Michigan isn’t just the Great Lakes State — it’s one of the best places in the U.S. for a summer beach escape. With more than 3,200 miles of freshwater coastline, Michigan’s beaches combine sugar‑soft sand, gentle swimming spots for kids, epic sunsets, and nearby towns full of food, fun, and lodging. Whether you’re planning a week‑long vacation or a day‑trip with the family, this guide covers the top 15 family‑friendly beaches in Michigan for 2026 — complete with tips, amenities, and what makes each special.
1. First Street Beach – Manistee, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 1st Street Beach Rd, Manistee, MI 49660
Parking: Public lot available; some free, some paid. Arrive early on weekends.
Accessibility: ADA accessible; boardwalk to beach.
Beach Features:
Soft, white sand stretching over half a mile.
Gentle water slope; safe for toddlers and young swimmers.
Volleyball courts, picnic shelters, and shaded areas.
Daily lifeguards in summer season.
Family Activities:
Sandcastle building, kite flying, frisbee.
Nature trail nearby along the river for short family walks.
Seasonal events: sand sculpting contests and local summer festivals.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
The Mason Jar – cozy spot for breakfast or lunch, 5 minutes from beach.
Holiday Inn Express Manistee – family-friendly rooms with free breakfast.
- Tip: Sunset photography from the observation deck is spectacular; bring a blanket and snacks for a lakeside picnic.
2. Silver Beach County Park – St. Joseph, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 101 Broad St, St. Joseph, MI 49085
Parking: Ample public parking, with pay-per-day options.
Accessibility: Paved paths to beach; strollers easily managed.
Beach Features:
Calm waters; perfect for small kids.
Playground & splash pad for younger children.
Boardwalk area with shops, ice cream stands, and carousel.
Family Activities:
Paddleboarding and beach volleyball.
Nearby marina offers boat rentals.
Seasonal events: music festivals, family movie nights.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
Silver Beach Pizza – casual dining right by the beach.
The Inn at Harbor Shores – luxury family-friendly accommodations with lake views.
- Tip: Visit in the morning for fewer crowds, especially in July and August.
3. Oval Beach – Saugatuck/Douglas, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 3601 Lakeshore Dr, Saugatuck, MI 49453
Parking: Limited; free spaces along Lakeshore Drive; arrive early.
Accessibility: Boardwalk sections and accessible picnic spots.
Beach Features:
Wide sandy shoreline; clean and family-friendly.
Lifeguards during summer months.
Clear, shallow water suitable for wading and swimming.
Family Activities:
Build sandcastles, swim, or explore nearby dunes.
Hike Mount Baldhead for panoramic views.
Beachside galleries and small art shops for quick strolls.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
The Southerner – great casual family dining.
Hotel Saugatuck – boutique lodging with easy beach access.
- Tip: Bring water shoes for dune trails; kids love climbing and rolling in the sand.
4. Stearns Park Beach – Ludington, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: Stearns Park Rd, Ludington, MI 49431
Parking: Adjacent public parking; close to downtown.
Accessibility: Paved boardwalk and beach access for wheelchairs and strollers.
Beach Features:
Fine sand and gentle surf; ideal for swimming.
Picnic tables, shaded areas, and playground.
Nearby mini-golf and concession stands.
Family Activities:
Volleyball, frisbee, or casual beach games.
Evening walks on the boardwalk during sunset.
Fishing from nearby pier for older kids.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
Oswald’s Bear Den – family-friendly burgers and pizza.
Holiday Inn Express Ludington – clean, convenient stay with pool.
- Tip: Take a short walk to the Ludington State Park for hiking trails and scenic views.
5. Tawas Point State Park – East Tawas, Lake Huron
Location & Access:
Address: 5475 W Bay Shore Dr, East Tawas, MI 48730
Parking: Large state park lots; day-use fee or annual pass accepted.
Accessibility: Boardwalk areas and accessible restrooms.
Beach Features:
Calm, shallow waters; perfect for toddlers and waders.
Long shoreline with soft sand for quiet family beach days.
Historic Tawas Point Lighthouse to explore.
Family Activities:
Birdwatching along dunes; peak migration in May.
Kayaking or small boat launches available.
Camping spots with picnic tables and fire pits.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
Captain’s Galley – casual seafood and American fare.
East Tawas Motel – affordable family-friendly rooms.
- Tip: Camping here allows early morning sunrise walks and evening stargazing, a unique lakeside experience.
6. Grand Haven State Park – Grand Haven, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 16000 Lakeshore Dr, Grand Haven, MI 49417
Parking: Paid day-use parking; early arrival recommended in summer.
Accessibility: Boardwalks and ADA-accessible facilities.
Beach Features:
Wide sandy shoreline with gentle waves.
Lifeguards during summer months.
Volleyball courts, picnic areas, and shaded spots.
Family Activities:
Stroll the iconic Grand Haven Boardwalk to the lighthouse.
Swim, build sandcastles, or fly kites.
Attend summer events like outdoor concerts and “Coast Guard Festival.”
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
The Toasted Pickle – family-friendly breakfast and lunch.
Holiday Inn Express Grand Haven – pool, breakfast included.
- Tip: Sunset at the pier is legendary — bring a blanket and snacks for a perfect lakeside evening.
7. Bay City State Recreation Area – Bay City, Saginaw Bay
Location & Access:
Address: 8900 State Park Dr, Bay City, MI 48706
Parking: Large free lot within the park.
Accessibility: Paths and picnic shelters accessible; beach entry slightly sandy.
Beach Features:
Calm Saginaw Bay waters; shallow and safe for kids.
Sandy shoreline with surrounding dunes.
Fishing piers and boat launches available.
Family Activities:
Birdwatching along dunes (spring migration is excellent).
Paddle boating and canoeing on nearby waterways.
Hiking and picnic areas within the park.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
Crazy Horse Restaurant – casual dining for families.
Holiday Inn Express Bay City – clean rooms with breakfast.
- Tip: Less crowded than Lake Michigan beaches, ideal for families looking for a quieter day trip.
8. South Haven Beach – South Haven, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 901 Broadway St, South Haven, MI 49090
Parking: Public lots along beach; pay-per-day.
Accessibility: Boardwalk, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Beach Features:
White sand, gentle waves, and lifeguards.
Great for swimming, sandcastle building, and sunbathing.
Nearby pier with a small harbor for boat watching.
Family Activities:
Mini golf and ice cream shops along the main street.
Biking along Kal-Haven Trail for active families.
Seasonal festivals and farmers markets nearby.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
Captain Lou’s – seafood and family meals.
Hampton Inn South Haven – pool and breakfast included.
- Tip: Arrive early during peak summer to secure parking near the shoreline.
9. Hoffmaster State Park – Muskegon, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 14601 Lakeshore Dr, West Olive, MI 49460
Parking: Ample lot; entrance fee required.
Accessibility: Boardwalk paths, accessible restrooms.
Beach Features:
Wide, soft sand beach along Lake Michigan.
Shallow water for safe swimming.
Picnic shelters and trails through dunes.
Family Activities:
Dune climbing for adventurous kids.
Hiking trails through nature areas and birdwatching.
Swimming, volleyball, and family picnics.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
The Lake House – casual family-friendly dining.
Hoffmaster Campground Cabins – great for overnight stays near the beach.
- Tip: Bring water shoes for dune hiking — sand can get very hot in summer.
10. Petoskey State Park – Petoskey, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 13400 Petoskey State Park Rd, Petoskey, MI 49770
Parking: Day-use parking with state park fee.
Accessibility: Boardwalks and accessible picnic areas.
Beach Features:
Soft sand with shallow water for kids.
Lifeguards on duty in peak season.
Scenic views of Little Traverse Bay.
Family Activities:
Collecting Petoskey stones (Michigan’s state fossil).
Hiking and biking trails nearby.
Seasonal ranger programs and nature exploration.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
Stafford’s Pier Restaurant – kid-friendly meals with lake view.
Best Western of Petoskey – convenient location for families.
- Tip: Bring a bucket and shovel — kids love hunting for Petoskey stones along the shoreline.
11. Tunnel Park Beach – Holland, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 11401 Tunnel Park Rd, Holland, MI 49424
Parking: Paid parking; limited spaces, so arrive early.
Accessibility: Walkway through wooded dunes; some steep paths — best for families with older kids.
Beach Features:
Famous tunnel through the dunes leading to a scenic beach.
Soft sand, gentle surf, and beautiful sunset views.
Picnic tables available; no lifeguards, so swim with caution.
Family Activities:
Sandcastle building and kite flying.
Scenic photography at the tunnel and dunes.
Nature trails through surrounding woods for exploration.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
The Dutch Girl Creamery – quick ice cream treat.
Holland Inn – family-friendly accommodations nearby.
- Tip: Bring sturdy shoes for the dune walk; mornings are quieter before crowds arrive.
12. Oval Beach North – Douglas/Saugatuck, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 3600 Lakeshore Dr, Douglas, MI 49406
Parking: Limited public parking along Lakeshore Drive; small fee.
Accessibility: Boardwalk to beach; some sandy paths.
Beach Features:
Less crowded than the main Oval Beach area.
Shallow water, soft sand, lifeguards on duty in summer.
Nearby picnic spots and grassy areas.
Family Activities:
Swimming, sandcastle contests, and family picnics.
Short hike up nearby dunes for panoramic lake views.
Access to Saugatuck art galleries for a mid-day break.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
The Southerner Restaurant – casual family meals.
Hotel Saugatuck – easy access for families.
- Tip: Perfect for families who want the Oval Beach experience without the main beach crowds.
13. Grand Sable Dunes – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Lake Superior
Location & Access:
Address: H-58, Grand Marais, MI 49839
Parking: Designated lots; no fee.
Accessibility: Trail to beach can be steep and sandy — best for families with older kids.
Beach Features:
Expansive dunes leading to Lake Superior’s shoreline.
Crisp freshwater, minimal crowds, and wide open sand.
Stunning natural scenery, including forest-to-beach transition.
Family Activities:
Dune climbing, photography, and nature walks.
Short hikes along shoreline trails.
Birdwatching and spotting local wildlife.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
The Blacksmith Restaurant – casual local cuisine.
Grand Marais Lodge & Cabins – perfect for family overnight stays.
- Tip: Bring sunscreen and hats — little shade on dunes. Also, pack snacks and water as amenities are limited.
14. Ludington State Park Beach – Ludington, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 8800 W Parkdale Ave, Ludington, MI 49431
Parking: Paid parking within the state park; early arrival recommended.
Accessibility: Boardwalks, accessible picnic areas, and trails.
Beach Features:
Wide, sandy shoreline with shallow water for children.
Lifeguards on duty in summer.
Picnic areas, campgrounds, and shaded forest spots nearby.
Family Activities:
Swimming, sunbathing, and beach games.
Hiking and dune exploration.
Nearby Ludington Lake for paddle boating.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
Oswald’s Bear Den – burgers and family meals.
Ludington State Park Cabins & Campgrounds – convenient for overnight stays.
- Tip: Early morning is best for quiet family time; afternoon brings more crowds.
15. North Beach – Charlevoix, Lake Michigan
Location & Access:
Address: 300 N Beach St, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Parking: Public parking; meters apply in peak season.
Accessibility: Boardwalk and paved path for strollers and wheelchairs.
Beach Features:
Soft sand with gentle waves suitable for kids.
Lifeguards during summer season.
Scenic lighthouse views and nearby playgrounds.
Family Activities:
Swimming, sandcastle building, and kite flying.
Visit nearby Charlevoix lighthouse for exploration.
Seasonal community events: music, farmers markets, and local fairs.
Nearby Eats & Lodging:
Stafford’s Pier Restaurant – family-friendly meals with lake views.
Best Western Plus Charlevoix – comfortable family-friendly accommodations.
- Tip: Sunset over the lighthouse is spectacular; bring a camera for family photos
Final Thoughts
Michigan’s beaches are a hidden treasure for families. From the lively boardwalks of Silver Beach to the quiet dunes of Grand Sable, there’s something for every type of family getaway. With soft sand, safe waters, and plenty of nearby amenities, these 15 beaches are perfect for making unforgettable memories in 2026. Pack sunscreen, snacks, and a sense of adventure — Michigan’s freshwater coasts are ready to welcome you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which Michigan beach is best for toddlers?
First Street Beach in Manistee and Tawas Point State Park on Lake Huron have shallow, calm waters ideal for little kids.
2. Are there lifeguards at Michigan beaches?
Many popular beaches like Silver Beach, Oval Beach, and Stearns Park have lifeguards in summer; state parks may vary.
3. Do I need a parking pass or fee?
Some state parks require a recreation pass or parking fee, while city beaches often have public or paid lots.
4. When is the best time to visit Michigan beaches?
Mid-June to early September offers the warmest water and most family-friendly conditions. Early mornings are best to avoid crowds.
5. Are pets allowed on Michigan beaches?
Most beaches restrict dogs on sand during summer; check local rules. Some beaches allow pets in off-season or designated areas.
