Chance Showers And Thunderstorms
Erie County, PA · Great Lakes
Presque Isle State Park
301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505
A 3,112-acre arching sand peninsula into Lake Erie, 4 miles west of the city — home to 13 beaches and the only surf swimming in Pennsylvania. Beaches open 5 AM to sunset Memorial Day–Labor Day; swim only in designated guarded zones (wading to knee depth is allowed elsewhere). Wildly popular: over 4 million visitors a year.
Today's Conditions
Skip the beach today.
72% rain · Thunderstorms · NWS alert active
Full NWS forecast for This Afternoon
A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 5pm, then showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 81. Southwest wind around 14 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Tonight
Showers and thunderstorms before 8pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8pm and 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. West wind 10 to 16 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Weather
- 81°F air — ideal beach weather
- 72% rain — wet day — beach day is off
Safety
- Thunderstorms — stay off the water when storms approach
- NWS alert active — severe thunderstorm watch issued september 9 at 2:52pm edt until september 9 at 11:00pm edt by nws cleveland oh
Best for sunbathing today
Severe Thunderstorm Watch issued September 9 at 2:52PM EDT until September 9 at 11:00PM EDT by NWS Cleveland OH
Atmosphere
Water
Sun & Moon
7-Day Beach Day Forecast
Partly Sunny
Sunny
Mostly Sunny then Slight Chance Rain Showers
Partly Sunny
Mostly Sunny
Slight Chance Rain Showers then Chance Showers And Thunderstorms
What to Bring Today
- recommended SPF 30 sunscreen UV index 6 — high
- recommended Sturdy umbrella + sand anchor 14 mph wind
- recommended Rain cover + dry bag 72% chance of rain
Always remember water bottle, trash bag (leave no trace).
Best Fishing Times Today
Solunar theory: fish activity peaks at moon transits (major) and moonrise/moonset (minor). All times local.
Beach Info
Parking
Multiple lots along Peninsula Dr. Arrive early on summer weekends.
Dogs
Dogs permitted on leash except on swim beaches; Beach 10 has a designated dog beach.
Entry Fee
Free
Address
301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505
Amenities
Frequently Asked
Is it safe to swim at Presque Isle State Park today?
Presque Isle State Park shows a live water-quality reading (bacteria levels) and today's swim-safety score at the top of this page, refreshed on every update. Seasonal lifeguards patrol the swim area in summer — follow their flags. Always review the current advisories, surf, and rip-current notes before getting in the water.
Is Presque Isle State Park dog-friendly?
Dogs permitted on leash except on swim beaches; Beach 10 has a designated dog beach.
Is there an entry fee at Presque Isle State Park?
Entry to Presque Isle State Park is free.
Are there lifeguards at Presque Isle State Park?
Yes. Seasonal lifeguards patrol Presque Isle State Park during the summer swim season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). Outside that window, swim at your own risk.
What amenities are at Presque Isle State Park?
Amenities at Presque Isle State Park include lifeguards, 13 beaches, bathhouses, marina, trails, bike path, lagoons, nature center.
When is the water warmest at Presque Isle State Park?
Great Lakes water temperatures peak in late July and August at roughly 68-74°F near shore — cool compared to the ocean. Best swimming window is mid-July to late August.
Where is Presque Isle State Park located?
Presque Isle State Park is in Erie County, PA, at 301 Peninsula Dr, Erie, PA 16505.
Nearby Beaches
Updated · Data from NOAA, NWS