The One Cleveland Metroparks Beach Where You Can Drive Right Up To The Water
By Nikki Rhoades|Published June 28, 2023
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
The Cleveland Metroparks is known locally as The Emerald Necklace thanks to its abundance of breathtaking greenery. From Lake Erie’s shore all the way down into Hinckley, Ohio, this park district has an astonishing 18 reservations and some 24,000 acres to explore. In that expanse, there’s bound to be a hidden gem or two. One of the more little-known spots is a tiny slice of paradise right on Lake Erie’s southern coast. This essence of pure beauty is actually the most hidden Cleveland Metroparks beach, and you just might have the shoreline all to yourself. Prepare to experience unrivaled majesty at Perkins Beach. Take a look:
This breathtaking view of Cleveland is enjoyed from a beach many Clevelanders don't even know about.
The beach, Perkins Beach, is one many don't know of. Despite this, it's among the most beautiful natural spaces in Cleveland. In-the-know locals just can't get enough of it!
The hidden gem is tucked away in Lakefront Reservation, which is home to the more recognizable Edgewater Beach.
And the beach, believe it or not, is hidden almost just behind this very sign. It has a private parking lot, and it's not labeled... your phone's navigation might even tell you "you've arrived!" when you reach this point. Continue down Edgewater Park Upper Lot and take the first left into the parking lot, or you can simply navigate directly to Edgewater Park Lower West Parking.
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You'll park right at the water's edge, and you'll see Perkins Beach just beyond the trees.
This sandy stretch of shore is arguably one of the best kept secrets in the Cleveland Metroparks. It's so hidden that you might have the entire beach to yourself, so bring a picnic and prepare to get lost in the dreamy song of crashing waves.
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Swimming is not permitted at this beach, but it's perfect for paddleboarding, hiking, exploring, and picnicking.
Edgewater Beach is just around the corner if you're looking to swim, but this spot is ideal for meditation and reflection. I love stealing away to this spot, as it's rarely crowded and it always offers an excellent view.
The sand is often littered with Lake Erie shells, and you might even find a piece of beach glass if you're lucky.
Beach glass, unlike sea glass, can come from any body of water in the world. As long as there's enough movement to smooth down the glass over time, this finely frosted, gently tumbled gift of man and nature may come into being. And beach glass is actually quite common in Lake Erie! In fact, the largest piece of beach glass in the world came out of these very waters.
Before you visit Perkins Beach, make sure you're wearing the right shoes. The sand isn't so fine and smooth here, but walking on it is still different than hiking along a smooth, paved surface. Opt for something comfortable that you won't mind getting dirty... and maybe even a little bit wet.
Some visitors like to walk out on the water via the rock-lined stretches that reach from the shore.
As the shoreline is a bit rocky, the waves here tend to splash dramatically. The effect is stunning, and you could easily spend hours sitting, relaxing, and getting lost in the sounds of nature.
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If you can brave the cold winter winds of Lake Erie, you might consider coming here in each and every season to see how the coast changes.
I always think I can manage the cold Lake Erie wind in the winter, but I tend to change my tune as soon as I'm on the bitterly cold shore. Bundle up for winter visits to Lake Erie! Between the splashing of water and the unforgivingly cold temperatures, the shore is bound to collect an interesting array of ice. You might even spot some ice gardens as plants and driftwood are encased in a crisp, sculpture-like layer of ice.
Or, perhaps, you'll just take it easy on a summer day and watch as the sun sinks or rises from the horizon.
Lakefront Reservation is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., so it offers ample time to watch the sunrise or the sunset. Remember to bring a buddy if you're heading out in the dark, especially if you're going to be near a big body of water. Safety first!
Whatever you decide to do, this hidden Cleveland Metroparks beach may become one of your new favorite spots.
You'll find the beach nestled at the base of bluffs near 10001 Cliff Dr, Cleveland, OH 44102.
As the most hidden Cleveland Metroparks beach, Perkins Beach is a dream come true for nature lovers looking for a less-crowded attraction. You’ll be able to kick back and relax surrounded by the sounds of nature… and possibly just a bit of human sound from the nearby volleyball courts and hiking trails.
While you’re in the northern stretch of the Cleveland Metroparks, you should budget some time to swing by Merwin’s Wharf. It’s over in the Irishtown Bend area and is right on the Cuyahoga River, so your waterfront adventure can continue in a new milieu.
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