Headlands Beach State Park

1. Headlands Beach

LARGEST NATURAL BEACH IN OHIO

Headlands Beach is a 35-acre beach on Lake Erie and is the largest natural beach in the state of Ohio. The beach accommodates many forms of beach recreation, including swimming, sunbathing, hunting sea glass, and viewing sunsets.

2. Headlands Beach State Nature Preserve

UNIQUE COASTAL ECOSYSTEM

Headlands Beach State Nature Preserve features Lake Erie sand dunes that support highly specialized plant and animal life suited to survive in this hostile environment. Natural features include unique geology, wetlands, and prairie. The preserve features one mile of hiking trails for visitors to observe this rare ecosystem.

3. Federal Breakwall

LAKE ERIE FISHING

The federal breakwall is located at the east end of the park and provides excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of fresh water fish, including walleye, yellow perch, largemouth bass, and steelhead. Ohio fishing regulations apply, including a valid fishing license for those 16 years and older.

4. Buckeye Trail

HIKING & BIKING

The park features a paved trail spanning the length of the park for biking and walking. The park is of particular interest for hikers as it features the northern terminus of the Buckeye Trail along with a 1.5-mile section of the trail for hiking.

5. Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse

HISTORIC LANDMARK

This iconic lighthouse marks the entrance to Fairport Harbor and has guided mariners since 1925. Visitors can view the lighthouse from the beach or take photographs with the picturesque structure in the background. Occasional tours and events allow guests to explore the lighthouse up close.

6. Picnic Areas

LAKE ERIE PICNICKING

Designated picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, offering tables, grills, and shaded spots for visitors. These spaces are perfect for family outings, reunions, or a relaxing lunch by the lake. There is a pavilion that can be reserved for large gatherings.Many picnic sites provide beautiful views of the beach and water.

7. Wildlife Observation

PREMIER OHIO BIRDING LOCATION

Headlands Beach State Park is home to a variety of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Observation platforms and quiet trails make it easy for visitors to spot animals in their natural habitats. The park is especially popular with birdwatchers during spring and fall migrations.

8. Park Amenities

Rest Rooms: There are five restrooms in the park. They feature flush toilets, sinks, soap, hand sanitizer, air hand dryer, mirrors, baby changing station, multiple toilets and urinals, and water fountains on the exterior of the buildings.

Picnic Area: There are numerous areas for picnicking throughout the park. Some feature great scenery as they are located near the beach or nature preserve. There is a large shaded picnic area at the east end of the park. There are many charcoal grills in the picnic areas throughout the park.

Pavillion: The pavilion accommodates up to 40 people and features electric, picnic tables, preparation table and two charcoal grills.

Playground: There is a small playground near the pavilion on the west side of the parking area.

Parking: The entrance to the park and parking lot is paved and well maintained. Parking is free and the parking lot is spacious and generally provides more than enough parking, even on the busiest days of the year. The parking lot is mostly shaded by tall trees that provide cover for your vehicle on hot summer days.

Waste Management: There are multiple large dumpsters in the parking area and various trash receptacles throughout the park.

Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park

NEARBY ATTRACTION

Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park features a family-friendly beach on Lake Erie open year-round. Park activities include adapted programming, boating, fishing, geocaching, and swimming. Park amenities include 21 acres, accessible facilities, canoe/kayak access, electricity, emergency phone, fire ring, flush restrooms, grills, lakeshore access, paved trails, picnic area, picnic shelter, and playground.

Headlands Beach State ParkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO