To the Beach! Shell Cove Park

While this park doesn't feature an actual beach, it makes for a nice little lunch getaway, or stop for the kids to play for awhile. The park has a few barbecue grills set up for a summer evening dinner by the lake.

You can also mix a little bit of history and science with your trip to a park and learn about the “terrible fish.”

Shell Cove Park features a kiosk, easily visible from Lake Road, detailing the Dunkleosteus Terrelli, a 350-million-year-old massive fish. (Sorry, the fish, which measured 33 feet and weighed 4 tons is extinct; put your pole away.)

Boaters, jetskiers and kayakers will have quite the view of the shale ledges from the lake.

If you’re bringing the kids, take a break and head over to Domonkas Library, right next door.

Beach: Sheffield Lake Community Park

City: Lake Road and Lake Breeze Road intersection.

County: Lorain

Time/Miles/Directions from Electric and SR 83: Via US-6

12 mins / 5.34 miles

Park size: 1.5 acres

Lifeguards: No

Swimming permitted: No

Unique features: This site has an Ohio historical marker celebrating Dunkleosteus Terrelli. According to the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, “The largest species of placoderm ever found in the Cleveland Shale is Dunkleosteus terrelli. It was first discovered in 1867 on the shores of Sheffield Lake by local amateur fossil hunter named Jay Terrell, who was one of a group of fossil hunters in the Cleveland area in the late 19th and early 20th century.”

Amenities: Grills, picnic tables, swingset, historical marker, observation desk. Dogs are allowed.

Nearby eats: Pizza Hut, 4175 E Lake Rd, Sheffield Lake; Amber Oaks, 4798 E Lake Rd, Sheffield Lake; Gus' Steak & Ale, 5348 E Lake Rd, Sheffield Lake; , 33481 Lake Rd., Avon Lake;

Bike Friendly: This park is on Lake Road, but is more foot-friendly.

Activities: Walking, watching the sunset, learning about history.

Parking: There is a small lot parking lot.