Beaches · Michigan

Best beaches in Michigan

Michigan’s coast runs the full range — we’ve mapped 8 of its best beaches, from family, wild, scenic shores. Find the vibe you want, then build the trip around it.

Grand Haven State ParkFamilyGrand Haven · Best: Summera wide beach, a pier, and a candy-red lighthouse on Lake Michigan.Ludington State ParkWildLudington · Best: Summerbig dunes between Lake Michigan and an inland lake, with a lighthouse.Oval Beach (Saugatuck)ScenicSaugatuck · Best: Summera top-rated dune-backed Lake Michigan beach in an arts town.Petoskey State ParkFamilyPetoskey · Best: Summerhunt for namesake Petoskey stones along Little Traverse Bay.Silver Lake Sand DunesScenicMears · Best: Summera dune playground between an inland lake and Lake Michigan.Sleeping Bear DunesScenicEmpire · Best: Summer & falltowering dunes plunging into the turquoise water of Lake Michigan.Tawas PointFamilyEast Tawas · Best: Summerthe "Cape Cod of the Midwest" on warm Lake Huron.Warren DunesFamilySawyer · Best: Summerbig sand dunes and Lake Michigan swimming near the Indiana line.

Check local conditions, parking, and seasonal fees before you go — and always heed posted flags, rip-current warnings, and lifeguard guidance.