Best Beaches in Michigan
Michigan is home to hundreds of miles of freshwater coastline, soft sandy shores, and charming lakeside towns. I liked how affordable these beach vacations were compare to many beaches on the East or West Coast. You can reach some pretty easily but others are truly remote and off the beaten path.
With affordable lodging, laid-back vibes, and plenty of natural beauty, I think that Michigan is perfect for a budget-friendly summer escape. I've seen some of the most unique local beaches here that were fascinating to explore. From living there as a local, and my recent 10-day road trip with my husband and son, here are some of my favorite Michigan beach spots that I recommend to you.
In a hurry and just want to know which are the best beaches in Michigan? My top two picks are Saugatuck Dunes State Park Beach and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore. About three hours apart, you can even see them both on the same weekend getaway.
1. Saugatuck Dunes State Park Beach
Just a short drive from the artsy town of Saugatuck, this stretch of Lake Michigan truly feels far removed from everyday life. After our three-hour drive from Detoit, the towering dunes and the vast horizon of the lake were awe-inspiring!
We spent two days surrounded by this spectacular natural beauty, enjoying the sandy beaches of Michigan’s west coast.
Before we dive in, I wanted to point out that most of the beaches in this park require a short (usually scenic) walk. I thought the walk was totally worth it because of the secluded remoteness you end up at.
- What to Know Before Visiting Saugatuck Dunes State Park Beach
- Best Airport: Gerald R. Ford International (GRR) in Grand Rapids
- How Many Days: 1–2
- Time of Year to Visit: Late spring through early fall
So where do you stay near Saugatuck Dunes? Lake Shore Resort and The Dunes Resort are very good nearby options.
Are there good places to eat near Saugatuck Dunes? Absolutely! Fuel up with breakfast at Pennyroyal Café, grab farm-to-table fare at The Southerner overlooking the river, or enjoy dinner at Bowdies Chophouse. Wally’s serves up hearty pub food. Kilwins downtown is the go-to for ice cream and fudge if you have a kid like me.
As for things to do here, you can hike on the North Trail for dune overlooks, follow the Beach Trail to reach the shoreline, and wander on the wooded paths for birdwatching. Once at the beach, spread a blanket, swim and watch the sunset over Lake Michigan. If you have an extra day, ride the historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry across to Oval Beach.
With such beautiful views and diverse activities, I think that Saugatuck Dunes State Park Beach is one of the beach beach getaways in Michigan.
2. Grand Haven State Park Beach
Situated right at the edge of downtown Grand Haven, just 30 minutes from the airport in Grand Rapids is Grand Haven State Park Beach. We based ourselves at Looking Glass Beachfront Inn for two nights and enjoyed this mile-long beach. I loved the way the soft golden sand felt on my feet and we walked to the lighthouse at the pier a few times (once at sunset).
If you like to be close to town, this beach is ideal because the town's boardwalk is touching the beach. This means that you can walk to shops, restaurants, and even nightly entertainment if you have the energy after all the hiking and swimming.
- What to Know Before Visiting Grand Haven State Park Beach
- Best Airport: Gerald R. Ford International (GRR) in Grand Rapids
- How Many Days: 2
- Time of Year to Visit: June–August for swimming; early September for a quieter time
Top activities here are swimming, sunbathing, and a game of volleyball. Don’t miss a walk along the South Pier to the iconic red lighthouse! Explore the lakeshore trail by bike, browse shops along Washington Avenue, or watch the nightly Grand Haven Musical Fountain show.
You can eat a Pronto Pup corn dog from the boardwalk stand, sit down to dinner at Snug Harbor overlooking the channel, or start your morning with breakfast at Morning Star Café.
For us, the highlights was catching golden-hour views from the pier!
3. Copper Harbor
By the time I reached Copper Harbor, I felt like we’d driven to the edge of the world. The Upper Peninsula does that, peels you away from everything. The beach here wasn’t wide or flashy.
A quick note before visiting: unlike sandy stretches farther south, Copper Harbor’s beach is more about scenery and tranquility. The beach is a mix of pebbles, rock, and sand. The town itself is small but welcoming, with trails, shops, and a harborfront.
- What to Know Before Visiting Copper Harbor Beach
- Best Airport: Houghton County Memorial (CMX), about 35 miles south
- How Many Days: 2–3 to enjoy both the beach and surrounding adventures
- Time of Year to Visit: June–September for the warmest weather
We based ourselves at Bella Vista Motel for two nights. Many visitors also camp at nearby Fort Wilkins Historic State Park.
Copper Harbor has a handful of dining options. The Harbor Haus is actually famous for its lakeside dining and nightly Alpenhorn welcome for boats. I liked Mariner North for hearty pub fare and Tamarack Inn for a classic breakfast if you wake up hungry. Grab coffee or a picnic snack at Jamsen’s Fish Market & Bakery before heading out for the day.
While the beach is ideal for peaceful walks and cooling off in Lake Superior, you can also hike along Brockway Mountain Drive for sweeping views, kayak along the rocky coast, or take a ferry to Isle Royale National Park for a wilderness trip. Fort Wilkins offers history and hiking. Mountain biking trails here draw outdoor enthusiasts from all over the Midwest.
For me Copper Harbor Beach was just the perfect way to experience Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as a local.
4. Orchard Beach State Park
Orchard Beach State Park is set on Lake Michigan just north of Manistee. The park is a favorite stop for camping, picnics, and unforgettable sunsets.
Access to the lakeshore can vary depending on water levels and erosion. Even if swimming isn’t always possible, I thought the views alone are worth the visit. If you want to swim, then another beach may be a better choice!
- What to Know Before Visiting Orchard Beach State Park
- Best Airport: Manistee County Blacker Airport (MBL), or Traverse City’s Cherry Capital (TVC) for more flight options
- How Many Days: 1–2 for the park itself, longer if exploring Manistee and nearby towns
- Time of Year to Visit: Late spring through fall (May–October)
Where to stay near Orchard Beach? The park’s campground has sites with stunning lake views. There's also easy access to trails. If camping isn’t your style, Manistee has various accommodations choices.
Where to eat near Orchard Beach? Enjoy fresh fish at Bluefish Kitchen + Bar, grab wood-fired pizza at TJ’s Pub, or stop by House of Flavors for ice cream and classic diner fare.
5. Manistique
Located just east of downtown Manistique, this beach offers soft sand, gentle waves, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it perfect for families, road trippers, or anyone looking to unwind along the big lake.
One thing to know before you go: Manistique’s beach is part of a larger lakeshore park system, so you’ll find playgrounds, picnic areas, and a paved boardwalk that stretches out to the East Breakwater Light.
- What to Know Before Visiting Manistique Beach
- Best Airport: Delta County Airport (ESC) in Escanaba, about 1 hour west
- How Many Days: 1–2 for the beach and town; longer if exploring surrounding U.P. attractions
- Time of Year to Visit: June–September for swimming and warm weather
Where to stay in Manistique? Lodging options include Gray Wolf Lodge, and Quality Inn & Suites.
Where to eat in Manistique? For dining, try Clyde’s Drive-In for a classic burger, Big Boy for a family-friendly meal, or The Upper Crust Café for sandwiches and baked goods. Cedar Street Café serves up hearty breakfasts and coffee perfect before a day at the beach.
What to do at Manistique Beach? Spend the day swimming, relaxing on the sand, or walking the boardwalk out to the red Manistique East Breakwater Light. Families will love the playgrounds and open spaces, while photographers flock here for sunsets over Lake Michigan. Beyond the beach, explore Kitch-iti-kipi (the Big Spring) at Palms Book State Park, hike along the Haywire Trail, or enjoy a scenic drive along U.S. 2 hugging the lakeshore.
For us, the highlights were strolling to the lighthouse at sunset, cooling off in Lake Michigan after a day of exploring, and enjoying the easygoing pace of this small harbor town. Manistique Beach may be simple, but it captures the relaxed beauty of the area, a perfect underrated stop where lake life meets small-town warmth. You heard it here first!
6. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of most breathtaking natural treasures. Stretching for 35 miles along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this park is famous for its dunes. I think the overlooks are some of the best in Michigan, as are the beaches here. If you have time for just one Michigan beach, I recommend this place!
The dunes here are massive, some rising nearly 450 feet above Lake Michigan. Climbing them is both a challenge and a must-do experience. Beyond the famous overlooks, the park also protects inland lakes, islands, and miles of hiking trails, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
- What to Know Before Visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes
- Best Airport: Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) in Traverse City
- How Many Days: 2–4 to explore the dunes, beaches, and nearby towns
- Time of Year to Visit: June–September for warm weather; October for fall color
Where to stay near Sleeping Bear Dunes? Camping at Platte River Campground or DH Day Campground keeps you close to nature. We stayed at Sugar Beach Resort Hotel in Traverse City.
Where to eat near Sleeping Bear Dunes? Enjoy fresh sandwiches at Art’s Tavern in Glen Arbor, try local fish at Good Harbor Grill, or grab cherry pie and pastries at The Cherry Republic Café. Nearby Traverse City offers a wider variety of restaurants and breweries for those making a longer trip.
What to do at Sleeping Bear Dunes?
For us, the highlights were standing atop the dunes with endless views of Lake Michigan!
7. North Manitou Island
North Manitou Island is the wild heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Just a short ferry ride from Leland, this remote Lake Michigan island feels completely untouched. here, sandy beaches, towering dunes, and dense forests stretch on without crowds or cars.
North Manitou is managed as wilderness, which means there are no amenities, shops, or vehicles on the island. The payoff is worth it, miles of quiet shoreline where the only sounds are wind, waves, and birds overhead. But don't say I didn't warn you. If you’re more a city-stomper than a nature enthusiast, well...this isn't for you!
- What to Know Before Visiting North Manitou Island
- Best Access Point: Ferry from Leland, Michigan
- How Many Days: 2–4 for camping and exploring
- Time of Year to Visit: Late May through September
Where to stay on North Manitou Island? There are no hotels or rentals here — overnight stays are limited to wilderness camping. You need a backcountry permit. If you’d prefer comfort before or after your trip, Leland and nearby towns offer inns and rentals on the mainland.
Where to eat near North Manitou Island? Since the island has no services, you’ll need to pack in all your food and gear.
What to do on North Manitou Island? The beaches are spectacular for swimming, fishing, and sunset views with no one else in sight. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting deer, birds, and maybe even a fox, while experienced paddlers sometimes kayak the rugged shoreline.
8. Rogers City
Located in northeast Michigan, Rogers City offers one of the best and most unique blends of natural beauty and small-town hospitality. It's one of my favorite Michigan beaches where you can enjoy Lake Huron’s charm.
One thing to know before you go: Rogers City is known as the “Nautical City,” and the beach reflects that heritage. It’s not just about sand and water. Nearby you’ll find marinas, lighthouses, and lakefront parks.
- What to Know Before Visiting Rogers City Beach
- Best Airport: Alpena County Regional Airport (APN), about 40 minutes south
- How Many Days: 1–2 for the beach and town
- Time of Year to Visit: June–September for warm weather and swimming
Where to stay near Rogers City? The town offers a handful of cozy motels, lakeside cabins, and vacation rentals. Many visitors also choose to camp at Hoeft State Park.
So where do you eat in Rogers City? For dining, try Up North 23 for casual fare, The Painted Lady Café for breakfast and coffee.
What to do at Rogers City Beach? The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family picnics.
For us, the highlights were walking the shoreline boardwalk, cooling off in Lake Huron’s clear water, and watching the sun set while sailboats drifted in and out of the harbor.
9. Silver Lake Sand Dunes
I think that Silver Lake Sand Dunes is one of Michigan’s most unique beach destinations! Located along Lake Michigan between Muskegon and Ludington, this area combines sweeping dunes, inland lakes, and wide sandy shoreline. There are miles of golden sand, dunes here that we loved!
One thing to know before you go: as far as I know, this is the only place in Michigan where you can drive ORVs and dune buggies right on the sand. Half of the dunes are reserved for off-road excitement, while the other half are set aside for hiking, exploring, and quiet nature.
- What to Know Before Visiting Silver Lake Sand Dunes
- Best Airport: Muskegon County Airport (MKG), about 1 hour south
- How Many Days: 2–3 to enjoy both the dunes and the surrounding lakeshore
- Time of Year to Visit: Late May–September for warm weather and open dune access
Where to stay near Silver Lake? We based ourselves at Silver Sands Hotel & Resort.
Where to eat near Silver Lake? Try pizza at Silver Lake Chicken Shack, lakeside views at Silver Lake Pizza Factory, or grab an ice cream cone at Whippy Dip.
What to do at Silver Lake Sand Dunes?
For us, the highlights were climbing the dunes, watching dune buggies race across the sand, and cooling off with a swim in Lake Michigan afterward. Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a true adventure playground on the lakeshore. My son says its teenager approved.
Conclusion
Michigan’s beaches are some of the most unique and best-kept treasures in the Midwest. Exploring them with my husband and son has given me countless favorite memories.
What I love most is the variety. I think that no two Michigan beaches feel quite the same so our road trip was far from boring. Some are lively and full of energy, others are quiet and secluded, but all of them share that unmistakable Great Lakes spirit.
For me, visiting these beaches is about history, nature, adventure, and connection. That’s why Michigan’s beaches will always be some of my favorite places to return to, again and again.
Booking Checklist
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