Best Family Friendly Beaches in Michigan

Tawas City Park, located in East Tawas, Michigan, offers a beautiful beach experience along Lake Huron. The park features a 1600-foot groomed beach, perfect for swimming from mid-May to Labor Day. It is buoyed and marked as a designated swimming area, though there is no lifeguard on duty. The park also includes a family picnic area with barbecue grills, playground equipment, and restroom facilities. Visitors can enjoy boating and fishing with access to the DNR State boat launch ramp nearby. The park's scenic waterfront area is enhanced with new benches, a playground, pavilion, fountain, and flower-lined walkways, creating a relaxing environment for all. The beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a serene and enjoyable experience.

The park's proximity to various attractions, including the Iosco County Historical Museum, makes it a great base for exploring the area's history and culture. Additionally, the park supports a range of outdoor activities throughout the year, from summer swimming to winter cross-country skiing at nearby trails.

Tawas City Park is well-integrated into the local community, with its campground generating revenue that supports other parks and recreational facilities in East Tawas. This integration ensures that visitors have access to a variety of amenities and activities during their stay.

Stearns Park Beach is a beautiful beach located in Ludington, United States. The beach is approximately half a mile long and features soft, white sand.

Ludington State Park Beach is a stunning beach located in Hamlin Township, United States. This beach is approximately 1.5 miles long and features soft golden sand.

Esch Beach is a stunning beach located in Lake Township, United States. The beach is approximately 1200 feet long and features soft, white sand.

Sleeping Bear Point, located near Glen Arbor, Michigan, is part of the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This area is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, featuring towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and lush forests. The dunes offer spectacular views of Lake Michigan, while the surrounding landscape is dotted with historic sites and picturesque villages. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and swimming to exploring the local culture and history.
The region is steeped in Ojibwe legend, with the name 'Sleeping Bear' originating from a story about a mother bear and her cubs. The area's natural and cultural attractions make it a popular destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike.
With its unique blend of natural wonders and rich history, Sleeping Bear Point is an ideal spot for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Northern Michigan.

North Beach in South Haven, Michigan, is a picturesque and popular destination along the shores of Lake Michigan. It offers a wide range of activities such as swimming, kiteboarding, beach volleyball, and fishing. The beach is ADA accessible and features a playground, pier, picnic area, and concessions. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets and scenic views of the marina. The beach is open daily from sunrise to 11:00 PM, making it an ideal spot for both daytime and evening activities.
The North Side of South Haven, where North Beach is located, is known for its charming neighborhood with unique vacation homes and historic bed and breakfasts. The area provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for family vacations or romantic getaways.
North Beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make it a must-visit during any trip to South Haven.

Whitefish Bay, located near Alpena, Michigan, is not directly associated with the city but is a significant bay on Lake Superior. However, Alpena itself offers beautiful beaches along Lake Huron, such as those found in Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park and Bay View Park. These areas provide scenic views, picnic spots, and recreational activities like swimming and volleyball. The region is known for its natural beauty and outdoor opportunities, making it a charming destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Alpena's parks and beaches are well-connected to the city's infrastructure, offering modern conveniences amidst natural settings. The area is perfect for families and nature lovers alike, with plenty of space for outdoor activities and exploration.

The city's proximity to Lake Huron and its scenic parks ensures that visitors can enjoy a variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches to wooded trails, all within a short distance from downtown Alpena.

Tannery Beach is a picturesque destination located in the heart of Boyne City, Michigan, offering stunning views of Lake Charlevoix. It is a popular spot for dog owners, as it allows dogs to swim and play along the beach. The beach also welcomes kayaks and canoes, providing easy access to the lake for water activities. In winter, it serves as a point of entry for ice fishermen. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the sand or engaging in various water sports. The beach's proximity to downtown Boyne City makes it an ideal spot for those looking to combine beach activities with the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Tannery Beach is part of the broader appeal of Boyne City, which is known for its beautiful lakeside setting and lively community events. The city hosts a bustling farmer's market and an art district, making it a great place to explore beyond the beach.

The surrounding area offers numerous attractions, including Boyne Mountain Resort, which features skiing, golf courses, and an indoor waterpark. This combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes Tannery Beach a must-visit destination in northern Michigan.

Belle Isle Beach is located on Belle Isle, a 982-acre island park in the Detroit River, Michigan. It offers a serene escape from the city, with a half-mile swimming beach and picturesque views. The beach is part of a larger park that includes attractions like the Belle Isle Aquarium, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, and the James Scott Memorial Fountain. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and exploring the island's natural beauty. Access to the island is via the MacArthur Bridge, and a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry.
The beach itself is known for its clear waters and sandy shores, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The surrounding park area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Belle Isle Beach is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Detroit's waterfront.

Empire Beach, located in the charming village of Empire, Michigan, is a picturesque destination nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan. It offers a blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, serving as a gateway to the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The beach itself is renowned for its clear waters and sandy shores, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy the nearby Robert H. Manning Memorial Lighthouse and explore the historic village with its quaint shops and eateries.
Empire Beach is a family-friendly spot, featuring amenities like a playground, grilling equipment, and fire rings. It's also a great base for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the surrounding natural landscapes.
The area's rich heritage and community spirit make it a memorable getaway for those seeking a serene and adventurous experience.

Grand Haven City Beach is a picturesque destination located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Grand Haven, Michigan. It is nestled between The Noto's At The Bilmar restaurant and Grand Haven State Park on Harbor Drive. The beach offers a large sandy area perfect for families and dog lovers, with limited free parking available. No fees or passes are required to enjoy the beach, making it an accessible spot for all visitors. The beach is open from dawn to dusk, providing ample time for sunbathing, swimming, and other activities.
The area is rich in history, with the city purchasing the beach property in the early 20th century to create a public beach. Today, it remains a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
The scenic views of Lake Michigan and the nearby Grand Haven pier and lighthouse add to the beach's charm, making it a must-visit destination in West Michigan.

Pere Marquette Park in Muskegon, Michigan, is situated on the shores of Lake Michigan and offers a beautiful beach experience. The park features stunning views, sandy shores, and opportunities for various recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the scenic views. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty and provides numerous outdoor activities like hiking and biking. The vibrant city of Muskegon offers a mix of cultural attractions and historic landmarks nearby.
The park is well-equipped to handle visitors throughout the year, with amenities and services available to enhance the beach experience. Whether you're looking for tranquility or adventure, Pere Marquette Park has something for everyone.
In addition to its natural beauty, the park benefits from its proximity to Muskegon’s dining and shopping scene, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and entertainment.

Oscoda Beach Park is a vibrant destination located in northern Michigan, offering a serene blend of natural beauty and community spirit. Situated just a few blocks from downtown Oscoda, the park provides easy access to shopping and dining options. It features a long boardwalk, a sandy beach, and a pier, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and family fun. The park hosts various events, including free movies and concerts during the summer, enhancing its appeal as a community hub. The beach itself is known for its shallow waters, making it safe for families with children. While there are no lifeguards, the gradual slope of the lake floor ensures a safe swimming experience.

Oscoda Beach Park also includes amenities like a splash pad, playground, basketball court, and skateboard park, catering to a wide range of interests. The park's proximity to downtown Oscoda and its scenic views of Lake Huron make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.

Future developments include plans for a new parking lot and the addition of a nearby Holiday Inn Express, further enhancing the park's appeal as a tourist destination.

Hoeft State Park is located in Rogers Township, Michigan, offering a serene beach experience along Lake Huron. The park is heavily wooded, covering 301 acres with a mile of shoreline, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, and picnicking amidst the beautiful scenery. The park's history dates back to 1920, making it one of Michigan's earliest state parks.
The beach itself is known for its sandy dunes and offers stunning views of Great Lakes shipping traffic. It's a popular spot for family outings and nature lovers alike. The park's quiet atmosphere, except during peak holidays like the 4th of July, makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace.
With its rich history and natural beauty, Hoeft State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Port Crescent State Park is located at the tip of Michigan's Thumb, offering a serene escape with three miles of pristine Lake Huron shoreline. The park is nestled in Hume Township, Huron County, and covers 640 acres. It was once the site of the ghost town Port Crescent, which thrived in the 1860s due to timber jobs but declined after the Thumb Fire of 1881. Today, the park is renowned for its Dark Sky Preserve, providing exceptional stargazing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, canoeing, and cross-country skiing. The park's scenic beauty and rich history make it a compelling destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Port Crescent State Park is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it serves as a critical stop for migrating songbirds and birds of prey. The park features a significant wooded dune/swale complex and is home to rare flora like the pitcher's thistle. Its proximity to Port Austin makes it an ideal base for exploring local attractions and enjoying the region's small-town charm.

The park's history is deeply intertwined with the natural environment, having transformed from a bustling timber town to a tranquil recreational area. This transformation reflects the region's adaptation to environmental changes and the importance of preserving natural resources.

Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan, is a stunning destination nestled among towering sand dunes and bordered by the Kalamazoo River as it flows into Lake Michigan. This beach is renowned for its beautiful shoreline and has been recognized as one of the top beaches globally by publications like Condé Nast Traveler and MTV. Visitors enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and hiking, with the beach offering a boardwalk for easier access. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The beach's unique setting, with its backdrop of rolling dunes, provides a picturesque environment for relaxation and recreation. It is open year-round, though peak summer hours can see the parking area reach capacity. The city encourages visitors to plan ahead and consider alternative modes of transportation, such as walking or biking.
Downtown Saugatuck offers additional attractions, including art galleries, restaurants, and shops, making Oval Beach a central part of a broader vacation experience.

Mackinaw City Beach, located in the heart of Michigan, offers a serene and picturesque getaway. Situated on the shores of Lake Huron, it provides stunning views of Mackinac Island and the Straits of Mackinac. The beach is known for its beautiful white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including water sports and exploring the nearby historical attractions like Colonial Michilimackinac and the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum.
The area is also famous for its vibrant downtown, filled with shops and restaurants that cater to all tastes. Whether you're looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled trip, Mackinaw City Beach has something for everyone.
The beach's proximity to Mackinac Island ferry services makes it an ideal base for exploring the island's natural beauty and historical sites.

Warren Dunes State Park Beach is located in Sawyer, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan. This stunning beach is part of a 1,952-acre park that features towering sand dunes, including Tower Hill, which rises 240 feet above the lake. The park is renowned for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and sandboarding, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The beach offers a serene and natural setting, perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.

The park's unique landscape, shaped by glacial activity, provides breathtaking views and exciting recreational opportunities. With over a million visitors annually, it remains one of Michigan's most beloved state parks. The area is also rich in history, having been preserved by Edward K. Warren as a conservation effort.

Throughout the year, Warren Dunes State Park offers a variety of seasonal activities, from hiking and birdwatching in the spring to hang gliding and sandboarding in the summer. The park's accessibility features make it enjoyable for visitors of all abilities.

South Haven South Beach is a picturesque destination located on the shores of Lake Michigan in South Haven, Michigan. It offers a beautiful sandy beach with scenic vistas, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. The beach is known for its iconic red lighthouse, which provides a stunning backdrop for photos and adds to the charm of the area. South Beach is designed with families in mind, offering amenities like concession stands, picnic areas, and play equipment for children. The beach is well-maintained, with a focus on cleanliness and accessibility for all visitors.

The beach's vibrant atmosphere is perfect for a day of fun in the sun, with activities ranging from swimming and sunbathing to picnics and beach volleyball. The nearby town of South Haven offers a blend of old-fashioned charm and modern amenities, making it an idyllic lakeside escape. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, explore local shops and cafes, or take part in outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

South Haven South Beach is part of a larger network of beaches in the area, each offering unique experiences and attractions. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or family fun, South Beach and its surroundings provide an unforgettable experience along Michigan's sunset coast.