The Great Lakes were formed around 14,000 years ago as the glaciers that formed them melted. They are interconnected by rivers and connected to the Atlantic Ocean through the St Lawrence River. While Rochester is located hours away from the Ocean, we do have some beautiful spots to enjoy the beach along our Great Lake! Whether you want to take a stroll to enjoy the scenic views, have a picnic, bring the kids to play in the sand or dip your toes in the water, there’s a local beach for you to explore!
Beaches Around Rochester
Durand Eastman Beach | Irondequoit
Swimming is supervised by lifeguards in the designated area near parking lot A only from noon-6pm throughout the summer. (Swimming in other sections of the beach is prohibited as boats will come close to shore.) There are port-a-pottys in the parking lot for public use. Charcoal grills and picnic tables are available near the parking area. Pets are allowed as long as they are leashed. Across the street is Durand Eastman Park which has playgrounds, public restrooms, hiking trails, more picnic tables, grills and pavilions for public use. They also offer pavilions and lodge shelters for rent during the summer.
Hamlin Beach State Park | Hamlin
There is a $9 vehicle fee to enter the State park. Lifeguards on duty from mid June – Labor Day. There are hiking trails, playgrounds, public restrooms, grills, pavilions and picnic tables available in the park. There is a concessions and camp store open in the summer with food and drinks available for purchase. Campsites are available for reservations from June through October. Leashed pets are allowed only in certain areas of the park. The park hosts some nature-based, educational walks throughout the summer.
Ontario Beach | Rochester
Open year round from 7am-11pm with lifeguards on duty 11am-7pm from Fathers Day to Labor Day each summer. The antique carousel is open from Memorial day to Columbus Day. $1 per ride though there are many days where free rides are offered. Fishing from the pier is allowed for those with a valid fishing license. There is a playground, volleyball courts, basketball courts, public restrooms, food concessions and plenty of benches and picnic tables for seating. There are pavilions available for rent as well. Pets are prohibited in the entire park. During the summer there are free concerts held in the gazebos. In June, the Harbor Festival will host activities and vendors for the whole family to enjoy.
Smaller Beaches
The following beaches do no have lifeguards on duty so swimming is not permitted, however they tend to be less crowded and can be fun to enjoy the sand, views of the lake and for fishing.
Braddock Beach | North Greece
Braddock Bay Park features a playground, hiking trails, observation platform, and public restrooms open May-October. They have open shelters and lodges available for rent throughout the summer. There’s a canoe/kayak launch and fishing is permitted here. The beach itself is further up the road, past the marina. Swimming is not permitted but it’s a great place to play in the sand, enjoy the views and nature watch.
Irondequoit Bay Outlet Pier and Beach | Irondequoit
This little beach located next to the small boat harbor is open from 4am-10pm daily. Swimming is not permitted, though wadding is fine and the water stays shallow in this spot. The sandy area is a favorite for local children. There is a public restroom available during the day here. It’s just down the street from Bill Grays and the playground at Marine Park. Ample parking available.
Lemming Beach & Bateau Park | Irondequoit & Summerville
This hidden gem is fairly well maintained. There is an inclusive playground at Bateau park and a small walking trail. Parking may be a struggle as there isn’t an actual lot and street parking is limited. There are private beaches in this area, check for signage to avoid trespassing. Just a short walk from the playground is the public lemming beach. Surrounded by an open grassy field, this is a fun area for kids to play in the sand. Leashed dogs are welcome here. There are no public restrooms or amenities.
Manitou Beach Preserve | Hilton
Further North in the Braddock Bay area, right near the Bird Observatory, is the Manitou Beach Preserve. There are hiking trails and lots of opportunities to observe wildlife, especially before noon. Dogs are welcomed as long as they are leashed. Parts of the beach are a bit rocky but there are plenty of sandy areas to play in as well.
Sandbar Park | Webster
Parking is convenient and there are wheelchair accessible paths available. Visitors can enjoy the playground or walk the pier. The shoreline itself is rocky but there is sandy area to play in. There are benches, picnic tables and charcoal grills available for use. Sandbar Park is on the east side of the bridge that closes in the summer.
Webster Park & Pier | Webster
Webster Pier is a nice little walk to view the lake. The beach itself is fairly rocky so not the best for playing in sand, but a good place to collect sea glass or see ducks and geese. Jack’s Place Playground is just across the street from the pier, making it easy to spend a whole day here. There are several public restrooms available.
