Best Summer Beach Destinations in Columbus, United States

1. Alum Creek Beach

A popular spot for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. Offers a sandy beach with lifeguards on duty during summer.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Ideal for families with children due to its safe and well-supervised environment.
Affordable Admission: Priced reasonably, making it an accessible option for many travelers.
Nearby Camping Options: Surrounded by campgrounds, allowing visitors to extend their stay in nature.

Located on the Scioto Audubon Metro Park, this quiet and serene beach is perfect for relaxation.

Peaceful Environment: Less crowded than other beaches, offering a peaceful retreat from city life.
Nature Preservation: Part of an Audubon Society sanctuary, providing a rich ecosystem to explore.
Bird Watching Opportunities: Known for its diverse bird population, making it appealing for bird enthusiasts.

Offers a unique experience with its stunning cliffside views and secluded coves.

Scenic Beauty: Boasts breathtaking views of the Olentangy River Gorge.
Cliffside Swimming: Allows visitors to swim at the base of cliffs, creating a one-of-a-kind experience.
Hiking Trails: Adjacent to numerous hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.

A hidden gem located on a large lake with easy access and ample parking.

Convenient Access: Easily reached via major highways, making it convenient for travelers.
Ample Parking Space: Offers plenty of parking spots, reducing the hassle of finding a place to park.
Large Lake Area: Provides a vast lake area for swimming and other water activities.

Features a clean and spacious beach with calm waters ideal for swimming.

Cleanliness: Known for its clean and well-maintained facilities.
Calm Waters: Offers calm waters perfect for swimming without strong currents.
Nature Trails: Surrounded by nature trails, providing opportunities for exploring the outdoors.

A secluded beach on a lake that's popular among locals for its peaceful atmosphere.

Tranquil Setting: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, serene environment.
Secluded Location: Less crowded than other popular beaches, offering more privacy.
Barbecue Grills and Picnic Areas: Provides barbecue grills and picnic areas for family gatherings.

Features a large beach area with a roped-off swimming section.

Spacious Beach Area: Has ample space for sunbathing and lounging.
Swimming Safety: The roped-off swimming section ensures a safer experience for children.
Volleyball Court: Includes a volleyball court for active beachgoers.

Offers a sandy beach with easy access to facilities like restrooms and concessions.

Easy Facility Access: Conveniently located near restroom facilities and food vendors.
Sandy Beach: Features a sandy beach perfect for building sandcastles.
Kayak and Canoe Rentals: Rental options available for exploring the Scioto River.

Located on Blacklick Creek, this beach offers a picturesque setting for relaxation.

A family-friendly beach with a playground and picnic areas.

Family-Friendly Activities: Includes a playground and picnic areas for children's enjoyment.
Cleanliness: Maintained clean and well-kept by park staff.
Grassy Areas: Provides ample grassy areas for sunbathing or relaxing.

A natural beach with opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting.

Nature Preservation: Part of an Audubon Society sanctuary, providing a rich ecosystem.
Bird Watching Opportunities: Known for its diverse bird population, making it appealing for bird enthusiasts.
Wildlife Spotting: Offers chances to see various species of wildlife in their natural habitat.

A scenic lake beach with cabins and campsites for overnight stays.

Scenic Lake Views: Offers breathtaking views of Caesar Creek Lake.
Overnight Accommodations: Features cabins and campsites for extended stays.
Water Sports Rentals: Rental options available for water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

A rocky river beach located within the beautiful Hocking Hills region.

Scenic Beauty: Nestled among the stunning landscapes of Hocking Hills.
Rock Climbing Opportunities: Rock formations nearby provide opportunities for rock climbing.
Hiking Trails: Adjacent to numerous hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the park.

A secluded beach on the Blacklick Creek with a picturesque setting.

A unique beach located in an underground limestone cavern.

Uniqueness: One of the few underground beaches in the United States.
Limestone Cavern Exploration: Allows visitors to explore a fascinating limestone cavern system.
Cooler Water Temperature: Water in the cave remains cooler, providing relief from hot summer days.