Lake Michigan is the third-largest lake in the United States and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. It’s home to some of the most stunning bodies of water in the Midwest, and you may want to know some of the best beaches Lake Michigan has for you.
With plenty of beach towns and islands to choose from, Lake Michigan is one of the best in the country. If you’re looking for perfect beaches at Lake Michigan, you’ve come to the right place. These 15 beaches will show you what this lake offers and make you want to book a trip ASAP.
Most Popular Beaches On Lake Michigan
Oval Beach
Oval Beach, located in Saugatuck, Michigan, is one of the busiest beaches in Lake Michigan and all of North America. It is a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring Lake Michigan.
You may be wondering what makes this beach so outstanding. It’s simple. This beach on Lake Michigan is full of breathtaking sights anywhere on the coast you decide to go. The vistas from this beach may be the greatest of all.
Lake Michigan provides facilities like snack bars, bathrooms, picnic tables, and barbeque grills, among others. You can also get a good view of the Kalamazoo River from a pier that stretches out into the water.
There are a few excellent accommodations close to Oval Beach. Some of the hotels with a good rating have very few reviews. The best option anywhere close is Countryard by Marriott Holland Downtown, over 10 miles away.
South Beach Park
South Beach Park is located in South Haven, Michigan, and is one of the famous family-friendly beaches in Lake Michigan. It has a variety of fun activities for everyone, including beach volleyball spots and skate parks for teens.
One of the outstanding sights on this Lake Michigan beach is the local lighthouse that has been active for over a century. The peaceful waves of South Beach Park’s Lake make swimming there a lot of fun. People of all ages can swim, tan, relax, and enjoy the beach’s sandy shore.
Most good hotels close to South Beach park are at least 30 minutes away. You can choose between Holiday Inn Express and Suites or The Inn at Harbor shores if you plan to stay in South Haven for a while. They both come with luxuries that’ll make your stay worthwhile.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes is among the top beach destinations worldwide. It is located on the Eastern shore of Lake Michigan and has been a part of the national park system since the 70s.
Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of the beaches on Lake Michigan with the most breathtaking views. Its expansive waterside, eye-catching pictures, forested islands, and hiking paths make it an exciting choice for you.
You can also go birdwatching, snorkeling, or kayaking and catch a view of the beach’s lighthouse. It has everything to keep you excited and relaxed all day long.
Visitors and tourists pick hotel accommodations based on their taste or budget. We’ve looked around, and we believe you’ll like the services at Empire Lakeshore Inn. It’s not the closest option, but it might be just what you need.
Best Lake Michigan Beaches for Families
Silver Beach
One of the top beaches in Lake Michigan for families is St. Joseph’s Silver Beach. This beach offers different services, including vendors and public restrooms. Families looking for a bustling beach holiday area should consider Silver Beach in St. Joseph.
Silver Beach County Park sits at the head of the St. Joseph River in Michigan, 49085, 101 Broad Street. The South Pier, a famous building, stretching into Lake Michigan, is accessible to the public at Lake Michigan beaches.
Along the seashore are numerous access points to other beaches at Lake Michigan. Additionally, the park has picnic areas with barbecues or fire pits, a boat launch, a fishing pier, and hiking paths. Little Sable Point Lighthouse is also located there.
Silver Beach has a snack stand, a water park pad, beach volleyball, and 1,600 feet of beachfront on Lake Michigan for tanning and swimming.
Do you wish to stay close to Lake Michigan’s Silver Beach in St. Joseph? For a five-star experience in St. Joseph, consider staying at The Inn at Harbor Shores.
Warren Dunes State Park
Warren Dunes State Park is one of the best beaches on Lake Michigan for family vacations. It spans about 2,000 acres and is situated along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, halfway between the cities of New Buffalo and St. Joseph.
Warren Dunes State Park overlooks Lake Michigan and has 3 miles of shoreline and 6 miles of hiking trails. On a clear day, Chicago could be visible in the distance. You can take a break from the sea by gliding down Tower Hill, the park’s highest point, or riding a sandboard down it.
The entire family can come along; you can even come along with your furry friend. Do you want to spend the day kayaking, looking for hidden items with a metal detector, or collecting beach glass with your loved ones? This Lake Tahoe Beach is a great option.
There aren’t too many luxury accommodations around Warren Dunes Park. But, Goldberry Woods is a modern farm resort that offers comfort and a lovely natural environment for your family and pets.
Grand Haven City Beach
Grand Haven City Beach is ideal for a family beach vacation. It is among the imposing beaches at Lake Michigan with towering dunes and a vast, sandy beachfront.
In the summer, the Grand Haven Musical Water Fountain puts on a lively light show every evening. The beach also has many other attractions that draw visitors of all ages and offer amenities like paddle board rentals, picnic areas, refreshments, restrooms, and more.
Grand Haven is a beach on Lake Michigan that allows you to bring dogs. However, dogs must be on a leash before 11 am and after 5 pm from Memorial Day through Labour Day. Dogs are allowed on leashes before Memorial Day and Labor Day.
The downtown area of Grand Haven, one of Michigan’s top seaside towns, is close to Grand Haven City Beach. The Grand Haven Pier and the Grand Haven South Pierhead Inner Light are accessible from this beach.
If you plan to be in town for a while, Harbor House Inn has excellent services for you and your loved ones. It is less than a mile from Grand Haven Beach and close to the city’s center. You can also catch a glimpse of some beautiful sights along the way.
Holland State Park
Holland State Park has two sizable campgrounds on Lake Michigan. One section of the park is along Lake Michigan, and the other is along Lake Macatawa. Both of these locations are great locations to view the sunset or sailboats.
Holland State Park is one of the top beaches on Lake Michigan with amenities for swimming, camping, and fishing. There’s also a small playground for the kids, a boat launch, a snack stand, modern bathrooms, and a changing facility.
You can take a long walk along the coastline towards the North or see Big Red Lighthouse just across the canal to the South. You can also rent an RV for camping and other activities.
Holland State Park has a $10 daily entry fee for nonresidents, but Michigan residents can enter for free. However, everyone must pay a fee for an annual pass ($17 for residents and $36 for outsiders).
There are several hotels and accommodations around this Lake Michigan beach. But for a popular and well-rated option, check out Hampton Inn Holland even though it is not as close to the park. Alternatively, Marriott Holland Downtown is another reputable hospitality brand that is around the area.
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Best Pet-friendly Beaches In Lake Michigan
Not all beaches on Lake Michigan allow canines and those that allow dogs usually have dedicated dog-friendly zones. Also, be aware that your dog might not be permitted to run free at all dog-friendly beaches. A six-foot leash is often required if you want to take your dog out.
However, nature is always a great spot to grab a breath of fresh air. The following are some of the best beaches in Lake Michigan for your pet.
Kirk Park
Kirk Park has the perfect resources and services for you and your furry friend. Due to its expanse of sandy shoreline and pathways, this Lake Michigan beach is suitable for families and their pets.
Kirk Park is located to the South of Grand Haven. Dogs are permitted on the beach from May through September, but only during certain hours.
Consider Home2 Suites By Hilton Holland if you are new to town and would like to stay overnight. It’s not too close to Kirk Park, but there are other good Lake Michigan beaches along the way as well.
Port Crescent Beach
Port Crescent is a lovely beach on Lake Michigan for you and your dog. However, it would be best if you keep your dog on a leash along the shoreline and cannot bring them into the authorized swimming area.
The Port Crescent State Park has miles of sandy beachfront and boats for daily use. It also has fishing, hiking, skiing, and hunting resources.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Bad Axe, is a well-rated hotel option that you can check out if you are staying over. It’s close to Port Crescent State Park and has facilities catering to various needs.
Miners Beach
Miners Beach is a fantastic dog-friendly beach to explore in the Upper Peninsula.
Miners Beach has a tiny parking area at the east and a central parking area at the west. It is among stunning beaches at Lake Michigan with access to Miners River and the magnificent Bridalveil Falls. It may also be crowded during the summer months because several kayak tours leave from this beach.
I’m sure you’d also love a pet-friendly hotel. Comfort Inn and Suites is ideal for you and your pet. They also have luxurious facilities and accommodate pets.
Grand Mere State Park
Grand Mere is another beach on Lake Michigan that is ideal for you and your dog if you want to go hiking or have a relaxing day on the beach. Two trails lead to a half-mile stretch along the beach’s shoreline.
However, Grand Mere State Park does not have some facilities like some of Lake Michigan’s best beaches. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time at this beach. It is eco-friendly, pet-friendly, accessible all year round, and has one of the state’s most intriguing sets of dunes.
Tru by Hilton in St. Joseph would be the ideal lodging choice for those who want to tour different beaches in Lake Michigan. It may not be a step away from the beach, yet it offers all the facilities and comfort you might want.
Best Secret Beaches At Lake Michigan
Laketown Beach
Laketown Beach has some fantastic views along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Even though it is only a few miles from Holland and Saugatuck, not many people know about this beach.
It may not be one of the best beaches on Lake Michigan, but it has stunning views from the top of the dunes, and its secrecy makes it ideal for some. But this secrecy is probably part of the reason it isn’t so easy to find.
Also, you will need to go early during weekends since there are few parking spots around Laketown Beach. Make sure you obey the “no parking” rules.
There are several cabins, B&B apartments, and lodges near Laketown Beach. But the most outstanding hotel is Hampton Inn Holland, about 13 miles away. Your choice will depend on how far away from Laketown Beach you’re willing to stay.
Covert Township Park
This beach is as secluded as they come. I’m sure the name gave it away. Some people still find it hard to locate Covert Township park even with sufficient directions. It is located along 32nd Avenue and is only 10 minutes away from South Haven by car.
Covert Township Park has a peaceful and quiet beachfront. Visitors can rent a paddleboard or a kayak for daily use.
If you don’t plan to walk to the beach, make sure you go early. It can be hard to find a parking spot if you don’t reside in Covert Township. Residents get free access to the beach, while others must pay an $8 fee.
One hotel to consider is Lake Bluff Inn and Suites if you want to spend more than one day exploring the best beaches on Lake Michigan. It is a long walk from Covert Township Park, but you can always visit Deerlick Creek Park or Van Buren Creek Park along the way.
Pierport Beach
Pierport beach is so private that only some locals visit the beach most of the time. And I feel they want to keep it that way for now.
Pierport is one of the secluded beaches at Lake Michigan shoreline, which is hidden at the end of 13 Mile Road. Its tranquility, lush vegetation, and beautiful sunset views make it perfect for almost anyone, especially those who love solitude.
Like other secret Lake Michigan beaches, Pierport doesn’t have good hotels near its shores. However, if you like some adventure and plan to spend a few days in the area, you can stay at Port Wisconsin Inn and Suites. You may discover other beaches on Lake Michigan that you love too.
Douglas Beach Park
Like many other beaches in Lake Michigan, Douglas Beach Park has clear water, sandy shores, clean public restrooms, grills, and picnic tables. But what makes this beach more intriguing is the privacy.
Not everyone loves a private beach. But imagine a tranquil beachfront that offers almost all the services and activities you enjoy during the summer. You won’t have to worry about other visitors during your fun or leisure time.
The Hyatt House in Chicago is an excellent hotel. Since it isn’t close to Douglas Beach Park, you will have to drive downtown for attractions. Along the way, there are other lovely views and amazing sights. You can also always try out Rosemont Inn B&B for a more homey feel.
Enjoying The Best Beaches On Lake Michigan
The beaches on Lake Michigan are among some of the best in the United States. What’s more, each lake has its personality. The Michigan coast has many beaches suitable for every type of person and activity, and the above are just a few of the popular ones.
Some beaches are more crowded than others. Some are preferred people who like the convenience of a city, while others are better for the adventurous. There are so many beaches at Lake Michigan that there’s probably something for everyone. That means there’s a beach on Lake Michigan for you!
