Splash in the Sun
Pool, Beaches, and Boating
Pool & Beaches
Pool:
Beaches & Sandbar:
- Olbrich Park Beach
- Frost Woods Beach
- Schluter Beach
- Gilligan’s Island – sandbar accessible by boat
Boating & Fishing
Waterfront Dining
Lake Monona:
Yahara River:
- Waypoint Public House
- Buck & Honey’s Monona
- True Coffee Roasters
- Forage Kitchen
- Below Deck Concessions
- Breakwater
Lake Waubesa:
Lake Kegonsa:
Monona is your go-to destination for soaking up the sun and enjoying life by the water. Whether you’re looking to splash around in the Monona Community Pool, relax on a sandy beach, or enjoy the natural beauty of our local sandbars, there’s no shortage of ways to cool off and have fun.
Spend the day at scenic spots like Olbrich Park Beach, Schluter Beach, or Frost Woods Beach, or launch your next adventure from one of our convenient boat launch locations around Lake Monona. Want to get on the water without owning a boat? Check out local boat rental services and clubs that make it easy to explore the lake at your own pace.
After a day of sun and swimming, unwind at one of Monona’s waterfront restaurants or bars, where you can grab a bite, sip a drink, and soak in the views.
Before you head out, don’t forget to check lake water quality conditions using this helpful resource from Madison and Dane County Public Health, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for you and your family.
There are so many ways to access the beautiful waters of Lake Monona, as well as the surrounding lakes. Take a look at our list showcasing everything having to do with Lakes.
Monona Community Pool
Seasonal outdoor swimming pool with diving boards and a slide, plus adult-only swim times.
Olbrich Park Beach
Large lakeside park with a full range of athletic & recreational facilities for all seasons.
Frost Woods Beach
Small lakeside park featuring a beach, picnic tables, and canoe/kayak launch.
Schluter Beach
Park with a sandy beach, a playground, picnic tables, and a dock, plus ice cream across the street.
Gilligan's Island
A sandbar on the waters of the Yahara River that is a popular summer spot for boaters.
Lottes Park Boat Launch
One of Monona’s boat launches on the shore of the Yahara River.
Winnequah Trail Boat Launch
One of Monona’s boat launches, also a prime sunset viewing spot.
Tonyawatha Park Boat Launch
Park with picnic areas, fishing, and boat launching facilities, plus scenic views.
Paddle Pub Madison
Boat tour agency that hosts events like bachelorette and bachelor parties.
Madison Pontoon Rental
Boat rental service in Madison.
Capitol Boat Club
Boat club offering rentals of pontoon and speed boats, plus captained cruises.
Lake Monona Sailing Club
Volunteer-based organization founded by area residents who want to enjoy the beautiful waters of Lake Monona.
Four Lakes Yacht Club
Organization dedicated to boating enthusiasts in Madison.
Olbrich Park Boat Rentals
Canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals at Olbrich Park’s beach on Lake Monona.
Monona Bait & Ice Cream Shop
Down-home institution dispensing ice cream desserts, burgers & classic subs, plus live bait.
Olbrich Biergarten
Beer garden with rotating taps and lake views offering brats and pretzels, plus games.
The Tiki Bar on Lake Monona
Outdoor bar by a lake offering a variety of drinks, plus food trucks, bands, and lawn games.
Waypoint Public House
Airy, minimalist pub offering craft beer & cocktails, plus a menu of updated American classics.
Buck & Honey's
Family-friendly spot serving dishes including meatloaf and Asian salad, plus happy hours.
True Coffee Roasters
Homey coffee shop preparing a variety of drinks from locally roasted beans, plus bagels & wraps.
Forage Kitchen
Casual spot serving grain bowls, salads, and soups with vegan and vegetarian options for lunch and dinner.
Below Deck Concessions
Concession stand located in Grnad Crossing Park that carries delicious Chocolate Shoppe ice cream, a variety of light snacks and various beverages.
Breakwater
Sprawling riverside eatery with a boat slip & a full bar, turning out burgers, seafood & steak.
Green Lantern
Warm, old-timey American eatery for ample surf ‘n’ turf menu from breakfast to dinner.
Christy's Landing
Lakefront spot with a tiki bar & boat slips offering pub grub, live music & a volleyball league.
Springers
Seafood & pub grub offered in a laid-back dockside grill with patio seating & a pool table.
KAYAK RENTALS ARE BACK IN MONONA!
Head to Schluter Beach for kayaks, paddles, and lifejackets available from Instapaddle self-serve kiosk using your phone.
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This is the official visitor site for Monona, Wisconsin. Learn about the town's history, find places to stay, things to do, restaurants, shops, and more.
Photos by Bruce Fritz ,
Sponsored by:
Contact
Monona Chamber of Commerce: PO Box 6264, Monona, WI 53716
(608) 416-1610
connect@mononaeastside.com
