Best Surfing Spots in Indiana

Whihala Beach, located in Whiting, Indiana, offers a scenic blend of relaxation and recreation. It features white sandy beaches, a beautiful boardwalk, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, picnic areas, a fishing pier, and the WhoaZone, a floating water park. The beach is particularly noted for its family-friendly atmosphere and seasonal activities.

The area around Whihala Beach is dotted with restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from American to Greek and Italian. Local favorites include Arnie's Dog House for a quick hot dog bite and Richway Gyros for traditional Greek dishes.

For those looking to stay nearby, nearby Hammond offers several hotel options, including the Days Inn and Ramada by Wyndham, both providing simple yet comfortable accommodations with amenities like free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

Whihala Beach East, nestled in Whiting, Indiana, is a picturesque stretch along the southern shores of Lake Michigan. It offers a delightful expanse of fine, soft sand suitable for relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy activities like sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and scuba diving. The beach has specific areas for dogs, making it a pet-friendly destination.Besides its beautiful beach, Whihala Beach is surrounded by scenic attractions such as the Whiting Lakefront Park, which features walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pier. The area provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.The proximity to Chicago offers a wide range of tourist attractions within a manageable drive, making Whihala Beach East an ideal base for exploring the region.
Many visitors appreciate the beach's cleanliness and amenities, including lifeguards during peak hours and nearby restrooms. The absence of restaurants directly on the beach is compensated by food vendors and nearby dining options.
Overall, Whihala Beach East offers a blend of leisure and fun for all visitors, with its natural beauty and accessibility to urban highlights.

Whihala Beach in Whiting, Indiana, offers a scenic Lake Michigan waterfront with striking views of Chicago's skyline. Known for its sandy shores, seasonal WhoaZone floating water park, and family-friendly atmosphere, this beach combines relaxation with adventure. Visitors enjoy walking paths, picnic spots, and a fishing pier, creating a vibrant yet laid-back lakeside escape.
The beach’s Whiting Lakefront Park adds amenities like playgrounds and volleyball courts, enhancing its appeal as a community hub. Reviews highlight the clean, well-maintained facilities and the unique charm of Midwest lakefront access within proximity to urban attractions.

Whiting Lakefront Park is located in the charming town of Whiting, Indiana, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Established in 1909, the park spans about 26 acres and has been a hub of recreational activities for both locals and visitors. It features a half-mile shoreline along Lake Michigan, where people can enjoy walking paths, picnic areas, and a fishing pier. The park is also home to the seasonal WhoaZone floating water park, adding to its appeal as a family-friendly destination. Historical events like the annual Pierogi Fest draw large crowds, highlighting Whiting's cultural heritage.

The park's tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities throughout the year. In winter, the park offers serene ice-covered landscapes, providing opportunities for captivating photography.

Despite its scenic beauty, Whiting Lakefront Park has undergone significant changes, with some old attractions like the baseball field no longer present.

Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is a scenic outdoor destination located within the Indiana Dunes National Park. It offers easy access to Lake Michigan's beach and a riverwalk, making it perfect for nature lovers. The area includes trails, an accessible fishing pier, and a restored breakwater, providing beautiful views of the lake and surrounding dunes. The site was redeveloped from former industrial land, showcasing successful environmental reclamation. It is open daily from sunrise to dusk, offering a tranquil setting for walking, birdwatching, and observing seasonal changes.
The location is also a popular spot for picnics and educational activities, thanks to a 3,500 square foot pavilion that includes restrooms and a classroom. During peak seasons, parking lots can fill quickly, so early arrival is recommended.
The combination of natural beauty and accessible facilities makes it appealing for family outings and educational programs alike.

Ogden Dunes Beach is a serene and picturesque destination located in Portage, Indiana, along the southern shores of Lake Michigan. This beach offers a variety of activities such as swimming, surfing, and volleyball, making it an ideal spot for both adventure enthusiasts and those looking to relax. The beach features golden sand and gentle waves, creating a perfect environment for sunbathing and leisurely strolls. Ogden Dunes Beach is somewhat secluded and lacks nearby amenities, so visitors should plan their trip accordingly. The beach's natural beauty and tranquility make it a charming getaway for nature lovers. It is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park and has a strong focus on environmental preservation. The proximity to Chicago makes it a popular weekend spot for city residents seeking a peaceful escape.
The area's residential community is known for its small-town charm and serene atmosphere. Ogden Dunes has a rich history, including its role in preserving parts of the Indiana Dunes.
The beach's accessibility features make it inclusive for visitors with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy its beauty.

Indiana Dunes National Park West Beach is located on the southernmost tip of Lake Michigan, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. It is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park and is known for its diverse ecosystems and walking trails, such as the Dune Succession Trail, which showcases the progression from sandy dunes to mature oak forests. The beach features lifeguarded swimming areas during the summer months and is a popular spot for hiking and sledding. Located near Gary and Portage, it is easily accessible from Chicago, making it a perfect spot for both locals and travelers.
Visitors can enjoy an array of flora and fauna, including vibrant wildflowers in the spring and summer. The park's accessibility and family-friendly amenities like picnic shelters and concessions make it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or staycations. The scenic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding Chicago skyline add to its allure.
As part of the larger Indiana Dunes National Park, West Beach offers a glimpse into the region's ecological and historical significance, with its diverse habitats supporting numerous plant and animal species.

Washington Park Beach is located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Michigan City, Indiana, and offers a stunning stretch of sand perfect for relaxation and adventure. The beach is part of a larger 140-acre park that includes the Washington Park Zoo, a marina, and picnic areas. With its pristine two-mile beach, visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and boating, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park also hosts various events, including the Festival of Holiday Lights, and offers activities like hiking and fishing. Visitors can take a walk on the pier to the historic lighthouse or enjoy the sunset views from the beach.

Porter Beach, part of Indiana Dunes National Park, spans 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline in Porter, Indiana. Known for its turquoise waters and clean sands, it offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline on clear days, as noted by visitors who describe it as "gorgeous" with "MUCH cleaner and clearer" water compared to nearby beaches[5]. The beach’s relaxed vibe attracts families, sunbathers, and sports enthusiasts, with its proximity to hiking trails and scenic dunes adding to its appeal as a year-round destination.

As a key access point within the national park, Porter Beach combines natural beauty with practical amenities. Its location near major highways makes it easily accessible, while the surrounding dunes and forests provide a habitat for diverse wildlife. Visitors frequently highlight the beach’s tranquility and photo-worthy landscapes, making it a popular spot for both relaxation and outdoor adventure.