Did you know there are sand dunes in Ohio? Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve in Mentor is home to some picturesque sand dunes near the shores of Lake Erie. It’s a neat area to explore when you want to see a unique side to Ohio—and the nearby beach makes a day trip here that much better. The next time you find yourself in northeast Ohio, take a sandy path to Headlands Beach State Park via the Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve.
Tucked away in Lake County you’ll find 25 acres of preserved natural sand dunes in Mentor, Ohio.
William S./Trip Advisor You’ll find the sand dune preserve and the state park beach along Headlands Road in Mentor.
There are several trails you can take throughout the dunes, so you’ll be able to explore them from several different angles.
William S./Trip Advisor To access the beach from the preserve, take the Fisherman’s Trail.
After you’ve explored the sand dune trails for awhile, a stop at the beach is a must. The nearby Headlands Beach State Park features a mile-long natural sand beach that’s unbelievably picturesque.
Deb 1028/Trip Advisor In the distance, you’ll notice a picturesque lighthouse, which has stood there since the mid-1920s.
There’s also a 0.15-mile boardwalk trail along this waterfront park. It’s short, sweet and stunning.
Erik Drost/Flickr Here, you can observe a variety of vegetation that’s typically only found on the Atlantic Coast, which makes this trail extra special.
Headlands Beach is the largest natural sand beach in Ohio, so naturally, it is a popular place to swim.
George Bernstein/Flickr Swim, fish, sail, picnic or just kick back and enjoy the view—because you likely deserve a day in paradise.
Have you ever explored the sand dunes at Headlands Beach before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!
William S./Trip Advisor
You’ll find the sand dune preserve and the state park beach along Headlands Road in Mentor.
To access the beach from the preserve, take the Fisherman’s Trail.
Deb 1028/Trip Advisor
In the distance, you’ll notice a picturesque lighthouse, which has stood there since the mid-1920s.
Erik Drost/Flickr
Here, you can observe a variety of vegetation that’s typically only found on the Atlantic Coast, which makes this trail extra special.
George Bernstein/Flickr
Swim, fish, sail, picnic or just kick back and enjoy the view—because you likely deserve a day in paradise.
For more summer fun in Ohio, check out our previous article: This Road Trip Will Give You The Best Ohio Beach Day You’ve Ever Had.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Headlands Beach State Park, 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor, OH 44060, USA
