Searching for the best beaches of Michigan?
You are at the right place. Michigan beaches are among the most beautiful in America.
It’s simple. The wide sandy beaches of Michigan’s Great Lakes have a Caribbean-like feel with summertime vacation fun. Imagine clear, blue-striped waters, towering dunes, and friendly beaches waiting for you to discover…all the ingredients of a perfect day at the beach.
Michigan’s stunning beaches are a well-kept secret, with a coastline that stretches almost 3200 miles. We’re sharing the top beaches in Michigan that you should visit with your own list.
This is pure Michigan beauty at its finest, from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula down to the Lower Peninsula.
Continue reading to learn more about Michigan’s top beaches and beach towns. Scroll down to see the Map of the 30 Best Michigan Beaches. Sleeping Bear Bay in Glen Arbor
Get Your Michigan Beach Vacation Planned: Find the Top Michigan Beaches
Are you new to the Great Lakes The shallow water along the shoreline is ideal for swimming, paddling, and kayaking in the summer months.
The famous Great Lakes waves start rolling in when the weather changes in fall and the water begins to cool. Michigan beaches in autumn are spectacular, whether you’re watching the waves pound the shoreline or kitesurfing.
Michigan has thousands of lakes. For more information on Michigan’s best beaches, see the Vacation Guide to Lake Michigan and the Holiday Travel Guide To Lake Huron.
30 of the Best Michigan Beaches
For those who live in the Midwest, many of Michigan’s most beautiful beaches are easily accessible by car. These Michigan public beaches offer the perfect place for a romantic getaway or family vacation.
There are plenty of tourist attractions that you should visit, but the beach is where it’s at its best. You can sunbathe on the beautiful sugar-sand beaches or swim in the clear, freshwater lakes Huron, Lake Huron, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron.
Another great beach bonus?
Michigan’s Great Lakes are free of sharks and salt! Continue reading to learn about some of the most beautiful beaches in Michigan.
These are the top beaches in Michigan, but not necessarily in that order. Grand Haven Pier
30. Grand Haven, MI
West Michigan beaches have a reputation for being beautiful and fostering a fun vibe. Grand Haven is no exception.
Grand Haven is a beautiful beach located on the shores Lake Michigan. Grand Haven City Beach, Grand Haven State Park and Grand Haven Pier are both within walking distance. There are also two red lighthouses. These sandy beaches are large and have picnic tables, volleyball courts, and play structures for children.
Grand Haven beaches are also accessible for the ADA. For users with mobility impairments, the wide, paved paths provide easy access to Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
Grand Haven, Michigan is a beach resort destination that’s close to the bustling Grand Rapids. The charming downtown of Grand Haven is full of summer fun in the busy summer months. Grand Haven is dog-friendly. Most stores in the downtown offer water bowls to your pet. Stay on the premises until the end to catch the light show at Grand Haven’s Musical Fountain.
If You Go: There are some hotels that we love to stay in when we visit Grand Haven. The Harbor House Inn is a charming bed & breakfast located right across from the boardwalk. It’s an ideal location to enjoy both the beach area and downtown. The Holiday Hotel in Spring Lake is also a great choice. It’s just a short distance from the bridge. It is clean and has a lot of amenities like an indoor-outdor swimming pool.
29. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Beaches
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore has been named one of the most beautiful spots in America. It is situated along 35 miles of breathtaking Lake Michigan shoreline. There are many public beaches hidden among the dunes. Check out our Guide for the Best Beaches at Sleeping Bear Dunes to see our top picks.
Imagine clear, blue water, soft sugar sand beaches, endless hiking, and biking routesperfect to explore. Sand dunes that tower over 450 feet. The park offers free Track Wheelchairs that allow everyone to enjoy the dunes.
You can see the Manitou Islands from almost any point along the shoreline. You can access North Manitou Island or South Manitou Island via a passenger ferry from Leland.
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is home to some of the most stunning and clean inland lakes throughout the country. These include Crystal Lake, Glen Lake and Platte Lake. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore is the perfect spot for families of any age; the beautiful shoreline and lush landscapes, as well as nearby beach towns Frankfort Empire, Glen Arbor and Leland, make it a great place for everyone.
IF You GO: Don’t forget Art’s Tavern Glen Arbor, the home of the best burgers in northern Michigan. You should also check out the Sylvan Inn, which is a lovely bed and breakfast. It is located in Downtown Glen Arbor, and is only two blocks from Sleeping Bear Bay. The Inn has a great location to explore Glen Arbor’s dunes.
28. Lexington, MI
Lexington, a quiet and charming town on Lake Huron’s sandy shores, is the perfect spot for summer relaxation.
The beach at Lexington State Harbor is located within walking distance to downtown Lake Huron. It features a pier that extends out into the sparkling waters, as well as a playground with restroom facilities. Downtown Lexington exudes a relaxed, low-key resort town feel.
Lexington is a great place to visit for affordable dining, ice cream shops and cute boutiques.
You’ll find quiet, serene beaches along Lake Huron’s coast via M-25. There are also stunning views of Lake Huron from the roadside parks. You can also head further north to the Lake Huron harbor cities of Port Sanilac or Harbor Beach, and spend some time exploring these picturesque and peaceful pure Michigan towns.
IF You Go: If you want to spend as much time on the beach as possible, then check out this updated and clean two-bedroom cottage. It is very well decorated, and it’s light, airy and modern. It also has a wide furnished deck that overlooks the Lake Huron beaches. Port Crescent State Park
27. Port Crescent State Park
Port Crescent State Park is located just north of Caseville, at the tip Michigan’s Thumb. It contains some of Lake Huron’s only sand dunes. It is located on the shores Saginaw Bay and has three miles of sandy shoreline, with trails, including a wooden boardwalk for wheelchair users.
Families, couples, and others will enjoy the shallow, clear waters of Lake Huron on sunny summer days. Port Crescent State Park’s rolling terrain is home to campsites and a darkness preserve: Lake Huron provides the perfect backdrop to watch the starry sky from the beach and listen to the gentle waves lapping onto it.
Port Crescent State Park is a great place to stay, eat, shop, and do other activities. It’s also close to Caseville, Port Austin. Warren Dunes State Park
26. Warren Dunes State Park
The naturally beautiful Warren Dunes State Park is located just north of New Buffalo and is one of Michigan’s most favored state parks. Warren Dunes State Park beach is located in southwest Michigan along the shores sparkling blue Lake Michigan. It offers nearly 2,000 acres worth of recreational opportunities for all ages.
Two beach wheelchairs can be used to reach the shoreline from the park.
Tower Hill is one of the most impressive sand dunes in the area. It is ideal for climbing to take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan. The pet-friendly shoreline makes it a great place to bring your dog. Warren Dunes State Park offers both camping and rental of cabins.
St. Both New Buffalo and Joseph are close by and some of the most popular beaches in Michigan. They’re also located along the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail.
IF You Go: Choose from standard rooms or studios at the New Buffalo Inn & Spa. The inn is centrally located in New Buffalo, and only a short drive from the beach. HTML3_ HTML3_ The Fairfield Inn & Suites offers a comfortable and clean stay with a delicious breakfast each morning. The Warren Dunes State Park is just 15 minutes away. Dunes at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park
25. Hoffmaster State Park Beach
P. J. Hoffmaster state park is a paradise for beach-goers, with three miles of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan and miles upon miles of hiking trails. The Gillette Nature Center offers information about the local fauna and flora.
Enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck of this stretch of west Michigan coastline, as well as the many hiking trails. Some people are lucky enough to see migrating songbirds like warblers, sparrows and thrushes. P. J. Hoffmaster State Park truly is a birdwatcher’s dream.
This ADA accessible state park is located just five miles from Grand Haven. It offers everything you need for a wonderful day at the beach.
TIP: Once you have explored P. J. Hoffmaster State Park beach travel a few more miles north to locate Pere Marquette beach. Oscoda Beach Park
24. Oscoda Beach Park
This beautiful park is located in the city Oscoda and is truly a treasure on the shores Lake Huron. It is just one block from Oscoda’s charming downtown. This makes it an easy walk to get an ice cream cone, or any other treat.
Accessible by wheelchair, the beachfront is accessible to all. You can also walk along the boardwalk to reach the pier to the paved pier. This popular spot is loved by fishermen of all ages.
We love the shallow water that runs along the shoreline, which is ideal for swimming and splashing.
Oscoda Beach Park, Michigan’s Great Lakes beach, is a well-kept secret. It offers many family-friendly activities, including a Splash pad, a picnic area, playground, skateboard park and basketball court. There are also grills, benches and benches. For summer concerts and events, there is a band shell underneath the tall trees.
IF You GO: Gold Coast Family Cottages can be found directly at Lake Huron’s beach. Two-bedroom cottages are available with a comfortable living area and a patio. Oscoda Lakeside Hotel is also located on the beachfront. It has standard hotel rooms and an indoor swimming pool. A continental breakfast is also available. Beach in Empire MI
23. Empire Beach, Empire, MI
Empire Beach is located just blocks from the center of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is a beautiful area with stunning natural beauty that draws large numbers of tourists and locals alike. There’s plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sand.
Empire Beach is a beautiful beach along Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
The beach is very family-friendly. There is ample parking right at the shore and a climbing structure for children. This makes it an ideal spot to spend a day on the sand enjoying the company of your pets and children.
Empire, Michigan is a great place to start when exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You can also visit many beaches in the area, both active and quiet. Esch Road Beach is close to Platte River Point and Platte Beach. Good Harbor Bay Beach is also nearby.
22. Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park
This park is located on the shores Lake Huron in Alpena. It’s a must-see if you are in the area. Here, the coast is quite shallow. The clear waters can quickly warm up under the sun, making this a great spot for sanding and playing in the gentle surf.
Swimming and sunbathing just two of the many activities at Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park include a splash pad and youth/women’s ball fields, playground equipment and a BMX bike track. There are also volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and a picnic area. The park shelter is used for social events.
Accessible for people with disabilities, the paved path along the shoreline provides easy access. Mich-E-K-Wis allows dogs to be leashed. There are also many cabin and cottage rentals nearby if you are looking for accommodation.
PRO-TIP : This is just one of the many stunning beaches that line this stretch of Lake Huron coastline. For more beaches that are worth visiting, check out our Guide to Alpena Beaches.
IF You GO: This Days Inn is very nice. The hotel is clean, modern, and has an indoor pool. With an indoor pool, and a sun terrace, the Holiday Inn Express is a good choice. They are both located within 10 minutes of the beach.
21. Tiscornia Beach, St. Joseph
The lighthouse and the Pier are the main attractions of this beach in St. Joseph. Joe’s. This 16-acre park is ideal for a day at the beach with friends and family. Tiscornia Beach, a family-friendly beach on Lake Michigan’s shores, is one of the most loved beaches in southwest Michigan.
St. Joseph, Michigan’s resort town, is a popular choice for vacation. St. Joseph is known as the “Riviera” of the Midwest. Joseph is one the most family-friendly beaches anywhere in the country.
Visit the North Pier Lighthouse and North Pier Walkway: It’s an ideal spot for fishing or watching sunsets.
20. Silver Beach in St. Joseph
Silver Beach is the most crowded beach in St. Joseph. This town has many beautiful beaches. There’s something for everyone, from swimming in the ocean to paddleboarding and kayaking to playing in the waves at the huge splash pad to sand volleyball.
Silver Beach is a popular spot for vacation, but it’s not as crowded as one might think. There are 2,450 feet of sandy beach so you can spread out and have fun without worrying about crowds.
IF You GO:St. Joseph Michigan is the perfect place for a family vacation, romantic getaway, or just a quick trip. This waterfront hotel is home to the Hotel at Harbor Shores, which offers a spa, salon and fitness center, as well as a golf course. You will also find a restaurant and two swimming pools on the premises. It is a clean, comfortable spot in a great location. You can find the Hilton Inn Benton Harbor just five minutes from Silver Beach and Tiscornia Park. It is clean and has an indoor pool as well as breakfast.
19. Rogers City
Rogers City, also known as the “Nautical City”, is located on the shores Lake Huron. The Rogers City Marina is located in Lakeside Park, which covers 10 acres. It also features a swimming beach, playgrounds, basketball courts, and a large pavilion. This area has the most beautiful aqua blue water.
Rogers City is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishermen flock to the area, which is also known as the “Salmon Capital of Michigan” and bikers can enjoy the Huron Sunrise Trail. The trail runs through Rogers City, along the Lake Huron coast, and offers ten miles of breathtaking views.
If you are in the area, P. H. Hoeft State Park and 40 Mile Point Lighthouse are both must-see’s.
PRO-TIP – You are not far from Cheboygan State Park and Mackinac Island. Both spots are well worth the side trip.
IF You Go: The Purple Martin Inn is located just one minute walk from Lake Huron’s beautiful beach. The bed and breakfast is clean and comfortable. It also offers a lovely sun porch and delicious breakfast. Oval Beach in Saugatuck MI
18. Oval Beach
This beautiful beach has a sandy beach that backs up to low-lying dunes and a large, sparkling lake Michigan. You’ll be captivated by the beauty of nature at this beach.
This stunning west Michigan beach was ranked by Conde Nast’s Traveler magazine among the “top 25 beaches worldwide”. You can be sure that it is one of the most beautiful freshwater beaches anywhere in the world. Ask anyone who has been there.
17. Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Three miles of beautiful shoreline stretch along Lake Michigan’s beautiful, private beach. This beach is located in the small beach town Saugatuck. has dunes that rise 200ft before dropping down to the freshwater lake Michigan.
Enjoy a day of sunbathing, swimming in the ocean, or exploring the 13 miles worth of hiking trails that run over the sandy hills. The park is family-friendly and attracts both nature lovers and birdwatchers.
If You Go: This will be the one place you’ll want to spend an entire night. You can use our guide to the best places Stay Saugatuck, MI, or you can check out some of our favorites like the Blue Star Motel. The Blue Star is clean and offers comfortable accommodations in a convenient location.
16. Silver Lake State Park
Silver Lake State Park lies between the beaches of Ludington, Muskegon and Silver Lake. It is located in the middle the stunning Silver Lake Sand Dunes.
The park, which is ADA-accessible, offers a large swimming beach and hiking trails as well as fishing. It is possible to drive directly over the dunes to reach the Lake Michigan beach by renting an off-road vehicle. South Haven
15. South Beach South Haven
The charming little beach town South Haven makes for a wonderful vacation spot. South Beach park only adds to its charm. The family-friendly beach park is located in the southwest corner, on Lake Michigan. It’s one of the most popular beaches in the state. Every year, visitors come back year after year to enjoy the wide, soft sand beaches with clear blue water.
You can walk along the South Beach Pier, which juts into the ocean, or rent a board from one of the vendors at the beach. There are wide paths that can be walked on, which make it easy for wheelchair users and others with mobility disabilities. Both children and adults will love the nearby skateboard park or splash pad.
To enjoy the beautiful sunset on Lake Michigan, make sure you stop by the beach at dusk. You can also find great beaches in our post about the top beaches in the South Haven region. Point Betsie in Frankfort MI
14. Frankfort
The gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes is simply stunning Frankfort, which are surrounded by gentle sandbluffs that overlook Lake Michigan. This area is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets, as well as the Caribbean-blue Lake Michigan.
Lake Michigan Beach is just steps away from downtown Frankfort. It’s a great spot to visit. There are plenty of benches and swings along the beach. This is a great spot to catch a Lake Michigan sunset.
Frankfort, Michigan’s most iconic beach town, is just 10 minutes drive north of the famous Point Betsie Light.
13. Charlevoix
It is called “Charlevoix the Beautiful”, and it lives up to its name. Pretty baskets bursting with flowers line the streets, and the shops are filled with the sweet scent of freshly-made fudge.
This Lake Michigan beach has Charlevoix’s South Pier Lighthouse, as well as a playground and snack shack. There are also trails, rentals of stand-up paddleboards, restrooms, picnic pavilions, and other amenities that will make it a family-friendly spot.
Take time to explore Lake Michigan’s shoreline, and look out for Petoskey Stones. These fossilized coral pieces are Michigan’s statestone and a wonderful collector’s item.
A guide to the many beautiful beaches of Charlevoix can be found here, including Fisherman’s Island State Park or Mt. McSauba, Photo by Ryan McChesney
12. McCarty’s Cove
This well-loved beach spot is a favorite among Marquette and MI locals as well as tourists.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is at its best. Where else can you relax on the shores of Lake Superior and gaze at the distant red lighthouse?
You’ll find it just a few minutes from downtown Marquette. It has hiking and biking trails, a large sandy beach with lifeguard, volleyball, picnic benches, and many other amenities.
Spend some time in downtown Marquette while you’re there.
Marquette, the largest city in the U.P. is a paradise for outdoor lovers with a fun downtown that features breweries and boutiques.
11. Hunters Point Park
For this stretch of Lake Superior shoreline, Copper Harbor, you’ll need to wear sandals or beach footwear.
This spot is ideal for hiking and beach exploration.
You’ll see thick patches of wild blueberries as you travel the forest path to Lake Superior. The trail eventually reaches this breathtakingly beautiful bay.
Hunters Point Park can be found at the tip Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. It’s home to wild natural flora & fauna.
Although it isn’t a sandy beach at all, it is well worth the effort. You will feel like you are at the edge, gazing out over Lake Superior from this remote location.
Copper Harbor, a historic community nearby, is also fun. A resort town that is all-seasons and outdoor-lovers’ paradise will be your destination.
10. Orchard Beach State Park
9. Eagle River’s Great Sand Bay
8. Miners Beach, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
7. Carl D. Bradley Lakeview Memorial Park in Manistique
6. Cheboygan State Park, Cheboygan
5. Wilderness State Park at Carp Lake
4. Stearns Park, Ludington
3. William Sterling State Park, Monroe
2. Jean Klock Park, Benton Harbor
1. Tawas Point State Park
Similar Posts:
- The Best Michigan Beaches for Families
- The Best Lake Huron Michigan Beaches (A Must Visit)
- The Best Beaches to Visit on Lake Huron
- Hotels in South Haven Michigan
- New Buffalo Michigan Beaches – Which is the Best?
- Saugatuck Michigan – Where to Visit?
- The Best Michigan Beach Towns
- Oval Beach in Saugatuck Michigan
- The Best Weekend Getaway Locations in Michigan
- Things to do in St. Joseph Michigan