Season: June - Mid-August
Hours
Open Daily - 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Ideal Beach
Ideal Beach
Facility Information
Address: 52256 Ideal Beach Rd., Elkhart
Phone: 574-262-1769
Plan Your Visit
Admission Fees
Ages 5 and under: $3
Admission: $8
Outside Food Fee: $5 per cooler
Canoe/Kayak Rental: $5
Entry Waiver Requirement
A waiver is required for entry to all aquatic facilities.
Waivers may be completed at the facility upon entry or in advance at your convenience. Complete your waiver here.
Waivers for participants under 18 years of age must be completed by a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years old.
Waivers are valid for 1 year and may be used at all Elkhart Parks & Recreation facilities.
On your first visit, you will be asked to present a photo ID to verify the identity of the person who signed the waiver.
Celebrate at Ideal Beach!
Shelter Rental
This open-air shelter has a capacity of 150 people, and electricity is included in your reservation. Admission is not included, and your guests will have to pay upon entering the beach property. You'll have access to all operating aquatic equipment, the beach, and Heaton Lake. Ideal Beach is a great option for summer birthday parties, company picnics, and more! We offer kayak rental, and we are a lifeguarded facility. Rentals for the shelter are Tuesday through Sunday, with each day renting from 12 pm to 6 pm for $150.00 per session. For more information about rentals, please get in touch with the Parks Department at 574-295-7275.
Private Rentals
Private rental is available during non-business hours throughout the week. Ten days' advance notice and a completed Facility Reservation Agreement are required.
For more information, call our office at 574-295-7275.
Beach Rules
- Coolers, outside food, and drinks are allowed. Glass containers and alcohol are not permitted. Coolers are subject to inspection.
- Anyone with exposed subepidermal tissue, open blisters, cuts, etc., is advised not to use the beach.
- No rough play is permitted in the water. This includes dunking, pushing, throwing, wrestling, and shoulder riding.
- No smoking.
- No pets.
- Do not change diapers on the beach.
Programs
Summer Programs
Make the most of summer at Ideal Beach with fun, hands-on programs for all ages. From interactive learning at Science in the Sand to friendly competition during our Sandcastle Building Contest, there’s always something happening along the shoreline. Whether you're digging into discovery or building your best beachside masterpiece for a chance to win the Golden Bucket, these programs are all about creativity, connection, and enjoying time by the water.
Paddle Series
Get out on the water this season with our Paddle Series, featuring a variety of guided and self-led experiences designed for all skill levels. From peaceful Sunrise Serenity Kayaks and glowing nighttime adventures during Glow Float, to hands-on instruction with Learn to Paddle Board and community favorites like Full Moon Kayaking, there’s something for every kind of paddler. Plus, enjoy free kayak and canoe rentals for a simple way to explore and unwind on the water.