Looking forward to having some fun in the sun? Here in Ohio, summertime can be the best time. It helps to know where the prettiest beaches are—and it helps to know where the less crowded ones are. The following are 10 little-known beaches in Ohio with warm, sandy shores, and deep blue water. They're also some of the best beaches in Ohio.

Please note: Be sure to call ahead or check the Facebook pages to find out when these beaches will open for the season.

1. Breakwater Beach (Geneva State Park)

While the entire state park is gorgeous, the beach at Geneva State Park is unparalleled. Warm, smooth sands and picture-perfect views of Lake Erie await you at this little-known beach after a morning or full day of hiking. It's one of the most beautiful beaches in Ohio.

2. Baylor Beach Park (Navarre)

Unless you're a local, you've likely never heard of Baylor Beach Park in Ohio, which features a 2-acre, man-made swimming lake with sandy hidden beaches. It's picture-perfect for a family day of fun in the sun, as there are activities for all ages here.

3. Cedar Point Beach (Sandusky)

While the beach behind Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio isn’t necessarily a secret nor is it the most accessible beach—making it seem like an exclusive, picture-perfect beach away from it all. If you’ve never been here before, it’s definitely worth a visit.

4. Nelson Ledges Quarry Park (Garrettsville)

For "secluded beaches near me," Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in Garrettsville, Ohio is a family-owned and operated park that features a stunningly beautiful quarry where you can swim, scuba, snorkel, camp, and more.

5. Kelleys Island State Park Beach (Kelleys Island)

Tucked away on the north side of Kelleys Island is a secluded and lovely 100-foot stretch of sand and a beach that's perfect for wading waist-deep in Lake Erie.

6. Natural Springs Resort (New Paris)

What was once Stone Quarry is now a family fun destination. The gorgeous spring-fed lake makes a fun swimming hole for visitors and campers alike. You can also rent a canoe, kayak, or paddle boat. Right by the beach, you'll also find a heated swimming pool and two water slides.

7. Walnut Beach (Ashtabula)

One of the most little-known Lake Erie beaches features a nearby playground and a picturesque view of the Ashtabula Lighthouse. You'll also find interesting rocks and pieces of driftwood along this pretty little beach.

8. Centennial Quarry (Sylvania)

This deep-water, spring-fed swimming hole is a hidden gem for visitors and a best-kept secret for locals. For a small fee, you can swim at the quarry's sandy beach, which features diving platforms, water toys, a slide, a log roller, swim rafts, sand volleyball courts, and even a basketball court.

9. Nickel Plate Beach (Huron)

Tucked away behind several cottages you'll find Nickel Plate Beach in the small coastal town of Huron. In addition to some beach volleyball nets, you'll find some playground equipment for the little ones on this beach.

10. Clay's Resort Jellystone Park™ (North Lawrence)

With an adventure water park, RV resort, and campground, Clay's Resort Jellystone Park is the perfect place to spend a summer weekend. The 10-acre swimming lake features a sandy kid’s beach, dual 150-foot-long water slides, inflatables, dual zip lines, a challenge course, barrel roll, and more.

Have you ever been to any of the best beaches in Ohio before? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments below.

Need a way to carry all of your gear to the beach this summer? Check out The Foldie. I never travel without mine!

For more Ohio adventures out on the water, be sure to check out our previous article: 5 Lazy River Summer Tubing Trips In Ohio To Start Planning Now.