Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 940 m
Frequently asked questions
Bradford Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity high, average temperature +18.0°C, warms up to +24.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Bradford Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Bradford Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Bradford Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 940 metres.
Bradford Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June, July. It ends in August, September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Bradford Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Bradford Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: E. coli bacteria (after rain), Giardia, Cryptosporidium, strong currents. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Bradford Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Bradford Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Bradford Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: The Tiki Bar, Moosa-s. Cuisines available: Local. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Bradford Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash.
Bradford Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In the evening — beautiful sunsets over the lake.
Bradford Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Keep the beach clean. Swim in designated areas.
Bradford Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Bradford Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families, young people and lovers of active recreation. Not suitable for those seeking seclusion and quiet.
Bradford Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Bradford Beach is Milwaukee-s largest public beach and one of the best urban beaches in the USA. In winter, the Polar Bear Plunge is held here, with hundreds of participants.
Bradford Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Wide sandy shoreline (1.94 km), Clear Lake Michigan water, Developed infrastructure with tiki bar and cafe, Volleyball and picnic areas, Free entry, Scenic views of the Milwaukee skyline. Cons: Can get crowded on hot days, Noisy due to activity, Parking can be difficult, Limited space for seclusion, Water can be cold at the start of the season, Jellyfish in late summer.
Bradford Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Lakefront, Summerfest. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Bradford Beach: how do I get to the city of Milwaukee?
The beach is located near the city of Milwaukee. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Milwaukee.