Michigan is blessed with miles of coastline on four of the Great Lakes including Huron, Superior, Michigan, and Erie. This provides plenty of opportunities for enjoying some of the best beaches in the world.
But what if you don’t know where to start? There are so many beaches to choose from, how can you find the best ones?
Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best Lake Huron Beaches in Michigan, so you can start planning your next beach day.
With this list, you’ll be able to find the perfect beach for you, whether you’re looking for a place to relax or somewhere to have some fun. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring Michigan’s amazing beaches today!
Best Lake Huron Beaches in Northern Michigan
Lake Huron is one of the five Great Lakes of North America. It is the second-largest of the Great Lakes by volume and the third-largest by surface area. These Lake Huron facts make it clear that there are plenty of beaches to choose from when you’re looking for the perfect place to enjoy the sun and the water.
People visit Lake Huron for a variety of reasons. Some come to enjoy its natural beauty, while others come for the recreational opportunities it provides. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the lake’s shoreline is home to about 12 million people.
This makes it the perfect place to find a beach along the famous M-23 route that suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or a bustling beach town with plenty of activities, you’re sure to find it on Lake Huron.
Here are some of the best Lake Huron beaches Northern Michigan has to offer below:
Oscoda Beach Park
This Lake Huron beach has 1,000 feet of shoreline for visitors to enjoy. The park also has a playground for young kids, a pavilion, and picnic areas. There is also a skate park with skate ramps and basketball courts.
The “Dock Reserve,” the historical site of a dock predating the Fire of 1911, is located here. The Oscoda Art-on-the-Beach Arts and Crafts Show is held every summer in this park.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the stunning views, this is the beach for you.
Address: 201 E River Rd, Oscoda, MI 48750
Website: Oscoda Beach Park
Phone Number: 989-739-3211
Cheboygan State Park
Cheboygan State Park is known for a sandy beach on the Lake Huron shoreline in addition to hiking trails and camping sites. The park has a total of 1,250 acres of land.
The day-use area of the beach has a playground, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits. There is also an accessible fishing pier.
This is the perfect spot for those who want to spend the day outdoors enjoying a variety of activities.
Address: 4490 Beach Road, Cheboygan MI, 49721
Website: Cheboygan State Park
Phone Number: 231-627-2811
Harrisville State Park
Located on the shores of Lake Huron, Harrisville State Park is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. The 107-acre park also has two miles of hiking trails. You can also walk to the town of Harrisville or the Sturgeon Point Lighthouse if you choose, as it’s within walking distance.
You’ll find many picnic tables and grills in the park if you get hungry.
Address: 248 State Park Road, Harrisville, MI 48740
Website: Harrisville State Park
Phone Number: 989-724-5126
Tawas Point State Park
Tawas Point State Park is a 183-acre state park on a peninsula that jets into Lake Huron. Tawas Point State Park is often referred to as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” The area is known for its sandy beaches, sand dunes, and lush forests.
There are 1.5 miles of hiking trails in the park. You can also fish. In 1987, a limestone reef was built along the northern shore of Tawas Bay, which has helped to make the region a popular fishing destination. The reef provides shelter for smaller bait fish, which attract larger predator fish and have considerably enhanced fishing for walleye, pike, perch, and smallmouth bass.
The beach has several picnic areas, a playground, and a pavilion. There are also restrooms and showers available.
This is one of the favorite Lake Huron Beaches for many beach-goers and is the perfect spot if you’re looking to relax and take in the stunning views.
Address: 686 Tawas Beach Road, East Tawas, MI 48730
Website: Tawas Point State Park
Phone Number: 989-362-5041
Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park
This park is located along Lake Huron and includes many amenities such as:
- BMX Bike Park
- Picnic Area
- Horseshoe Pits
- Warming and Picnic Shelters
- Women’s & Youth Ball Fields
This park also has plenty of parking and let’s not forget about a sandy beach to make your stay even more enjoyable.
Address: 1302 S State Ave, Alpena, MI 49707
Website: Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park
Phone Number: 989-354-1720
Hoeft State Park
Located just 50 miles away from the Mackinac Bridge, Hoeft State Park is a beautiful spot on the shores of Lake Huron. The park has one mile of sandy beach for visitors to enjoy.
The park was also one of the first 14 Michigan State Parks and was established in 1922.
In addition to the beach, the park has the Ocqueoc Falls Bicentennial Pathway, which many visitors use.
Address: 5001 US-23 North, Rogers City, MI 49779
Website: Hoeft State Park
Phone Number: 989-734-2543
Starlite Beach
There are so many beautiful Great Lakes beaches that it’s hard to list them all, but one definitely worth mentioning is Starlite Beach. This beach is located on State Avenue in Alpena.
This might be one of the few Lake Huron beaches with a splash park known. Other Starlite beach amenities include:
- Splash Pad
- 3 Children’s Play Structures
- Restrooms
- Picnic Area
Splash Park Hours are 9:00 am to 9:00 pm during the season.
Address: S State Ave Alpena, MI 49707
Website: Starlite Beach
Phone Number: 989.354.1700
Bay City State Park
Bay City State Park consists of approximately 2,400 acres and has one of the largest remaining coastal wetlands on Saginaw Bay. This wetland, the Tobico Marsh, is over 2,000 acres and is home to migratory birds, waterfowl, and other animals. The park also has a day-use area with more than 1,000 feet of Lake Huron sandy beach along Saginaw Bay.
The park has many amenities including:
- 6 miles of Hiking Trails
- Shoreline Fishing
- Picnic Areas with Grills
- A Playground
- Interpretive Programs
This is a perfect spot for those who want to spend the day outdoors enjoying a variety of activities. There’s something for everyone at Bay City State Park!
Address: 3582 State Park Drive, Bay City, MI 48706
Website: Bay City State Park
Phone Number: 989-684-3020
Lakeside Park
Northern Michigan beaches are some of the best in the world, and Lakeside Park in Rogers City is no exception. This nautical city is home to an annual nautical festival. This 10-acre park bordering Lake Huron has a large swimming beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a walk.
Lakeside Park Amenities Include:
- Beach Volleyball Courts
- Concession Stand
- Sailor’s Memorial
- Multiple Playgrounds
- Basketball Courts
And if you’re looking for something to do after the beach, you can take a walk downtown or visit one of the many stores, ice cream shops, and restaurants.
Address: 120 N Lake St, Rogers City, MI 49779
Website: Lakeside Park
Phone Number: 989-734-2191
Best Lake Huron Beaches in Michigan’s Thumb Area
If some of the Northern Michigan beaches are too far of a drive, there are many Lake Huron beaches along Michigan’s Thumb Coast. These Lake Huron beaches are located in cities such as Port Austin, Harbor Beach, and Port Hope.
Port Austin is a great spot for swimming, fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the scenery. The community also offers many shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
Harbor Beach is home to a beautiful public beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the shoreline. The city also has a marina and many parks for visitors to enjoy.
Port Hope is a small community with a big heart. This friendly city has a beautiful beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing. The city also has several parks and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Below you will find the best beaches on Michigan’s Thumb Coast:
Port Crescent State Park
Port Crescent State Park is located at the tip of the Michigan thumb area and has over 5 miles of nature trails, including trails of sand dunes. This beautiful sandy beach on Lake Huron consists of over 3 miles of Great Lakes shoreline.
This state park also has a “Dark Sky Preserve,” which is perfect for stargazing. The preserve is one of only 14 in the world and the only one in Michigan.
Address: 1775 Port Austin Rd. Port Austin, MI 48467
Website: Port Crescent State Park
Phone Number: 989-738-8663
Caseville County Park
Michigan County parks can sometimes leave a lot to be desired, but Caseville County Park is an exception. This park has a beautiful wide beach with sandy shores on Lake Huron. It is truly one of the best Lake Huron beaches.
One great thing about beaches at the tip of Michigan’s Thumb is that they are the ideal spots for kite surfing, and Caseville is no exception.
This beach has been named one of the best kite surfing spots in the state. You can even rent kiteboarding equipment from this local rental shop located on the shores of this beach.
You can also kayak and use the carry-in boat launch for your kayaks.
Caseville is also known for its annual Cheeseburger Festival, which attracts thousands of people from all over the Midwest.
Address: 6400 Main Caseville, MI 48725
Website: Caseville County Park
Phone Number: 989-856-2080
Veteran’s Waterfront Park
Located in Port Austin, Veteran’s Waterfront Park is a must-visit spot when you’re in the area. This park has a beautiful sandy beach on Lake Huron as well as a playground, pavilion, and public restroom facilities.
The park also features a veterans memorial that is perfect for paying tribute to those who have served our country.
There is also a walking pier allowing views of this Lake Huron beach.
Address: Spring Street, Port Austin, MI, 48467
Website: Veteran’s Waterfront Park
Phone Number:
Lakeside Beach
Port Huron is home to a few Lake Huron beaches, but Lakeside Beach is definitely one of the best. This beach has a wide sandy shoreline, picnic tables, a playground, and a concession stand.
There’s also a splash pad, bathrooms, and multiple pavilions. This is a very family-friendly beach which is why it made our pick of the best beaches in Michigan on the Lake Huron coastline.
Address: 3870 Gratiot Ave, Port Huron, MI 48060
Website: Lakeside Beach
Phone Number: 810-984-9760
Sleeper State Park
Also located in Caseville, this 723-acre park has a beautiful sandy beach on Lake Huron as well as a shoreline on the Saginaw Bay.
This state park (named after Governor Albert E. Sleeper (1917-1920 and also Huron County resident) has over 2 miles of trails, including a nature trail and an interpretive trail. There’s also a modern campground with 226 sites.
Website: Sleeper State Park
Phone Number: 989-856-4411
Address: 6573 State Park Road, Caseville MI, 48725-9799
Lakeport State Park
Located on the outskirts of Lexington, Michigan, this 565-acre state park is a great choice for beach glass or rock hunting.
It’s also home to the 54-mile “bridge to bay trail,” which is a bike trail that parallels the St. Clair River and spans from New Baltimore in Macomb County to Algonac and ends at Lakeport State Park. There are also picnic tables as well making this Lake Huron beach an excellent choice for swimming and relaxation.
Address: 7605 Lakeshore Road, Lakeport, MI 48059
Website: Lakeport State Park
Phone Number: 810-327-6224
Judge James H. Lincoln Memorial Park
If you want to take in the views of Lake Huron beaches from the water, consider this beach and the Trescott Street pier.
This park is complete with picnic tables, open space, and beach access. This is a good choice for swimming beaches in Michigan, not far from the Detroit area.
You can also view the lighthouse and freighters passing by in Lake Huron.
Address: 1 Trescott St, Harbor Beach, MI 48441
Website: Judge James H. Lincoln Memorial Park
Phone Number: 989-479-6477
Philp County Park
If you are looking for secluded beaches, this beach might be a good choice for you. Philp County Park is located on the Northshore of Lake Huron between Port Hope and Harbor Beach.
This beach is located next to Sleeper State Park and is only 2 acres. Roughly one-sixth of that is a swimmable beach. The rest of the area around the beach is great for relaxing, picnicking, and exploring.
Address: 4640 Port Austin Rd, Caseville, MI 48725Website: Philp County Park
Phone Number: 989-269-6404
Patrick Tierney Park
If you are in search of beautiful beaches in Michigan’s Thumb coastline, this is a top pick. Located next to Lexington State Harbor, this beach has a long sandy shoreline on Lake Huron.
The beach area is also complete with a playground, a concert pavilion, and well-kept public restrooms.While you already know this is one of the best Lake Huron beaches on the thumb coastline, Lexington itself is an unknown jewel destination offering a whole host of summertime activities.
I’ve seen WDIV’s own Devin Scillian and his band “Devin Scillian & Arizona Son” perform in Lexington’s “Music in the Park” summertime series at Patrick Tierney Park.
This is an excellent choice for swimming beaches near Detroit, Michigan.
Address: 7353 Simons St, Lexington, MI 48450
Website: Patrick Tierney Park
Phone Number:
Lighthouse Beach
Home to Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, Lighthouse Beach in Port Huron is one of the best beaches on Lake Huron.
The lighthouse is open for tours from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and there are also plenty of places to fish, picnic, and swim. There is also plenty of off-street parking and outdoor exercise equipment, along with a bike pump and tool station.
This beach is also home to a veterans memorial, so you can pay tribute to those who have served our country.
Visible from this Lake Huron beach is the blue water bridge that serves as a connection between Port Huron, Michigan, and Sarnia, Ontario.
Address: 2900 Conger Street, Port Huron, MI 48060
Website: Lighthouse Beach
Phone Number: 810-984-9760
Keewahdin Beach
Another one of Lake Huron Beaches off the beaten path would be Keewahdin beach, located in Fort Gratiot Township. This beach is smaller than a city lot. This is one of the smallest beaches in Michigan, where you can enjoy the beach without having to worry about lugging your gear in the sand.
Address: 4498 Gratiot Ave, Port Huron, MI 48060
Website: Keewahdin Beach
Phone Number:
Fort Gratiot County Park
Approximately 850 feet of beach shoreline on Lake Huron make this beach a great choice for swimming beaches in Michigan.
This beach is also equipped with a playground, pavilion, and lots of open space.
Address: 3325 Metcalf Rd, Fort Gratiot Twp, MI 48059
Website: Fort Gratiot County Park
Phone Number: 810-989-6960
Michigan Beaches Related Questions
Are Sand Dunes Safe to Climb?
Most sand dunes are safe to climb, but there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, avoid climbing dunes that are too steep. Second, be aware of your surroundings and watch for any signs of instability. Finally, never climb dunes that are posted with “no trespassing” signs.
What is the Most Dangerous Great Lake?
There is no definitive answer to this question as each of the Great Lakes has its own dangers. However, some experts believe that Lake Michigan is the most dangerous due to its large size and the fact that it is bordered by several major metropolitan areas.
Will a Sandy Beach Always Have Waves?
No, a sandy beach will not always have waves. Waves are created by the wind, and the amount of wave action on a particular beach depends on the strength and direction of the wind.
Are Lake Michigan Beaches Better than Lake Huron Beaches?
There is no clear answer to this question as it is subjective. Some people prefer the beaches on Lake Michigan because they are typically more crowded and have more amenities. Others prefer the beaches on Lake Huron because they tend to be less crowded and more natural.
What Are the Top Lake Michigan Beaches?
Some of the top Lake Michigan beaches include:
- Grand Haven City Beach
- Holland State Park Beach
- Muskegon State Park Beach
- Silver Beach County Park
- Ludington State Park Beach
Additionally, the best Lake Michigan beaches often have rolling hills and are less rocky than Lake Huron beaches.
Are Boat Rentals Available on Lake Huron?
Yes, boat rentals are available on Lake Huron. You can typically find boat rental businesses near popular beaches and marinas.
What is the Closest Beach to Detroit?
The closest beach to Detroit is Belle Isle Park, which is located on an island in the Detroit River. The park features a beach, as well as a number of other attractions, such as an aquarium, kayaking, and a museum.
Are Lake Michigan Beaches Cleaner than Lake Huron Beaches?
There is no definitive answer to this question as water quality can vary from day to day and beach to beach. However, in general, Lake Michigan beaches tend to be cleaner than Lake Huron beaches because they are less crowded and have better water circulation.
Related Resources
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