The lakefront is just steps from downtown.
Experience the ultimate Lake Michigan playground along Port Washington’s miles of walkable public shoreline, from the scenic harborwalk to pristine beaches. Our active waterfront offers lakefront access for every adventure, whether you are launching a kayak, booking an elite salmon and trout fishing charter, or utilizing our deep-water marina and public boat launch.
From paddling the coastline to reeling in a big catch, discover unmatched ways to get out on the water and experience Southeastern Wisconsin's historic harbortown.
Beach Day
Beach days are quintessential summertime favorites. South Beach and North Beach stretch out from our downtown in either direction, with sprawling soft sand below towering bluffs. Whether going for a stroll, beach combing, building a sandcastle, soaking in the sun or swimming, a Port Washington beach day will have you feeling the summer vibes.
While swimming might be a summer activity, rest assured that beach days can happen year-round. Head to the beach as the seasons change for fresh new perspectives - and beautiful views! - all year long.
There is a parking lot at the entrance of South Beach and just a short walk from North Beach on the north end of Veterans Park. Overflow parking for South Beach can be found in Coal Dock Park. Just make the lovely walk over the bridge and through the Bird Sanctuary to hit the beach.
Sunset Cruise
Not interested in a fishing charter but definitely interested in seeing Port Washington from the sea? Book a sunset cruise with participating charter fishing companies to experience sunset from from the water, watching the sun set behind the city's many hills.
Paddle the Lake
On calm water days, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular watersports. Rentals are available downtown, or bring your own! The beaches are fantastic for launching your paddling adventure. If a Great Lake isn't your paddling speed, you can also head to nearby Milwaukee River.
BYOB Bring Your Own Boat
The Port Washington Marina is conveniently located in our historic downtown and features 175 seasonal slips, 45 transient slips, and a public boat launch. Get rates and learn how to book slips at the Port Washington Marina website.
Charter Fishing
Reel in an unforgettable adventure with Port Washington’s legendary Lake Michigan charter fishing fleet, renowned as one of Wisconsin's premier destinations for king salmon, coho, and lake trout. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a first-time family looking for a new adventure, our experienced captains provide everything you need for a big catch.
Freshwater Surfing
If you are up for an epic adventure, Port Washington's freshwater surfing scene is booming. South Beach and North Beach are popular launch points. Connect with the local surf community and get wave reports, all your gear, and local recommendations at the local board shop The Board Shack.
Shore Fishing
A favorite year-round pasttime in Port Washington, fishermen can be seen in the harbor, along the Breakwater, and along the shore of Sauk Creek in all types of weather. Especially busy is September and October when the King Salmon make their fall run up the creek and early spring when the trout are close to shore. Grab fishing supplies at downtown outfitter Sherper's.
Miles of Shoreline
Prized for its miles of publicy accessible shoreline, Port Washington is a place where you can park once and explore the shoreline all day. From North Beach and the bluffs of Upper Lake Park to the north, out to the iconic lighthouse on the Breakwater, through downtown on the Harborwalk, along Rotary Park and Coal Dock Parks' promenades, and over to South Beach, the lake views are yours to take in -- and they are beautiful in every season!