Discover Michigan's Top 10 Must-Visit Beaches for Family Fun in 2025!

Daytona Beach, USA - Planning a beach getaway this summer? Look no further than the stunning shores of Michigan, with over 3,200 miles of pristine coastline along the Great Lakes and countless family-friendly options. Imagine lounging on sandy shores while soaking up sun—a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation awaits. USA TODAY 10BEST Readers‘ Choice Awards has recently unveiled its top 10 beaches in Michigan for 2024, and they are definitely worth a visit. Yahoo reports that the best beaches are primarily found along Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, ensuring beautiful views and fun activities for everyone.

The number one spot goes to **First Street Beach**, located on the scenic Lake Michigan. This beach boasts sandy shores, volleyball courts, picnic areas, and even a dog park, making it a versatile spot for families. Just over 3 hours from Battle Creek, it’s an excellent choice for a day trip. Following closely is **Stearns Park**, which offers swimming and playgrounds just 2.5 hours from Battle Creek. Not to forget **Silver Beach**—this gem in St. Joseph features public swimming and beach volleyball, a mere hour away from Battle Creek.

Explore More Beaches

As we dive deeper into the list, there’s **Hunter’s Point** on Lake Superior, featuring trails and a unique red pebble beach, but it does require a long drive of about 9 hours. For a quicker journey, **South Beach** and **Pere Marquette Beach** both feature ADA-accessible areas, playgrounds, and scenic walking paths. Steffy McCourt has shared insights on these beach favorites, having curated family-friendly experiences for years, both through her articles and new blog, Michigan Family Travel.

If you’re looking for more activity, **Ludington State Park** is known for its natural sand dunes and offers opportunities for boating and fishing, making it another fantastic family destination at about 2.5 hours from Battle Creek. Adventure lovers will relish the **Saugatuck Dunes State Park**, perfect for hiking and lounging on secluded beaches—also 2.5 hours away.

Family-Friendly Beach Options

And there’s no shortage of other wonderful spots! MyMichiganBeach highlights **Grand Haven State Park**, known for its expansive sandy beach, lifeguards, and a famous pier with an evening musical fountain. This park offers everything from concessions to playgrounds. It’s a hit for families! **Ludington State Park** boasts diverse offerings with its two beaches and nature trails—arriving early is wise to ensure parking.

If you’re a treasure hunter, **Petoskey State Park** invites visitors to search for the famous Petoskey stones along its wide sandy beach. Meanwhile, **Silver Beach** in St. Joseph pairs splendid views with convenient local shops and eateries, truly enhancing the beach experience. Whether it’s lounging on a beach towel or playing a game of frisbee, there’s something here for everyone.

As you gear up for your Michigan beach adventure in 2025, make sure to pack layers for those cool lake breezes, arrive early to snag parking, and keep an eye on swimming conditions by checking beach flags. And don’t forget to enjoy local eateries that offer delicious refreshments to complement your day by the water. Grab your camera to capture unforgettable memories—Michigan’s beaches are waiting for you!