Headlands Beach: The Longest Beach in Ohio

Lake Erie boasts a remarkable total shoreline length of approximately 871 miles, encompassing both the United States and Canadian sides. This extensive and varied shoreline is characterized by a rich tapestry of landscapes, including sandy beaches ideal for relaxation and recreation, rugged rocky outcrops that provide scenic views and excellent fishing spots, expansive wetlands that serve as crucial habitats for wildlife, and vibrant urban waterfronts that contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of nearby communities.

In particular, the Ohio portion of Lake Erie accounts for about 262 miles of this total shoreline, offering a multitude of recreational opportunities and natural beauty. One of the standout locations along this stretch is Headlands Beach in Mentor, famed for its soft sands and picturesque scenery, making it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists seeking sun, swimming, and scenic walks along the shore. The diversity of Lake Erie’s shoreline not only enhances its ecological significance but also provides a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

So what makes it special other than its mile-long natural sand beach? Watching colorful sunsets over the water has become quite a thing. Collecting beach glass has become a popular activity for many too. People enjoy finding the teeny, colorful pieces of broken glass that have been smoothed over time by the waves and sand along the Lake Erie shores. The sharp edges are worn down, creating beautiful, polished fragments.

General Park Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 1/2 hour after sunset

Day-Use Areas: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Swimming Areas: Daylight to dusk

Campground Hours: Open 24 hours (quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.)

The Headlands Beach State Park

Nearby Visits:

Fairport Harbor Lighthouse: Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake County, Fairport Harbor Lighthouse stands tall as a radiant beacon of safety, guiding countless ships and sailors through the treacherous waters of the Great Lakes.

Headlands Beach-Ohio’s longest beach

Johnson’s Island– Confederate Civil War Cemetery.

Maumee Bay State Park– Maumee Bay State Park is a popular destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The park features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and birdwatching, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of Maumee Bay and the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.

Kelleys Island and Middle Bass Island, nestled amidst the shimmering expanse of Lake Erie, have long captivated the imaginations of locals and visitors alike with their legendary tales of mysterious lights.

Cedar Point is a 364-acre amusement park located on a Lake Erie peninsula in Sandusky, Ohio owned and operated by Six Flags. Features a private mile-long beach. It opened in 1870 and is considered the second-oldest operating amusement park in the US. Cear Point is the largest amusement ride park in the world as it offers over 150 rides (including 17 roller coasters), shows, and attractions.

The African Safari Wildlife Park is a drive through wildlife park in Port Clinton, Ohio. Visitors can drive through the 65-acre preserve and watch and feed the animals from their car.

The Watering Hole – Ohio Safari Zoo and Waterpark is an indoor/outdoor family fun center with waterslides, a go-kart track, an arcade & a mini-golf course.

Catawba Island State park near Port Clinton serves as the main headquarters for the Lake Erie Islands state parks (including Kelleys Island, South Bass and Oak Point), and provides a fishing pier, launch ramp, picnic shelter and picnic areas for day-use visitors

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, west of Port Clinton, is one of the state’s foremost birding areas and is notable for its spring and fall bird migrations

East Harbor State Park on Marblehead Peninsula sports the largest campground in the Ohio state park system • Swimming, picnicking, boating and fishing are popular at East Harbor

Marblehead Lighthouse, built in 1821, is the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation of the Great Lakes and Ohio’s 73rd state park • It is located off S.R. 163 on the east side of the Village of Marblehead

Ohio State nature preserves located in the area include  Sheldon Marsh, Old Woman Creek, Erie Sand Barrens, and DuPont Marsh

For more information on area attractions, visit

Lake Erie Shores & Islands Welcome Center(s) 

South Bass Island (Put in Bay) South Bass Island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and rich history. The island boasts picturesque landscapes featuring lush green parks, scenic waterfronts, and breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Visitors can explore charming shops and local eateries in the quaint village of Put-in-Bay, which serves as a hub for tourists.

Additionally, the island offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, hiking, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically significant sites, such as the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, also highlight the island’s importance in American history. Overall, South Bass Island is a captivating spot for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a glimpse into the region’s past.

Click here for Ferries to Middle Bass and Put in Bay

If you don’t have your own boat, 2 privately operated ferries offer frequent daily service:

For more detailed info about Miller Ferry, please click here!

Miller Boat Line offers service for cars, RVS, bicyclists, & pedestrians from the mainland at Catawba • visit www.millerferry.com or call 800-500-2421 for information

The Jet Express offers service for pedestrians from Port Clinton and Sandusky • visit www.jet-express.com or call 800-245-1538 for information