Nicolet Beach, located in Peninsula State Park, is one of the most popular destinations in Door County, Wisconsin. With its warm waters, sandy beach, and ample amenities, Nicolet Beach offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to swim, kayak, or simply relax on the beach, this picturesque location is a must-visit spot.
Nicolet Beach is only one of the great beaches in Door County. If you want to explore more, check out our hub post on the best beaches in Door County.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Nicolet Beach such a popular place to visit, including its history, amenities, safety tips, cost, and more.
So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and join us on a virtual tour of Nicolet Beach!
Nicolet Beach Description
Nicolet Beach is a picturesque beach located in the Peninsula State Park, Wisconsin, United States. It is nestled on a small bay off the bay of Green Bay, which makes it one of the warmest beaches in Door County. The sandy beach stretches over a considerable distance and provides ample space for visitors to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning views of the bay.
Interestingly, Nicolet Beach derives its name from Jean Nicolet, a French explorer and the first European to set foot in Wisconsin. This beach is one of the many landmarks in Wisconsin that have been named after this famous explorer. The beach is flanked by the North and South Nicolet Campgrounds, making it a convenient spot for visitors who want to enjoy camping and beach activities.
Nicolet Beach is a very popular beach, and it is not hard to see why. It has something for everyone, from families with young children to couples looking for a romantic getaway. Additionally, the beach is an excellent spot for birdwatching and provides an excellent opportunity to view different bird species. Visitors can also rent paddleboards, kayaks, and other watercraft to explore the bay. Overall, Nicolet Beach is an ideal spot for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, explore, or relax.
Nicolet Beach Amenities
Nicolet Beach offers a range of amenities to make visitors’ stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. For instance, visitors can take advantage of the clean and well-maintained bathroom facilities available on-site.
Moreover, there is a store adjacent to the beach that offers a variety of rentals, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and other watercraft, making it easy for visitors to explore the bay. The store also has concessions such as snacks, drinks, and other food items, which come in handy, especially for visitors who do not want to pack their own snacks.
Additionally, the beach has plenty of picnic tables scattered throughout the area, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner. Furthermore, the beach also features a playground for children, making it an excellent spot for families with young children to enjoy. Visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the bay while their children have fun at the playground.
Finally, Nicolet Beach offers ample parking space, making it easy for visitors to park their cars and enjoy a day at the beach without worrying about parking. Additionally, there are well-maintained trails around the beach, making it an excellent spot for hiking enthusiasts who want to explore the park‘s scenic trails.
Beach Safety
Safety is a top priority at Nicolet Beach, and visitors are encouraged to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety while enjoying the beach. The sun can be intense, especially during the summer months, so visitors are advised to wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn and other skin-related issues.
It is also recommended that visitors follow the buddy system when swimming in the bay. The waters of Green Bay can be colder than visitors expect, which can lead to hypothermia. Therefore, visitors are encouraged to avoid swimming alone and to keep an eye on their companions while in the water. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, fatigue, and confusion, so it is essential to seek medical attention if any of these symptoms are observed.
Moreover, visitors are encouraged to check the beach advisory map maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for updates on water quality. Although the beach’s water quality is typically good, there may be occasions when the water quality is compromised due to factors such as pollution and other environmental issues.
In addition to these precautions, visitors should also be mindful of their surroundings and respect the beach’s rules and regulations. Following these guidelines will ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience at Nicolet Beach.
Cost
Admission to Nicolet Beach at Peninsula State Park typically requires the purchase of a vehicle sticker, which can be obtained at the park entrance. The fees for vehicle stickers vary depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the visit.
However, there are ways to access the park for free. For example, visitors can bike into the park, which does not require a vehicle sticker. Additionally, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources offers a free fun weekend every year, during which visitors can enter the park for free.
Visitors can also purchase an annual state park sticker, which allows unlimited access to all state parks in Wisconsin, including Peninsula State Park. This option is ideal for visitors who plan to visit the park multiple times throughout the year.
Overall, while there may be costs associated with visiting Nicolet Beach, there are ways to access the park for free or reduce the cost of admission.
General Information
Website
Phone: 920-868-3258
Address: 9462 Shore Rd, Fish Creek, WI 54212
Frequently Asked Questions
No, pets are not allowed on the beach or in the water at Nicolet Beach. However, leashed pets are allowed in other areas of Peninsula State Park, such as hiking trails and campgrounds.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to Nicolet Beach. However, there is also a store with concessions available for purchase, including snacks, drinks, and other food items.
No, picnic tables at Nicolet Beach are available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, there are plenty of tables available, so visitors should have no trouble finding a spot to enjoy a picnic.
Summary: Nicolet Beach in Peninsula State Park
- Nicolet Beach is located in Peninsula State Park, adjacent to the North and South Nicolet Campgrounds, and named after French explorer Jean Nicolet.
- The beach is sandy and located on a small bay off of the bay of Green Bay, making the water some of the warmest in Door County.
- Amenities include bathrooms, a store with concessions and rentals, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals, picnic tables, and a playground.
- Visitors should take precautions to ensure safety, such as using the buddy system while swimming and checking the beach advisory map for updates on water quality.
- Admission to the park requires a vehicle sticker, but visitors can enter for free during Wisconsin DNR’s free fun weekend or by biking into the park.
- Pets are not allowed on the beach, and there is no official limit on the number of people allowed on the beach.
- Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors can bring their own food and drinks or purchase concessions at the store.
