HEADLANDS BEACH | ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Headlands Beach State Park
Headlands Beach State Park combined with the adjacent Headlands Beach State Nature Preserve and federal breakwall is a great way to connect with Lake Erie as it supports a number of outdoor activities including swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, hiking, biking, birdwatching, wildlife observation, and fishing.
Located in Mentor, Ohio, the beach is a must-see attraction for those exploring northeastern Ohio. The surrounding area features quite a few attractions as well.
Main Attractions
HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK
Listed below are the most popular attractions and things to do at Headlands Beach State Park.
Headlands Beach
35-ACRE LAKE ERIE BEACH
Headlands Beach is a 35-acre beach on Lake Erie and is the largest natural beach in the state of Ohio. The beach accommodates many forms of beach recreation, including swimming, sunbathing, hunting sea glass, and viewing sunsets.
Headlands Beach State Nature Preserve
LAKE ERIE SAND DUNES
Headlands Beach State Nature Preserve features Lake Erie sand dunes that support highly specialized plant and animal life suited to survive in this hostile environment. Natural features include unique geology, wetlands, and prairie. The preserve features one mile of hiking trails for visitors to observe this rare ecosystem.
Federal Breakwall
LAKE ERIE FISHING
The federal breakwall is located at the east end of the park and provides excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of fresh water fish, including walleye, yellow perch, largemouth bass, and steelhead. Ohio fishing regulations apply, including a valid fishing license for those 16 years and older.
Buckeye Trail
HIKING & BIKING
The park features a paved trail spanning the length of the park for biking and walking. The park is of particular interest for hikers as it features the northern terminus of the Buckeye Trail along with a 1.5-mile section of the trail for hiking.
Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Lighthouse
SCENIC AREA
The lighthouse is private property, but adds to the scenery of the area providing scenic photo opportunities.
Picnic Areas
LAKE ERIE PICNICKING
The park is a popular picnic area due to the many scenic areas throughout the park featuring picnic tables and charcoal grills. There is a pavilion that can be reserved for large gatherings.
Wildlife Observation
PREMIER OHIO BIRDING LOCATION
Headlands Beach provides great opportunities for birdwatching and observing wildlife amongst the rare ecosystem of the sand dunes and the large natural beach.
Park Amenities
HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK
Shaded picnic area
Listed below in alphabetical order are the park amenities for Headlands Beach State Park.
Rest Rooms: There are five restrooms in the park. They feature flush toilets, sinks, soap, hand sanitizer, air hand dryer, mirrors, baby changing station, multiple toilets and urinals, and water fountains on the exterior of the buildings.
Picnic Area: There are numerous areas for picnicking throughout the park. Some feature great scenery as they are located near the beach or nature preserve. There is a large shaded picnic area at the east end of the park. There are many charcoal grills in the picnic areas throughout the park.
Pavillion: The pavilion accommodates up to 40 people and features electric, picnic tables, preparation table and two charcoal grills.
Playground: There is a small playground near the pavilion on the west side of the parking area.
Parking: The entrance to the park and parking lot is paved and well maintained. Parking is free and the parking lot is spacious and generally provides more than enough parking, even on the busiest days of the year. The parking lot is mostly shaded by tall trees that provide cover for your vehicle on hot summer days.
Waste Management: There are multiple large dumpsters in the parking area and various trash receptacles throughout the park.
Park Rules & Advisory
HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK
Park Rules & Advisory
Listed below in alphabetical order are the park rules and advisory for Headlands Beach State Park.
Fees and Hours
There are no fees to enter or use the park. The only possible fees would be to reserve the pavilion.
Hours are 8am to a half hour after sunset. Opening seems to vary depending on the time of year and seems to coincide with a half hour after sunrise.
Beach Rules (as posted)
These rules are for your safety, they are state law, and they are strictly enforced. There is no lifeguard on duty. For your safety, stay off buoys. Cigarette butts are considered litter.
- No alcoholic beverages
- No pets on beach
- No bottles on beach
- No swimming after dark
- No littering
- No grills on beach
- No flotation devices
- No unattended children
In case of emergency: call 911
Pavilion is reservable. Call 1-866-OHIOPARKS (644-7275) or visit www.reserveohio.com. If not reserved the pavilion is first come first serve.
Swimming: Swimming at your own risk is permitted in designated areas, as there are no life guards on duty. Certified life vests are encouraged, but inflatable devices are prohibited.
OTHER INFORMATION
Wetlands Restoration Project
A constantly flooded portion of the park has become home to a wide variety of native wetland plants and wildlife. Through support of the USDA Forest Service's Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Grant, steps will soon be taken to follow nature's lead and remove the parking lots and structures, in this portion of the park, to better allow this area to become a natural wetland.
Dining Attractions
WHERE TO EAT NEAR HEADLANDS BEACH
Headlands Beach area dining options
Listed below in alphabetical order are the most popular dining attractions near Headlands Beach State Park, including restaurants, pizza shops, and more.
Azteca Mexican Restaurant
9515 Diamond Centre Dr, Mentor, OH 44060
Azteca Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar serves Mexican classics including enchiladas, fajitas, chalupas, and more. Open for lunch, dinner, and drinks at the bar. Located 3.3 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Corduroy’s Pizza
9131 Jordan Dr, Mentor, OH 44060
Corduroy’s Pizza offers a great selection of pizza, pasta dinners, wings, burgers, sandwiches, salads, ice cream and more. Located 2 miles west of Headlands Beach State Park.
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Pickle Bill's Lobster House
101 River St, Grand River, OH 44045
Pickle Bill’s Lobster House offers a great variety of seafood in a relaxed environment with waterfront views and outdoor seating. Located less than 2 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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The Pompadour
320 High St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
The Pompadour serves creative small plates and handcrafted cocktails in a cozy environment. Open Thursday through Saturday 5pm-10pm. Located near the beach in historic downtown Fairport Harbor.
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Rego's Brickhouse Pizza
326 New 4th St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Rego’s Brickhouse Pizza offers hand-pressed pizzas with fresh dough made in house every day, along with fresh salads, sandwiches, dinners, and more. Located in Fairport Harbor, just 5 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Scooter's World Famous Dawg House
9600 Blackbrook Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Scooter’s serves fresh made-to-order food, including three sizes of specialty hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream treats, and more. Located less than 3 miles south of Headlands Beach State Park.
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Sunset Harbor Bar and Grille
625 Prospect St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Sunset Harbor Bar and Grille serves seafood in a relaxed environment. The restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating along with the only lakefront dining in Lake County, Ohio. Located 5 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Lodging Attractions
WHERE TO STAY NEAR HEADLANDS BEACH
Headlands Beach lodging options
Listed below in alphabetical order are the most popular attractions for lodging near Headlands Beach State Park, including hotels, inns, bed & breakfasts, cabins, cottages, and other types of lodging.
Extended Stay America Select Suites
5650 Emerald Ct, Mentor, OH 44060
Extended Stay America Select Suites offers spacious suites at affordable rates. Amenities include full kitchens, dining and work space, free Wi-Fi, cable with premium channels, and more. On-site guest laundry and pet-friendly rooms. Located 3.6 miles from Headlands Beach and other area attractions including The Cleveland Museum of Art, West Side Market, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
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Hampton Inn & Suites
5675 Emerald Ct, Mentor, OH 44060
Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland-Mentor is a 3-star hotel offering various amenities, including connecting rooms, free hot breakfast, free parking, free wifi, digital key, fitness center, pet-friendly rooms, meeting rooms, and more. Nearby attractions include the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lakes Science Center, and the Metroparks Zoo and Rainforest. Located just 3 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Residence Inn by Marriott
5660 Emerald Ct, Mentor, OH 44060
The Residence Inn Cleveland Mentor offers well-appointed suites and a full range of amenities to provide guests with everything they need for their stay, including suites with living area, desk space with natural lighting, updated bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, and more. Located just minutes from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub
348 Mentor Ave, Painesville, OH 44077
Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub features lavishly decorated guest suites for guests seeking a perfect haven a cut above the average hotel. Great for fast-paced retreats, romantic weekend aways, business trips, or just about anything. All rooms offer breakfast buffet or breakfast choice included. Free Wi-Fi and in-house bar. Located just 4 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Wingate by Wyndham at LaMalfa
5783 Heisley Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Wingate by Wyndham at LaMalfa offers modern amenities, including free breakfast, free WiFi, free on-site parking for vehicles of all sizes, as well as a business center, heated indoor pool, and on-site gym. All non-smoking guest rooms are equipped with a flat-screen HDTV, microwave, mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, desk, and more. Nearby attractions include Holden Arboretum, James A. Garfield National Historic Site, and Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park. Located less than 10 minutes from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Shopping Attractions
WHERE TO SHOP NEAR HEADLANDS BEACH
Headlands Beach shopping attractions
Listed below in alphabetical order are the most popular attractions for shopping near Headlands Beach State Park, including convenience stores, bait shops, and more.
EZGO Food Mart (RediGo)
400 High St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
EZGO Food Mart is convenience store located 4.8 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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The Gourmet Soap Market
204 3rd St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
The Gourmet Soap Market offers soap and body essentials handmade glycerin soap, soapy sponges, loofah soaps, olive oil soaps, and award winning bath and shower bombs and scrubs. They specialize in creating custom shower and wedding favors, corporate gifts, spa bags, promotional giveaways and partner with businesses, financial professionals, realtors, casinos and more. Located 5 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Harbor Bait and Tackle
1248 High St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Harbor Bait and Tackle offers a great selection of bait and fishing tackle. Located less than 4 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Headlands IGA Supermarket
4701 Corduroy Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Headlands IGA Supermarket is a full service grocery store located 2 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Steve’s Bait Shop
110 Water St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Steve’s Bait Shop offers all full selection fishing tackle and bait. Hours vary with season. Located 5 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Area Attractions
ATTRACTIONS NEAR HEADLANDS BEACH
Fairport Harbor Marine Museum & Lighthouse
Listed below in alphabetical order are the most popular attractions near Headlands Beach State Park.
Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park
301 Huntington Beach Dr, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park features a family-friendly beach on Lake Erie open year-round. Park activities include adapted programming, boating, fishing, geocaching, and swimming. Park amenities include 21 acres, accessible facilities, canoe/kayak access, electricity, emergency phone, fire ring, flush restrooms, grills, lakeshore access, paved trails, picnic area, picnic shelter, and playground.
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Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse
129 2nd St, Fairport Harbor, OH 44077
Fairport Marine Museum and Lighthouse features a lighthouse built in 1871 and a museum featuring exhibits about the history of the lighthouse, life on the Great Lakes, maritime artifacts, and more. Located in Fairport Harbor just 5 miles from Headlands Beach State Park.
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Mentor Marsh & Carol H Sweet Nature Center
5185 Corduroy Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Mentor Marsh & Carol H Sweet Nature Center features one of the largest natural marshes along the shoreline of Lake Erie and became the first state nature preserve in Ohio in 1971. Hiking trails are open from dawn to dusk year-round. Special programs and guided hikes are at 2pm every Sunday the Nature Center is open and group programs are offered during the week by appointment. Call the nature center at (440) 257-0777 for more information.
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Goods & Services
HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK
Goods & Services
Listed below in alphabetical order are local services for Headlands Beach State Park, including banks, gas stations, and other types of local services.
7-Eleven
5711 Heisley Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Nearest convenience store from Headlands Beach State Park. Located 3.1 miles away.
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BP
5711 Heisley Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Nearest gas station to Headlands Beach State Park. Located 3.1 miles away.
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Burger King
5725 Heisley Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Nearest Burger King from Headlands Beach State Park. Located 3.2 miles away.
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Dollar Tree
9580 Diamond Centre Dr, Mentor, OH 44060
Nearest dollar store from Headlands Beach State Park. Located 3.5 miles away.
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McDonald’s
5745 Heisley Rd, Mentor, OH 44060
Nearest McDonald’s from Headlands Beach State Park. Located 3.2 miles away.
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Sunoco
410 High St, Painesville, OH 44077
Gas station located just 4.7 miles away.
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Taco Bell
9500 Diamond Centre Dr, Mentor, OH 44060
Nearest Taco Bell from Headlands Beach State Park. Located 3.3 miles away.
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Walmart
9303 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060
Nearest Walmart from Headlands Beach State Park. Located 5.8 miles away.
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Q & A
HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK
Listed below are questions asked about Headlands Beach State Park.
Q: Are dogs allowed at Headlands Beach State Park?
A: Dogs are allowed at the park, but must be on a leash, and no pets are permitted on the beach.
Q: Are alcoholic beverages permitted at Headlands Beach State Park?
A: Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the park.
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