Best Beaches in Michigan for Swimming

michigan for swimming

Michigan is blessed with an abundance of beautiful beaches along its Great Lakes shoreline, offering plenty of options for swimming.

Michigan Beaches for Swimming

Michigan Beaches for Swimming


Mentioned below are some of the best beaches located in michigan that are perfect for swimming and other water sport activities.

1. Warren Dunes State Park Beach

Location: Sawyer, MI 49125, United States (1st michigan swimming beach)

Warren Dunes State Park Beach is a popular destination located along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. It is part of the Warren Dunes State Park, which spans 1,952 acres and offers stunning natural features, including towering sand dunes and a diverse ecosystem. 

The beach itself boasts a wide stretch of sandy shoreline, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach games.

 Visitors can also explore the dunes through hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscape. The park offers picnic areas, restrooms, and a concession stand for visitors' convenience.

Enjoy a day of beachcombing for glass, treasure hunting with a metal detector, or kayaking on the only U.S. located Great Lake, all while bringing the whole family, including your four-legged friends, to the designated dog friendly beach.


With its warm waters, stunning dunes, and inviting atmosphere, Warren Dunes State Park Beach truly lives up to its reputation as one of the cherished warm beaches along Lake Michigan's eastern shoreline, offering a memorable and relaxing escape for all who visit.

2. Grand Haven State Park Beach

Location: 1001 S Harbor Dr, Grand Haven, MI 49417, United States

(2nd best michigan swimming beach)

Grand Haven, designated as "Coast Guard City, USA" by former President Bill Clinton in 1998, offers an array of beautiful beaches, including the tranquil Rosy Mound Natural Area accessible via a 0.7-mile hike and the dog-friendly Kirk Park, perfect for sunbathing.

It offers a spacious beachfront, perfect for swimming, beach volleyball. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the boardwalk and enjoy the views of Lake Michigan and the Grand Haven Pier
and Lighthouse.
This is also one of the family friendly beach, with lifeguards on duty during the summer months and amenities such as picnic areas and restrooms.

3. Hoffmaster State Park Beach

Location: 6585 Lake Harbor Rd, Norton Shores, MI 49441, United States

(3rd michigan swimming beach)

Spanning 1,200 acres, P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is home to an impressive dune system and 3 miles of shoreline. Hoffmaster State Park Beach is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, just south of Muskegon.

The beach is part of the larger Hoffmaster State Park, which features diverse natural landscapes, including dunes, forests, and miles of shoreline.

The beach offers a popular spot for swimming. Visitors can also explore the dunes through hiking trails, with opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy scenic vistas of the lake.

4. St. Ignace City Beach

Location: 101 S State St, St Ignace, MI 49781, United States

(4th best michigan swimming beach)

St. Ignace City Beach is located in the town of St. Ignace, situated in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, along the northern shore of Lake Huron. This beach offers a serene and family-friendly setting, with shallow waters that are ideal for swimming.

Is swimming allowed in Straits State Park?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Straits State Park.

Visitors can relax and take the views of Mackinac Island and the Mackinac Bridge, and enjoy beach activities like beach volleyball and picnicking. The beach is conveniently located near downtown St. Ignace, making it easy for visitors to explore the town's attractions and amenities.

5. South Beach (South Haven)

Location: South Haven, MI 49090, United States

(5th best michigan swimming beach)


South Haven's North Beach welcomes visitors year-round from 8 am to 10 pm, offering swimming, pier walks, concession stands, playgrounds, and great fishing opportunities, with the exception of pets.

South Beach in South Haven, Michigan, is a vibrant and popular beach destination on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan.

The beach is known for its lively atmosphere, with beachfront shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors nearby. South Beach is a favorite spot for families, offering clean waters, with amenities.

Note: The public should be aware that swimming is undertaken at their own risk, as no lifeguards are present at any South Haven public beach.

Signage is prominently displayed at all beach areas, outlining the public's responsibilities, and in the event of an emergency, dial 911.

FAQS

Can you swim in Michigan beaches?

Swim season is generally regarded as running from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but for those acquainted with Michigan's weather patterns, it's more accurate to say that swim season begins in late June and extends until mid-September.

What is Michigan best beach in the world?

Sleeping Bear Point, located within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on the northwestern coast of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, has earned recognition from National Geographic as one of the world's top 21 beaches. It is especially renowned as a premier destination for those who enjoy walking among the sand dunes.

Is Lake Michigan safe for swimming? Yess, swimming at Michigan is safe however exercise caution when swimming in Lake Michigan, as its bottom terrain is uneven, featuring holes and abrupt drop-offs.

Which beach in Michigan has the clearest water? Torch Lake is widely recognized as one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Michigan, famous for its pristine, azure waters. Ensure you have your beach essentials ready and contemplate planning a visit to this extraordinary location!