Scheeff East Point Nature Preserve
Discover a serene escape on Put-in-Bay with secluded beaches and abundant birdlife. A peaceful haven away from the crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, more tranquility
Scheeff East Point Nature Preserve
Best Time
Fewer people, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a serene escape on Put-in-Bay with secluded beaches and abundant birdlife. A peaceful haven away from the crowds.
"This is by far the best preserve on the island. Even if you don’t see a bald eagle, the beach acres points are spectacular."
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for the rocky, sometimes slippery beach. Protect your feet!
🚗 Golf Cart Access
Easily accessible by golf cart from town.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secluded Lake Erie Beach
Southern tip of the preserve
Discover a quiet stretch of Lake Erie shoreline, perfect for peaceful reflection and stunning island views.
Birdwatching Haven
Throughout the preserve
Listen to the symphony of birds and spot local and migratory species in this natural habitat.
Scenic Island Trails
Various paths within the preserve
Wander through wooded areas and along the perimeter for beautiful island scenery and a sense of remoteness.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds
Beach Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for the rocky, sometimes slippery beach. Protect your feet!
🚗 Golf Cart Access
Easily accessible by golf cart from town.
🦅 Look for Eagles
Bald eagles are often spotted here.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Enjoy peaceful walks away from the main town.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for the rocky, sometimes slippery beach. Protect your feet!
🚗 Golf Cart Access
Easily accessible by golf cart from town.
🦅 Look for Eagles
Bald eagles are often spotted here.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Enjoy peaceful walks away from the main town.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Great spot for scenic island photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Scheeff East Point Nature Preserve is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and secluded beaches, offering a welcome escape from the busier parts of Put-in-Bay. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and opportunities for birdwatching. However, the beach terrain is frequently cited as hazardous due to sharp, slippery rocks, making water shoes a necessity for a safe visit.
"This is by far the best preserve on the island. Even if you don’t see a bald eagle, the beach acres points are spectacular and you will actually feel away from the town here. If you do any hiking in South Bass island, do it here."
Thirteendays
"Wear water shoes on the beach—there are plenty of tiny crushed rocks and shells, though there are also some sandy areas. The scenery is beautiful, but be aware of water snakes. When we visited, there were many rotting fish further down the beach."
Esther H
"This review is only for the beach, not The nature preserve. This is the nastiest, stinkiest and most hazardous beach I have ever been to in my entire life. My son and I left with cut up feet and we were covered in a green residue. The bottom is nothing but slippery rock(s) and if you're not careful you 100% will break a bone. This beach is disgusting and I will never come back. If there's a better beach in the island and you know about it, please let me know. We left very disappointed."
Shayna Krasula
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located on the quiet side of the island and is easily accessible by golf cart. Many visitors rent a golf cart in Put-in-Bay town and drive there. The journey offers a scenic route away from the main tourist hub.
Yes, there is a parking area available for visitors arriving by car or golf cart. It's a convenient starting point for exploring the preserve and its trails.
While possible, it's a significant walk from Put-in-Bay town. Renting a golf cart or bringing a bicycle is a more practical way to reach the preserve and explore its surroundings comfortably.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Scheeff East Point Nature Preserve is a public nature preserve and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. You can explore its trails and beaches freely.
As a nature preserve, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific posted hours, but it's best to visit during safe daylight times for exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking on the trails, birdwatching, photography, and relaxing on the secluded beach. It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.
While the water can be clear, the beach is known for its rocky and slippery bottom, which can be hazardous. Many visitors recommend wearing water shoes and exercising caution. Some reviews mention a green residue and sharp rocks.
The preserve is a natural area, and facilities are minimal. It's advisable to come prepared with any necessities you might need, as restrooms and dedicated picnic areas are not typically available.
The preserve is a haven for birdlife, including bald eagles. You might also encounter water snakes, especially near the beach.
It can be a good place for kids to run around and explore, but caution is advised on the beach due to the rocky and slippery terrain. Supervise children closely.
📸 📸 Photography
The secluded beach offers beautiful views of Lake Erie and surrounding islands, making it ideal for landscape photography. The wooded trails also provide opportunities for nature and wildlife shots.
Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light for photography and are also excellent for birdwatching. Late afternoons can also provide lovely lighting for scenic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the beach might require extra vigilance, the preserve's natural setting provides opportunities for kids to discover birds and enjoy the outdoors away from the hustle and bustle of town. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited, and focus on the exploration aspect rather than extensive beach play if your children are very young or prone to accidents.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Birdwatchers
It's an ideal location for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot a variety of species, including bald eagles, in their natural habitat. For photographers, the scenic views from the beach and along the trails provide excellent subjects. The secluded nature of the preserve means you can enjoy these natural wonders with fewer distractions, making it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the island's environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Secluded Beaches
Water shoes are a must for anyone planning to walk along the shoreline or enter the water. Reviews mention the potential for cuts and scrapes from sharp rocks, and the slippery surface poses a risk of falls. Despite these challenges, the clear water and peaceful atmosphere are often highlighted as major draws for those seeking a more natural and less crowded beach experience.
While some find the beaches beautiful and serene, others have had negative experiences, citing the hazardous conditions and even a 'green residue.' It's important to weigh these varied perspectives and come prepared with appropriate footwear and a cautious approach to fully enjoy this unique aspect of the preserve.
Nature and Wildlife Encounters
The preserve's natural setting means that wildlife encounters are part of the experience. While the birds are a highlight, visitors should also be aware of other inhabitants. Water snakes have been noted in the area, particularly near the beach. While generally not aggressive, it's wise to maintain a respectful distance and be aware of your surroundings.
Beyond the wildlife, the preserve offers a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of South Bass Island. The trails wind through wooded areas, offering a peaceful walk away from the island's more developed attractions. It's an excellent opportunity to appreciate the island's natural landscape and enjoy a moment of quiet observation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit