Looking for the perfect summer escape? A new list from Syracuse.com ranks the top 20 public beaches across Upstate New York for 2025, showcasing everything from hidden gems to family favorites.
Top-Ranked Beaches in Upstate New York
A state rich in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, New York is home to more than 7,500 swim-friendly spots. This curated ranking considers only public beaches that allow swimming and have high reviews on platforms like Yelp and Google.
1. Glimmerglass State Park (Cooperstown, Central NY)
Glimmerglass leads the list with its expansive beach on Otsego Lake and a wide array of family-friendly activities.
Address: 1527 Co Rd 31, Cooperstown, NY 13326
2. Potters Beach (Clayton, Northern NY)
One of the few natural sandy beaches in the Thousand Islands, accessible by boat.
Address: 11225 N. Shore Road, Clayton, NY 13624
3. Black Point Beach (Ticonderoga, Adirondacks)
Touted as the best on Lake George’s north end.
Address: 11 Tiroga Beach Ln, Ticonderoga, NY 12883
Other Noteworthy Beaches
Green Lakes State Park (Fayetteville, Central NY)
Known for its vibrant blue-green water and scenic trails.
Address: 7900 Green Lakes Rd, Fayetteville, NY 13066
Long Point State Park (Bemus Point, Western NY)
A quieter beach with shallow, rocky waters perfect for relaxation.
Address: 4459 Route 430, Bemus Point, NY 14712
Redhouse Beach (Salamanca, Southern Tier)
Offers a complete outdoor experience including hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
Address: 2373 Allegany State Park Rte 1, Salamanca, NY 14779
Minnewaska State Park Preserve (Hudson Valley)
Features beaches on both Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting with forested trails nearby.
Address: 5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson, NY 12446
Top 10 Summary
| Rank | Beach Name | Region |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glimmerglass State Park | Central NY |
| 2 | Potters Beach | Northern NY |
| 3 | Black Point Beach | Adirondacks |
| 4 | Green Lakes State Park | Central NY |
| 5 | Long Point State Park | Western NY |
| 6 | Redhouse Beach | Southern Tier |
| 7 | Minnewaska State Park Preserve | Hudson Valley |
| 8 | Kershaw Park | Finger Lakes |
| 9 | Gilbert Lake State Park | Central NY |
| 10 | Point Gratiot Park | Western NY |
What Makes a Great Upstate Beach?
These beaches stood out for their:
- Cleanliness and water clarity
- Accessibility and family-friendly amenities
- Beautiful natural settings
Many also offer camping, fishing, kayaking, and picnic areas—making them full-fledged destinations beyond a simple swim.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].