Headlands Beach State Park

Headlands is the big one: a mile-long crescent of natural sand, generally described as the longest natural beach in the state, with the Fairport Harbor breakwater and lighthouse at the far end.

It is a proper beach day rather than a walk: wide enough that a busy summer Saturday still leaves room, with a dune system at the eastern end that is a protected natural area in its own right.

Twenty-five minutes west along the shore. If your visit includes children who want an actual beach, this is the answer.