From expansive shorelines to off-the-beaten-path coves, there are Door County beaches for every kind of summer day
With nearly 300 miles of shoreline stretching along Lake Michigan and the bay of Green Bay, it’s no surprise that Door County beaches are one of the peninsula’s most beloved summer attractions.
Whether you’re looking for a calm, family-friendly beach just up the road, a quieter state-park shoreline worth a longer drive, or an under-the-radar spot you’ve never been to before, there are plenty of Door County beaches for every beachgoer. The good news is that Ephraim Shores Resort is just a drive (or a ferry ride) away from all of them!
Our peninsula’s variety of beaches is largely due to our geology. Door County sits atop the Niagara Escarpment — the same limestone ridge that forms the cliffs of Niagara Falls hundreds of miles away. Glaciers carved the peninsula thousands of years ago, leaving behind dunes, bluffs, and sloping sandy bays. That mix of landscapes is exactly what makes our Door County beaches so memorable — and it also has a little to do with why we have the best wineries in Door County, too.
For beachgoers looking to plan your visit, here’s a list of our favorite Door County beaches, grouped according to the day you might be after:
Close to Ephraim Shores
If you’d rather spend your day at the beach than in the car, these two spots are right in our backyard.
Ephraim Beach (Ephraim)
Just a two-minute drive from Ephraim Shores Resort (depending on summer traffic, of course!), Ephraim Beach is a small sandy beach right on Eagle Harbor. Visitors love it for its shallow and calm water, and its western-facing view makes it one of the best places in town to watch the sunset. Pack a towel and walk over after breakfast (it’s about a 15 minute walk along Water Street), or wander down in the evening for an easy Door County beach day.
Nicolet Bay Beach (Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek)
A short drive south of Ephraim Shores, Nicolet Beach is the crown jewel of Peninsula State Park and one of the most beloved Door County beaches. The sandy shoreline frames the warm waters of Nicolet Bay, making it a favorite for families with kids. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboards at the Nicolet Bay Camp Store, or make it a relaxing day by just spreading a blanket on the sand for the afternoon. Just don’t forget your Wisconsin State Park sticker!
View the full articles on Door County beaches here.
