10 Best Beaches in Michigan

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Michigan is much more than the birthplace of the automobile industry and the Motown sound.

The “Wolverine state” as it’s nicknamed, is also one of the nation’s most agriculturally diverse.

It produces the most tart cherries, cucumbers, asparagus, and squash in the United States.

They also deliver over 12 billion pounds of milk around the country.

The best part is that 95% of the farms are family-owned and operated.

Need some great wine?

Michigan has that too, with the Traverse wine region being home to over 40 vineyards.

Some of the best microbreweries are also located in Michigan.

They use the crisp, clean water from the Great Lakes to make the beer unique.

Are you a fan of Kellogg’s Corn Flakes?

Well, that tasty cereal was invented in Battle Creek in 1898.

JIFFY (batter mix) and Welch Foods (jelly), are also based in Michigan.

There must be something in the water because Michigan has also given us Diana Ross, Madonna, Eminem, Magic Johnson, and Stevie Wonder, just to name a few.

Last but not least, Michigan borders 4 lakes; Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie.

This makes this Midwestern state a great place for fun in the sun.

It might not be the first place you think of for an awesome beach vacation, but it should be.

Read on for 10 of the best beaches in Michigan.

10 Best Beaches In Michigan

10. South Beach – South Haven, Michigan

Located on the banks of Lake Michigan, South Beach is a public beach just a short walk from the activity-filled downtown area.

The beach has concession stands, restrooms, a play area, plenty of parking (for a small fee), and is wheelchair accessible.

Known for being clean and beautiful, it’s a great place to swim, build a sandcastle, or watch the sunset.

Kayaks are also available to rent for more active visitors.

A lighthouse towers in the distance of a long pier that’s great for fishing or a walk.

9. Caseville Beach – Caseville, Michigan

The “Daytona” of the Midwest sits on the banks of Lake Huron and is one of the most “selfie” spots in the region.

You can often see it featured on the Instagram of many college students.

With 1500 feet of beachfront, it’s a wealth of summer excitement.

If you’ve ever heard the Kid Rock lyrics “It was summertime in northern Michigan”, we are pretty sure this is what he was referring to.

The beach has the usual great swimming, sand, volleyball, and views, along with restrooms and concessions, but this beach has so much more.

There are fireworks each weekend, free beach concerts, and an outdoor theater.

Then, there are the annual events like the Ribstick BBQ competition and the iconic Caseville Beach Cheeseburger Festival.

We’re not sure what goes on, but a cheeseburger festival is not to be missed!

8. Warren Dunes Beach – Sawyer, Michigan

With 3 miles of shoreline on Lake Michigan, Warren Dunes makes the perfect place for a beach getaway.

With the rugged dunes that rise 250 feet above the lake and breaking waves, you’ll think you’re at a coastal oceanfront beach.

The beach is surrounded by a lovely forested area where you can hike and camp.

It’s a great place to bird-watch during the migration season.

You can even hang glide, (with a permit).

There are food vendors, restrooms, and a gift shop.

Dogs are allowed in certain areas.

Many hotels and inns are close by if you want to spend a few days. 

7. Tawas Point Beach – East Tawas, Michigan

Nicknamed the “Cape Cod of the Midwest”, this 183-acre beach even comes equipped with a Victorian-era lighthouse.

The sand is pristine and the water is clean with gentle waves that are great for smaller children.

The beach is wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly as well.

There’s a picnic area, and visitors can even kiteboard. 

A campground is adjacent to the beach for those who want to spend a few days there.

6. Manistique Beach – Manistique, Michigan

Manistique is a harbor town on Lake Michigan, and the beach is the hidden gem of our list.

It’s part of a larger resort town, so if you’re looking for a whole vacation near the Great Lakes, Manistique is the way to go.

The beach itself is miles long and is surrounded by beautiful, mature trees and dunes with tall sea grass.

A wooden boardwalk is great for walks and watching the sunrise on the lake.

There’s ample parking, a playground, and restrooms.

The beach is also dog-friendly.

Be sure to visit the town for some fine dining, culture, and shopping.

5. Grand Haven Beach – Grand Haven, Michigan

Grand Haven beach sits between a gorgeous restaurant called Noto’s, and Grand Haven State Park, on the sand shores of Lake Michigan.

 There’s free parking and the large Sandy beach is great for everyone.

The water is crystal clear and there’s some pretty good wave action for boogie and skimboarding.

 The beach is wheelchair accessible and there’s a picnic area with volleyball.

Dogs are allowed at certain times of the day.

The scenic views make it a great place to watch the sunset.

You can also hike, charter a fishing boat, or watch the weekly fireworks during the summer.

The beach hosts several events including concerts, a kite festival, an art festival, and the famous Coast Guard festival.

There are many hotels in that area as well.

4. Lakeside Beach – Rogers City, Michigan

This smaller beach on Lake Huron is great for a quick getaway or day trip.

It’s got some of the clearest water in the state, and you can still see perfectly in 6 feet of water.

The area has a playground and splash pad, a picnic area, and restrooms. Best of all, it’s free!

3. Holland Beach – Holland, Michigan

Situated on Lake Michigan, Holland Beach offers a huge Sandy beach with great water for swimming, wading, and floating.

There’s a jetty to explore, playground concession stands, restrooms, and plenty of parking.

So come stick your toes in the super soft sand and watch the boats go by.

Another plus is that the beach is inside a state park where you can camp, hike, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

2. Cheyboygan Beach – Cheboygan, Michigan

Cheyboygan Beach is located on a part of Lake Heton that has clear, shallow water that makes it great for kids and adults who just like to dip their toes.

The beach has grassy dunes to give it a secluded feel.

Visitors can camp, hike, or just stroll around and enjoy the water and the rare wildflowers that grow all over.

The water is warmer than other areas of the Great Lakes.

This is the perfect day trip for families.

Get there early, enjoy a picnic and swimming, and stick around to watch the beautiful sunset.

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach – Maple City, Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes consistently makes lists of the most beautiful places in the United States.

It’s so special, that over 50 years ago, even Congress agreed and coroneted it, a national lakeshore that protects the natural beauty of the dunes, beach, and forest from ever being developed.

The beach is uninterrupted miles of curved shoreline.

The dunes rise 450 feet above Lake Michigan and give you some of the most beautiful views in the country.

You are invited to climb the dunes, but set aside about 4 hours, and bring plenty of water.

If that’s not your thing, no worries, you can swim, sunbathe, view the shipwreck that lies offshore, or play in the sand.

There’s also a maritime museum and wine country is just a stone’s throw away. 

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Safety Index:

80

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
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• PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
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