Summer is just around the corner and what better way to enjoy it than to visit some of the best beaches in Western Michigan? From the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to Holland State Park, there are plenty of great spots to soak up some sun and make memories. Here’s a look at some of the best beaches in West Michigan.
While you are visiting West Michigan, be sure to request your very own vacation guide to read all about the best restaurants, beaches, shopping, and events in the area!
8 of the Best Beaches to Explore in Western Michigan
1 Wilderness State Park – Mackinaw City
Wilderness State Park is located on the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. It’s known for its stunning views, sandy beaches, and miles of trails that wind through forests and along shorelines. You can also explore nearby islands by kayak or canoe. Plenty of activities keep you busy all day, including fishing, swimming, bird watching, and at night enjoy the dark sky for some stargazing.
2 Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Empire
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most popular destinations in West Michigan. This park offers miles of pristine sand dunes that stretch along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. You can climb up the dunes for breathtaking views or take a dip in the lake’s clear waters. There are also plenty of hiking trails that will take you through forests and past scenic overlooks.
3 Silver Beach – St Joseph
Silver Beach is located on Lake Michigan’s southern shoreline near St Joseph. This beach is known for its beautiful white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming or relaxing with friends or family. There are also plenty of activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and more to keep you entertained throughout your stay.
4 North Beach & South Beach – South Haven
North Beach & South Beach are two popular beaches located just outside South Haven on Lake Michigan’s western coast. These two beaches offer stunning views as well as plenty of activities like swimming, boating, fishing, and more. You can even take a stroll down the pier for an even better view!
5 Grand Haven State Park
Grand Haven State Park is located on Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline near Grand Haven city center. This park offers stunning views from atop its sand dunes as well as plenty of activities like swimming, fishing, picnicking, camping, and more! It’s also home to several lighthouses, making it a great spot for photographers looking to capture some amazing shots during sunset or sunrise!
6 Holland State Park
Holland State Park is located near Holland city center on Lake Michigan’s western coastline. This park offers stunning views from atop its sand dunes as well as plenty of activities like swimming, fishing, picnicking, camping, and more! It’s also home to several lighthouses, making it a great spot for photographers looking to capture some amazing shots during sunset or sunrise!
7 Rosy Mound Natural Area
Rosy Mound Natural Area is located near Grand Haven city center on Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline. This natural area offers stunning views from atop its sand dunes as well as plenty of activities like hiking, biking, bird watching, picnicking, camping, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, surfing, and much more! With so many things to do here, you’ll never be bored!
8 Pere Marquette Beach – Ludington
Pere Marquette Beach is located near Ludington city center on Lake Michigan’s western coastline. This beach is known for its beautiful white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming or relaxing with friends or family. Plenty of activities include paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, volleyball courts, and much more! So come out this summer season and enjoy all that Pere Marquette has to offer!
Stay in a West Michigan Beach Town 
We love our West Michigan beaches as much as we love our Beach towns! Why not stay in one so you can wake up with the smell of sand and water in the morning?
Our West Michigan cabin rentals let you stay near your favorite beach towns without any hassle! Spend a night out on the town in Grand Rapids, and visit the tulip fields of Holland or the trolleys of Grand Haven. Click the link below to view all of our West Michigan property rental options, as we are always adding more! Also, check out our waterfront/lakefront cabin rentals throughout Michigan!