Top 9 Beaches Near Indianapolis: Discover the Perfect Getaway

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.

1. Eagle Creek Park Beach

• Address: 7840 W 56th St, Indianapolis
• Cost: Marion County vehicle: $6, Non-Marion County vehicle: $7
• Opening June 1 for the 2024 summer season

Eagle Creek Park Beach, located in Indianapolis, is the perfect summer spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors can swim in the lake, sunbathe on the sand, hike the trails, or indulge in watersports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventure in nature, Eagle Creek Park has something for everyone.

2. 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

3. Geist Waterfront Park

• Address: 10811 Olio Road, Fishers
• Cost: Free for Fishers residents. Non-residents will need a day parking pass, which is $25.

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.

4. 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 many fun attractions, making it a unique beach day!

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. Indiana Dunes

• Location: Porter, IN
• Cost: National Park: $25/car; State Park: $7/car with with Indiana license plates; $12 – noncommercial vehicles with out-of-state license plates

Visit Indiana Dunes National and State Parks to enjoy 15 miles of Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Perfect for beach lovers, with nine sandy spots ideal for a swim or sunbathing.  Hike towering dunes, explore diverse ecosystems like oak savannas and wetlands, and encounter abundant wildlife in this Midwest natural treasure.