Blog written by: Tracy S.
Tracy writes for Freshwater Vacation Rentals, sharing vacation planning tips, travel insights, local things to do, and property highlights to help guests make the most of their time in Michigan.
If you have a four-legged family member, chances are that you will want them to join you for your next getaway. Whether you are planning a vacation full of outdoor adventures or a relaxing retreat, you will want to be sure to visit one of our favorite state attractions, the beaches. With hundreds of miles of shoreline to choose from, we are here to help you find the top dog-friendly beaches in Michigan.
Start planning your next MI vacation today with the assistance of our Destination Guide. Discover our favorite things to do, top area attractions, and the best places to stay.
5 Beaches in Michigan for Pets and Their People
Baraga State Park – Baraga, MI
At Baraga State Park, pets are permitted along the .25-mile stretch of shoreline of Lake Superior. This is a rocky shoreline with three concrete walkways for direct access to the lake. All dogs must be kept on a 6-foot (or shorter) leash and under the owner’s control at all times.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Munising, MI
Your dog is going to love exploring the many pet-friendly beaches along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It is required that your pet be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. This includes when your dog is on the beach and swimming. Dogs are welcome at the following beaches and water accesses within the park:
Sand Point Beaches
- Miners Beach
- Lake Superior Overlook and Beach
- Twelvemile Beach and Hurricane River Drive-In Campgrounds and Beaches
- Grand Sable Lake Accessible Fishing Dock and Beach
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Empire, MI
Select beaches within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are closed to pets from April 15 to August 15 each year to protect the endangered Great Lake Piping Plover. So be sure to visit their website to find out when beaches are closed. Here is a list of beaches that are open to leashed pets (6-feet max) year-round.
- Esch Road north to the Lakeshore boundary line in Empire
- Lakeshore boundary line in Empire north to the southern end of North Bar Lake. No pet access from North Bar Lake
- Glen Haven Beach east to the Lakeshore boundary in Glen Arbor
- From the Lakeshore boundary north of Glen Arbor, around Pyramid Point, and all the way to Bohemian Road (CR 669)
- From Good Harbor Trail (CR 651) to the northern Lakeshore boundary
Thompson Harbor State Park – Posen, MI
With a 7.5-mile stretch of rocky shoreline along Lake Huron, Thompson Harbor State Park is a fantastic place to visit with your dog. Like most state parks, pets must always be on a leash 6 feet or shorter and under the owner’s control.
Kirk Park – West Olive, MI
Kirk Park features over 68 acres of sandy beach, high bluffs, and wooded dunes. You will love the amazing views of Lake Michigan. Dogs are allowed, off leash, at the dog beach year-round. Leashed dogs (10-foot max) are not permitted on the north beach from May 1 to September 30 but are permitted during the remainder of the year. Be sure to follow all posted signs for pets.
Pet-Friendly Adventure Checklist
Here are a few things to consider before heading out on any adventure with your dog:
- Always dispose of pet waste properly.
- Know the leash laws for the specific area you are visiting, or ask upon arrival.
- Never leave your dog unattended in a hot vehicle.
- Always have plenty of fresh water and a bowl for your dog, even when away from your vehicle.
- Be mindful of other people and their dogs (not all dogs are well-socialized).
- Your dog will be sandy after a day on the beach, so plan accordingly.
- You may want to bring a frisbee, ball, or another throw toy for your dog.
- Don’t allow your dog to interact with any wildlife.
- Sand and pavement can be very hot during the summer months.
Book Your Stay at a Dog-Friendly Vacation Rental
At Freshwater Vacation Rentals, we offer a fantastic selection of pet-friendly rentals throughout the entire state. With over 80 homes to choose from, you and your dog will be ready for fun in the sun or a peaceful retreat in no time.
One of our favorite cabins with proximity to top dog-friendly beaches in Michigan is Grand Lake Cottage on Presque Isle. This lovely waterfront home features 4 bedrooms, a 30-foot dock, two kayaks, a gas fireplace, a fire pit, and accommodation for 8 human guests and 1 dog!