Are you looking for something to do outside before summer comes to an end with friends, family, coworkers, etc.? Why not check out one of the lovely beaches the Madison area has to offer. It’s important for us to get out and enjoy the sunshine and heat in August, because we all know winter will be upon us in no time bringing snow and freezing cold weather. Below is a list of some beaches to check out while summer is still here. Be sure to check the beach water quality status before you head out.

Tenney Park Beach (1330 Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53703)
Tenney Park Beach is a large and popular beach on Lake Mendota. There are restrooms, drinking water, picnic tables, a playground, and an area to play volleyball located here. There are no lifeguards on duty at this beach so please make sure to keep an eye on children if they plan on going swimming. There is a parking lot near the beach so you should have no trouble finding a spot to park your vehicle unless of course it’s a busy day at the beach!

Olbrich Park Beach (3527 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53714)
Olbrich Park Beach is located on Madison’s East side along the shore of Lake Monona. It is also adjacent to Olbrich Botanical Gardens. There are restrooms, drinking water, a basketball court, boat launch, playground, soccer field, softball field, tennis court, and a picnic shelter located here. This is a great beach to bring the whole family since there are so many different things to do. There is a parking lot available at this beach.

B.B. Clarke Beach Park (835 Spaight St, Madison, WI 53703)
B.B. Clarke Beach Park is located on Madison’s isthmus as a small beach on Lake Monona. There are restrooms, drinking water, a playground, and a canoe and kayak launch site located here. Parking is available and it’s important to note that this beach is a dog free park. This is a great beach to check out if you are looking for something smaller.

Vilas Park Beach (1501 Vilas Park Dr, Madison, WI 53715)
Vilas Park Beach is a large and very popular beach located next to the zoo on Lake Wingra. They have a lifeguard on duty on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. until August 29th. There are restrooms, drinking water, and picnic tables located here.

Schluter Beach (4511 Winnequah Rd, Monona, WI 53716)
Schluter Beach is located on Lake Monona and it’s a great place to catch some rays, play in the sand, or go swimming. There are restrooms, drinking water, picnic areas, and a playground located here. This beach offers a 35-stall parking lot. There is no lifeguard on duty, so this beach is considered swim at your own risk. A special feature is a new, floating, handicap-accessible pier.

Now, before you head to the beach, remember to pack some or all of these items for a safe and enjoyable trip:

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Bathing suit
• Sandals
• Hat
• Beach towel
• Change of clothes
• Book
• Cell phone and charger
• Toys to play in the sand
• Umbrella
• Goggles
• Chapstick
• Water bottle
• Camera
• Headphones
• Snacks
• Beach chairs

Once you are packed you are ready to go!