The Best Beaches in Michigan

Michigan was where I first fell in love with exploring. My parents often took us on road trips and camping adventures along the Great Lakes when I was a child. In my late teens and early twenties, almost all of my travels and adventures were dedicated to exploring different coastlines of Michigan. It's where my travel blog started, and Michigan will always have a special place in my heart.

The state is home to some of the most breathtaking freshwater beaches in the world. With over 3,200 miles of shoreline along the Great Lakes, the state boasts everything from towering sand dunes to hidden rocky coves. Whether searching for soft, golden sand or secluded, untouched beauty, these 12 beaches are some of Michigan's best.

The Best Beaches in Michigan

1. Empire Beach/Sleeping Bear Dunes – Empire

The Empire & Sleeping Bear Dunes area is the epitome of "Pure Michigan," and a must-visit when it comes to the best beaches in Michigan. From long, sandy beaches to towering sand dunes overlooking Lake Michigan, you'll quickly realize the magic of the Great Lakes State. While in the area, visit one of the dozens of local wineries dotted throughout the Leelanau Peninsula.

2. Sand Dunes Beach – Brevort

After you cross the Mackinac Bridge and start heading west along US-2, you'll come across a long stretch of sandy beach near the small town of Brevort. On a nice day, it's one of my favorite places to stop for beach time along Lake Michigan. If you are driving this stretch, give yourself an extra hour or two to enjoy some beach time and break up the drive. An additional bonus - it's never crowded!

3. Ludington State Park Beach – Ludington

Ludington beaches are a Michigan paradise. There are two great ones: Ludington State Park and Stearns Park.  Both offer soft, sandy beaches, incredible sunsets, and plenty of room to spread out with other beachgoers. Better yet, Ludington has plenty of ice cream shops to stop for a sweet treat. If you visit, hike the 1.8 miles to Big Sable Point Lighthouse. You won't be disappointed!

4. Iron Ore Bay – Beaver Island

It's not the easiest beach to visit on the list, but that's part of what makes it so magical. Iron Ore Bay is located on Beaver Island, a stunning and remote island located 27 miles off the coast of Charlevoix. The only way to access the island is by a 2.5-hour ferry or a 15-minute plane ride. My aunt has a cottage on the island, and my dad worked many summers at the Central Michigan Biological Station. I've spent a lot of time driving the long dirt roads of this hidden oasis in the middle of Lake Michigan, and the beaches are some of the state's best-kept secrets.

5. Caseville State Park – Caseville

If you're a Michigander, you'll know what I mean when I say Caseville is the best beach in Michigan's "thumb" region. Only a couple hours from Detroit, this beach along Lake Huron is one of my favorite Michigan beaches. Caseville comes to life in the summer, but isn't nearly as crowded as other popular beaches like Holland or Grand Haven. Most visitors drive to Lake Michigan, forgetting how magical the other lakeshores can be.

6. Frankfort Public Beach – Frankfort

Frankfort's beach is a West Michigan favorite, with soft sand and a picturesque pier leading to the Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse. This charming beach is within walking distance of downtown Frankfort, making it a great spot to enjoy the water and explore the town's shops and restaurants. I also love Frankfort for a winter beach getaway. It's stunning!

7. Besser Natural Area – Alpena

Tucked away on the shores of Lake Huron, Besser Natural Area is one of my favorite "hidden" beaches in all of Michigan. If you don't know it's there, you'd drive right by it. On a calm day, you can kayak out to the Portland Shipwreck, a little over 150 yards from shore. If you're looking for a summer beach getaway without the crowds, northeastern Michigan is one of my favorite destinations.

8. Mears State Park – Pentwater

Pentwater is smaller than other West Coast towns, but still has all the charm and beautiful beaches. Pentwater is the perfect beach destination if you're looking for a getaway on Lake Michigan that is slower & quieter than Holland, Grand Haven, or Traverse City. There's plenty of parking just steps away from the beach and beautiful pier for walking at sunset.

9. Saugatuck Dunes State Park – Saugatuck

My favorite beach in Southwestern Michigan is Saugatuck, a small town located about 20 minutes south of Holland. The area is known for its fantastic coffee & art shops, and stunning sandy beaches that stretch for miles. I regularly drove down to this beach instead of Holland State Park when I lived in Holland.

10. Great Sand Bay – Eagle Harbor

If you're looking for a secluded beach wayyyyy Up North along Lake Superior, Great Sandy Bay is one of my top choices. Located near the top of the Keweenaw Peninsula, Great Sand Bay is a stunning beach with a remote, rugged charm. Taking a dip here might be cold, but the clear, untouched water makes it all worth it. If looking for an after beach snack, stop by the Jampot for some treats.

11. Christmas Cove Beach – Northport

Tucked away at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, Christmas Cove Beach is a peaceful escape with a mix of sand and smooth stones. It's a lesser-known beach in one of the most popular and crowded areas for vacationers in Michigan. If you're visiting Up North in the summer but not looking to fight for beach spots in downtown Traverse City, make the short and scenic drive up the Leelanau Peninsula to this oasis.

12. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness

10-15 years ago, you could grab a tent and take a backpacking trip to some of the best camping spots along Lake Michigan. Those spots still exist to this day, but their secret has long since been discovered. If you want to claim a spot, you'll have to get out there before the weekend rush. However, even if you don't like camping, the day use beaches here are pure magic. Nordhouse Dunes is where my love for Lake Michigan began, and my passion for it remains strong to this day.

The Best Beaches in Michigan 

This list is from years of exploring every corner of the Great Lakes State. For over a decade, I've been documenting, traveling, and finding my favorite places, from the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula to the white sands of the Thumb. If you are planning a beach vacation in Michigan or looking for a weekend escape, I hope this guide helps you find that special place.

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