Summary
Best Beaches in Milwaukee County
Unlike other coastal cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, and Honolulu, it’s totally free to park alongside the Lake Michigan shoreline in Milwaukee County. From South Milwaukee to Fox Point, and many places in between including downtown Milwaukee, there are ample opportunities to swim in the waters or simply lounge on the beach. You can also hike alongside pretty vistas. All of the beaches are Milwaukee County-owned and public, meaning no admission fees.
Moreover, the best time of year to visit these beaches is from May through October. While the weather can be chilly during the off-season, the annual Polar Plunge occurring on January 1 each year proves that there is never truly a bad time to visit the beach!
01. Bradford Beach
Address: Bradford Beach, Wisconsin 53211, USA
This East Side beach, located between East North Avenue and Kenwood Boulevard, and along Lincoln Memorial Drive, has experienced a renaissance over the past decade. Visitors can enjoy new food and beverage options, including a custard stand operated by The Bartolotta Restaurants, known as Northpoint Custard. Consequently, equipment rentals have become available as well. However, increased crowds may be expected, particularly if a pro-volleyball tournament is happening during your visit. Don’t forget to enjoy a fruity drink from the popular Tiki bar!
02. Big Bay Park
Address: Whitefish Bay, WI, USA
While this location is not ideal for swimming, this picturesque 6.7-acre area in Whitefish Bay, located about a 15- to 20-minute drive north of downtown Milwaukee, is perfect for a leisurely stroll or capturing stunning photos of the shoreline. Access the park via Palisades Road, just north of Lake Drive.
03. Atwater Beach
Address: 4000 N Lake Dr, Shorewood, WI 53211, USA
Phone: +1 414-847-2650
Located where East Capitol Drive meets Lake Drive, this beach is very popular with families and swimmers. In addition to playground equipment found in a five-acre park, visitors can take the stairs down to the sandy beach. Keep an eye out for “Spillover II,” a metal torso sculpture by Jaume Piensa, which creatively reveals the beautiful blue waters behind it.
04. South Shore Beach
Address: 2900 S Shore Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53207, USA
South Shore Beach is linked to the adjacent park of the same name, located within the residential Bay View neighborhood, just two blocks east of South Superior Avenue. Locals often enjoy walking their dogs, cycling, or taking lakeside strolls along the paved paths leading to the beach. While the beach is small, it offers a unique view with a marina backdrop, where you can spot downtown Milwaukee’s skyline from the left. As an added bonus, a beer garden is available in the pavilion for those in need of refreshments!
05. Klode Park
Address: 5960 N Lake Dr, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217-4628, USA
Phone: +1 414-962-6690
Kode Park is considered one of the finest family-friendly beaches in the area, and it is exceptionally well-maintained. Although there is no lifeguard on duty, it remains a great spot for swimming. You can access the beach from the far eastern edge of Klode Park by descending either a staircase or a paved path. With changing facilities and restrooms available on site, the street-level view is simply stunning—you’ll think you’ve been transported to a tropical destination! Be sure to bring a picnic or grab snacks from Sendik’s on Silver Spring Drive since the grassy area offers ample space for relaxation and spectacular views of Lake Michigan.
06. Grant Park Beach
Address: Grant Park Beach, Wisconsin 53172, USA
If you seek a peaceful retreat away from heavy foot traffic, then Grant Park Beach is your ideal destination. This serene getaway is part of the sprawling 381-acre Grant Park located just a short, pleasant 30-minute drive south of downtown Milwaukee. With ample parking, it’s recommended to bring along your bicycle or hiking boots to explore the stunning forested trails easily accessible via a paved path. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to rent clubs or bring their own, as the park features a golf course for added fun!
07. Doctors Park
Address: 1870 E Fox Ln, Fox Point, WI 53217-2858, USA
Phone: +1 414-352-7502
Below the park—named in honor of Dr. Schneider, who practiced medicine in Milwaukee before his passing in 1927—lies a beach shoreline that requires about a half-mile hike from the parking lot, but the beautiful scenery promises to make the effort worthwhile. Although the beach is small, it is a peaceful cove, perfect for reflection or relaxation. To discover more about the park and its beach, you can check out the Doctors Park Friends, dedicated to preserving the park’s beauty and accessibility.
