If your idea of heaven in the summer months is to sit on a beach relaxing in the sunshine, why not try one of America’s great freshwater beaches for a change? The Great Lakes area runs from Minnesota to New York and is the largest area of fresh water in the world.
A chilled out beach
Many of the beaches along the Great Lakes are situated in small towns that don’t attract the masses you’ll find at the major coastal resorts. For example, North Beach in Racine, Wisconsin, is half a mile long and contains 50 acres of sand for you to enjoy. There’s also Empire Beach in Michigan, which is within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You’ll find dunes that can be up to 400 feet tall along this 35-mile stretch of beach.
Beach in the city
If you want a vacation site that offers more in terms of retail and entertainment venues, the Great Lakes area is also renowned for its urban beaches. Those who book accommodation in Chicago, Buffalo, and Cleveland for the summer will be able to get a bit of beach action while in the city. Oak Street Beach in Chicago, for example, is set directly under the city’s skyline.
Whether you’re looking for a sleepy setting, some water sports activities, or a city location, the Great Lakes beaches offer something for everyone.