Presque Isle & Gateway

Where to Stay

From campgrounds, to hotels, to waterfront rentals, there are many places to stay near Presque Isle in Erie.

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Where to Eat

Sit down for a meal, or grab lunch to go at these places to eat near Presque Isle.

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Presque Isle Itinerary

Let this itinerary be your guide to a summer weekend at Presque Isle with the family.

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Beaches

Lakes have beaches too, and Presque Isle has seven miles of them. Each of Presque Isle’s 13 beaches offers distinct amenities and traits for summer lounging and recreation.

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Boating

Four boat launches and one marina on Presque Isle State Park make it a haven for both powered and non-powered boats. The Marina offers 500 slips for boats up to 42 feet, launching into Presque Isle Bay for Lake Erie access.

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Birding

Presque Isle State Park has been consistently ranked one of the top birding destinations in the United States, due to its location on the Atlantic Flyway. More than 339 species of birds have been identified on the peninsula. Waterfowl migration occurs in March and December, shorebird migration peaks in April and September, and Warblers are observed mid-May and September.

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Two cyclists pedal along a paved bike path, with a beach and Lake Erie in view.

Presque Isle State Park

Presque Isle State Park is Pennsylvania’s most visited state park, and a gem of an attraction alongthe shoreline in Erie, PA. The 3,200 acre peninsula is perfectly flat with water on three sides, making it an exceptional destination for bicycling, hiking, fishing, boating, surfing, birding, and so much more. In the summer, its sandy beaches on Lake Erie are a draw for visitors looking to swim. Presque Isle is Pennsylvania’s only “seashore,” arching into Lake Erie to form Presque Isle Bay, an important protected port. The peninsula is open year-round, and is free to all visitors.

Does Presque Isle charge admission?

Admission and parking at Presque Isle State Park are free.

Are there handicapped-accessible beaches in Erie?

Yes, Mobi Mats are installed at Beaches 1, 3, 8, and 11 to help individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, or wagons get across the sand and closer to the lake. Beach wheelchairs are available at Presque Isle State Park free of charge on a first come, first served basis. They are available during the regular swimming season and weekends in September at Beach 8 and year round (weather permitting) at the Ranger Station/Public Safety Building from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Presque Isle is an island, right?

Nope! It’s a peninsula, with water on three sides. Presque Isle is French for “almost an island,” and though erosion has caused it to become an actual island several times, it’s safely attached to the mainland, and has been for centuries.

Are the beaches dog-friendly?

Yes. Dogs are allowed on guarded beaches, but must stay close to the tree line. On unguarded beaches, dogs are permitted to be on the sand and in the water. In all spaces, dogs must be leashed at all times.

Can you rent beach equipment at Presque Isle State Park?

Yes, you can rent premium lounge chairs and cabanas from Presque Isle Beach Bums, located at Beach 6 and Beach 8. Visit their Facebook page or call (814) 746-5775 to book.

Can I stay on Presque Isle State Park?

No, there is unfortunately no camping or overnight accommodations at Presque Isle. However, many campgrounds and rentals are available very close by.