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Beaches? In Pennsylvania?

Normally, Philadelphians will usually just head to Cape May and the Jersey Shore for the summer. Head west, however, and you'll soon discover some of the East Coast's best shorelines in Pennsylvania.

From Pocono Mountain beaches to the beautiful seven mile stretch of shoreline in Presque Isle State Park (pictured).... the Keystone State has a lock on summer fun.

Near the state's other big metro area, Pittsburgh, Raccoon Creek State Park is an hour away with a lakefront beach that's open all summer long. Head north from Pittsburgh, and Moraine State Park encompasses one of the state's best lake beaches, Lake Arthur, offering 42 miles of shoreline to help beat the heat.

Of course, these are only a couple of mentions to start your summer fling in the Keystone State. Just up ahead, find lots more information on where to cool down when temperatures begin to rise in Pennsylvania.

Have fun!

A view of Presque Isle lighthouse, which dates back to 1840.

What's the weather like today? Pennsylvania lake beach web cams:

Presque Isle webcam

Erie Yacht Club webcam

Pocono Lake webcams

DID YOU KNOW? Pennsylvania beach fun facts:

• The Pocono Mountains are home to 150 lakes, some with sandy beaches. Some of the most popular include Beltzville State Park in the southern foothills, Gouldsboro Lake and Tobyhanna Lake, and Mauch Chunk Lake Park.

• Due to the gentle Lake Erie surf that washes the coast, the seven miles of beachfront on Presque Isle are often dubbed the state's only natural "seashore".

• Camelback Mountain isn't just for Pennsylvania skiing anymore. If you can't get to the beach, try the Camelbeach Mountain Water Park, the largest water park in the state.

More about Pennsylvania beaches around the Web:

Pennsylvania State Parks - Where to Swim - Use the interactive map to navigate to dozens of PA state park locations offering sandy beaches or swimming pools.

Lake Beaches in Eastern Pennsylvania - Read this USA Today guide for a good overview of where to go in summer with information on places to cool off in the Poconos, Hills Creek State Park, and  Pine Grove Furnace State Park.