Best Beaches in Michigan: Michigan is a state known for its beautiful natural landscapes and diverse outdoor activities, and its beaches are no exception. With over 3,000 miles of shoreline, Michigan offers a wide range of beach destinations for families to explore, from the Great Lakes to smaller inland lakes and rivers. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Michigan’s beaches have something for everyone. From sandy shorelines and crystal-clear waters to hiking trails and water sports, Michigan’s beaches offer endless opportunities for outdoor fun and relaxation. In this guide, we will explore some of the best beaches in Michigan for families to visit and enjoy.
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Best Beaches in Michigan
Find some of the best beaches in Michigan to visit.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-visit destination for families looking to experience the natural beauty of Michigan’s beaches. Located in the northwestern part of the state, the park features stunning sand dunes, crystal-clear waters, and a range of outdoor activities for families to enjoy.
The park boasts over 35 miles of pristine shoreline, including the popular Sleeping Bear Point and Empire Beaches. These beaches offer plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking, as well as opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
One of the highlights of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the towering sand dunes that rise up to 450 feet above Lake Michigan. Families can hike the dunes and take in breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding countryside. The park also offers ranger-led programs and educational opportunities for kids, making it a perfect family destination.
With its natural beauty, diverse range of activities, and educational opportunities, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a top beach destination for families looking to experience the best of Michigan’s beaches.
Cheboygan State Park Beach
Cheboygan State Park Beach is a hidden gem in Northern Michigan that offers a perfect family-friendly beach experience. The park is located on the shores of Lake Huron, and features a long sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
The beach at Cheboygan State Park offers a variety of amenities for families to enjoy, including picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and changing rooms. Families can also take advantage of the park’s hiking trails, playgrounds, and other outdoor activities, including fishing and boating.
One of the highlights of Cheboygan State Park is its proximity to Mackinac Island, a popular tourist destination known for its historic charm and beautiful scenery. Families can take a ferry from Cheboygan to Mackinac Island and spend the day exploring the island’s many attractions.
With its beautiful shoreline, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to nearby attractions, Cheboygan State Park Beach is a top destination for families looking to enjoy the best of Michigan’s beaches.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a unique beach destination located on the shores of Lake Michigan in western Michigan. The area is known for its massive sand dunes, which rise up to 450 feet above the lake and create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities.
The dunes at Silver Lake are a popular destination for families looking to experience the thrill of off-road driving, with many companies offering dune buggy and ATV rentals. Families can also explore the dunes on foot, with hiking trails and guided tours available.
The park also offers a beautiful beach area, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Families can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other water sports equipment, or simply relax on the beach and take in the scenic views.
In addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Silver Lake Sand Dunes also offers a range of dining and shopping options, as well as nearby attractions such as the Little Sable Point Lighthouse and the Silver Lake State Park.
With its unique landscape, thrilling outdoor activities, and family-friendly amenities, Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a top beach destination for families looking to experience the best of Michigan’s beaches.
Mackinac Island Beach
Mackinac Island Beach is a picturesque destination located on Mackinac Island in Lake Huron, Michigan. The island is known for its historic charm, beautiful scenery, and relaxed pace, making it a perfect family destination.
The beach at Mackinac Island is a small, but scenic, stretch of shoreline that offers calm waters and stunning views of the lake. Families can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, as well as kayaking and paddleboarding.
In addition to its natural beauty, Mackinac Island offers a range of family-friendly attractions, including historic forts, carriage rides, and bike rentals. Families can also indulge in the island’s famous fudge, explore the local shops and restaurants, and take in the breathtaking views from atop the island’s famous bluffs.
One of the unique features of Mackinac Island is its car-free policy, which creates a peaceful and safe environment for families to explore. Bikes, horse-drawn carriages, and walking are the primary modes of transportation on the island, creating a fun and unique family adventure.
With its charming atmosphere, picturesque beach, and range of family-friendly activities, Mackinac Island is a top destination for families looking to experience the best of Michigan’s beaches.
Tawas Point State Park Beach
Tawas Point State Park Beach is a beautiful destination located on the shores of Lake Huron in northeastern Michigan. The park is known for its picturesque lighthouse, sandy beaches, and clear blue waters, making it a top family-friendly beach destination in Michigan.
The beach at Tawas Point State Park offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, with miles of white sand beaches to explore. Families can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other water sports equipment, or take a guided fishing excursion.
One of the unique features of Tawas Point State Park is its historic lighthouse, which dates back to 1876 and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding area. Families can climb to the top of the lighthouse and learn about its history and importance to the area.
The park also offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including hiking trails, a playground, and a visitor center with exhibits and educational programs. Nearby attractions include the Tawas Point Birding Trail, the Au Sable River, and the Huron-Manistee National Forest.
With its beautiful beaches, historic lighthouse, and range of family-friendly activities, Tawas Point State Park Beach is a top destination for families looking to experience the best of Michigan’s beaches.