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.

1. Sand Point Beach
Sand Point Beach, Michigan 49862, USA
TripAdvisor/StephCombs78
Situated just a few miles from downtown Munising, this gorgeous spot 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.
2. Oscoda Beach Park
201 E River Rd, Oscoda, MI 48750, USA
TripAdvisor/Al W.
There’s something for everyone at this scenic beach, 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.
3. Olive Shores
8555 Olive Shore Ave, West Olive, MI 49460, USA
Google Reviews/Girl Galey
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.
4. Kirk Park
9791 Lake Shore Dr, West Olive, MI 49460, USA
TripAdvisor/Resort756270
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.

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5. Oak Beach County Park
3356 Port Austin Rd, Port Austin, MI 48467, USA
Google Reviews/Ben Collar
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.
6. Christmas Cove Beach
Google Reviews/Rich Sutliff
When you’re looking for a roadside beach stop that will sweep you away to another world, Christmas Cove 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.
7. Haserot Beach
Haserot Beach, Traverse City, MI 49686, USA
TripAdvisor/mlhuff
This northern Michigan wonderland 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.
8. Fisherman’s Island
16480 Bells Bay Rd S, Charlevoix, MI 49720, USA
TripAdvisor/lizmorgan11
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.
9. Twelvemile Beach
County Road H-58, County Rd H-58, Michigan, USA
TripAdvisor/Bob Foulk
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 this gorgeous quiet area in Michigan.

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More to Explore

best hidden beaches in michigan

Jennifer Young | April 20, 2022

What are three secret beaches in Michigan that are worth discovering?

Who doesn't love discovering new places, especially beaches? Michigan boasts many wonderful beaches. While some of them are quite easy to find, several others aren't and take a little bit of work when it comes to discovering them. Listed below are three secret beaches you'll want to discover the next time you explore Michigan's outdoors. Each of them are most certainly worth finding.

1. Krafft Road Beach

Krafft Road Beach is situated on Lake Huron in Port Huron near Lakeside Park. This beach is the perfect place to spend the day. It offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms.

2. Sand Point Beach

Sand Point Beach, which is located near downtown Munising, is a beautiful beach that offers incredible views of Lake Superior. Even though this beach continues to grow in popularity, it's still considered one of Michigan's hidden gems.

3. Ballentine Beach

Ballentine Beach is a lovely beach that's located in a residential neighborhood in Port Huron. It offers incredible views of freighters on the St. Clair River, which is just south of the beach.

What's one of the best Michigan beaches to visit with the family for a day trip adventure?

Nothing beats a day trip at the beach, especially in Michigan. There are several beach destinations that are perfect for spending the day with the family, including Warren Dunes State Park. Warren Dunes State Park, which is located in Sawyer and covers nearly 2,000 acres, is one of Michigan's most beautiful places. It's also home to one of Michigan's best beaches. This state park is a great place for a family day trip because it offers a variety of activities for all ages, including swimming, sandcastle building, hiking, picnicking, birding, snowboarding, and so much more. Warren Dunes State Park is also a great place to visit no matter the time of year. If you're looking for somewhere to spend the day with your family, Warren Dunes State Park is a great place to be. There's something for everyone.

 

 

 

 

 

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