The Best Beaches to Visit in Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan boasts some of the Midwest's most stunning beaches with pristine shorelines and picturesque lakeside towns. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply immersing yourself in nature, these beaches offer something for everyone. Let’s dive in and explore the beaches waiting for you up north.

^{Beaches Along Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore}

As one of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan’s coastline is a treasure trove of charming beaches that perfectly blend serenity and rugged nature. Arguably, the most well-known spot is the beaches along the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Like the name implies, there are a number of beaches in the area that feature massive dunes, making for a beautiful backdrop as you enjoy the beach.

Popular spots like Esch Beach, North Bar Lake beach, and Good Harbor Beach are known for their crystal-clear waters, sweeping views, and natural beauty. These beaches offer a quintessential Northern Michigan experience, ideal for families looking to relax, explore, and soak up the scenery.

^{Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Northern Michigan}

Northern Michigan hosts a plethora of family-friendly beaches for all ages to enjoy. For families with younger children, we recommend Clinch Park in Traverse City. Kids can safely play in the calm waters of Grand Traverse Bay or have fun at the park’s playground. For added convenience, a snack bar and restrooms are also on-site.

^{A more adventurous family-friendly option is Traverse City State Park Beach. This beach not only offers a playground, but also sits alongside the scenic TART Trail—a great place to take a break and cool off during a family bike ride.}

^{Hidden Gem Beaches in Northern Michigan}

The surrounding region of Traverse City houses some lesser-known, yet beautiful beaches that can offer a more secluded getaway. One of these hidden gems is Peterson Road Beach, tucked away in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes. Peterson Road Beach is quiet with clear water for swimming and gorgeous views of the dunes. A fun way to end the day is to roast marshmallows on the beach! Just be sure to follow the park’s rules: keep the flames and embers away from vegetation and put the fire out with water once you’re done.

^{Slightly east of Traverse City at the end of Yuba Park Road is Sayler Park, located along East Grand Traverse Bay. This is the perfect beach for anyone looking for minimal crowds with maximum fun. This public beach has a volleyball net, a horseshoe pit, two grills, and playground equipment.}

^{Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Private Beach Access}

^{With its private beach access and other luxurious amenities, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is truly paradise. The Beach Club offers exclusive access to the Resort’s private beach, an outdoor pool, and a convenient on-site snack bar. For thrill seekers, there are also watersport rentals from Blue Sky Rentals available to rent on the beach. Blue Sky Rentals offers jet skis, pontoon boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and water trampolines, so there is truly something for everyone.}

^{Bask in the Sun at Our Beach Club}

^{Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Beach Club is available for all Resort guests to enjoy. Private beach access, relaxing waves, watersport rentals, and sunshine await– all that’s left is for you to book your stay.}