30+ Best Michigan Beaches to Visit in 2025
As someone who’s spent years exploring the Great Lakes, I’ve got a deep love for the wide, sandy beaches that make this state so special. With nearly 3,200 miles of freshwater coastline, Michigan offers some of the most beautiful — and surprisingly underrated — beach spots in the country.
Best Michigan Beaches Travel Guide: UPDATED
From calm, family-friendly shores to scenic stretches with towering sand dunes and vibrant beach towns, there’s something here for every kind of beachgoer. Whether you’re planning a summer vacation, a weekend getaway, or just a day trip, this list has you covered.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 30+ of the best beaches in Michigan, organized by region so it’s easy to find your next favorite spot. And yes — I’ve included a map at the end to help you plan your beach-hopping adventure.
Let’s dive in.
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Best Lake Michigan Beaches
Grand Haven Beaches – Grand Haven, MI
Grand Haven is one of West Michigan’s most-loved beach towns — and for good reason. Spend the day swimming at one of these two gorgeous Lake Michigan beaches, strolling the pier, and exploring the walkable downtown full of shops and restaurants. One of my favorite ways to cap of a summer day in Grand Haven is watching the Grand Haven Musical Fountain show after sunset — a fun tradition for families and first-time visitors alike.
The Grand Haven beaches are ADA accessible, too. The wide, paved pathways offer easy access to the Lake Michigan shoreline for users of mobility devices.
📍 Grand Haven State Park
1600 S Harbor Dr, Grand Haven, MI
- Wide sandy beach with views of the pier & lighthouse
- Restrooms, concessions, volleyball courts, ADA access
📍 Grand Haven City Beach
1001 S Harbor Dr, Grand Haven, MI
- Family-friendly with playground and picnic spots
- Dog-friendly section south of the swim area
WHERE TO STAY: There are a few hotels we always love to stay at when we visit Grand Haven, and you might enjoy them, too. The Harbor House Inn is a charming bed and breakfast directly across from the boardwalk, it’s a perfect location for enjoying both the beach and the downtown area. We also like the Holiday Inn in Spring Lake, just a short drive over the bridge. This is a clean and comfortable spot with alot of amenities, like the beautuful indoor-outdor pool.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Beaches
I’m always amazed by the scenic Lake Michigan beaches with dunes, trails, and jaw-dropping views here- they never get old. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore stretches along 35 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline in northern Michigan and is known for its towering sand dunes, crystal-clear water, and wide sandy beaches.
There are several public beach access points within the park — including Esch Road Beach, Platte River Point, and Glen Haven Beach. These beaches offer soft sand, gentle waves, and amazing views of the Manitou Islands just offshore.
🦽 The park also provides free track wheelchairs for accessible shoreline exploration.
Nearby, you’ll find some of Michigan’s clearest inland lakes — like Glen Lake, Crystal Lake, and Platte Lake — as well as charming beach towns like Empire, Glen Arbor, Frankfort, and Leland. It’s a perfect spot for families, hikers, paddlers, and anyone who loves wild natural beauty.
👉 Explore our Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach Guide
WHERE TO STAY AND EAT: Don’t miss Art’s Tavern in Glen Arbor, home of the best burger in northern Michigan. you’ll also want to check out the Sylvan Inn, a beautiful bed and breakfast. It’s located indowntown Glen Arbor and is just two blocks to Sleeping Bear Bay. The M22 Inn is exceptionally clean and comfortable, and a perfect location for exploring the dunes and downtown Glen Arbor.
Warren Dunes State Park – Sawyer, MI
A popular beach with big dunes and big views, ths is one of my favorite beaches in Southwest Michigan . Located just north of New Buffalo, Warren Dunes State Park is one of Michigan’s most visited beach parks — and for good reason. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, it features nearly 2,000 acres of natural beauty, including massive sand dunes, hiking rails, and wide beachfront.
This beach is perfect for families, hikers, and beach lovers of all ages. Bring the dog, climb the dunes, and cool off in the lake — then explore nearby beach towns like St. Joseph and New Buffalo, both full of great food and local wine stops along the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail.
📍 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI
- Pet-friendly shoreline, beach wheelchairs available
- Tower Hill dune climb with Lake Michigan views
- Campsites and cabin rentals on-site
WHERE TO STAY: You can choose from standard rooms, a studio or a private cottage at the New Buffalo Inn and Spa. This comfortable and clean inn is located in downtown New Buffalo and just a short drive to the beach. The Fairfield Inn and Suites is a solid choice, too: clean and comfortable with a nice breakfast served each morning. It’s just a 15 minute drive to the Warren Dunes State Park.
P.J. Hoffmaster State Park – Muskegon, MI
I love the towering dunes, hiking trails, and this quiet stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline near Muskegon. Just five miles north of Grand Haven, P.J. Hoffmaster State Park offers three miles of wide, sandy beach along Lake Michigan — with dramatic dunes, scenic trails, and plenty of space to relax or explore.
It’s a peaceful escape with plenty of natural beauty, perfect for families, hikers, and nature lovers alike.
📍 6585 Lake Harbor Rd, Norton Shores, MI
- ADA accessible beach, restrooms, picnic areas, and volleyball
- Gillette Nature Center and observation deck with lake views
- Birdwatching hotspot during spring and fall migrations
Empire Beach in Empire, MI
One of the best dog-friendly beaches in northern Michigan, Empire Beach offers big views and small-town charm, and also some amazing Michigan sunsets! Located in downtown Empire, Empire Beach sits right on the Lake Michigan shoreline in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. With sweeping views, soft sand, and plenty of space to stretch out, it’s a favorite for both locals and visitors.
📍 10484 Niagara St, Empire, MI
- Family-friendly beach with playground and nearby parking
- Dog-friendly (leashed), with restrooms and picnic areas
- Walking distance to shops and restaurants in Empire
EXPERT TIP: Just 30 miles east, Traverse City offers even more public beaches along Grand Traverse Bay. Check out our Traverse City Beach Guide for details.
WHERE TO STAY: The Empire Lakeshore Inn is a favorte of mine: it’s exceptionally clean and cozy. Located in downtown, it’s just an eight-minute walk to beautiful Empire Beach.
Tiscornia Beach – St. Joseph, MI
I’m partial to this quiet favorite beach in St. Joseph with lighthouse views and a classic Lake Michigan vibe. One of southwest Michigan’s best-kept secrets, Tiscornia Beach offers soft sand, a peaceful shoreline, and postcard views of the North Pier Lighthouse. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunset watching, and pier walks with family or friends.
📍 80 Ridgeway St, St. Joseph, MI
- 16-acre beach park with restrooms and picnic areas
- Easy access to North Pier and lighthouse walkway
- Family-friendly and less crowded than nearby beaches
Silver Beach – St. Joseph, MI
Silver Beach is the most popular beach in St. Joseph — and for good reason. With soft sand, a huge splash pad, volleyball courts, and kayak and paddleboard access, there’s something for everyone here. A fun-filled beach with space to spread out and activities for all ages.
📍 101 Broad St, St. Joseph, MI
- Close to downtown shops and the Silver Beach Carousel
- 2,450 feet of beachfront with room to roam
- Splash pad, playground, concessions, and volleyball
WHERE TO STAY: St. Joseph Michigan is a perfect spot for family vacation, romantic getaway or even just a quick road trip. The Inn at Harbor Shores is a full-service hotel: you’ll find a spa, salon, fitness center and golf course at this waterfront hotel. There’s also a restauraunt on site, and two pools. It’s a very clean and comfortable spot in a perfect location. The Hilton Inn Benton Harbor is just five minutes away from both Silver Beach and Tiscornia Park, too. It’s clean, and offers an indoor pool and breakfast.
Oval Beach – Saugatuck, MI
I love the peacefulness of this postcard-worthy Lake Michigan beach with sand dunes and big views. Oval Beach is one of West Michigan’s most iconic beaches — named by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the top 25 beaches in the world. With soft sand, rolling dunes, and clear blue water, it’s a perfect spot to spend the day.
📍 698 Water St, Saugatuck, MI
- Wide beach with restrooms and concessions
- Great for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking
- Just a short drive from downtown Saugatuck
🏖️ Saugatuck Dunes State Park – Saugatuck, MI
This secluded stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline in Saugatuck issurrounded by forested dunes is one of Michigan’s best quiest beaches. Just north of town, Saugatuck Dunes State Park features three miles of beach, towering dunes, and 13 miles of wooded hiking trails. It’s a peaceful escape for beachgoers, hikers, and nature lovers.
📍 6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI
- Ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and quiet beach days
- Remote beach access via hiking trails (3/4–1 mile)
- 200-foot sand dunes with stunning lake views
WHERE TO STAY: This is one spot that you are going to want to stay overnight. Use our guide to the best places to Stay in Saugatuck, MI or check out a couple of our favorites, like the Blue Star Motel. Don’t be fooled by the minimalist approach at this boutique motel in Sauagtuck, the Blue Star offers clean and comfortable accomodations in a convenient location.
Silver Lake State Park – Mears, MI
This unique Lake Michigan beach is surrounded by massive, rideable dunes. Located between Ludington and Muskegon, Silver Lake State Park sits along 4 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and is home to the only ORV-accessible dunes east of the Mississippi.
📍 9679 W State Park Rd, Mears, MI
- 3,000+ acres of dunes to explore
- ADA-accessible beach, hiking trails, and fishing
- Long walk to shoreline (or rent an ORV and drive the dunes!)
South Beach – South Haven, MI
This is a fun, family-friendly beach with a splash pad and epic sunsets. In the heart of South Haven, South Beach is one of the most popular spots on the Lake Michigan coast. With soft sand, paved walkways, and a lively pier, it’s ideal for beachgoers of all ages.
📍 60 Water St, South Haven, MI
- Great views of the lighthouse at sunset
- Splash pad, skateboard park, beach rentals, and pier access
- ADA-accessible paths and restrooms
Frankfort Beach – Frankfort, MI
A classic Lake Michigan beach town with dunes, a pier, and picture-perfect sunsets, I love visiting Frankfort every summer at least once. Just steps from downtown Frankfort, Frankfort Beach offers wide sandy shoreline, turquoise water, and easy access to the Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse.
📍 800 Main St, Frankfort, M
- Benches, swings, and a sunset-ready shoreline
- Pier walk and local shops nearby
- 10 minutes north: visit the iconic Point Betsie Lighthouse
Charlevoix Beach – Charlevoix, MI
A charming, flower-filled beach town with a fun and scenic shoreline.
They call it “Charlevoix the Beautiful”, and once you visit the Lake Michigan beach, you’ll understand why. There’s a playground, lighthouse views, and plenty of charm.
📍 100 Grant St, Charlevoix, MI
- Hunt for Petoskey stones along the shore
- South Pier Lighthouse, paddleboard rentals, snack shack
- Trails, picnic pavilion, and beach access for families
More Lake Michigan Beaches
Jean Klock Park – Benton Harbor, MI
A peaceful Lake Michigan beach with natural dunes and paved walking trails, and one of Michigan’s must-visit beaches.
📍 3000 Jean Klock Blvd, Benton Harbor, MI
Boardwalk, restrooms, picnic shelters, and playground
Scenic dune overlooks and Lake Michigan views
Orchard Beach State Park – Manistee, MI
- A high bluff with Lake Michigan views and stair access to a quiet shoreline.
- 📍 2064 N Lakeshore Rd, Manistee, MI
- Beach access via stairway down to Lake Michigan
- Campground with restrooms, picnic areas, and hiking trails
Stearns Park Beach – Ludington, MI
One of the top free public beaches in Michigan, packed with family-friendly features.
📍 420 N Lakeshore Dr, Ludington, MI
ADA beach walkways, playground, mini golf, grills, skate park, and concession stand
Walk the pier to Ludington North Breakwater Light
Best Lake Huron Beaches
Port Crescent State Park – Port Austin, MI
I’ve been a fan of this quiet Lake Huron beach with dunes, stargazing, and shoreline trails for years. Located at the tip of Michigan’s Thumb just north of Caseville, Port Crescent State Park offers three miles of soft, sandy shoreline along Saginaw Bay — one of the few spots on Lake Huron with actual sand dunes.
This peaceful park is a favorite for families and campers. After sunset, it’s also a top spot for stargazing thanks to its official dark sky preserve designation. Nearby towns like Caseville and Port Austin offer plenty of places to stay, eat, and explore — making this a great weekend beach destination.
📍 1775 Port Austin Rd, Port Austin, MI
- Beach access with boardwalk for mobility devices
- Campgrounds, hiking trails, and Dark Sky Preserve
- Shallow, clear water perfect for swimming and relaxing
Lexington Beach- Lexington
Just steps from the beach, downtown Lexington is full of charm — with ice cream shops, cafes, and boutiques that make it feel like a low-key resort town. It’s an easy drive from Metro Detroit, making it a popular summer spot for families and couples alike.
If you’re up for a scenic drive, cruise north on M-25 along Lake Huron’s Thumb Coast to discover quiet roadside beaches and peaceful harbor towns like Port Sanilac and Harbor Beach.
📍 Lexington State Harbor
7411 Huron Ave, Lexington, MI
- Sandy public beach with a walkable pier
- Playground, restrooms, and boat access
WHERE TO STAY: You’ll want to stay on the beach if possible, so check out this clean and updated two bedroom cottage. It’s very comfortably decorated; light, airy and updated. The wide, furnished deck overlooking the Lake Huron beaches is pretty amazing, too.
Oscoda Beach Park – Oscoda, MI
Thisis a perfect family-friendly Lake Huron beach with calm water and small-town charm. Just a block from downtown Oscoda, this scenic public beach is a hidden gem on Michigan’s sunrise coast. The shallow, clear water is perfect for swimming and splashing, and the wide sandy beach is ideal for a relaxing day with kids.
You’ll also find a skatepark, basketball court, bathhouse, and a shady band shell for summer concerts and events. Grab an ice cream downtown and make a full day of it — Oscoda Beach Park is a local favorite for good reason.
📍 201 E River Rd, Oscoda, MI
- Fully wheelchair accessible to the shoreline
- Splash pad, playground, picnic area, pavilion, and grills
- Boardwalk and paved pier popular with local anglers
WHERE TO STAY: Gold Coast Family Cottages are located directly on Lake Huron beach. You’ll find cozy two bedroom cottages with a comfy living room and a terrace. Oscoda Lakeside Hotel is also beachfront, with clean, standard hotel rooms and an indoor pool. You’ll find a continental breakfast here daily, too.
Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park – Alpena, MI
This fun, activity-filled Lake Huron beach is home to warm water and local vibes in the summer. Located in Alpena on Lake Huron, Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park is a great beach stop for families. The shallow shoreline warms quickly, making it perfect for wading, swimming, and playing in the gentle waves.
The park is also dog-friendly (leashed), with nearby cabin and cottage rentals for a weekend getaway.
📍 1302 S State Ave, Alpena, MI
- Splash pad, playground, BMX park, ball fields, and beach
- Paved shoreline path with wheelchair accessibility
- Picnic areas, volleyball, horseshoe pits, and enclosed shelter
EXPERT TIP: This is just one of many great beaches in the Alpena area — check out our Guide to Alpena Beaches for more lakefront spots to explore.
WHERE TO STAY: The Days Inn here is really nice. It’s updated, clean and there’s an indoor, too. The Holiday Inn Express is a solid choice, too, with an indoor pool and sun terrace. Both are located are just about 10 minutes from the beach.
Lakeside park – Rogers City
I love this little town tucked away off M-23 in Northeast Michigan, and the beach is a delightful surprise, too. This scenic, activity-packed beach in Michigan’s “Nautical City” is very picturesque and relaxing.
Set on the shores of Lake Huron, Rogers City is known for its crystal-clear blue water and small-town charm. Lakeside Park offers a spacious swimming beach plus volleyball courts, playgrounds, basketball courts, and a large pavilion — all just steps from downtown.
📍 176 W Michigan Ave, Rogers City, MI
- 10-acre beach park with marina access
- Great for families, fishing, and lakeside picnics
- Connected to the scenic Huron Sunrise Trail (10 miles)
Nearby: Don’t miss 40 Mile Point Lighthouse or P.H. Hoeft State Park — both offer stunning views. You’re also just a short drive from Cheboygan or Mackinaw City, where beach days come with views of the Mackinac Bridge.
WHERE TO STAY: The Purple Martin Inn is located just a one-minute walk from the beautiful Lake Huron beach. It’s a cozy and clean bed and breakfast has a beautiful sun porch and delicous breakfast, too.
More Top lake Huron beaches
Tawas Point State Park – East Tawas, MI
- A sandy Lake Huron beach known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.”
- 📍 686 Tawas Beach Rd, East Tawas, MI
- Shallow, warm water for swimming; lighthouse tours; and family campground
- Birdwatching hotspot during spring and fall migrations
Cheboygan State Park Beach – Cheboygan, MI
- A peaceful Lake Huron beach with lighthouse views and a natural setting.
- 📍 4490 Beach Rd, Cheboygan, MI
- Small sandy beach with picnic tables and restrooms
- Views of the Fourteen Foot Shoal and Poe Reef Lighthouses
Upper Peninsula beaches
McCarty’s Cove – Lake Superior
This much-loved beach spot in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a favorite of Marquette, MI locals and tourists alike. Just minutes from downtown Marquette, McCarty’s Cove offers a wide sandy beach with a lifeguard on duty, views of the red Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, and space to relax or play.
📍 200 Lakeshore Blvd, Marquette, MI
- Close to Marquette’s breweries, boutiques, and lakefront dining
- Lifeguarded beach with volleyball and picnic benches
- Hiking and biking trails nearby
Hunters Point Park – Copper Harbor, MI
This wild, rocky Lake Superior shoreline is perfect for exploring and maybe even find an agate or the much-coveted Yooperlite.
Located at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, Hunters Point Park features rugged shoreline, smooth red stones, and scenic trails through thick forest. It’s not your typical beach — it’s a place for hiking, rock hunting, and taking in Lake Superior’s raw beauty.
📍 5th St, Copper Harbor, MI
- Near historic Copper Harbor, an outdoor-lovers retreat
- Rocky shoreline (bring water shoes!)
- Short trail through woods and wild thimbleberries
EXPERT TIP: The nearby historic town of Copper Harbor is fun to explore, too. You’ll find an all season resort town and outdoor-lovers paradise.
More Beaches in the Upper Peninsula
Great Sand Bay – Eagle River, MI
- A scenic, peaceful Lake Superior beach known for golden sand and glowing sunsets.
- 📍 M-26, Eagle River, MI 49950 (between Eagle River and Eagle Harbor)
- No formal amenities, but roadside parking is available
- Ideal for watching sunsets, beachcombing, and peaceful walks
Miners Beach – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI
- A stunning, photo-worthy beach tucked below sandstone cliffs and forest trails.
- 📍 Miners Castle Rd, Munising, MI (via H-58 and Miners Castle Road)
- Vault toilets, trail access, and scenic overlooks nearby
- Gentle waves, wide beach, and a perfect picnic spot within Pictured Rocks
Carl D. Bradley Lakeview Memorial Park – Manistique, MI
- A hidden gem on Lake Michigan (not Superior), with lighthouse views and family-friendly space.
- 📍 U.S. Hwy 2 & Park Ave, Manistique, MI
- Picnic area, beach access, walking trails, and views of the Manistique East Breakwater Light
- Great for families and quiet lakefront walks
Ready to plan your Michigan beach adventure?
Whether you’re new to the Great Lakes or just looking for your next favorite spot, Michigan’s beaches offer something special year-round. Where’s your favorite Michigan beach? Use the comment section below to let us know!
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