My son and I wanted a beach outing during our weeklong stay in Niagara Falls, and this place fit the bill for what I was looking for. If you want something low-key and easy to get to this is the perfect spot. I was very pleased at how clear the sand was, perhaps they are using some kind of equipment to get the rocks and wood off the beach because unlike other freshwater beaches I didn't have an obstacle course to get to the water. The life guards were professional but not oppressive. It was a very relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. Would definitely come again if ever in the area. read more

This was my first time at Beaver Island State Park. Overall, this was a great park. The paths and roads are all very well laid out and everything was very clean. There was a bunch of disc golfers out and there was even a Dog Parade event here today too. So much green space and everything was great. Will definitely be back to bring my pup here before the snow comes. read more

Beaver Island State Park - Disc Golf Sign - Parks Near Me - Grand Island, New York

Gorgeous park with tons of walking paths and trails. Check out the River Lea historical site open houses if you get a chance - there's some fascinating things to be learned about Grand Island!!! HOT TIP: Come visit after 5pm in the summer time -- you get in for free! read more

For some reason, I completely forgot about Beaver Island beach until very recently. My parents and grandparents always took us to this beach as kids, and I have so many wonderful memories burying siblings in the sand, making castles with moats, trying to catch minnows, and lots of swimming! After having 'meh' experiences at other local beaches, my husband and I took our 6-year-old and 1-year-old here last weekend, and we we're so mad we ever took them anywhere else! The sand here is super soft and not filled with sharp rocks and garbage (like another beach I won't mention - 6-year-old sliced his foot on an ashtray MacGyvered from a pop can). You will not impale yourself going into the water, as it's a very smooth entry. And while there is of course some seaweed washed up, the water was otherwise very clear. There are volleyball nets set up on the far end of the beach, which provided a bunch of fun for us. And it seemed to be filled with a mix of folx, but majority were families. It felt like we were in a safe place. Lots of areas to rent for picnics and parties, lots of green space, easy access to bathrooms, and plenty of parking. We're hoping to get back at least once more before fall weather sets in! Highly recommend you make the trip over the Grand Island bridge and make this your new go to beach. read more

Beaver Island State Park - Sand that didn't hurt gave us a *sigh* of relief - Parks Near Me - Grand Island, New York

See all

Seriously a great stop to go with family and friends. There is so much to do here, everything from picnics at the park, a beach, golfing, disc golf and lots of area to roam around and walk. My favorite area is the beach, it's a clean beach area and usually pretty quiet. You can walk pretty far down and when you get to the end of the beach there is a little nook you can look out from and see 270° of water. Pretty neat view! You should definitely go here for the sunset! It looks absolutely beautiful and is so relaxing! There is a lot of wildlife here too! So many birds, crayfish and deer! The one thing I can complain about is the large amount of bugs that are on the beach. There are swarms in the air and if you can't deal with that you might want to try another place. In my opinion there aren't too bothersome but that's just me. read more

Beaver Island State Park - End of the beach - Parks Near Me - Grand Island, New York

See all

Honestly I feel so lucky having this state park so close by! They recently renovated the kids playground and it's awesome it even has a zip line that's also adult friendly ha ha jk. I love coming here and taking picture of friends and family were else can you get a water and woods background! I seriously spend so much time here it should basically be my second home. Great place to go for a walk! I do feel like it is missing a dog park so that's why I didn't give it 5 stars! read more

I have been coming to the state park since I was a kid with my parents. Then I would come in high school with my friends. Now as an adult, I'm back for the sand volleyball courts! Some members of our team came out to practice recently and were pretty happy to see that the volleyball nets still existed. Two of them are right on the beach, one of them is right at the edge of the water so you're gonna get wet! Apart from the volleyball nets, renting out the pavilions is very popular here for bbqs and events, they have playgrounds, swimming at the beach when a lifeguard is present, etc. it's a little slice of paradise close to home! ***its seven dollars a car to enter the park, they do take both cash and card read more

See all

This state park is a lot nicer than the reviews made it sound. I'm kind of glad our local beach was closed this year or we may not have given Beaver Island a chance. This park is huge and packed with amenities. There are so many grills, some with picnic benches, some without. There are large covered picnic areas to rent, and even a lot of the uncovered tables have plenty of shade from the trees. There's a couple large swingsets. There's a beautiful boardwalk separating the beach from the grassy picnic area. The beach itself is nice. The swimming area didn't seem that small compared to other beaches. The sand had some stones here and there, but was still comfortable to walk through. It wasn't particularly dirty. The bathroom was clean with plenty of stalls, as well as a small locker room. It's definitely worth a visit. read more

See all

I remember coming to this beach as a kid and I only remembered this as the dirty beach. It is in much nicer shape these days, very clean, maybe too clean. How could it be too clean? Well, when I come to the beach, my favorite thing is to walk the shoreline and look for beach glass, pretty rocks and shells. Here, there is almost nothing of that sort. The sand is combed clean. So if you like that, this place will be your jam. But if you like looking for little treasures washed ashore, it's probably not happening here. read more

Beaver Island is a wonderful park on the south part of Grand Island that everybody should take the time to visit at some point. They've got a large beach area and board walk perfect for summer time fun, golf and Frisbee golf, hiking, kayak put it-ins, nature and educational programs, and plenty more for everybody to enjoy year round. This is an excellent place for a picnic at one of the many shelters and sites set up throughout the park. I especially love the views of the Niagara River and the extensive coastline available for fishers and nature viewers alike. This is an important bird flyover and resting zone and I've had the pleasure of seeing many migratory birds here. There is a fee to come into the park during the summer months, it's $7 I believe. They do a really nice job here and it's a wonderful place to spend some time during the summer and with the kids. read more

Beaver Island State Park - Parks Near Me - Grand Island, New York

See all

The water here is so so SO dirty!!! The water is full of seaweed,bird feathers and tiny fish. If you've been to any nice beaches this place doesn't even come close. Not to mention you can only swim in a tiny roped of area. No floats or boogie boards are allowed in the water. This beach is dirty,repulsive and terrible. Oh also be aware the only people in the water are under the age of 10. If you wanna go to a beach in the area go to Wilson you'll leave much happier. read more

I used to come here as a kid. Much of it is just the same. Some of it has been fixed up and maintained. I see they have a snack bar now and the main building looks cleaned up and useful This still unfortunately suffers from neglect in funding in certain areas. The boardwalk is in need of some repair(wear footwear). Some play areas have been neglected and left to rust while others are new and upkept. Still not a bad park. It has some great views and is wide enough for lots of people to use it while not being on top of each other. Bike trails, golf course, frisbee golf, etc. read more

See all

It's $7 per car to get in (totally worth it). Come on Saturdays during the summer to do free Yoga at 10am -- to make your trip even more worth it. I came to visit this park on a Saturday in August with the goal of swimming. The beach area is pretty substantial -- so weekend crowds aren't a problem. The beach is essentially a bay on the Niagara River, so the Canada shoreline is the view from the water. Nice! Water quality is good, with sand bottom and large area to swim. At its deepest, the water hits your shoulders. Snack bar is up the hill and offers hot dogs, French fries and ice cream. read more

Beaver Island State Park - Beaver Island beach on Grand Island - Parks Near Me - Grand Island, New York

See all

This park is very open, with fewer stretches of mature trees, meaning there isn't as much shade here as in some other parks. Many people come here to launch kayaks or canoes and some can be seen even SUPing. Boat traffic in the river can be a little noisy depending on the day. I've run several races in this park, the advantage being ample parking. read more

Nice beach! Amazing playground :) many picnic tables and grills... little crowded. Water is warm and clear:) overall very nice beach! read more

Beaver Island State Park - Parks Near Me - Grand Island, New York

No jokes need to be made about a place named Beaver Island except to say that it's basically my dream island, I mean, how could it really not be, am I right? I've been here a few times. My gorgeous friend lives on Grand Island and my good friend works here, so I often end up wandering around the island with beautiful people. For years I didn't know there was a state park at either end of the island... I was missing out. It's an absolutely beautiful state park on the South end of Grand Island. Buckhorn is the one at the North end. I always get the two confused, but locals like Thomas do not. If you've never visited here, you must. The views of the bridge, the wildlife, the smell in the air, it's just wonderful. It's yet another idyllic area of greenery that proves that in WNY, we are very rich in outdoorsy things to see and do, and there's so much more around here than just the Falls. And on a clear day, you can see the Falls mist from Beaver Island. And some Beavers if you're lucky. Shaved ones, hairy ones, whatever you prefer. I just couldn't help it. Such great views. Or "Vs" for short. Beaver Island puts the V in Beaver. read more

This is another great state park offered in NYS. They offer boat docks, golf, hiking, running and disk golf. They also have a beautiful boardwalk and small beach for you to enjoy in the summer months. The park is very well kept. Try out this great state park. Also, NYS offered park membership for free to disabled veterans. Make sure you ask the park office for details. read more

Here to volunteer with Greater Buffalo Track Club at Grand Island 1/2 Marathon. Beaver Island State Park is pretty and quite quiet at this time of year. Luckily it is a beautiful, sunny day with little wind and not too warm for the runners. read more

Beaver Island is nice enough, though at $7 a little pricey. But stay far away from the Clubhouse, it's run by horrible people which most likely accounts for the bad reviews here, because the park itself should get at least 2-3 stars, if you're coming to use the picnic benches and grill there. read more

I do not agree with previous reviews stating this is a well kept park. In fact, it's dirty, gross, full of garbage, and possesses dangerous pieces of glass. The fact there is a picture of the Playboy Bunny logo posted for the pictures of Beaver Island State Park might just demonstrate some of the clientele. Don't get me wrong, there is a lot of potential for a family friendly park and beach but the park has a long way to go before that. There are MUCH nicer beaches for parents to take their children to. I guess if you're set on Beaver Island State Park, spend your time at the disc golf course rather than the rocky-beach area. read more

I have yet to be here during the summer season, but this is one of my favorite places to take my hiking group for a nature walk during all other times of the year. Today we walked 5 miles around the park's perimeter, enjoying the beautiful paths along the river, through Spaulding's Trail, along the nature trail, and ending at the beach boardwalk. We saw many different types of birds, especially along the river. The history surrounding River Lea estate is fascinating. Fall colors are just beginning. Someone even remarked about how cool the sinks were in the new golf building bathrooms! Combo washing and drying? I'll have to check it out next time. :) Even found a Sweet Buffalo Rock. Don't miss out on this special place. read more

See all

Beaver Island is a State Park which is a gorgeous green space with many old trees, a beach and a well kept golf course. I've gone to Beaver Island for most of my life for family picnics and beach trips. The park is very beautiful, lush and green. Lots of shade under the large oaks.. It seems well maintained and clean. There are many large shady shelters that are booked for many family occasions. There is a large club house with clean bathrooms, an ice cream stand and a huge banquet space and porch above. http://www.riverstoneclubhouse.com/home.html I've never been to a wedding there, but it seems like a dreamlike place. It gets 41/2 stars on Wedding WIre. https://www.weddingwire.com/reviews/riverstone-grill-at-beaver-island-clubhouse-grand-island/4536021476280baa.html The beach is upkept. I've never seen lots of glass in the roped off areas of the beach. That's generally where I stay. I've walked down to the end before and there it can be unkept. There are lifeguards on duty until 7pm (or sometimes a little later) for going into the water but you may stay on the beach until sundown on the sand. I've watched as they've cleaned the beach picking up the odd drink containers or broken sand pail left behind. I've often thought of Beaver Island as a more family friendly beach. Generally, I'd say there don't seem to be as many young peacocks there and lots more cellulite. LOL That said during my recent visit this week on a Wednesday, there were several radios, young studs throwing a football near my head while yelling to a toddler, "don't knock over my beer!"(for only 20 minutes and then they left back into the park) and a drunk/high 50 year old couple (with a pair of fake boobs that they shared) putting on quite a show. Now, I wouldn't say all of that is typical, but at times in the past loud music and that football type thing have happened before. (Not the booby couple though...that was new). In the past I spent a lot of my time on this beach as a teen/single 20's hotmama myself...at least I though I was one, and I brought my radio and played frisbee too, so I'm not a person who is intolerant to other people enjoying their youth. I guess, I'm saying I'm OK with most of it. I just hope that people watch their language around the little ones and keep the music low. The beach itself is a dark sand, with the occational stick/rock. There is a muddy, rocky bottom and the water is dark. It's very shallow and nice for the little ones, for a Buffalo type beach. None of our beaches here compare to beaches in Florida, NC or Cali. If you're from one of those places, please don't bother going to our beaches and raining on our parade. We're Buffalonians and we are happy to be surrounded by water and are willing to ignore the inadaquacies in order to enjoy our spectacular summers. read more

Best park around! Toll takers are especially nice and will are happy to help the patrons in any way possible. read more

Beaver Island State Park - Parks Near Me - Grand Island, New York

See all

This is a nice quiet beach on Grand Island. It's always clean and the locker rooms are functional. The beach has lifeguards on duty and the Niagara River is always nice and cool. Great place to bring the kids and have a barbecue. They have a nice events space as well. read more

Just spent a glorious afternoon with my husband and our dog. The park was well maintained and employees were on duty to do regular maintenance including restrooms. There were quite a few people at the park and dozen at the golf course. Will be back again. read more

We reserved a pavilion for my daughter's grad party and had a wonderful day not only because of the scenic view and nice weather but due to the helpful park staff and the park director who checked in to make sure we had everything we needed. I highly recommend this park to anyone looking for beach, bike trails, activities, etc. read more

This is a family park and has been enjoyed for generations. Great old trees shade the picnic areas and groomed trails take you through native woods, along the shore and by the marina all year long. There's a canoe launch, nature study cabin, a frisbee disc course as well as a golf course. There is no honky tonk to distract you from nature and a quiet day outdoors. This is the only beach on the Niagara River, an inlet protected from the rapid current and is mostly families. It isn't the ocean and the sand isn't sandy pristine because it is a river bank, but it is friendly and shallow and safe. read more

This place is for rookie city type beach goers who don't know any different. If you are a frequent beach person who's spent your life around beaches and water, don't come here. The lifeguards are complete lifeguard douchebags. No throwing footballs, frisbees or swimming with any type of water device, like floats. There's nothing for kids to do besides sit In the water or dig holes i. The sand. It's loaded with trashy city people who leave garbage everywhere and are loud and obnoxious. Go elsewhere if you're used to normal beach going activities. read more

Great park good golf course, and nice beach, they have a frisbee golf course too which seems nice. Its 7$ to get in during the summer, but free after 6.They also have good places for picnics and if u wanted to bring ur dog. read more

Beach is great for families and kids. The water is open until 7pm but you can hang out there until sunset. Lots of picnic areas! I highly recommend this park. very very nice place! read more

Very well kept Park, amazing buildings and lots of hiking around too. Beach is nice, water crystalline...Muddy bottom so don't be surprised...You can't get over waist deep so great for the little people too! read more

The beach area was quiet and pleasant. Water was muddy but other than that, it was fairly clean.