15 Southern Wisconsin Beaches For A Daytrip Getaway Any Time Of Year

Travel anywhere across Lakes Edition country and there is an ideal daytrip awaiting to spend that lazy, relaxing day by the lakeshore. No need to travel to a Great Lake to take in the sun and surf. Southern Wisconsin is home to so many great local beaches Since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic more families are venturing out hiking, biking, day-tripping, or taking an extended stay vacation.

Sometimes the best vacation is just wallowing away a beautiful, sunny day hour by hour exploring the beach and rediscovering the simple joy of doing absolutely nothing.  In Michael Harris’ book  The End of Absence he discusses America’s obsession with constantly remaining digitally connected to the outside world. The End Of Absence bares witness to how so many us fill each moment we breath checking emails or viewing the latest social media post, not being content to disconnect for a single moment from the digital world.

Sometimes maintaining good health doesn’t mean being in motion but standing or sitting still taking a deep breath and observing the beauty of the world around you. Stress relief. Harris cites Dr. Gary Small from researcher UCLA, and looking at the short-term benefit of perpetual connectivity, the boost in cortisol levels and adrenaline to feed the ego and create sense of self worthiness but over time the energy boosting stress hormones lead to cognitive impairment and depression. “Chronic and prolonged techno-brain burnout can reshape the underlying brain structure,” the author’s extensive research finds.

Pick any day of the week, a trip to the beach might be the perfect getaway to hike, reflect and take in surroundings. 2024, like previous years has seen unprecedented weather patterns which have made it suitable once again for the return of blue green algae to area lakes. Thankfully, there are number of government agencies, and organizations keeping tabs on the toxic blooms to keep us safe during the summer season.

However, most local health departments in Wisconsin do not have the capacity to monitor blue-green algae toxins at public beaches, so treat any accumulation of blue-green algae with caution. As the DNR motto goes:. "When in doubt, stay out!"

There are certainly more than 15 beaches in the Southern Wisconsin region, but the places listed below are some of more notable shorelines Lakes Edition's readers come back to year after year. Now after finishing this article enjoy the day on the beach and remember to turn of those phones and relax..

To learn more about each lake click on their image or name listed below.

THE BEACHES

Lakeview Campground Beach

Address: 1901 E. State Rd. 59, Milton

Lakeland Campground Beach

Address: -- 2803 E. State Rd. 59, Milton

Whitewater Lake Beach -

Address: W7908 Kettle Moraine Drive, Whitewater

Phone: 262-594-6200.

Hours: 6am-11pm (year-round.)

Scenic beauty abounds this region's beach location as the southern unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest is nearby. A great destination for a day in the sun with the family and picnic basket.

Esther Beach

Address: 2802 Waunona Way, Monona

Convenient to Madison's Beltline, found off the South Town exit, this beach is located in a secluded residential neighborhood on the shores of Lake Monona. The DNR reports Public Health Water Testing: as fair for the 2023 season.

Find newer facilities with Restrooms and drinking water. The Parking lot is newer. Other amenities include picnic table and playground. There is no lifeguard present but the swimming area is cordoned off with a floating rope.

NO ADVISORY: The Dane County Health Department noted 06/27/2023 that the beach is open and e coli criteria is not exceeded.

Olin Beach

Address: 1156 Olin-Turville Ct., Madison

This beach located on the southern shore of Lake Monona. is generally quieter than the surrounding Olin Park. The park is destination for its' boat launch, weddings and picnics.

Public Health Water Testing: Closed

Restroom: Yes

Drinking Water: Yes

Parking: Parking Lot

Amenities: Boat Ramp, Picnic Tables

Swim Ropes: No

Lifeguard: No

NO ADVISORY: The Dane County Health Department noted 06/27/2023 that the beach is open and e coli criteria is not exceeded.

Olbrich Beach

Address: 3527 Atwood Avenue

Located on the Eastern shore of Lake Monona Olbrich Beach is surrounded by activity. Paddleboard, kayak, and canoe are for rent through Rutabaga Paddlesports in the adjacent public shelter. The facility is also home to a seasonal outdoor beer garden. The green space nearby often hosts events such as morning yoga classes. Blue green algae season is already here please consult the City of Madison website for the latest public health information. There is a large parking lot which is often quite busy due high usage of the park for tennis, basketball an other outdoor activities. Concessions available, picnic tables, volley ball nets. No life guard present.

NO ADVISORY: The Dane County Health Department noted 06/27/2023 that the beach is open and e coli criteria is not exceeded.

B.B. Clarke Beach

Address: 835 Spaight St., Madison

Located just off Williamson Street just East of downtown Madison the beach is quiet oasis away from the frenetic energy of the neighborhood. BB Clarke Beach is located down a short steep bluff which makes for a quiet day at the beach. The facilities are older but there are regularly maintained restrooms, a playground and parallel parking on the streets nearby. The beach has rope designated swim area monitored by seasonal life guard. There is also diving platform off the shore for those more adventurous. Lifeguard present.

NO ADVISORY: The Dane County Health Department noted 06/27/2023 that the beach is open and e coli criteria is not exceeded.

Before you go

Here are some additional helpful beach time tips courtesy of the Wisconsin DNR:

•   Never swim alone.
•   Stay in designated swimming areas.
•   Drink plenty of fluids.
•   Spend part of your day in shaded areas.
•   Wash your hands before eating.
•   Shower after swimming.
•   Don't swallow the water.
•   Avoid swimming after heavy rain.
•   Don't swim near storm drains.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

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Southern Wisconsin