South Shore Park & Beach - red and white wooden wall decor
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South Shore Park & Beach

4.7
·329 reviews·Milwaukee, United States

A beautiful lakeside park with a sandy beach, beer garden, playgrounds, and scenic views, perfect for family fun and relaxation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Warm water, lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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South Shore Park & Beach - red and white wooden wall decor

South Shore Park & Beach

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Warm water, lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful lakeside park with a sandy beach, beer garden, playgrounds, and scenic views, perfect for family fun and relaxation.

4.7
(329 reviews)

"This is a beautiful little gem of a beach with a peaceful park and a great beer garden."

Vertical photo
TIP

🪨 Wear Water Shoes

The water's edge can be rocky; water shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit.

🍺 Beer Garden Bites

Grab food and drinks at the beer garden, offering options for everyone.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sandy Beach Bliss

Sandy Beach Bliss

South Shore Park

Enjoy a comfortable sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family fun.

Reddit
Lakeside Beer Garden

Lakeside Beer Garden

Overlooking the water

Relax with a drink and a bite to eat at the beer garden with scenic views of the lake.

Reddit
Family Fun Zone

Family Fun Zone

Within the park

Playgrounds, open spaces for kites, and volleyball courts make it ideal for kids and active groups.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beach Shoes Recommended

While the sand is comfortable for walking, the water's edge can be rocky. Bringing water shoes will enhance your beach experience and make getting in and out of the water much more pleasant. Reddit

Park Amenities Galore

Beyond the beach, South Shore Park offers a beer garden, picnic areas, playgrounds, and even space for flying kites. It's a versatile spot for families, couples, and pet owners. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm water, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter beach, easy parking
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ebenezer park is located in South Carolina, only 30 mins away from Charlotte on the Lake Wylie shore! 🌊☀️ Enjoy swimming at the lake, a walk on the pier that encloses the swimming area, and play volley ball or basketball. There’s also place to launch your boat. 🚤 You can even plan a staycation at their campground! ⛺️ 💵Cost: $5 per adult $2 per kids 6-16 and free for kids under 5 #cltbucketlist #c...
@cltbucketlist
24.8K likes • 420.9K views

🪨 Wear Water Shoes

The water's edge can be rocky; water shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit. Reddit

🍺 Beer Garden Bites

Grab food and drinks at the beer garden, offering options for everyone. Reddit

unique things to do in Bermuda! 🌴 Beach hop to all the pink sand beaches (most can be found along the South Shore) 🌴 Tour the Crystal Caves, the same caves that inspired Fraggle Rock! 🌴 Spend hours wandering the hidden caves and grottos of Blue Hole Park in the Walsingham Nature Reserve! 🌴 Get a massage inside a cave at Nature Cave Spa (located at Grotto Bay Beach Resort) & after you can visit Cat...
@boboandchichi
6.3K likes • 252K views
📍South Shore Park & Beer Garden We love partnering with @mkecountyparks so we can show you all the best new things this great city has to offer- like this one! This summer, South Shore has gotten a serious makeover and it’s definitely worth checking out the new setup: - Updates bike path on the Oak Leaf Trail - Sandy big beach - An awesome playground - 47 acres to explore - And one of our favo...
midwesthikesandhops
242 likes • 10.6K views

🪁 Kite Flying Fun

Plenty of open space makes it perfect for flying kites on a breezy day. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Park

Leashed dogs are welcome in the park areas, making it great for pet owners. Reddit

We’re back for our last Pilates in the Park of the year on Sunday, October 5th, at 9 AM at South Shore Park — on the hill just north of the beer garden! Grab a friend, dress in layers (it might be chilly), and come move with us! 🧡
afterglow_mke
57 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🪨 Wear Water Shoes

The water's edge can be rocky; water shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit. Reddit

🍺 Beer Garden Bites

Grab food and drinks at the beer garden, offering options for everyone. Reddit

🪁 Kite Flying Fun

Plenty of open space makes it perfect for flying kites on a breezy day. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Park

Leashed dogs are welcome in the park areas, making it great for pet owners. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Finding parking is generally easy and free, a welcome relief! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(329 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about South Shore Park & Beach for its beautiful scenery, family-friendly amenities, and relaxed atmosphere, often highlighting the convenient beer garden and ample free parking. Some note the rocky water's edge, recommending water shoes for a better experience.

"This is a beautiful little gem of a beach. The beach itself is a little rocky near the waters edge but the actual beach is very comfortable to walk on. For best beach experience I’d wear water shoes of some sort.

Outside of the beach the park around it is peaceful and beautiful. Lots of green, trees everywhere, a nice beer garden with picnic tables on a green overlooking the water. Plus there are clean bathrooms. All of this within 2 minutes walk of the beach, plus you can actually find parking around there, and it’s free!

I love this place! It’s such a relief to be so stress free compared to a visit to Chicago beaches."

Darian Nastvogel

"A beautiful public park for grilling, family gatherings, a day in the water if you have a boat, or for those who have pets, a great place to walk your dog. The scenery is beautiful and they have a beer garden for those who indulge in alcoholic beverages. There are options for teetotalers as well. I spent my memorial day weekend at the park with my wife and it was wonderful!!"

Edwin Nyakoe Nyasani

"This is my favorite beach in Milwaukee area because everything you'd want for the family is all in one area. You can swim, barbecue, set up a volleyball net, go to the play area with the kids, room to fly kites and even bring your dogs too. Then there's the beer garden area where you can buy food and drinks, sit and relax at the tables they've got set up. Restrooms(CLEAN TOO) are inside the building as well as and I've seen beautiful wedding pictures being taken there also."

Shannon Renee

What People Like

Beautiful lake views
Family-friendly amenities
Convenient beer garden

What People Dislike

Rocky water's edge

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

South Shore Park is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It's accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules. Reddit

Yes, the park is well-marked and a popular destination. GPS navigation should easily guide you there. Reddit

Absolutely! The park is connected to the Oak Leaf Trail, a popular biking path, making it a great destination for cyclists. Instagram

Parking is generally plentiful and free around the park and beach area, which is a significant plus for visitors. Reddit

While there have been recent updates and improvements, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures or ongoing construction before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

South Shore Park and its beach are public spaces and generally do not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the amenities for free! Reddit+1

Park hours are typically from dawn to dusk, but specific amenities like the beer garden may have separate hours. It's best to check the Milwaukee County Parks website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

No tickets are needed for entry to the beer garden area itself, but you will purchase drinks and food there. Reddit

Yes, the park often hosts events like 'Pilates in the Park' and other community gatherings. Keep an eye on local event listings or the Milwaukee County Parks calendar. Instagram

While many picnic areas are first-come, first-served, some larger shelters might be reservable through Milwaukee County Parks. It's advisable to inquire directly with the parks department for group events. Reddit

🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience

You can swim, sunbathe, walk along the beach, fly kites, play volleyball, use the playgrounds, and enjoy the beer garden. InstagramReddit

The beach has comfortable sand for walking, but the area near the water's edge can be a bit rocky, so water shoes are recommended. Reddit

Yes, clean restrooms are available within the park facilities, conveniently located near the beach and beer garden. Reddit+1

Dogs are welcome in the park areas on a leash, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. Reddit

The park offers beautiful lake views, making it a picturesque spot for relaxation and photography. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the beer garden offers food and drinks. You can also bring your own picnic to enjoy at the designated areas. Reddit+1

The beer garden typically serves classic pub fare and beverages. Specific menus can vary, so it's best to check on-site. Reddit

Yes, the park is a popular spot for grilling and family gatherings, with areas designated for barbecues. Reddit

While the beer garden might have limited options, bringing your own picnic allows for full control over dietary choices. Reddit

Alcohol is available for purchase at the beer garden. For other areas, check Milwaukee County Parks' regulations regarding personal alcohol consumption. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The beach, the beer garden overlooking the water, and the surrounding green spaces offer beautiful backdrops for photos. Reddit+1

Yes, the scenic views and well-maintained park areas make it a popular location for wedding photography. Reddit

Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks. It's essential to check Milwaukee County Parks' specific drone policy before flying. Instagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape and portrait photography. Instagram

The combination of the beach, lake, and park amenities provides diverse opportunities, from candid family shots to scenic lake vistas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

South Shore Park is a fantastic destination for families. The sandy beach is great for kids to play on, and the playgrounds offer dedicated fun. You'll find plenty of open space for running around, flying kites, or setting up a picnic. Reddit The beer garden is also a convenient spot for parents to grab a refreshment while keeping an eye on the kids. Remember to bring water shoes for the rocky edges of the water. Reddit

With clean restrooms and ample free parking, the logistics of a family outing are made much easier. The park's variety of activities ensures that children of all ages can find something to enjoy, from splashing in the lake to exploring the playground. Reddit+1

🐶 Pet Owners

Bring your furry friends along! South Shore Park is dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to enjoy the outdoor space with you. Reddit While dogs aren't allowed on the main beach area, they can explore the park's green spaces and walking paths. It's a great opportunity for a scenic walk with your pet, enjoying the lake views together. Reddit

Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all park visitors. The park's open areas provide plenty of room for your dog to stretch their legs. Reddit

🚴 Cyclists

South Shore Park is a prime destination for cyclists, thanks to its integration with the Oak Leaf Trail. This well-maintained bike path provides a scenic and safe route directly to the park. Instagram The recent updates to the bike path make the journey even more enjoyable. Instagram

Once you arrive, you can easily park your bike and head straight to the beach, the beer garden, or simply relax on the grass. It's an ideal stop for a break during a longer bike ride or a destination in itself for a leisurely cycling excursion. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Beach and Water

South Shore Park boasts a lovely beach area perfect for a variety of water activities. While the sand is generally soft and comfortable for walking, visitors often note that the immediate edge of the water can be a bit rocky. To ensure a comfortable experience when wading in or out, wearing water shoes is highly recommended by many who have visited. The water temperature is usually pleasant during the summer months, making it ideal for swimming and cooling off. Reddit

Beyond just swimming, the beach provides ample space for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply enjoying the lakeside ambiance. The overall atmosphere is often described as peaceful and less crowded than some other popular beaches, offering a more relaxed beach-going experience. Reddit+1

The Vibrant Park Experience

The park surrounding the beach is a significant draw, offering a wealth of amenities that cater to diverse interests. A highlight for many is the beer garden, which provides a relaxed setting with picnic tables overlooking the water. Here, visitors can enjoy a selection of beverages and food, making it a great spot to unwind after a day at the beach. Reddit

For families, the park features playgrounds and open green spaces perfect for kite flying or casual games. It's also a popular spot for barbecues and family gatherings, with designated areas available. Pet owners will appreciate that the park is dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs to join in on the fun. Reddit+1 The presence of clean restrooms adds to the convenience, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. Reddit+1

Accessibility and Improvements

South Shore Park has seen recent makeovers and updates, enhancing its appeal and functionality. The bike path along the Oak Leaf Trail has been improved, making it easier and more enjoyable for cyclists to access the park. Instagram This focus on infrastructure ensures that visitors arriving by bike have a smooth journey. Instagram

While the park is generally accessible, it's always wise to check for any temporary closures or construction notices, as improvements are ongoing. The overall sentiment from visitors is that these updates contribute positively to the park's charm and usability, making it a well-rounded destination for a day out. Reddit

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