Jace Lamonica
Nothing feels as good as the warm sand between your toes and the beautiful sound of waves in the distance. Michigan’s shoreline offers escapes for thrill-seekers and sunbathers alike. With every crashing wave, a new experience unfolds—one you won’t want to miss. Keep reading to find your next beach destination.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Golden sand stretches for miles at Sleeping Bear Dunes, where 450-foot bluffs overlook Lake Michigan’s sparkling waters. Established in 1970, this breathtaking park features scenic trails and the famous Dune Climb. Sunset views here? Absolutely unforgettable. Just soak in the serenity!
Warren Dunes State Park
Towering dunes and a three-mile shoreline make Warren Dunes a must-visit. Rolling up to 260 feet high, the dunes challenge adventurers while the pristine beach invites relaxation. You could be catching waves or soaring kites; the park delivers a perfect mix of thrill and tranquility.
Grand Haven State Park
What is Grand Haven? Imagine soft sandy beaches, famous red lighthouses, and a vibrant beach town during the summer. It draws visitors for its Coast Guard Festival and stunning musical fountain. Whether you’re strolling the pier at sunset or diving into the cool waters of Lake Michigan, Grand Haven is full of charm and energy.
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Adventurers take note: the hike is worth every step. Quiet and absolutely picture-perfect. Wild beauty reigns at Saugatuck Dunes, where towering sand ridges hide secluded beach stretches. Four trails wind through rolling dunes and whispering pines and lead to a tranquil shoreline.
Holland State Park
The Big Red Lighthouse stands proudly at Holland State Park, where golden sands meet calm, clear waters. A favorite for families, it offers swimming and epic sunset views. Boats drift through the channel and create a postcard-perfect scene you won’t forget.
Ludington State Park
Situated between Hamlin Lake and Lake Michigan, Ludington State Park offers seven miles of sandy paradise. Its iconic lighthouse, 21 miles of trails, and serene inland lakes make it a top destination. Kayak through the marshlands or hunt for Petoskey stones along the shore!
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Prefer a slower pace? Climb the dunes for panoramic views or wade into the refreshing Great Lakes waters. Massive shifting dunes rise between Silver Lake and Lake Michigan, creating a one-of-a-kind playground. Off-roading is a thrill here, with dune buggies carving the scenery.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Cliffs covered in orange and green stand tall above the clear turquoise waters of Lake Superior. Pictured Rocks’ beaches, like Miners Beach and Twelvemile Beach, highlight nature’s beauty. With sea caves and amazing rock formations, every visit feels like a new adventure.
Tawas Point State Park
Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” this one has a sandy hook curving into Lake Huron. Birdwatchers flock here to spot migratory species while swimmers enjoy the gentle waves. The historic lighthouse adds charm, which makes this a hidden gem for beach lovers.
Orchard Beach State Park
A stairway leads to a beautiful shore, perfect for hunting driftwood or dipping your toes. Perched on a bluff above Lake Michigan, Orchard Beach State Park offers panoramic lake views. The campground’s rustic feel makes it ideal for an overnight lakeside escape.
Cheboygan State Park
Lake Huron’s crystal-clear waters reveal a quiet, underrated beauty. History and nature blend at Cheboygan State Park. The lighthouse ruins and sandy shores invite exploration here. Kayakers glide past islands, and hikers discover scenic trails through hardwood forests.
Muskegon State Park
Diverse scenes are the essence of Muskegon State Park. It is where two miles of beach meet towering dunes and lush forests. In summer, it’s a swimming and sunbathing haven. Come winter, the luge track and cross-country skiing trails transform it into a snowy paradise.
Petoskey State Park
Hunt for Michigan’s famous fossilized coral at Petoskey State Park, where soft sands and clear waters beckon. Located along Little Traverse Bay, it’s a top spot for kayaking, hiking, and catching sunsets. Each wave brings the promise of uncovering a treasure.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Rugged and remote, the Porcupine Mountains stretch along Lake Superior’s wild shores. Scenic beaches and dense forests create a stunning backdrop. Keep an eye out for waterfalls, moose, and the breathtaking northern lights. Nature’s beauty is on full display here.
McLain State Park
Lake Superior’s waves crash against the rocky shores of McLain State Park, a hidden gem on the Keweenaw Peninsula. Sandbars create shallow spots perfect for wading, and the sunsets are unforgettable. In winter, snowshoeing and ice fishing make this beach a year-round favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hoffmaster State Park
Dramatic dune formations and wooded trails make Hoffmaster a picturesque getaway. The Gillette Visitor Center offers insight into Michigan’s dune ecosystem. Families enjoy beach picnics. Also, hikers climb the dunes to enjoy breathtaking views of the Great Lakes. It’s a coastal escape packed with adventure.
Fisherman’s Island State Park
Camping here means waking to the sound of waves and enjoying starlit nights free from city lights. Seclusion seekers find solace at Fisherman’s Island, a hidden treasure along Lake Michigan. Amazing pebbled beaches stretch along an undeveloped coastline.
Van Buren State Park
A laid-back retreat with natural beauty in every direction. A short hike through the trails leads to Van Buren’s wide, scenic beach. Lake Michigan’s rolling waves provide endless fun for swimmers and paddleboarders. Campfires on the beach make for unforgettable evenings under a canopy of stars.
Negwegon State Park
Remote and rugged, Negwegon State Park remains one of Michigan’s best-kept secrets. Few crowds, endless shorelines, and pristine waters make it a dream for solitude seekers. Wildlife thrives here, from bald eagles to deer. If you crave a wild, untouched beach experience, this is it.
Belle Isle Park
A Detroit escape with a shoreline all its own, Belle Isle Park sits in the Detroit River with views of Canada. This historic island features beaches and an aquarium. The park’s maritime charm makes it an unexpected but delightful beach destination.
