Swimming in Finger Lakes Region

During a recent visit to Rochester, New York, I was thrilled to discover that the water was a lot closer than I thought. Also known as the "Finger Lakes Region" (see photo)this portion of Western, lower-state New York is attractive not only because there are plenty of places to swim and catch a few rays, but more importantly because most areas are free or charge a nominal fee at most.

Between the western Finger Lakes and Lake Ontario, there are several well-maintained public beaches that get my stamp of approval:

CANANDAIGUA LAKE REGION

- KERSHAW PARK(Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, New York, (585) 396-5082)

What's not to enjoy? 8 acres of parkland on the north shore of Canandaigua Lake. Walking paths, picnic shelters, gazebo, beach area & small marine craft launch area, snack bar. The park is open year-round but the beach is only open through Labor Day.

And speaking of which, Kershaw Park is free but you have to pay to swim on its sandy beaches. ($3.00 per adult and $2.00 per child ages 6-18)

Kershaw Park is open daily through Labor Day from 9am-9pm.

From the New York State Thruway I 90 exit 44 the Canandaigua exit, follow route 332 straight until you reach Canandaigua Lake approximately 8 miles keep going straight and follow the signs. Route 332 will run right into and become Lakeshore Drive, which runs right next to Kershaw Park. There is ample parking opposite the park.

- DEEP RUN PARK (2962 Route 364, Gorham, NY, tel: (585) 396-4000, contact the Department of Public Works for more information at dpw@co.ontario.ny.us)

Deep Run Beach, located on East Lake Road, outside of Canandaigua, is a Carry In/Carry Out park available for picnics and swimming and opened daily through Labor Day. Lifeguards are on duty from 10:00 am until 9:00 pm during that time. There are 8 picnic tables, grills, and restrooms available for public use.

No reservations are required and there is no fee.

I was especially impressed that you can go scuba diving at the park. There is a separate entrance to the waterfront.

- BUTLER BEACH (Corner of West Lake Road and Butler Road, Tel: 585-393-1233)

Free to get in! No beach per se, but there is a small swimming area. Open through Labor Day from 11am-6pm

- ONANDA PARK (4965 West Lake Road, Canandaigua, NY, tel: (585) 396-2752, www.townofcanandaigua.org)

One of the most popular places for families. Enjoy a pebble beach, large lawn, hiking trails and more. $5.00 per car on weekdays and $7.00 per car on weekends. Lifeguards provide supervision.

Originally started as a YMCA Camp just before the turn of the century, it was purchased in 1989 by a cooperative effort by New York State and the Town of Canandaigua and opened to the public in 1990. Fishing, swimming, family picnics and gatherings have proven popular at this year round recreation area.

** Lots of rules and regs at this park so be prepared: No alcohol, pets (other than seeing-eye dogs), rollerblades or skateboards allowed in the Park. No bike riding permitted on lakeside. Also, no watercraft of any kind permitted to launch from or dock at the park, except as allowed between November and April.

Shore fishing is allowed year round. Boat Launching is only permitted November 15th to April 15th, and is subject to availability. For more information on boat launching and fishing regulations contact the Town of Canandaigua's Parks Maintenance Supervisor at 585-396-2752, or cell# 585-755-7213

And just in case you like the water, but don't feel like getting wet, don't worry -- there are several boat tours that might be worth checking out:

- Cananduigua Lady Cruises: (Steamboat Landing, 205 Lakeshore Dr., Canandaigua, (585)396-7350, www.steamboatlandingonline.com). Hop aboard a 19^th century paddlewheel steamboat replica for an exciting trip on the lake, or better yet: couple up with a lunch or dinner-time cruise!

- Captain Gray's Boat Tours: (www.captgrays.com, (585)394-5270). Tour packages that last 1 and 3 hours.

- Keuka Maid: (www.keukamaid.com, (888)372-2628) Lunch and Dinner cruises.

During the summer, there's a lot more going on in and around Canandaigua Lake and the Finger Lakes in general. I won't have time to experience it all, but at least the warm weather allowed me the chance to go for a swim! Check out www.visitfingerlakes.com for more resources on what to do and see in addition to where to sleep and dine.