10 Michigan Beaches That Are Pure Summer Magic
Along Michigan’s Great Lakes, you’ll find some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country. Towering dunes, sparkling clear waters, and stretches of soft sand create the ideal summer getaway.
Whether it’s building sandcastles with the kids or soaking up the peace and quiet, these shores promise unforgettable moments, without the saltwater or sharks.
1. Sleeping Bear Dunes – Esch Road Beach
Golden sand meets turquoise water at this hidden gem along the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Unlike the main dune climb area, Esch Road Beach offers a more secluded experience with fewer crowds.
The shallow entry makes it perfect for families with young children. I still remember my son’s delighted squeals as tiny waves lapped at his toes during our visit last summer.
2. Grand Haven State Park Beach
Sunset chasers, this one’s for you. Grand Haven’s expansive shoreline becomes a front-row seat to nature’s nightly light show as the sun dips below Lake Michigan’s horizon.
The iconic red lighthouse adds character to your beach photos. Beyond sunbathing, visitors enjoy volleyball courts and fishing opportunities off the pier, creating a lively atmosphere for all ages.
3. Oval Beach in Saugatuck
Consistently ranked among America’s best beaches, Oval Beach boasts pristine sand dunes and clean, swimmable waters. The surrounding natural landscape remains largely undeveloped, preserving its unspoiled beauty.
Access is typically by car, with an optional scenic ferry ride and a climb down 303 steps from Mount Baldhead.
During my college years, friends and I would make the annual pilgrimage down those steps, racing to be first to touch the cool water below.
4. Pictured Rocks – Miners Beach
Miners Beach sits within the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where colorful sandstone cliffs tower over Lake Superior’s crystal waters.
The beach itself features soft sand and small pebbles with swimming temperatures that are often chilly, though they can reach the 60s in late summer during hot spells.
Adventurous visitors can kayak along the shoreline to view the famous painted rocks up close. The beach also serves as a perfect starting point for hiking trails through nearby forests.
5. Warren Dunes State Park Beach
Sand mountains await at Warren Dunes, where the main dune towers nearly 260 feet above Lake Michigan. Kids and adults alike enjoy the thrill of climbing up and running down these natural wonders.
The three-mile stretch of beach provides ample space even on crowded summer weekends. My favorite memory here involves watching my normally cautious daughter fearlessly roll down the dune face, arriving at the bottom covered head-to-toe in sand and pure joy.
6. Silver Beach County Park
Once home to a famous amusement park, Silver Beach now offers family-friendly fun with modern amenities. The clean, wide shoreline provides plenty of room for castle building and sunbathing alike.
Beyond swimming, visitors enjoy beach volleyball, a splash pad, and fishing opportunities. The nearby carousel and interactive water fountain make this St. Joseph destination perfect for families seeking variety beyond typical beach activities.
7. Ludington State Park Beach
Sandwiched between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, this unique beach offers the best of both worlds. The Lake Michigan side features big waves and expansive views, while the inland lake provides warmer, calmer waters for younger swimmers.
Hiking trails wind through adjacent forests and dunes, creating perfect afternoon adventures. The historic Big Sable Point Lighthouse stands nearby, offering tours for those interested in maritime history.
8. Petoskey State Park Beach
Rock hunters paradise! Petoskey State Park’s shoreline is famous for its unique Petoskey stones – fossilized coral that reveals stunning honeycomb patterns when wet or polished.
The clear waters of Little Traverse Bay provide excellent swimming conditions. Walking along the shore one misty morning last year, I discovered three perfect Petoskey stones that now sit proudly on my mantel, permanent souvenirs of northern Michigan’s geological wonders.
9. Holland State Park Beach
Famous for its red lighthouse nicknamed “Big Red,” Holland State Park offers postcard-perfect views alongside excellent swimming. The channel connecting Lake Michigan to Lake Macatawa creates interesting water dynamics and fishing opportunities.
Nearby concessions serve classic beach treats like ice cream and hot dogs. The park’s proximity to Holland’s downtown allows visitors to combine beach time with exploring the charming Dutch-influenced town, making it ideal for day-trippers.
10. Tawas Point State Park Beach
Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” Tawas Point curves gracefully into Tawas Bay, creating shallow, warm waters perfect for families. The sandy peninsula forms both bay-side and Lake Huron-side beaches, offering choices for different conditions.
Birdwatchers flock here during migration seasons as the point serves as a natural flyway. The Victorian-era lighthouse completes the scenic landscape, making this eastern Michigan gem worth the drive from any direction.