Touring around Michigan with your family?? Then, you must be looking for the best beaches in Michigan?? Here’s the list with all the travel information.
When it comes to beaches, only a few states have the opportunity in the United States. The majority is fully or partially landlocked. But, since the state of Michigan is located in the Great Lakes region, it is blessed with four of the Great Lakes.
Therefore, Michigan features over 3,200 miles of stunning shorelines along Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron. And it considers the second-largest shoreline state in the United States too.
There is plenty of pristine, scenic, and fun beaches that offer you unlimited swimming, sunbathing, water sporting, and picnicking opportunities.
The most popular Michigan beaches are Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Grand Haven City Beach, Mackinaw City Beach, Cheboygan State Park, and Orchard Beach State Park.
And here’s the full list of the best and fun beaches in Michigan, United States. Read and add it to your bucket list.
Beaches in Michigan
1. Beaches in Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire
Spreading for 71,199 acres of land, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a huge national park located in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Since it touches the northeast shore of Lake Michigan, it contains over 60 miles of coastline, including the most stunning beaches in Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is mostly known for its pristine beaches, and the Dune Climb with huge scalable dunes.
Walking on these golden-hued sand beaches of Lake Michigan is surely one of the best things to do in Michigan ever. Its breathtaking views, soft sand, mild waves, and sunny weather make it one of the best family-friendly beaches in Michigan too.
Some of the most attractive beach access points are Esch Road, Platte River Point, Peterson Road, and Tiesma Road.
Obviously, swimming is the most fun activity to do on these beaches. And also, people sunbathe, kayak, snorkel, dive, and do many other water activities.
Another fun thing to do near the beaches in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is climbing, sliding, and playing on sand dunes. Kids will love it. And if you want to take the best panoramic views of the area, surely climb to sand dunes.
On the other hand, the coastline is surrounded by lush forests filled with unique flora and fauna; you can hike for birdwatching and exploring nature. And also, do not forget to visit the nearby lighthouses.
Address: 9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630, United States Phone: (231) 326-4700
Beaches in Michigan
2. Beaches in Michigan: Grand Haven City Beach, Grand Haven
Grand Haven City Beach is a classic summer beach located on the 48 acres of Grand Haven State Park. Stretching on the shores of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Grand River, Grand Haven offers you one of the most popular beach experiences in the state.
This wide sandy beach is perfect for swimming, kiteboarding, surfing, and any other beach activity. And also, since this is a pet-friendly beach, take your pet with you.
Grand Haven City Beach features all the beach amenities, including a fascinating boardwalk, delicious restaurants, a bustling pier, a playground, bed-and-breakfast lodging options, and many more. (Therefore, it has a small entrance fee)
Aside from that, Grand Haven offers you excellent campsites. So, plan for a fun camping night with your family at Grand Haven City Beach in Michigan.
Also, do not miss visiting the picturesque red lighthouse located in the near distance.
Address: 1001 Harbor Avenue, Grand Haven, MI 49417, United States Phone: (616) 847-1309
Beaches in Michigan
3. Beaches in Michigan: Cheboygan State Park, Cheboygan
Covering 1,250 acres on the shores of Lake Huron, Cheboygan State Park is a fun public recreation area in Cheboygan County, Michigan.
Cheboygan State Park is definitely more than just sand, sun, and water. It offers plenty of diverse outdoor activities for your whole family.
For example, there are many exciting hiking trails along the scenic shoreline of Lake Huron and through the park.
And also, Cheboygan State Park offers plenty of space for building sandcastles, picnicking, playing in the playground, metal detecting, swimming, boating, and camping with your friends and family.
Especially, its campground and rustic cabins have all the facilities to make you comfortable.
Do not miss the picturesque views of two lighthouses in Cheboygan State Park.
Address: 4490 Beach Rd, Cheboygan, MI 49721, United States Phone: +1 231-627-2811
Beaches in Michigan
4. Mackinaw City Beach, Mackinac Island
Looking for an island escape?
Mackinac Island in Michigan is a beautiful, calm, little resort island that has historical value. And also, its breathtaking sceneries and warm waters are unbeatable.
Offering a large sandy beach along Lake Huron, Mackinac City Beach is perfect for swimming, kayaking, boating, snorkeling, and any kind of water activity.
Actually, there are several beaches in Mackinac City, which are filled with unlimited outdoor activities.
Aside from that, Mackinac Island has some impressive historical landmarks too.
For example, there’s an 18th-century fort, attractive Victorian houses, vibrant gardens, and ancient rock formations over its pristine shoreline.
Especially, its unique, ancient limestone formation, Arch Rock attracts thousands of visitors during the summer. You can get breathtaking views of the lake and the coastline from the lookout point.
After that, surely take a dip in the cool cerulean waters on the beach under the arch.
Plan your summer tour to Mackinac Island.
Address: 6131 Arch Rock Road, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, United States Phone: (906) 847-3328
Touring in Maine?? Here’s the list of all historic lighthouses in Maine. Add to your bucket list.
5. Orchard Beach State Park, Manistee
Orchard Beach State Park is 201 acres of public recreation area located on the shore of Lake Michigan, Manistee, Michigan. Established in 1921, this park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
The park includes a stunning beach, exciting hiking trails, and more than 150 excellent campgrounds.
Especially since this park is located on a bluff, the campgrounds offer amazing views of Lake Michigan. And also, these campsites are well-equipped with all the facilities. Therefore, Orchard Beach State Park considers a camping paradise.
(There are two paved campsites for campers with mobility issues)
There are staircases from the bluff to easily access the beach below. And Orchard Beach is perfect for fishing, swimming, hiking, picnicking, and cross-country skiing during the winter.
Come along with your family and have fun.
Address: 2064 Lakeshore Rd, Manistee, MI 49660, United States Phone: +1 231-723-7422
Beaches in Michigan
6. Silver Lake Sand Dunes, Hart
Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a huge sand mountain located along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Spreading for 2,000-acres, it is nestled right between Muskegon and Ludington. So, obviously, Silver Lake Sand Dunes considers one of the unique beaches in Michigan.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes Beach offers you plenty of outdoor activities. For example, unlimited swimming space, boating, fishing, hiking sand dunes, four-wheeling on the dunes, golfing, and many adventures.
Also, you can get awe-inspiring views of the coastline, lake, and nearby lighthouse.
Although it is not easy to access Silver Lake Sand Dunes, it is totally worth taking an off-road vehicle ride or 45 minutes walk from the parking to get there. Therefore, it mostly attracts romantic couples and adventure seekers during the summer.
This place will surely remind you of scenes from Lawrence of Arabia.
Address: 2388 North Comfort Drive, Hart, MI 49420, United States Phone: +1 231-873-2247
Beaches in Michigan
7. Tawas Point State Park Beach, East Tawas
Tawas Point State Park is a 183 acres public recreation area located on Lake Huron in Michigan.
Tawas Point State Park beach is located at the end of the sandpit. And it has shallow waters, gentle waves, and soft sands, making it one of the most kid-friendly beaches in Michigan. Since it has attentive lifeguards, your kids can swim safely.
And also, the park’s campground is excellent and contains all the facilities that you need. You can hike, enjoy beach activities, do birdwatching, and visit the Tawas Point Lighthouse while camping.
Tawas Point State Park area attracts over 300 unique migratory bird species. So, this is definitely a paradise for birdwatchers.
Come along with your kids to swim and watch birds.
Address: 686 Tawas Beach Rd, East Tawas, MI 48730, United States Phone: +1 989-362-5041
Beaches in Michigan
8. Beaches in Michigan: Lakeside Beach, Port Huron
Looking for a perfect picnic spot in Michigan?? Consider Lakeside Park in Port Huron.
Lakeside Park is a waterfront park located near the stunning Lake Huron. So, the park features a breathtaking, old-fashioned beach along the lakeshore.
Lakeside Beach is also a nice family-friendly beach that features plenty of picnic areas with BBQ grills, a seasonal splash pad, a playground, volleyball and basketball courts, a snack bar, and an ice cream shop.
Surely pack your swimsuit to swim in the lake with your kids.
Address: 3670 Gratiot Ave, Port Huron, MI 48060, United States Phone: +1 810-984-9760
Beaches in Michigan
9. Beaches in Michigan: Rogers City Beaches
As Rogers City is located on Lake Huron, it features some of the most popular beaches in Michigan. Also, it has famous nicknames, “Salmon Capital of Michigan” and “Nautical City.”
Since Rogers City is home to two salmon fishing tournaments, it calls “Salmon Capital of Michigan.” And since it is home to one of the largest ports in the area, it calls “Nautical City.”
Plenty of locals visit lovely beaches in Rogers City to unwind and experience the sun.
Obviously, Rogers City is one of the best places in the United States for fishing. So, you can see plenty of fishing piers, fishing platforms, and fishers throughout the shoreline.
Do you like to participate in the annual salmon fishing tournament in Rogers City?
Beaches in Michigan
10. Beaches in Michigan: Empire Beach, Empire
Located close to the Robert H. Manning Memorial Lighthouse and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan, the stunning Empire Beach attracts many tourists and local visitors.
Empire Beach features a sweeping shoreline with fun waves, shallow blue waters, and clean sands, making it one of Michigan’s best family-friendly beaches and swimming spots.
This dog-friendly beach is ideal for any kind of fun activity. For example, vacationers can swim, boat, hike, birdwatch, and enjoy wonderful nature.
Address: 10484 Niagara Street, Empire, MI 49630, United States Phone: (231) 620-1829
Beaches in Michigan
11. Hunter’s Point Park Beach, Copper Harbor
Hunter’s Point Park is a 9.4-acre land that features a loop trail and pebbly beaches on the beautiful Lake Superior.
Since Hunter’s Point Park has an 18th-century copper mining history, its beach boasts red pebbles, sand, and rocks. So, definitely, it offers you a unique experience rather than a common white sand beach.
Hunter’s Point Park Beach also features spectacular views of the historical Copper Harbor Lighthouse and Lake Superior. Therefore, you may see plenty of photographers on the beach. Surely take your camera too.
Aside from that, Hunter’s Point Park Beach is perfect for swimming, kayaking, boating, hiking on usual rock formations, and bird watching.
So, come and get this unique beach experience.
Address: Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States Phone: +1 906-289-4292
Beaches in Michigan
12. Beaches in Michigan: Manistique Beach, Manistique
Manistique Beach is an ideal beach for swimming, rafting, and floating. Sitting on the Lake Michigan shoreline, Manistique beach offers you spectacular views of the lake as well.
Manistique Beach is surrounded by miles of protected forests containing pure white sand, clear waters, and mild waves. Therefore, it considers one of the best beaches along Lake Michigan.
Just pack lunch and visit Manistique Beach with your family for a fun picnic. You can view really amazing views of the lake and the historical Manistique Lighthouse while sitting on a beach chair.
On the other hand, the Manistique Beach area offers you plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, camping, hunting, hiking, and even snowmobiling in winter.
After doing water activities, you can walk along the boardwalk and visit nearby souvenir shops. And also, several restaurants near the beach serve delicious local cuisines.
Address: 1254 W Lakeshore Drive Manistique, MI 49854, United States Phone: (906) 341-2290
Beaches in Michigan
13. Warren Dunes Beach, Bridgman
Warren Dunes State Park is a 1,952-acre park located along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Bridgman. Its large sand dunes and beautiful lakeshore beaches attract millions of visitors annually.
Stretching for 3 miles along Lake Michigan, Warren Dunes Beach is surrounded by a lush forest. So, it offers unlimited outdoor activities, especially for adventure seekers. For example, hang gliding and adventure dune hiking.
Also, do not miss climbing the tallest sand dune in Warren Dunes State Park, Tower Hill, to get the area’s best views.
Being one of the most popular family-friendly and pet-friendly beaches in the state, it is suitable for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and camping.
Address: 12032 Red Arrow Highway, Bridgman, MI 49125, United States Phone: (269) 426-4013
Beaches in Michigan
14. Beaches in Michigan: Caseville Beach
Caseville Beach Town is located on Lake Huron in eastern Michigan. It boasts an excellent family-friendly beach with several great spots to swim and dip your toes in the water.
Since this beach contains calm and shallow waters, it is safe to swim with your kids. And also, since the entire beach is calm and quiet, it is suitable to have a relaxing beach evening while watching the sunset.
And also, Caseville Beach features an excellent family-friendly campground, a play area for children, summer concerts, fishing piers, and delicious local restaurants.
So, just plan for a fun beach camping tour with your family to Caseville Beach in Michigan.
Beaches in Michigan
15. Saugatuck Dunes State Park, Holland
Covering 1,000 acres on the shore of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a wonderful public recreation area. The 3 miles of secluded beach backed with 200 ft tall dunes is surely the most attractive thing in the park.
Since Saugatuck Dunes State Park features a thousand acres with hiking trails, it is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Also, the park contains a 300-acre natural area, rolling hills, steep slopes, and scenic picnic spots as well. That’s why Saugatuck Dunes Beach considers one of the prettiest beaches in Michigan.
Aside from that, the beach is suitable for swimming, boating, and picnicking with your family and friends too.
After exploring the beach and nature, you can fill your stomach at one of the many restaurants near the Saugatuck Dunes State Park.
Address: 6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423, United States Phone: +1 269-637-2788
Beaches in Michigan
16. Tiscornia Beach, St. Joseph
Tiscornia Park is a scenic and quiet lakeshore park located in St. Joseph, Michigan. It features a spectacular sandy beach along Lake Michigan, a pier with a lighthouse & an excellent picnic pavilion.
Therefore, Tiscornia Beach is a perfect destination to spend quality time with family and friends. Aside from the spectacular views of Lake Michigan, this beach offers plenty of interesting activities to do.
For example, swimming in calm and warm waters, climbing sand dunes, access the North Pier, fishing, and picnicking.
Tiscornia Beach features beach facilities like a bathing area, a pavilion, and public restrooms. So, come along with your family and have fun.
(Bringing animals and alcohol is not allowed)
Address:80 Ridgeway St, St Joseph, MI 49085, United States Phone: +1 269-983-6341
Beaches in Michigan
17. Hoffmaster State Park Beach, Muskegon
P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is a county park located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Muskegon, Michigan. And the park is named after the founder of the Michigan state parks system, Percy James Hoffmaster.
Stretching for over 3 miles along the Lake Michigan coastline, Hoffmaster State Park Beach features over 300 exciting campsites, miles of hiking and skiing trails, an observation deck with panoramic views, and unlimited swimming space.
You can go birdwatching while camping since the park attracts diverse migrating songbirds species, including sparrows, thrushes, and warblers.
Don’t worry; the campground features all the modern amenities that you need for an enjoyable family camp.
Address: 6585 Lake Harbor Rd, Norton Shores, MI 49441, United States Phone: +1 231-798-3711
Beaches in Michigan
18. Beaches in Michigan: North Manitou Island
Here’s the best island escape in Michigan.
North Manitou Island is a 57.876 km² island with no population located in Lake Michigan. So, definitely, it offers you an authentic island experience with all the adventures.
No locals, no tourists, and no vendors are there to bother you. That’s why North Manitou Island considers the best island escape for those looking for a quiet summer vacation spot.
Things to do on North Manitou Island include chilling in the sun, hiking, hunting, swimming, kayaking, boating, camping, and visiting one of the villages on the island to meet the natives.
Do you like to get this island adventure?
19. Beaches in Michigan: Oscoda Beach Park, Oscoda
Oscoda Beach Park is a 9.6 acres park located along Lake Huron. It features enchanting views of the lake and many recreational amenities.
For example, there’s a basketball court, wooden shelter, skate ramps, pavilion, sunbathing deck, boardwalk, a playground, and picnic areas.
On the other hand, Oscoda Beach Park is home to a century-old dock too. And it hosts an arts and crafts festival during the summer.
So, surely add Oscoda Beach Park to your bucket list.
Address: 201 E River Road, Oscoda, MI 48750, United States Phone: (989) 739-3211
Beaches in Michigan
20. Beaches in Michigan: South Beach Park, South Haven
South Beach Park features the most popular beach in South Haven, Michigan. Stretching for miles along Lake Michigan, this beach park has a historical significance as well.
If you are looking for a family weekend getaway, South Beach Park in South Haven is a perfect option.
It offers you plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking along miles of picturesque trails, cruising and swimming in the lake, and visit wineries and orchards near the beach.
South Haven Lighthouse is also sitting close to South Beach Park. So, do not miss it too.
Address: 60 Water Street, South Haven, MI 49090, United States Phone: (269) 637-0726
Beaches in Michigan
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Grand Haven City Beach
- Cheboygan State Park
- Mackinaw City Beach
- Orchard Beach State Park
- Silver Lake Sand Dunes
- Tawas Point State Park Beach
- Lakeside Beach
- Rogers City
- Empire Beach
- Hunter’s Point Park Beach
- Manistique Beach
- Warren Dunes Beach
- Caseville Beach
- Saugatuck Dunes State Park
- Tiscornia Beach
- Hoffmaster State Park Beach
- North Manitou Island
- Oscoda Beach Park
- South Beach Park
Beaches in Michigan
