Sandee logo Blue
  • Countries
  • Blogs
  • Map
  • Nude Beaches
  • Sharks
  • Beach News
Sandee logo Blue
Home
Countries
Blog
Map
Nude Beaches
Sharks
Beach News

Sandee logo Blue
instagramfacebooktwitteryoutube
Choose Your Beach! TM
  • Explore

  • Countries

  • Nude Beaches

  • Best Beaches

  • Sitemap

  • Company

  • About

  • Press

  • Mr. Beach

  • License Our Data

  • Legal

  • Privacy Policy

  • Cookie Policy

  • Terms and Conditions

  • Community

  • Beach News

  • Contact Us

  • Save Our Oceans

Explore
Company
Legal
Community

© 2025 by Sandee, LLC.   All rights reserved.

Home >  United States  >  Michigan  >  Empire  >  

North Bar

North Bar

United States, Michigan, Empire 

Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee

North Bar

United States, Michigan, Empire 

Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee
Sandee North Bar

50.210

°F

|

°C

Icon

Clear

10 Km74%7.23 m/s

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

50.2 °F10 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

54.0 °F12 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

59.9 °F15 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

61.5 °F16 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

55.1 °F13 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

41.3 °F5 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

40.7 °F5 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

41.0 °F5 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

44.4 °F7 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

51.6 °F11 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.2 °F11 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

50.4 °F10 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

48.7 °F9 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

47.1 °F8 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

48.1 °F9 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

47.8 °F9 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

49.4 °F9 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

55.7 °F13 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

57.0 °F14 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.1 °F12 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.5 °F11 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.4 °F12 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.1 °F12 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.6 °F11 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

54.1 °F12 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

60.2 °F16 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

57.0 °F14 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

58.0 °F14 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

54.4 °F12 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

54.0 °F12 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.3 °F12 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.8 °F12 °C

8:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.2 °F12 °C

11:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

58.1 °F14 °C

2:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

57.3 °F14 °C

5:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

57.2 °F14 °C

8:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

54.1 °F12 °C

11:00 PM

Sandee Weather Icon

53.5 °F12 °C

2:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

52.2 °F11 °C

5:00 AM

Sandee Weather Icon

51.1 °F10 °C

North Bar Beach, located near Empire, Michigan, is a picturesque destination within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It features North Bar Lake, a shallow and warm lake ideal for families with small children, and a short walk over the dunes leads to the expansive Lake Michigan beach. The area offers a unique combination of tranquil lake swimming and the excitement of Lake Michigan's waves. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, hiking, and water activities like kayaking and canoeing. The beach is accessible via a crushed stone trail, making it a great spot for both relaxation and adventure.

The surrounding landscape is dotted with pine trees and offers stunning views, especially during fall when the foliage is vibrant. The area is rich in natural beauty and ecological diversity, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

North Bar Beach is also known for its dynamic shoreline, where the sand bar connecting North Bar Lake to Lake Michigan can open and close depending on wave action, creating a fascinating natural spectacle.

For dining near North Bar Beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of options in Empire and nearby areas. Joe's Friendly Tavern is a classic spot for burgers and cocktails, offering a cozy atmosphere and fast service. Empire Village Inn provides family-friendly American fare with a casual setting. For a quick bite, Shipwreck Cafe offers sandwiches and breakfast options in a cozy environment. Further away, Platte River Inn in Honor serves American classics with a focus on comfort food.

These establishments offer a mix of casual dining and local flavors, perfect for refueling after a day at the beach.

Accommodations near North Bar Beach include The Homestead, a resort hotel in Glen Arbor offering luxurious amenities like a spa and sports facilities. Closer to Empire, Empire Lakeshore Inn provides simple yet cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi and parking. For a more rustic experience, Empire Township Campground offers camping options with basic amenities.

These options cater to different preferences, from luxury to budget-friendly stays.

North Bar Beach offers basic amenities to enhance the visitor experience. There is a large paved parking lot and accessible vault toilets near the parking area and by the lake. However, drinking water is not available on site. The beach is connected to North Bar Lake via a crushed stone trail, which becomes sandy and steep as it leads over the dunes to Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy scenic views and picnic areas nearby, though specific picnic facilities are not detailed at the beach itself.

For water activities, carry-in access is available for canoes and kayaks, allowing visitors to paddle across North Bar Lake and portage to Lake Michigan.

North Bar Beach and its surroundings offer a variety of activities. Swimming is popular in both North Bar Lake and Lake Michigan, with the lake being warmer and more suitable for families. Kayaking and canoeing are also favored, with the option to paddle from North Bar Lake to Lake Michigan via a short portage. The area is great for scenic viewing and hiking, with trails that lead over the dunes and along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Visitors can explore the unique ecological features of the area, including the dynamic sand bar that connects the two bodies of water.

North Bar Beach offers some accessibility features. The trail from the parking lot to North Bar Lake is a flat, hard-packed path, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, the trail becomes sandy and steep as it leads over the dunes to Lake Michigan, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Restrooms are accessible and located near the parking area and by the lake. Pets are not allowed at North Bar Lake, which helps maintain the natural environment.

Visitors should plan accordingly based on their mobility needs.

Parking at North Bar Beach is convenient, with a large paved parking lot available. The lot is located near the trailhead that leads to the beach, making it easily accessible for visitors. There are no specific fees mentioned for parking, but visitors should be aware of any national park fees that may apply. The proximity to the beach is a short walk, making it suitable for families and those with mobility needs.

The parking area also includes restrooms, which are accessible and convenient for visitors.

North Bar Beach is part of a unique geological formation, where North Bar Lake was once a bay on Lake Michigan. The sand bar that separates the two bodies of water can open and close depending on wave action, creating a dynamic and fascinating natural phenomenon. The area is also known for its rich ecological diversity, hosting a variety of aquatic and terrestrial life. Historically, the region has been significant for its natural beauty and has been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is home to numerous shipwrecks, remnants of the region's maritime past.

Near North Bar Beach, several attractions enhance the visitor experience. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers stunning sand dunes and scenic drives, such as the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, which provides breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Empire Beach, located nearby, features a historic lighthouse and offers additional recreational activities like grilling and picnicking. The area is also rich in natural and historical significance, with opportunities to explore shipwreck sites and learn about local ecology.

Visitors can explore the charming town of Empire for its shops and dining options.

Basic Details

INRestroom Available

INBeige

IN9252 Bar Rd, Empire, MI 49630, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Showers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Fishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Parking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesStairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • North Bar - Beach Map

    Loading Beaches...

    Explore Top Destinations

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does North Bar have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.

    Does North Bar have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is North Bar a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is North Bar good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does North Bar have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is North Bar a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near North Bar?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at North Bar?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Bike Paths, Hiking.

    Does North Bar have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is North Bar a dog-friendly beach?

    Yes, bring your dog with you to this Beach!

    Is North Bar good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

    Beaches Near North Bar

    Sandee Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook

    Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook

    Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
    Empire, USA(0.81 Miles)
    Sandee Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    Glen Arbor, USA(2.12 Miles)
    Sandee Empire Municipal Beach

    Empire Municipal Beach

    Empire Municipal Beach
    Empire, USA(2.32 Miles)
    Sandee Lake Michigan Beach Park

    Lake Michigan Beach Park

    Lake Michigan Beach Park
    Charlevoix, USA(2.39 Miles)
    Sandee Empire Beach

    Empire Beach

    Empire Beach
    Empire, USA(2.39 Miles)
    Sandee Glen Lake Beach Park

    Glen Lake Beach Park

    Glen Lake Beach Park
    Glen Arbor, USA(3.09 Miles)
    Sandee Sleeping Bear Dunes

    Sleeping Bear Dunes

    Sleeping Bear Dunes
    Glen Arbor, USA(3.25 Miles)
    Sandee Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach

    Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach

    Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach
    Glen Arbor, USA(3.59 Miles)
    Sandee Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Platte River Point

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Platte River Point

    Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Platte River Point
    Glen Arbor, USA(3.82 Miles)
    Sandee Sleeping Bear Point

    Sleeping Bear Point

    Sleeping Bear Point
    Glen Arbor, USA(4.92 Miles)

    Best State Beaches in Michigan

    Sandee Caseville County Park

    Caseville County Park

    Caseville County Park
    Caseville , USA
    Sandee Tiscornia Park

    Tiscornia Park

    Tiscornia Park
    Saint Joseph , USA
    Sandee Hoffmaster State Park

    Hoffmaster State Park

    Hoffmaster State Park
    Norton Shores , USA
    Sandee Grand Haven City Beach

    Grand Haven City Beach

    Grand Haven City Beach
    Grand Haven , USA
    Sandee Warren Dunes State Park

    Warren Dunes State Park

    Warren Dunes State Park
    Sawyer , USA
    Sandee South Haven South Beach

    South Haven South Beach

    South Haven South Beach
    South Haven , USA
    Sandee Lakeside Beach

    Lakeside Beach

    Lakeside Beach
    Port Huron , USA
    Sandee Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach

    Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach

    Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach
    Glen Arbor , USA
    Sandee Caseville County Park

    Caseville County Park

    Caseville County Park
    Caseville , USA
    Sandee Tiscornia Park

    Tiscornia Park

    Tiscornia Park
    Saint Joseph , USA
    Sandee Hoffmaster State Park

    Hoffmaster State Park

    Hoffmaster State Park
    Norton Shores , USA
    Sandee Grand Haven City Beach

    Grand Haven City Beach

    Grand Haven City Beach
    Grand Haven , USA
    Sandee Warren Dunes State Park

    Warren Dunes State Park

    Warren Dunes State Park
    Sawyer , USA
    Sandee South Haven South Beach

    South Haven South Beach

    South Haven South Beach
    South Haven , USA
    Sandee Lakeside Beach

    Lakeside Beach

    Lakeside Beach
    Port Huron , USA
    Sandee Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach

    Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach

    Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach
    Glen Arbor , USA
    View All

    EXPERT ADVICE AND TIPS

    Beach Blogs

    Read All Blogs
    Sandee - Blog / Live Hurricane Milton Updates

    Oct 09, 2024 SANDEE

    Live Hurricane Milton Updates

    Live Hurricane Milton Updates

    Discover how hurricanes, like the powerful Hurricane Milton, are classified into categories and the damage each category can cause. Learn how Florida and other regions prepare for such storms.

    Sandee - Blog / Discover the Mysterious Velella Washing Ashore on California Beaches

    Oct 02, 2024 SANDEE

    Discover the Mysterious Velella Washing Ashore on California Beaches

    Discover the Mysterious Velella Washing Ashore on California Beaches

    If you're visiting California's iconic beaches this season, you might encounter some unusual, vibrant blue creatures washed ashore. These tiny marine organisms, known as Velella Velella, are captivating tourists and locals alike. Often referred to as "by-the-wind sailors," these creatures have recently been appearing in large numbers along the West Coast, including popular beaches in Santa Cruz, Malibu, and Santa Barbara. This phenomenon adds a touch of intrigue to California’s already scenic shores, making your beach visit even more unforgettable.

    Sandee - Blog / Trapped and Swallowed by Quicksand

    Aug 20, 2024 SANDEE

    Trapped and Swallowed by Quicksand

    Trapped and Swallowed by Quicksand

    Quick! That’s how fast it happened—one moment, Jamie Acord was enjoying a peaceful stroll along the beach with her husband, and the next, she was waist-deep in quicksand.

    Sandee - Blog / Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

    May 28, 2024 SANDEE

    Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

    Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

    Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California

    Sandee - Blog / 4 Best Cliff Jumping Beaches in the United States

    May 14, 2024 SANDEE

    4 Best Cliff Jumping Beaches in the United States

    4 Best Cliff Jumping Beaches in the United States

    Discover the top cliff jumping beaches in the United States! Dive into our expert guide to find the most exhilarating spots for adrenaline-pumping jumps, breathtaking views, and unforgettable beach adventures. Perfect for thrill seekers!

    Sandee - Blog / Pet-Friendly Beaches - Top 3 Destinations to Vacation with Your Dog or Cat in USA

    Feb 07, 2024 SANDEE

    Pet-Friendly Beaches - Top 3 Destinations to Vacation with Your Dog or Cat in USA

    Pet-Friendly Beaches - Top 3 Destinations to Vacation with Your Dog or Cat in USA

    For pet owners, leaving Fido or Fluffy behind while the family hits the beach just won't do. Luckily, many coastal destinations now cater to vacationing animal lovers by allowing dogs, cats, and other pets to enjoy the seaside fun too. From wide open spaces to play, pet perks, and accommodations, here are the top pet-friendly beaches to visit for a pawsome vacation with your furry best friend.

    Sandee - Blog / Family Beach Day Essentials: Packing for Fun in the Sun

    Feb 07, 2024 SANDEE

    Family Beach Day Essentials: Packing for Fun in the Sun

    Family Beach Day Essentials: Packing for Fun in the Sun

    A successful beach trip requires thoughtful preparation and packing. You don't want to forget essential items and have to cut your day short or run out constantly for supplies.

    Sandee - Blog / 8 Things That RUIN A Beach Day

    Feb 07, 2024 SANDEE

    8 Things That RUIN A Beach Day

    8 Things That RUIN A Beach Day

    You've dreamt of this beach vacay for months. The sunscreen is packed, cute swimsuit donned, and you made your playlist filled with sunny tunes. You head out ready for a blissful, relaxing day soaking up the summer sun, waves, and vistas. Then...something happens that puts a damper on the day. Beach trips don't always go as envisioned. From weather mishaps to forgetting necessities, here are 8 common things that can sabotage and ruin an otherwise glorious beach day.

    Sandee - Blog / 13 Best Beach Cities in California

    Feb 01, 2024 SANDEE

    13 Best Beach Cities in California

    13 Best Beach Cities in California

    With over 800 miles of coastline, California is synonymous with beach culture. Up and down the Golden State, you’ll find lively seaside towns and cities where you can wake up to ocean views, spend the day tanning on the sand, and enjoy fresh coastal cuisine.

    Sandee - Blog / Nudism Laws in United States Virgin Islands: A Comprehensive Overview

    Feb 01, 2024 SANDEE

    Nudism Laws in United States Virgin Islands: A Comprehensive Overview

    Nudism Laws in United States Virgin Islands: A Comprehensive Overview

    The United States Virgin Islands offer a beautiful tropical escape for travelers looking to experience the stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. For those who are interested in naturism or nudism, it's important to be aware of the laws and cultural attitudes towards nudity in this region.

    Sandee - Blog / Nudism Laws in United States: A Comprehensive Overview

    Feb 01, 2024 SANDEE

    Nudism Laws in United States: A Comprehensive Overview

    Nudism Laws in United States: A Comprehensive Overview

    Nudism, also known as naturism, is a lifestyle that promotes the freedom and comfort of being nude in a non-sexual context. In the United States, there are laws and regulations that dictate where and when nudism is permissible. As a travel blogger and enthusiast of naturist activities, I have explored the various laws and cultural attitudes towards nudism in the US.

    Read All Blogs