Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle State Park
4.5
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
About
Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre sandy peninsula that arches into Lake Erie and offers travelers a beautiful coastline and lots of fun in the water. Stop by the 19th-century lighthouse to enjoy the views, then go for a swim in one of the park’s sandy beaches or take a boat tour on the open waters of Lake Erie. You can also hike the marshy shores of the Gull Point Trail while spotting several threatened species and migrating birds.
Presque Isle State Park is open from the early morning to sunset year-round. If visiting during winter, you may get to do some ice fishing too. – Tripadvisor
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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Best nearby
Restaurants
102 within 3 miles
Attractions
44 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,207 reviews
Excellent
2,526
Very good
566
Average
94
Poor
12
Terrible
9
Robin K
York, PA3 contributions
Nov 2022
This time of year the park is good for walking, and we took a drive, as well as some cool pics on the beach.
Written November 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Barbara M
1 contribution
Oct 2022 • Friends
Although it was a gloomy day driving around the island was lovely. We were there in October and the leaves we’re still hanging on in very beautiful. The lighthouse is interesting and the small but well stocked gift shop lovely!
Written November 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Doug W
Littleton, CO513 contributions
Oct 2022
We took only a driving visit to the park because of cold and wind but enjoyed it very much. Great views on the city and lake sides of the peninsula. I also enjoyed the Perry Memorial and the information placards at the point where the memorial is located.
Written October 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jeff77664
Downingtown, PA516 contributions
Sep 2022
The park was great and had plenty of smaller walks and viewpoints to take it.
I mainly wanted to comment on Gull Point Trail (when we were there) - the trail was rerouted around the beach and took about 3 miles roundtrip. Lead to an observation tower. It as a mix of beaches/gravel/grass walk. Overall, the wall and views were not worth the length of the trail.
But the park overall, is great.
I mainly wanted to comment on Gull Point Trail (when we were there) - the trail was rerouted around the beach and took about 3 miles roundtrip. Lead to an observation tower. It as a mix of beaches/gravel/grass walk. Overall, the wall and views were not worth the length of the trail.
But the park overall, is great.
Written October 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Steve H
Camp Hill, PA19 contributions
Sep 2022
Enjoyed a relaxing and invigorating day in this park hiking and exploring its beaches.. Worth at least a few hours of time spent in fresh air and sunshine. The two lighthouses are picturesque, and the wildlife is abundant. Only tip I would leave is to double check on bike rentals become coming. The rental company was close for weekday rentals, opening only on weekends, while we were there (end of September). Otherwise, a top attraction in this state and deservedly so.
Written October 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ann M
57 contributions
Aug 2022
A great place to be! Bike trails, hiking, beaches, lighthouse, fishing, boating, bird watching, nature, and picnic areas!!! Spend the day or a few hours bring your lunch or grab one at Sara's on the way in. We love it here. Visit Perry Monument and watch the boats catch a glimpse of the old Niagara sailing vessel. Perfect for families too!
Written September 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
307leven
Stroudsburg, PA281 contributions
Aug 2022
Visited the last weekend of August. This park has it all: beaches/swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, bicycling, picknicking, lighthouses, monument/history, etc. There is literally something for everyone at Presque Isle. Entrance to the park is free, but they accept donations. After making a donation, I received a map which was helpful at illustrating all the trails, beaches, boating/fishing areas, etc. I toured the Presque Isle Lighthouse which cost $10, but had historical exhibits that I viewed before walking to the top. The other lighthouse - the North Pier Light - is not available for tours, but can be viewed from the pier on which it sits. The Perry Monument is within an easy walk to the parking lot and commemorates Oliver Hazard Perry's successful defense of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. There are multiple trails throughout the park and they are easy to walk or bicycle as they are all on level ground. The park offers many parking areas and pull over areas to either walk to beaches, picnic areas or other points of interest. But, the park gets very crowded on the weekends, so plan accordingly and consider going during the week if you have that option. Also, if you can, plan to spend more than 1 day at this place because there are so many outdoor activities to do that you will want to spend more time here.
Written September 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
TYPSUKR
Arlington, VA758 contributions
Aug 2022
We went to Beach 6 on a Friday in August. Unsurprisingly, people came out to enjoy the sun (bring some sunscreen). This freshwater beach is free to visit, and the only possible issue you may run into is getting a good parking spot. There are lifeguards stationed along the beach, and they only let you swim where there is coverage. The sand is decently clean and easy to walk on, and there is plenty of space to set up your beach, whatever it may be. While the lake is as clean as it has been in recent memory, we still opt to only go in waist-deep, but plenty of people were still swimming.
Written September 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dakota B
Lewistown, PA8 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
My husband and I came to Erie for a week. Usually, we’d only spend a day at one attraction and move on. We endes up spending almost every day of our trip on the Isle; there was just so much to do there!
Written September 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kristy G
Pittsburgh, PA11 contributions
Sep 2022 • Family
Enjoyed a day at beach 6 and beach 8 this weekend. Had a great time swimming in Lake. Had no issues parking at either beach. Beach 8 parking lot is less sandy. Both beaches have places to clean off feet. Food stand not open at beach 8.
Written September 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
What is the best beach for glass/marble hunting? We are planning on visiting Tuesday and Wedesday
Can I grill in the beach where the sand is or it have to be in any specific place?
Dennis B
Shermans Dale, PA58 contributions
I echo what the others said in their responses. There are no grills on the beach, but I don't recall seeing any signs that restrict it.
Debbie Z
Hannastown, PA
Can anyone recommend a sailing cruise? I’m looking for 1 1/2 - 2hr. sailboat cruise.
BoomersMom
Haughton, Louisiana, United States161 contributions
The Lettie G. Howard does 1.5' day sail and a 2' sunset sail on their schooner. Beautiful ship!
jomidy
Sellersville, PA28 contributions
Many years ago my parents took us to a Lake Erie beach that was covered with beautiful colored pebbles. I'd love to find a beach like that on Lake Erie, are any Presque beaches pebbly? Thanks for any help!
🎓🤓 Keep Life Simple 🤓🎓
Greensburg, PA73,861 contributions
Try North East Pa and into New york or Ohio border and south for pebbly benches and sea glass
Anyone know what time you can actually get in the beach areas, to Atleast set up and hangout. I saw something that said 12 but I was not sure if that’s to get in the water, like the lifeguards start at 12? Does anyone have any insights
josievangel
Cranberry Township, PA42 contributions
Usually thats when lifeguards show up, but you can get onto the beach to play in sand and sit at the picnic tables earlier.
Hotels or motels near here
tirednurse52
Brackenridge, PA6 contributions
We just stayed at the Motel 6 in Erie and it was a great price for a just remodeled motel. Spotless and new everything. We have a dog and they are pet friendly.
We’re planning a day trip in our 32 motor home. Is daytime RV parking permitted? Are there parking spaces large enough? Thanks!
Sarah
Tallmadge, OH15 contributions
What beach is best for children? I have a 5 year old. Also, are restrooms open? Thank you!
cmadura
Erie, PA3 contributions
Beach 11 at the far east end of the peninsula is usually good for children. A west wind is USUALLY prevalent, which leaves this beach protected and it has shallower water. I haven't been there this summer since the COVID19, so am not sure what facilities are available. Usually there are life guards, but again, I am not sure about COVID19 impacts, although I would suspect there would be life guards. Beach 11 pre-COVID19 has restrooms, a changing area, and a walk-up food window. I would check the Presque Isle website to see what they say about COVID19 impacts. Some friends were out there driving around the park late last week and said that the park appeared to be heavily attended. You have to be careful at many of the other beaches, as the shore can drop off quickly and there can be an undertow, but it depends upon how much time you really want to spend in the water--all the beaches themselves are very nice.
Sarah
Tallmadge, OH15 contributions
What brach is recommended for children? I have a five year old. Also, are restrooms open? Thank you!
Presque Isle State Park (Erie) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Presque Isle State Park
- Presque Isle State Park is open:
- Sun - Sat 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- We recommend booking Presque Isle State Park tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 2 Presque Isle State Park tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Presque Isle State Park:
- (0.19 mi) Sara's Campground
- (0.39 mi) Sunny, Modern Waterfront Cottage w/ Grill in Erie!
- (0.46 mi) Riviera Motel
- (3.11 mi) Spencer House Bed & Breakfast
- (1.70 mi) Glass House Inn
- Restaurants near Presque Isle State Park:
- (0.23 mi) Sara's
- (0.19 mi) Stevo's Pizza
- (0.19 mi) Crazy Oven
- (0.38 mi) Syd's place
- (0.39 mi) Underdog BBQ
- Attractions near Presque Isle State Park:
- (0.00 mi) Presque Isle Lighthouse
- (0.00 mi) Tom Ridge Environmental Center
- (0.19 mi) Waldameer & Water World
- (0.17 mi) Beach Zero
- (0.20 mi) Erie Harbor North Pier Light