Best Beaches in Michigan: 15 Great Lakes Spots (Map Included)

Last updated: January 20, 2026

Michigan beaches don’t need an ocean to feel like a big deal. We’ve got sand dunes, clear water, long piers, rocky Lake Superior drama, and inland-lake “Caribbean blue” on the right day. This guide is built to be practical: where to go, what it’s like, and how to have a good beach day without fighting the entire state.

Best sunset beaches: Lake Michigan (west side)
Calmer water (often): Lake Huron (east side)
Most dramatic scenery: Lake Superior (UP)
Warmest-feeling swim days: shallow bays + inland lakes

Quick map + “which lake should I pick?”

Lake Michigan is the classic: dunes, wide sand, and sunsets to write home about. Lake Huron can feel calmer and is a strong choice for families (plus you get great sunrises). Lake Superior is colder, wilder, and more dramatic—perfect for hiking + beach combos. Inland lakes are generally the warmest and calmest on peak summer days.

Map:

15 best beaches in Michigan

1) Platte River Point — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Near Honor/Empire)

Why it’s great: a “two-in-one” day: big Lake Michigan beach plus the river mouth area.
Best for: classic beach days and sunset.
Local tip: go early in peak summer—parking is the whole game.
Map: Open in Google Maps

2) Esch Beach — Sleeping Bear Dunes (Near Empire)

Why it’s great: a slightly quieter Sleeping Bear option with a “walk in and exhale” feel.
Best for: beach + a short nature walk vibe.
Local tip: bring a wind layer—dunes funnel breezes.
Map: Open in Google Maps

3) Glen Haven Beach — Sleeping Bear Dunes (Near Glen Arbor)

Why it’s great: an easy “full day” setup: beach time plus nearby scenic drives and historic spots.
Best for: families and first-timers.
Local tip: pair it with Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for the big views.
Map: Open in Google Maps

4) Good Harbor Bay Beach — Leelanau County (Near Leland)

Why it’s great: clear-water beach energy without committing to a full dune hike.
Best for: swimming days and “postcard” water.
Local tip: arrive early; it’s popular for a reason.
Map: Open in Google Maps

5) Oval Beach — Saugatuck

Why it’s great: a top-tier Lake Michigan beach paired with a charming artsy town weekend.
Best for: couples and classic summer weekends.
Local tip: go late afternoon and stay for sunset; it’s the main event.
Map: Open in Google Maps

6) Holland State Park — Holland

Why it’s great: easy access, iconic lighthouse views, and a strong “we’re on vacation” feel.
Best for: families and first-time Lake Michigan trips.
Local tip: weekdays are dramatically easier than Saturdays in July.
Map: Open in Google Maps

7) Grand Haven State Park — Grand Haven

Why it’s great: beach + pier walks + a lively summer town.
Best for: “do a little of everything” beach weekends.
Local tip: do a sunset pier walk even if you’re not a “sunset person.”
Map: Open in Google Maps

8) Pere Marquette Park Beach — Muskegon

Why it’s great: big sand and a strong “open sky” feel—great when you want room.
Best for: long beach walks and sunset.
Local tip: pair it with a downtown Muskegon stop for a full day.
Map: Open in Google Maps

9) Ludington State Park Beach — Ludington

Why it’s great: beach + dunes + a state-park day all in one place.
Best for: camping weekends and outdoorsy families.
Local tip: start with a trail or lighthouse-style adventure, then end with beach time.
Map: Open in Google Maps

10) Warren Dunes State Park — Sawyer

Why it’s great: the “big dunes” beach day—climb, sweat, then swim.
Best for: active beach days and groups.
Local tip: do the dune climb early; afternoons can feel like walking on a frying pan.
Map: Open in Google Maps

11) Silver Beach — St. Joseph

Why it’s great: an easy “town + beach” combo with simple logistics.
Best for: families and quick weekends.
Local tip: go early for parking, then treat downtown as your lunch break.
Map: Open in Google Maps

12) Tawas Point State Park — Lake Huron (East Tawas)

Why it’s great: a sandy point that’s built for long shoreline walks and “hang out all day” beach time.
Best for: sunrise people and calmer-water swims.
Local tip: windy days are still fun—just plan for a walk-and-explore day instead of pure swimming.
Map: Open in Google Maps

13) Port Crescent State Park — The Thumb (Near Port Austin)

Why it’s great: a less-hyped shoreline with room to breathe—great if you want “Michigan beach” without the busiest west-side towns.
Best for: quieter weekends and stargazing.
Local tip: combine with a Thumb road trip loop (M-25) for an easy two-day itinerary.
Map: Open in Google Maps

14) Sand Point Beach — Munising (Lake Superior)

Why it’s great: Lake Superior beach energy with Pictured Rocks access nearby—perfect for a “hike + beach” day.
Best for: UP trips and dramatic shoreline vibes.
Local tip: Superior is cold; treat this as a “walk, explore, and maybe wade” beach unless it’s a very warm day.
Map: Open in Google Maps

15) Presque Isle Park shoreline — Marquette (Lake Superior)

Why it’s great: rocky coves, Superior views, and a “drive it, walk it, pick your spot” shoreline park.
Best for: sunset walks, wave watching, and quick nature breaks in town.
Local tip: bring sturdy sandals/shoes—this is more “shoreline exploring” than pure sand lounging.
Map: Open in Google Maps

Beach-day basics (Michigan edition)

Wind is real: pack a light layer even in July.
Waves change fast: Great Lakes can look calm and then get rough—swim smart and stay aware.
Parking is strategy: go early, especially on west-side Saturdays.
Sand + feet: dunes get hot; water shoes are underrated.