If there’s one good thing about Buffalo summers being so short, it’s that we take every opportunity possible to soak up the sunshine while we can. And while the 716 isn’t exactly known as being a tropical paradise, we do have a few great destinations to catch rays. Here’s one underrated sandy beach near Buffalo you absolutely need to visit.

Woodlawn Beach State Park stretches for 107 acres along the shores of Lake Erie.

Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar - Facebook You can find the beach just south of the city at 3580 Lake Shore Rd. in Blasdell.

This beach is one of the best spots to unwind in the sunshine near Buffalo.

GoogleMaps/mark gurowicz

Woodlawn Beach boasts a mile-long stretch of sandy shore with great views of the city and beautiful sunsets overlooking Lake Erie.

GoogleMaps/Laszlo Pozsgai

There’s nothing more refreshing than spending time in the water after an afternoon in the sun.

GoogleMaps/Anton Riabushev Do note that the water occasionally closes to swimmers, so check ahead and schedule your trip to make the most out of your beach day.

Whether or not you swim, there’s plenty to do at Woodlawn Beach.

GoogleMaps/Yannick Gélinas

Bring some friends (or make new ones) and play beach volleyball.

GoogleMaps/Rocco Lucci Jr. The beach is always better with friends!

Even just strolling the sandy shore can be a relaxing way to spend a day.

TripAdvisor/NYBuffalomike You might even catch a glimpse of kite surfers on a breezy day.

No matter which activities you choose, make time to stop by the tiki bar!

Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar - Facebook The Tiki Bar features a full kitchen, full bar, and a clam shack for an authentic island experience without leaving Erie County!

They also host several special events and live music throughout the summer season.

Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar - Facebook

Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar - Facebook The Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar opens daily at noon. You can stay at the beach until midnight on Monday - Thursday and until 2 a.m. on Friday - Sunday.

Claim a table, bring a chair, or kick back on a beach towel while you sunbathe.

Sumitrajain11 - TripAdvisor

Whether you’re into lively activities or would rather lay low, there’s something for everyone at this sandy beach.

GoogleMaps/Lara Star Martini

At the end of the day, gather with your fellow beachgoers for an epic bonfire!

Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar - Facebook

And don’t you dare leave without seeing the stunning sunsets over Lake Erie!

Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar - Facebook

Where is your favorite sandy beach near Buffalo? Have you visited Woodlawn before? Share the best summer spots with us in the comments below!

Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar - Facebook

You can find the beach just south of the city at 3580 Lake Shore Rd. in Blasdell.

GoogleMaps/mark gurowicz

GoogleMaps/Laszlo Pozsgai

GoogleMaps/Anton Riabushev

Do note that the water occasionally closes to swimmers, so check ahead and schedule your trip to make the most out of your beach day.

GoogleMaps/Yannick Gélinas

GoogleMaps/Rocco Lucci Jr.

The beach is always better with friends!

TripAdvisor/NYBuffalomike

You might even catch a glimpse of kite surfers on a breezy day.

The Tiki Bar features a full kitchen, full bar, and a clam shack for an authentic island experience without leaving Erie County!

The Woodlawn Beach Tiki Bar opens daily at noon. You can stay at the beach until midnight on Monday - Thursday and until 2 a.m. on Friday - Sunday.

Sumitrajain11 - TripAdvisor

GoogleMaps/Lara Star Martini

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