for sunbathing when visiting Pebble Beach Door County.
Book here the best Door County tours.
2. Nicolet Beach
Situated in the center of Peninsula State Park, Nicolet Beach is one of the most popular public beaches in Door County.
It’s known for its family-friendly environment, offering many outdoor activities for both kids and adults.
With a nearly 100-foot shoreline, Nicolet Beach is one of the best sandy beaches in Door County, offering stunning views of Green Bay with its calm and clear water.
You can find fun activities for visitors of all ages around this beach, from kids’ playgrounds to boat rentals.
Nicolet Beach is one of the busiest beaches in Door County, but it also provides some top-notch qualities that not many beach Door County can offer.
You can find some of the best resorts in Door County around the beach, and there are a lot of kid-friendly adventure activities suitable for you and your family!
3. Washington Island beach
Located on the secluded Washington Island in Wisconsin and surrounded by beautiful Lake Michigan, Washington Island Beach offers a breathtaking view with clear blue waters and a pristine shoreline.
If you are trying to find the best beaches Door County can offer, Washington Island is the best place to go!
This secluded spot is one of the best lake towns in Wisconsin to visit.
The island’s remote location makes it a tranquil destination, whether you’re planning to travel solo or with your family.
There are some Door County beaches where you can relax; each offers great activities for various visitors, especially swimming in Door County.
Start with Schoolhouse Beach Wisconsin, the most popular beach with limestone pebbles in Door County that’s also a part of the Niagara Escarpment.
This beautiful beach is one of the best beaches in Wisconsin as a whole, and well worth the trip to Washington Island.
The crystal clear water there makes it a great spot to swim, while the view in its surroundings is also great for Instagram-worthy pictures!
Apart from the famous Schoolhouse Beach, Door County has other beaches around Washington Island that are also worth visiting.
To name a few, you can visit the Gislason public beach around Red Barn Park where they often host live events, including performances from local artists and musicians.
Alternatively, you can also consider going to the beach around Sand Dunes Park if you prefer one of the best sandy beaches in Door County.
Or if you’re looking for a dog beach, Door County also has a lovely beach area around Percy Johnson County Park where you can also go for a picnic and quality time with you and your family!
4. Fish Creek Beach
A great spot for swimming, Fish Creek Beach can be an excellent spot for your next summer escapade. It’s one of the top Door County things to do in summer.
It’s one of the best Door County Wisconsin beaches covered with pristine sands, offering beautiful views of the stunning natural landscape in its surroundings.
While the beach is most popular for water activities, it also offers a jungle gym where kids can play and exercise.
If you’re traveling with kids, don’t forget to bring your shovel as Fish Creek Beach has some excellent spots to build sand castles with your family!
Another reason that makes it one of the best beaches in Door County is also the strategic location.
Fish Creek Beach is situated near the charming village of Fish Creek.
While here you can indulge in local cuisine while browsing through art galleries and other cultural attractions around the downtown.
Book here the best vacation rentals in Door County.
5. Sister Bay Beach
Centrally located in the heart of Sister Bay town on Lake Michigan, Sister Bay Beach is one of the most popular public beaches in Door County.
Parking is free, and you can find anything from sandy shorelines to great restaurants, making it a great destination for weekend trips in Wisconsin!
Sister Bay Beach is also one of the most romantic Door County Beaches, as the beach is particularly known for its picturesque sunset that creates a romantic background for evening strolls with your partner.
It is also a great destination for your beach getaway, especially if you want to find a family-friendly Door County Beach.
With its 600 feet of sandy beach, Sister Bay Beach also offers picnic tables and spacious areas for fun outdoor activities in Wisconsin!
Not to mention that Sister Bay offers some of the best hotels in Door County, with stunning views and great amenities for all preferences.
6. Whitefish Dunes Beach
Whitefish Dunes Beach is one of the must-visit Sturgeon Bay beaches and a white sand beach Door County that offer plenty of adventure activities beyond the beach.
With 867 acres on the eastern shore with beautiful sandy beaches in Door County, Whitefish Dunes also offers lush green fields and forests.
While the beach is a great place to visit if you want to relax and sunbathe, I would also recommend hiking around Sturgeon Bay areas, as it’s considered one of the best hikes in Door County.
The Cave Point County Park offers incredible views of Lake Michigan, one of the best lakes in Wisconsin.
Hiking here is one of my favorite things to do in Sturgeon Bay, and while there, you can also do some fun outdoor activities such as fishing, scuba diving, or, of course, swimming!
While the beach is not considered family-friendly compared to other Door County beaches, Whitefish Dunes Beach is definitely a great spot to unwind while enjoying the stunning view of its surrounding!
Don’t forget to explore Whitefish Dunes State Park, which is one of the best state parks in Wisconsin.
You’ll find some of the best things to do in Door County here, including some more great hikes and some of the best Door County bike trails.
7. Lakeside Park
One of the best sandy beaches in Door County, Lakeside Park is a great place to visit all year round.
It is particularly known for hosting the New Year’s Polar Bear Plunge, where you can participate in taking the plunge into Lake Michigan to celebrate the New Year.
On regular days, Lakeside Park is also one of the best beaches in Door County if you are looking for a hidden gem with various outdoor activities to offer.
It is a great place to go if you enjoy watersports, as here you can enjoy paddle boating or kayaking around Lake Michigan.
During summer, I’d also recommend other top-notch activities like windsurfing and parasailing for thrillseekers looking for some adrenaline activities in Wisconsin.
On top of that, Lakeside Park is also one of the best family-friendly Door County beaches, as you can find some child’s playgrounds around the area.
Book here the best bike tours in Door County.
8. Ellison Bay Beach
Situated in the village of Ellison Bay, the beach is located in the northern part of Sister Bay and it offers breathtaking views of the bay with its surrounding forests and nearby islands.
With the combination of soft sand along with its shallow entry into the warm water, Ellison Bay Beach is suitable for all visitors of all ages.
Nestled against the Green Bay Coast, you can also explore the natural scenery and hiking trails around Ellison Bay – some of the best hiking trails in Wisconsin.
Head over to the Ellison Bluff State Natural Area, another part of the larger Niagara Escarpment, to enhance your experience and get the incredible sights of the surrounding countryside and Lake Michigan.
You can also stop by the village to go shopping or grab something to eat and enjoy the local delicacy around Ellison Bay.
If you’re looking for one of the best beaches in Door County, look no further than Ellison Bay as the beach has something for almost everyone!
9. Ridges Beach
With its shallow water and historical shoreline, Ridges Beach is a great Door County beach to visit with your family.
You can see the ridges around the shoreline, which can be interesting if you’re into geological features. On top of that, Ridges Beach is also great for swimming and sunbathing!
Ridges Beach has many restaurants and other activities around the beach, making it one of the best Door County beaches with top-notch facilities.
You can find benches and picnic tables to relax with your family, while the beach is also an excellent Door County beach to catch the sunrise in Wisconsin.
Apart from the beach, you can also visit the Ridges Sanctuary, where you can go birdwatching and see one of the best lighthouses in Door County.
The area attracts various bird species throughout the year, and this is where you and your family can spot anything from warblers to raptors in their natural habitats!
10. Egg Harbor Beach
Named as one of the top hidden gems in the Midwest, Egg Harbor Beach is one of the best beaches in Door County, with 500 feet of beachfront close to the downtown.
There’s ample space for visitors to relax and enjoy the sun around Egg Harbor Beach, but you can also go kayaking or paddle boating to make the most out of your trip around this Door County beach.
If you love the mesmerizing scene in the sky, make sure to plan your trip accordingly so you can catch a glimpse of the sunset here.
This beach in Egg Harbor is a must-visit beach in Door County, not only because of its strategic location but also with the numerous activities you can do with your family!
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Door County in winter, be sure to check out the nearby snowmobile trails.
You’ll find one of the best snowmobile trails in Wisconsin, spanning from Egg Harbor to Bailey’s Harbor.
Buy here the perfect Wisconsin road trip itinerary.
11. Sand Bay Beach
Sand Bay Beach, located on the tranquil lakeside of Liberty Grove within Sand Bay Town Park, is one of the beaches in sister bay that offers a serene and picturesque escape.
A long wooden boardwalk guides you through lush grass to a wooden viewing platform, unveiling the gentle curve of the sandy shoreline.
This versatile and relatively low-traffic waterfront promises an idyllic retreat for all beachgoers, making this the best beach in Door County.
The shallow, sandy-bottomed water invites swimming and paddling, making it ideal for a refreshing dip.
As night falls, Sand Bay Beach transforms into a prime spot for stargazing and meteor shower sightings, adding to its allure and making it a perfect destination any time of day.
12. Otumba Park Beach
One of the Sturgeon Bay beaches I highly recommend is Otumba Park Beach, located on the west side of Sturgeon Bay.
Covering three acres, the park’s highlight is its Mobi-mat, a 5-foot-wide rubberized pathway extending from the pavement to the water, ensuring easy access for individuals using walkers and wheelchairs.
The park offers amenities for the whole family, including a playground, lighted tennis and basketball courts, a kayak and canoe launch, grills, and a picnic shelter with restrooms.
All the amenities and accessibility make this one of the best beaches in Door County Wisconsin.
13. Ephraim Beach
Nestled in the heart of Eagle Harbor with the iconic bluffs of Peninsula State Park as its backdrop, Ephraim Beach is one of the best beaches in Wisconsin.
This 175-foot stretch of soft sandy shores and crystal-clear waters provides a serene escape for locals and visitors.
For me, it’s one of the amazing places to swim in Door County, as its pristine, secluded charm creates a private island-like atmosphere.
Plus, the charming downtown Ephraim is just a short walk away, offering a variety of delicious dining options to complete the perfect beach day.
Buy here the best guides and maps of Wisconsin.
14. Portage Park Beach
Portage Park Sturgeon Bay is a delightful destination for beachgoers seeking a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
This picturesque beach offers a long stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply relaxing by the water.
The park is well-equipped with amenities, including picnic areas, grills, and a playground, making it an ideal spot for family outings.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic trails and opportunities for birdwatching, while the calm waters are perfect for swimming and kayaking.
Portage Park Beach ensures a convenient and enjoyable beach experience for all visitors, making it one of the best Sturgeon Bay beaches.
15. Cave Point County Park Beach
Cave Point County Park Beach, situated on the eastern shore of Door County, is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning limestone cliffs and crystal-clear Lake Michigan waters.
This is one of the beaches in Wisconsin that offers a unique experience, with waves crashing against the rocky shoreline, creating mesmerizing sights and sounds.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling to explore the underwater caves and rock formations.
The park also features scenic hiking trails that provide spectacular views of the lake and surrounding landscape; it’s one of the best things to do in Door County in August.
It is an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
When it comes to its beaches, Door County boasts a diverse range of beaches, each with unique characteristics suitable for various types of visitors.
Whether you’re planning family-friendly outdoor activities in Wisconsin or looking for a beach to have a romantic stroll with your partner, you can find some Door County beaches that suit your traveling style.
The pristine shorelines with crystal-clear waters are only two of the few reasons you should visit beaches in Door County.
The county is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the beaches are no exception.
There are many reasons that visiting a Door County beach should be included on the list of your Wisconsin vacation ideas.
Whether you’re looking for a beach to unwind with a peaceful ambiance like Pebble Beach, or you prefer a beach that offers more outdoorsy activities like Whitefish Dunes Beach, they’re a must!
Short FAQs About Beaches in Door County
Can you swim in Door County?
There are many great public beaches in Door County to go swimming and spend the day relaxing and soaking up the sun.
Does Door County have sandy beaches?
While there are some pebbled beaches, most of the beaches in Door County are sandy. Some of the best sandy beaches in Door County are Nicolet Beach, Whitefish Dunes beach and Sisters Bay beach.
How many beaches are in Door County?
There are over 50 public beaches in Door County.
What are the best Door County Wisconsin beaches?
The best Door County beaches include Peninsula State Park’s Nicolet Beach, Egg Harbor Beach, and Sister Bay Beach.
What are the Best Best public beaches in Door County?
The best public beaches in Door County, Wisconsin, are Nicolet Beach in Peninsula State Park, Sister Bay Beach, and Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island.
Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip
- You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots.
- Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
- I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies.
- Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials.
- Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books.
- Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with HeyMondo.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
