The latest issue of the Buffalo News’ Discover not only lists summer’s great events, it includes a helpful section on the beaches of Western New York and Southern Ontario.

It’s definitely “surf, sun and sand” weather, and with Memorial Day coming up, take a look at some of these nice spots to soak in the rays and finally enjoy some nice Buffalo weather.

U.S. Beaches

Sunset Bay—1038 South Shore Drive, Irving
Hours: Beach open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tip: Get there early to claim your spot in the sand. This beach gets packed and can have a “cover charge” to enjoy the view. Definitely more of a “party beach.”

Evangola State Park—10191 Old Lake Shore Road, Irving
Hours: Open dawn until dusk, swimming allowed 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tip: Good family beach location, $7/car fee during swimming hours and $6/car during non-swimming hours

Bennett Beach—7676 Lake Shore Road, Derby
Hours: Open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., swimming allowed 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tip: Nice spot to just enjoy the sand, but there are no amenities, restaurants or shops. Come prepared with your own goodies. Also, no fee. 

Wendt Beach—7676 Old Lake Shore Road, Derby
Hours: Open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., swimming allowed 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tip: No fees, and there are also picnic shelter’s available for rent. Very popular for family reunions, graduation parties, etc.

Woodlawn Beach State Park—S-3580 Lakeshore Road, Blasdell
Hours: Open dawn until dusk, swimming allowed 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Tip: No pets allowed, $7/car fee during swimming hours, $6/car fee during non-swimming hours. Nice spot for families as well.

Beaver Island State Park—2136 West Oakfield Road, Grand Island
Hours: Open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., swimming allowed 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tip: Great spot for water enthusiasts with lots of boats, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, $7/car fee during swimming hours, $6/car fee during non-swimming hours.

Canadian Beaches

Crystal Beach—Ontario, Canada
Tip: Make sure to bring along your valid U.S. passport or enhanced driver’s license.
Cost: $2 per hour or $5 for the day per vehicle.

Sherkston—490 Empire Road, Sherkston, Ontario, Canada
Tip: Make sure to bring along your valid U.S. passport or enhanced driver’s license.
Information: This beach has really turned into a major resort location. Various “Daycation Plans” are offered to turn a night at the beach into a mini-vacation. Call ahead to plan.

Photo courtesy of Facebook.