With more than 3,000 miles of coastline and more than 80 harbors and marinas in Michigan, it’s safe to say boating is big in Michigan.
In fact, boating is standard practice for many people during the summers in Michigan.
Thousands of boaters flock to the thousands of lakes that make up this great state on warm weekdays and weekends.
Ever wonder why vacationer’s from across the Midwest flock to Michigan beaches every summer? The answer is simple: the wide, sandy beaches of Michigan’s Great Lakes are almost Caribbean-like. With a freshwater coastline almost 3,200 miles long, the beautiful beaches of Michigan are a best-kept secret.
Mackinaw City Michigan is the closest you can get to famous Mackinac Island without leaving the lower peninsula. Set right at the tip of Michigan’s mitten, where lakes Huron and Michigan meet, Mackinaw City is a must-visit Michigan vacation spot.
From our expansive Great Lakes to smaller serene inland lakes, a day at the lake is a Michigan summer staple and finding the right lake for a swim can make or break a trip. With hundreds of lakes to choose from all around the state, the choice can be a tough one.
So we’ve made it easy by gathering a list of the best lakes in the state, including both inland and part of the Great Lakes waterways. At these lakes you can go swimming, water skiing, fishing, or boating with confidence, knowing that it’s one of the most beautiful and clean lakes in the state.
With endless miles of pristine public beaches from Port Huron to Mackinaw City, the Lake Huron beaches are some of the best in the entire state.
From quiet, secluded beaches to busy, bustling spots filled with fun beach activities, there’s a beach for everyone on Michigan’s spectacular Lake Huron coastline.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a longer vacation, you’ll also need to know more about the sparkling sands and aqua waters of Lake Huron. We’re sharing a list of 20 of our favorite Lake Huron beaches to help you plan your perfect trip to a Michigan beach.
Michigan Islands?
That’s right. When you think about the mitten-shaped state of Michigan, the word “island” doesn’t come to mind. Beautiful lakes? Check. Amazing hiking trails? Check. Culinary craft? Check. All four seasons? Check. The list goes on and on.
But now, Islands?
Michigan offers all there is to have in a state and more, and now these 17 Must-Visit Michigan Islands are ones to add to the top of your to-do list when it comes to new treasured experiences in Michigan. From populated islands to remote isles, there is an island in Michigan for you.
For a memorable escape and a unique adventure, these Michigan Islands will have you forgetting you’re located in the Midwest.
Picturesque Cheboygan, MI is one of the prettiest beach towns in Michigan. Set on Lake Huron’s Straits of Mackinac, this charming town is truly one of the most underrated northern Michigan vacation destinations.
It’s America’s summer place: a mix of Victorian charm; sweet chocolate fudge; rich history and pure northern Michigan magic.
It’s Mackinac Island, a seaside resort and crown jewel of Michigan tourism that sits quite majestically at the tip of the Michigan mitten (also known as the lower peninsula).
Visitors to the island aboard a Mackinac Island ferry can’t help but be awed by the island’s beauty, especially once the wide white façade of the Grand Hotel comes into view.
A vacation destination for travelers from across the world, this national historic landmark is a must on your vacation bucket list for a day-trip; weekend getaway or extended vacation.
The island is also the Governor’s summer residence, so you’re in good company if you decide to visit then.
Michigan’s state stone, the Petoskey stone and its lesser-known cousin, the Charlevoix stone
are favored unique treasures for beach-goers. Though elusive and sometimes tricky to find, these stones remain a beloved symbol of our Great Lakes and the magnificent shores along them. So how do you find the elusive Petoskey stone?
We ALL agree that Michigan beaches are amazing…but have you heard about our Michigan Beach Towns?
We’re talking about those spots just beyond the sparkling water and sandy beaches where you’ll find food, fun and memories…and if you’re lucky perhaps a glass of wine or craft beer and something fun to take home with you.
The very best beachtowns combine a little bit of everything: proximity to sparkling sand and surf; a walkable downtown area with plenty of fun shops and boutiques to browse and pick up a trinket or two; comfortable benches and/or a park to rest a bit; and some good restaurants or cafes to sample the local food.