Michigan’s hidden gems.
Why spend thousands of bucks on a vacation to somewhere like the Caribbean, when there are perfect beaches with crystal clear waters in the midwest. With over 3200 miles of shoreline on its great lakes, Michigan is the second largest shoreline state in the United States. Relax on pristine beaches and spend your vacation sunbathing and swimming on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The best thing about beaches in Michigan, is that there are many options to choose from, whether you’re looking to find a pretty family beach with plenty of facilities, or a beach graced with golden sands and ideal conditions for fishing, there is something for everyone on the Michigan shoreline. Here’s a list of the best beaches in Michigan:
Number five, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Voted as one of the most beautiful places in the United States because of its panoramic vistas and 60 miles of shoreline, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features golden sand beaches and lush forests, with amazing flora and fauna. You can climb the dunes and enjoy spectacular views of cute farmsteads and the island’s lighthouse. When it comes to activities, hiking through the forest, bird watching and canoeing on the inland lakes are some of the best options. Families will just love the dozens of inland lakes to explore, and for the kids the dunes are one huge fun playground.
Number four, Silver Lake Sand Dunes. The secluded beach of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a hidden paradise though not easy to access. It is an idyllic romantic beach getaway for couples and adventure seekers, who want to navigate the more than 2.000 acres of sand dunes between the lake and the beach. If you get tired of swimming, you can enjoy one of the recreational activities like hiking, boating and four-wheel driving. The easiest way to access the beach is with an off-road vehicle to get over the dunes, otherwise it is a 45 minute walk to the beach from the silver lake parking area. If you want to stay close to the dunes with a picturesque view, you cannot get closer than the dunes waterfront resort which also has a small private beach on silver lake. Visitors will find the remote location is one of the best areas for a romantic getaway during their Michigan vacation, the views alone are absolutely worth the walk or drive.
Number three, Rogers City Beaches. Also known as The Nautical City, Rogers City is known for playing a major role in Michigan’s shipping industry, fishing and water recreation history. Visitors not only get to relax and explore the beaches, but they’ll also be near one of the largest shipping ports on the great lakes. Visitors can catch some rays and some fish on the fishing platform. Those interested in fishing tournaments might want to plan their visit accordingly, as Rogers City hosts two salmon fishing tournaments annually.The sandy beaches of Lake Huron are best in the town.
Number two, Saugatuck Dunes State Park. With over two and a half miles of shoreline, the Saugatuck Dunes State Park beach is a secluded strip alongside Lake Michigan. The beach and park have freshwater coastal dunes that are over 200 feet tall and vary from rolling hills to steep slopes, making it a fun and adventurous place to explore. Beach visitors can dine in any of the numerous nearby restaurants, or get souvenirs to remember their trip to Michigan. Lake Michigan Beach is a two-thirds mile hike from the picnic parking area. This is a great beach if you’re looking to escape the crowds of the other beaches that are in the area. Try not to bring too much stuff with you because it’s quite a little walk before you get to the beach. Nature enthusiasts, bird watchers and hikers are the predominant day users.
Number one, Grand Haven Beach. A classic summer beach that includes a 48-acre state park, Grand Haven is one of the most popular vacation spots in Michigan. The beach features all the amenities you’d expect from a good beach but this comes at a cost, there is an entrance fee to the state park. There is a picturesque red lighthouse and a beautiful boardwalk that goes all the way to the center of the town. You can enjoy a swim in Lake Michigan, or try your hand at kiteboarding or surfing. Even in Michigan, Grand Haven is a dog-friendly town, most stores in the downtown area offer water bowls for a refreshing treat for your pet and wide paved pathways offer easy access to the Lake Michigan Shoreline. Other site facilities include a playground, hiking trails and a modern camping site fitted with a three-bedroom ranch known as The Grand Haven Lodge, and most of the rooms have amazing views of the lake and lighthouse.