Best Lake Michigan Beaches for Families in 2024

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Best Michigan Beaches for families in 2024

Looking for an unforgettable, affordable family vacation destination with sun, sand, and waves? Look no further than Michigan's top family-friendly beaches! With its stunning shoreline along the Great Lakes, Michigan offers an array of beach options that cater to families of all ages.

Here we focus on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan. You’ll soon discover that Michigan beaches boast not only miles of pristine coastline but also a wealth of activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, swim in the refreshing waters, or simply relax under the sun while enjoying a picnic.

Whether you're looking for a day running up and down sand dunes or the tranquility of a state park with its scenic hiking trails, Michigan's beaches provide something for everyone. Many beaches offer amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and concession stands for added convenience.

So, pack your swimsuits, sunscreen, and beach toys, and get ready for a fun-filled adventure at the best Lake Michigan beaches for families. Create memories as you soak up the sun and create your very own beachside paradise.

*the below content was written and shared by Lindsay Parker Williams, a Michigan native

St. Joseph

One of the best Lake Michigan beach towns, St. Joseph’s attractions are perfect for family fun, both inside and outside.

When you need a break from the sun, head to the nearby Curious Kids Children’s Museum, and Curious Kids Discovery Center, or The Silver Beach Carousel.

Your kids can also play in the giant Whirlpool Compass Fountain (see picture below) just across the street from the beach.

St. Joseph's charming downtown area offers restaurants and shops for parents to explore and there are several affordable hotel options for families in this bigger town.

Chow Down: Silver Beach Pizza

Related post: St. Joseph Michigan with kids

Best beach in St. Joseph Michigan

Silver Beach in St. Joseph is one of the best Michigan beaches for families. Silver Beach offers plenty of beach amenities like restrooms and concessions.

Warren Dunes State Park is an ideal for Lake Michigan camping as it provides access to beautiful acres of dunes and waterfront camping. Nestled in the dunes, claim your campsite, unplug and relax in peace with area’s wildlife.

State Parkland is another option for Lake Michigan camping. Find top rated RV rentals near St. Joseph if glamping is more your style.

Kayak or stand-up paddleboard at Silver Beach in St. Joseph and take in wonderful views of the iconic lighthouse on Lake Michigan.

Isle inflatable paddle boards are the most versatile paddle boards you can travel and paddle anywhere with.

Silver Beach County Park is located in St. Joseph, Michigan at the mouth of the St. Joseph River. 101 Broad Street, St. Joseph, MI 49085

With seven gorgeous Lake Michigan beaches in St. Joseph, you can’t go wrong.

St. Joseph Beachfront Vacation Rentals

South Haven

The quintessential family-friendly lake town. South Haven is full of charm that will delight you and your kids.

Stroll through the farmers market to grab fresh local produce and browse the sweet shops along main street. Then, make your way out to South Beach and a walk along the pier to see the red lighthouse of South Haven.

Spend more time exploring the many city beaches along Lake Michigan or ride the Kal-Haven bike trail. And don’t forget to stop by historic Sherman’s Dairy Bar for delicious homemade ice cream.

Cottage rentals abound in this summer tourist town, but book early since many places fill up quickly. Check out my full list of things for kids in South Haven.

Chow Down: Taste or Brix Corner Oven

The Best Lake Michigan Beach in South Haven

South Beach and North Beach are the main beaches of South Haven. These are also the most popular beaches in South Haven, Michigan.

If you prefer to camp or sleep in your RV, there are five fantastic South Haven campgrounds and RV Parks.

Don’t own an RV? Rent one near South Haven and have your RV delivered via Outdoorsy, the AirBnb platform for RV rentals.

Top Beachfront Home Rentals in South Haven

Holland

The biggest of all the towns, Holland takes pride in Dutch heritage with its annual Tulip Time Festival (May) and cultural attractions like Nelis’ Dutch Village.

For beach access, head out to Holland State Park to see Big Red, the famous lighthouse. This beach is busy during the summer, so arrive early.

Holland State Park is one of Michigan's most visited state parks. Watch the sunset over Lake Michigan and you will see! This large beach is open to everyone with a day pass or a Recreation Passport.

This Lake Michigan beach town is home to Big Red.

Holland State Park is also home to two large Lake Michigan campgrounds and a fantastic place to watch sailboats and sunsets.

The park is divided into two separate units; one along Lake Michigan and the other along Lake Macatawa.

Rent an RV near Holland and glamp in Holland State Park.

One of the best Lake Michigan beaches for families, Holland State Park offers fishing, a boat launch, a concession stand with modern restrooms and changing area, a small playground and camping.

See Big Red Lighthouse directly across the channel to the south, or take a stroll north along the beachfront.

PRO TIP: Bring your own travel inflatable paddleboards and SUP when you want, without time constrictions, from sunrise and sunset. Otherwise, Macatawa Boar House rents stand up paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes on site.

Looking for less crowds?

Visit Tunnel Park Beach a few miles north, with a great playground and shaded picnic area for families. 66 Lakeshore Drive, Holland, MI 49424

tunnel-park-michigan — Tunnel Park Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Michigan with a fabulous playground.

When you’re done at the beach, wander through the shops downtown and grab dinner at one of the many family friendly restaurants. Many places are not open on Sunday, so make sure you check hours before making plans.

Chow Down: New Holland Brewing Company or The Windmill

The nicest Holland vacation homes

New Buffalo

Closest to Chicago, New Buffalo has long been a playground for those escaping the city. You’ll hear the train coming into town, bringing weekenders to the shore, and you can watch boats coming and going on the channel out to Lake Michigan.

Located in a sandy corner of southwest Michigan and just a short drive from downtown Chicago, New Buffalo is known as “The Gateway to Michigan.”

There are 10 public beaches with minutes of each other, offering unparalleled access to the Lake Michigan coast. From sprawling lakefront parks to hiking trails along Lake Michigan shores to towering sand dunes, the beaches of New Buffalo Michigan are some of the best in the Midwest.

The best Michigan beaches for families have sand dunes

We say climb towering dunes and enjoy views of the unspoiled beaches.

Best Beach in New Buffalo

Head to Weko Beach for swimming, a picnic area, grills, Lake Michigan camping, playground paddle boarding and kayaking. 5239 Lake Street, Bridgman, MI 49106

Want to try RV camping? Rent an RV near New Buffalo and camp at Weko Beach or neary Warren Dunes State Park.

Nearby Warren Dunes State Park, also offers lots of hiking and beach access and you’ll find wineries and antiques all throughout the area.

For the shopper and deal hunters in your group, check out the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets just across the border in Indiana.

Chow Down: Redamaks

New Buffalo Vacation Homes

best-michigan-beach-towns-saugatuck — Michigan beach towns also offer fun shopping, art stores, and book shops like this one in Saugatuck.

Sweet Saugatuck Waterfront Home Rentals

best-michigan-beaches-sunsets — The best Michigan beaches offer fabulous sunsets.

Saugatuck

An artist’s haven, Saugatuck (and neighboring town, Douglas) offers galleries and unique shops plus a mix of upscale and family friendly restaurant choices.

This town is situated further back from Lake Michigan, on the Kalamazoo River, so you’ll need to head to Oval Beach to catch breathtaking views of the water and magnificent dunes.

The Best Beach in Saugatuck

Oval Beach has been recognized as one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 25 Beaches in the World, National Geographic Traveler’s Top Freshwater Beaches in the USA, and MTV’s Top 5 Beaches in the USA!

Oval Beach on Lake Michigan is on everyone’s bucket list. Rolling sand dunes, concessions stands, and picnic areas, it’s a top beach for splashing in the waves or sun-bathing. Parking: $10/day

Nearby Saugatuck Dunes State Park is great for tackling the whole duneland experience. Hike through sandy woods to amazing overlooks on the 200-foot tall dunes. Biking trails and disco golf sit adjacent. Entrance fees apply. 6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423

Let your kids burn off some energy in the shaded town square park before strolling through both downtown Douglas and Saugatuck for fun shopping.

Chow Down: Blue Star Café or Crane’s Pie Pantry (in nearby Fennville)

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Explore Michigan Beaches in a local RV rental

A little more about Lindsay

Follow my friend, Lindsay Parker Williams! She is full of fantastic advice, especially regarding family travel in the Midwest.

Lindsay is the founder of the travel and family lifestyle blog, Let Me Give You Some Advice. She helps curious families explore more, live intentionally and try new things. Her husband and two boys provide non-stop entertainment on family road trips and, to maintain her sanity, Lindsay often disappears into a good book or new podcast. She firmly believes you can always learn something new.

All photos belong to Lindsay Parker Williams, except the ones of the tulips, beach houses, and sand dunes. (courtesy of pixabay.com).

More Michigan Beach Vacation Ideas

best places to paddle board Michigan — Isle inflatable paddle boards are the most versatile paddle boards you can travel and paddle anywhere with. We love their Explorer, Pioneer, and Megalodon boards best.

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