Nothing beats a day at the beach. Whether you’re partial to sunbathing, splashing in the cool waves, or hunting for Petoskey stones along the shoreline, there’s something undeniably special about Michigan’s waterfront wonderlands. While you’ve surely checked out some of the most famous beaches in Michigan, here are nine hidden gems that will capture your heart and sweep you away on a freshwater adventure. They’re also some of the best hidden beaches in Michigan.
Situated just a few miles from downtown Munising, Sand Point Beach features unparalleled views of Lake Superior and a peaceful atmosphere that offers reprieve from typical beach crowds. While its popularity has increased in recent years, Sand Point still holds its own as a hidden gem in the Upper Peninsula.
There’s something for everyone at Oscoda Beach Park , which offers soft sand, picnic tables, recreation equipment, and breathtaking access to Lake Huron. The beach isn’t massive, offering just several hundred feet of shoreline, but it’s perfect for families seeking a day on the water without getting lost in crowds.
There’s a real sense of magic at Olive Shores , which takes visitors on a winding forested stroll before giving way to lovely Lake Michigan access. Often overlooked in favor of bustling state parks in the area, Olive Shores gives Michiganders the chance to appreciate everything from duneland to sunsets.
While you’re in West Olive, make a stop at Kirk Park. This underrated destination is home to some of the state’s prettiest waterfront views and boasts a clean, serene beach atmosphere. If that weren’t enough, Kirk Park features a dog beach where your four-legged friends can have some fun in the sun.
If you’ve spent most of your time on the west side of the state, you might not be familiar with Port Austin. This tiny, yet charming, town is situated near some of the area’s prettiest beaches, including Oak Beach County Park . In addition to a swimming and sunbathing area, the park offers camping, fishing, and a variety of special events throughout the year.
When you’re looking for a roadside beach stop that will sweep you away to another world, Christmas Cove Beach delivers. This hidden gem is ripe with natural beauty, boasting vibrant blue waters and some of the best beachcombing opportunities in the state. You’ll be glad you stopped by for a visit.
This northern Michigan wonderland known as Haserot Beach is simple and straightforward in its beachy beauty. Visitors will appreciate access to calm, cool waters and a flat shoreline that’s perfect for lounging in the sun. Swimmers, boaters, and beach readers alike will adore this spot.
It might be a state park, but Fisherman’s Island remains a hidden gem of the Great Lakes State. Many Michiganders are unfamiliar with the natural splendor of this spot, which boasts six stunning miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and a sense of unspoiled beauty that’s difficult to find elsewhere. While it’s not actually an island, Fisherman’s Island will make you feel like you’ve found your own slice of paradise.
When you’re ready to combine your next beach adventure with a camping trip, Twelvemile Beach is an awesome option. Each of the area’s 37 campsites are tucked away along the shore of Twelvemile Beach itself, which sits below a stunning sandy bluff and offers access to Lake Superior. It’s easy to be enchanted when you spend time here, so be sure to add it to your bucket list.
Are there any other wonderful beaches here in the Great Lakes State that should have been included on our list? We want to hear from you, so drop us a line below or fill out our nomination form. Searching for more outdoor exploration? Read about another gorgeous quiet area in Michigan you’re sure to adore.
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