As a Door County local, I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite hidden gems: Sister Bay Pebble Beach. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of more well-known beaches, this secluded spot offers crystal-clear water, smooth pebbles, and a chance to get away from the crowds. In this blog post, I’ll share with you everything you need to know about this unique beach, including its history, amenities, safety tips, and more. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Door County, Sister Bay Pebble Beach is not to be missed!
Door County has lots of beaches, including sand beaches. Be sure to read our comprehensive post on all of Door County’s beaches to compare and contrast beaches, so that you can make the most of your vacation.
General Description: Sister Bay Public Beach
Pebble Beach in Sister Bay is an idyllic spot that offers a one-of-a-kind beach experience.
The beach is made up of millions of small, smooth pebbles that have been polished by the waves over the years. This unique feature makes it quite different from other beaches in the area, such as those with traditional sand. The pebbles can be hard on your feet, so it’s important to wear proper footwear to protect them.
If you’ve visited Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island, you’ll find that this beach has a similar feel, but is smaller and more secluded. The beach’s location and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for those who want to get away from the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
One of the best things about this beach is its crystal clear water. You can see all the way to the bottom, which makes it a great place to go for a swim or to simply sit on the shore and watch the water. Spend a couple of hours relaxing on the beach and taking in the natural beauty around you.
Sister Bay Pebble Beach is located on Green Bay. This means that the water will generally be warmer than on the Lake Michigan side of Door County.
Overall, Sister Bay Pebble Beach is a hidden gem in Door County that’s definitely worth a visit, and a popular thing to do for those visiting in the Sister Bay area. Whether you’re a local looking for a peaceful spot to unwind or a visitor looking for a unique beach experience, this beach won’t disappoint.
History of the Sister Bay Pebble Beach
Sister Bay Pebble Beach has a unique history that’s worth learning about. There was once talk of parceling off the land around the beach and selling it for home developments. This caused concern among local residents who wanted to preserve the area’s natural beauty and ensure public access to the beach.
In response, the Village of Sister Bay partnered with the Door County Land Trust in 2019 to purchase the 600-foot beach and adjoining 16.8-acre parcel. The goal was to preserve the beach and the land surrounding it for future generations to enjoy. The property was purchased for $2.4 million, with various granting agencies helping to offset the cost. The Door County Land Trust raised $500,000 towards the purchase, and the Coastal Management Program of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration provided $1 million.
Thanks to these efforts, the beach is now preserved for perpetuity and is accessible to the public. The beach remains a peaceful and secluded spot where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area without the worry of future development. It’s a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Door County for generations to come.
Amenities
Sister Bay Pebble Beach is a small and secluded beach with very few amenities. While this may seem limiting to some visitors, it’s part of what makes the beach so special. Visitors come to the beach for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and smooth pebbles, rather than for the amenities that other beaches might offer.
There are a few amenities available at the beach, including picnic tables and a small parking area. However, it’s important to note that the parking area is very small, and visitors should be respectful of adjacent properties when parking. There are no restrooms or changing areas available at the beach, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Additionally, there are no rentals or concessions available at the beach, so visitors should bring their own snacks and drinks. Perhaps you might carry out a lunch from a restaurant in Sister Bay. This may seem like a drawback, but it also means that the beach is a peaceful and natural escape from the hustle and bustle of more developed areas. Overall, Sister Bay Pebble Beach is the perfect spot for visitors looking for a quiet and secluded beach experience amidst the natural beauty of Door County.
Beach Safety
As with any beach, it’s important to practice good safety habits when visiting Sister Bay Pebble Beach. While the beach is small and secluded, there are still risks associated with swimming and spending time in the water. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
No Lifeguard at Sister Bay Pebble Beach, Practice the Buddy System
There is no lifeguard on duty at Sister Bay Pebble Beach, so visitors should always practice the buddy system when swimming. This means never swimming alone, and always having a friend or family member nearby who can assist you in case of an emergency.
Sun Safety
It’s important to protect your skin from the sun when spending time at the beach. Make sure to apply sunscreen with a high SPF, and reapply it regularly throughout the day. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
Watch for Hypothermia
Even in the summer months, the water at Sister Bay Pebble Beach can be quite chilly. Visitors should be aware of the signs of hypothermia and take steps to prevent it. Symptoms of hypothermia include:
- Shivering
- Cold and pale skin
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Weak pulse
- Loss of consciousness
If someone shows signs of hypothermia, get them out of the water and into a warm, dry environment as soon as possible. Wrap them in blankets and seek medical attention if necessary.
Water Quality Safety
Before visiting any beach in Wisconsin, it’s important to check the Wisconsin DNR’s water quality beach advisory map. This map provides up-to-date information on water quality at beaches throughout the state, including any advisories or closures due to high bacteria levels. By checking the map before you go, you can ensure that you are visiting a safe and healthy beach.
Cost
One of the great things about Sister Bay Pebble Beach is that both admission and parking are completely free. Visitors can enjoy the beach and the surrounding natural beauty without having to pay any fees or purchase any permits.
However, it’s worth noting that there may be some associated costs when visiting the beach. For example, visitors may want to bring their own food and drinks, as there are no concessions or vending machines on site. Additionally, visitors should bring their own beach gear, such as towels, chairs, and umbrellas, as there are no rentals available at the beach.
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the crystal clear waters of Sister Bay Pebble Beach are ideal for swimming. However, visitors should exercise caution and practice safe swimming habits, as there is no lifeguard on duty.
No, there are no restrooms or changing facilities at Sister Bay Pebble Beach. Visitors should plan accordingly and be prepared to use restrooms in nearby public areas or restaurants.
No, there is no lifeguard on duty at Sister Bay Pebble Beach. Visitors should practice the buddy system and take other precautions to ensure their safety while swimming.
Summary: Sister Bay Pebble Beach
- Sister Bay Pebble Beach is a small, secluded beach made of smooth pebbles in Door County, WI.
- It was purchased in 2019 by the Village of Sister Bay in partnership with the Door County Land Trust for $2.4 million to ensure public access and preservation.
- There are few amenities at the beach, including picnic tables and a small parking area.
- Visitors should practice safe swimming habits, sun safety, and watch for hypothermia, as there is no lifeguard on duty.
- Admission and parking are free, but visitors should be prepared for potential associated costs.
