Summer is here, and you know what that means: beach vacations in Indiana! So what's a soul to do, then, when they can't quite manage to make it out to the shores of California or Florida to soak up the sun? Easy: stay right here in (or pay a visit to) the Hoosier State and check out any one of our own stellar beaches. These beautiful beaches in Indiana will transport you right to the Caribbean for an afternoon, making you totally forget that you're actually land-locked. Here are seven places that are like a Caribbean paradise. They're all perfect places to spend summer in Indiana.

1. Miller Beach National Lakeshore

Lake Street Beach is a part of the breathtaking Miller Beach National Lakeshore, and it hangs out on the southernmost shore of Lake Michigan. It's the only area of Miller Beach with totally unspoiled views of the lake, and truly, it feels like paradise.

2. Central Avenue Beach

The beautiful Central Avenue beach is located in the beautiful beach town of Beverly Shores, Indiana. It's open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and it's an amazing place to relax and unwind. Once you're done with the beach, make sure to check out the shops and restaurants in beautiful Beverly Shores, which is a dark sky city in Indiana. During the spring and summer months, keep your eyes peeled for bank swallows coming and going among the dunes.

3. Indiana Dunes National Park

A few of the entries on this list revolve around Indiana Dunes Park, and for good reason: the area is unique and unlike anywhere else in the Hoosier State, and its beauty is dazzling. This particular beach is the only one requiring a fee on this list, so be sure to visit the Indiana DNR website for all pertinent info, including permits.

4. Kemil Beach

What? Another beach at Indiana Dunes near Beverly Shores? We think yes, and you're gonna love it, we promise. Kemil Beach is a sandy little slice of paradise with lots of interesting historic homes built nearby. It's open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and you're going to want to stay the entire time. This beach probably has the bluest water in Indiana.

5. Lake James Beach/Pokagon State Park

Lake James Beach is the major draw to Pokagon State Park. It's the only area of this stretch of shoreline that isn't developed, and even better still, they have sailboat races here. Can't beat that - talk about an ocean vibe!

6. Lake Monroe

Lake Monroe is home to three public beaches, each more stunning than the last. This reservoir is positioned to the southeast of Bloomington, Indiana, and its peak months are from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

7. Brookville Lake

Brookville Lake has two beaches, plus camping! This one is a dam, so the water levels may vary. Make sure to check out Visit Indiana for the most up-to-date information on water levels and more.

If you were to do a search for “beach getaways near me,” one of these spots would most certainly pop up at the top of the list!

So, what do you think of these beautiful beaches in Indiana? Which ones are your favorites, and which ones did we leave out? What are some of your favorite summer places in Indiana? Tell us about your favorites and you might see them featured one of these days!

Craving even more Indiana beach fun? This water park in Indiana is a blast and a half on the hottest of summer days.

Thinking about taking an Indiana vacation soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.