16 Swimming Lakes & Beaches Around Milwaukee

North Beach is located about 30 miles south of Milwaukee in Racine. North Beach has everything you need for a great day out: a playground, sand volleyball courts & concession stands. Enjoy live music at the Beachside Oasis on weekends. In peak months they have lifeguards, and you are allowed to swim at your risk when lifeguards are not present.

Located in South Milwaukee, Grant Park is most known for its beautiful hiking trails, specifically the Seven Bridges Trail. In addition to swimming they also have sand volleyball courts and a concession stand.

Located south of Milwaukee in Bay View, South Shore Park is becoming increasingly popular. It's a beautiful beach with plenty of amenities like a playground, sand volleyball courts and a restaurant - South Shore Terrace. You can also enjoy the scenic Oak Leaf Trail and view of the yacht club and sailboats next door. You can swim, but there is no lifeguard on duty.

Bradford Beach is the place to be on a hot summer day. Bradford Beach has much to offer with a beautiful view and plenty of activities, including sand volleyball courts - you can even sign up for a sand volleyball league!

McKinley Beach is located just south of Bradford Beach and north of Veteran's Park on Lincoln Memorial Drive. McKinley Beach is also popular in the summer, but slightly less crowded than Bradford Beach. Have fun watching the boats coming and going from the adjacent McKinley Marina. There is no lifeguard on duty but you are allowed to swim.

Atwater Beach is located in the Village of Shorewood. If you are looking for a quieter beach with a beautiful view, Atwater Beach is an excellent option. They have a playground, picnic tables and restrooms. Expect a good climb down/up to and from the beach which is located at the bottom of a bluff (via stairs or ramp). Also plan for potentially difficult to find street parking.

Klode Park is located north of Milwaukee in the Village of Whitefish Bay. The beach offers a great view without the crowds. They've got a great playground for the kiddos. Expect a winding path down to the beach from the bluff. You can swim at the beach, but there are no lifeguards.

Tietjen Beach is a hidden gem located north of Milwaukee in Fox Point. It is one of Milwaukee County's more remote beaches. Expect a hike from the bluff down to the beach via stairs or a path. The Schlitz Audubon Center is right next to Doctors Park and can be accessed from the beach if you choose to explore that park as well!

Located in Muskego, Muskego Park has a 2-acre swimming pond.

Also known as Lannon Quarry, Menomonee Park Beach is located in Menomonee Falls. The lake is where an old quarry used to be and it's a great spot to go snorkeling or even scuba diving (if you're certified). There is a ton to explore at Menomonee Falls including bike trails, a playground, fishing (with a license) and more!

Minooka park, the largest Waukesha County Park, has a 4-acre swimming pond.

Fox Brook Park, located in Brookfield, has a popular swimming beach. Spend the day swimming, pedal boating or scuba diving. They even have a designated dog beach, so you can even bring the 4 legged member of your family.

Find a small swimming beach next to the larger Roxy Pond at Mukwonago Park.

Located in Delafield, Naga-waukee Park's swimming beach has much to offer; find a boat launch and fishing (with a license), wildlife viewing, a concession stand, and picnic areas. This is a great spot to spend the day together as a family.

Located inside Kettle Moraine State Park, Ottawa Lake is a 17-acre lake with a swimming beach and fishing. Also find hiking trails and camping in the park. They also have a fun playground, and volleyball courts.