Black Beach

Lake · Minnesota

ℹ️ Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.

About this swimming hole

Black Beach in Silver Bay gets its name and its fame from the dark, taconite-flecked sand that turns the shoreline nearly black. The shallow Lake Superior entry warms faster than most North Shore beaches, making it one of the swimmable spots on the big lake. It is a favorite photo stop that happens to be a genuinely good swim.

Good to know

Water typeLake
Water temperatureupper 50s to 60s
Depthshallow near shore
Best seasonJuly-August
FeesFree (city beach)
Reservations requiredNo
Parkingcity lot off Highway 61
CountyLake County
Nearest townSilver Bay
Safety notesno lifeguard; cold water

Map

Nearby swimming holes

Frequently asked questions

Does Black Beach require reservations?

No reservations are required at Black Beach based on current information — but verify before you go.

Is there a fee to visit Black Beach?

Reported fee info: Free (city beach). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.

When is the best time to visit Black Beach?

The best season is typically July-August.

⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026