Michigan's Most Charming Beach Towns
The only state in the US with two peninsulas, Michigan’s relationship with water is fun, close and intimate. Since Michigan’s expansive peninsulas hug not one—but four Great Lakes, the Wolverine State could just be the country’s runaway lakefront champion. And this is not just some word on the street. Consider that Michigan boasts more than 100 public beaches one can choose from. Moreover, many of Michigan’s numerous beaches have just as powder-soft and sparkling sand as any of the award-winning Caribbean beaches. Of course, some Michigan beaches are rocky and rugged—adding up to the diversity of state's coastline.
And dotting Michigan’s coastline like some well-positioned stars of a galaxy, are several charming beach towns that provide access to the Mitten State’s sandy pleasures. Read on to discover Michigan’s most charming beach towns.
Traverse City
Curled up right next to the blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is in many ways the bustling hub of northern Michigan. With a population of about 15,000, Traverse City hits the sweet spot between small-town appeal and big-city conveniences. Whether one will want to swim, sail, or just go beachcombing, beach bums will not go wrong with a town that boasts more than 230 miles of continuous Lake Michigan shoreline. Known for its spectacular scenery, Traverse City is the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Not to be missed, Sleeping Bear’s high dunes offer gasp-inducing views of the deep blue waters of Lake Michigan. Visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore may just make one understand the reason viewers of ABC-TV’s “Good Morning America” once voted this slice of paradise the “Most Beautiful Place in America.”
Holland
Best known for its Dutch heritage, as the name implies, Holland once made it to Forbes' list of America’s Prettiest Towns. This singular honor might be attributed to several factors: The many gorgeous beaches the city is known for, the mind-blowing art often on display—or even tulips—the one flower most associated with the Netherlands. In 17th-century Amsterdam for instance, some tulip bulbs were being sold for the price of an upscale house. But that aside, Holland Michigan is a gem of a town one may not get enough of. Nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, Holland boasts numberless draws. For those who may love tracing the city’s Dutch heritage, Windmill Island Gardens is arguably the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the United States. For outdoor pleasures, Holland State Park and Tunnel Park are must-visits. And listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Holland’s downtown is one-of-a-kind.
Ludington
Whether one will want to get a feel of warm sand between the toes or just splash in the waves, Ludington checks all boxes. Nestled in western Michigan’s Mason County, Ludington is the largest city in the county — though it boasts a population of only about 7,800. While the town boasts several highlights including the S.S. Badger car ferry, the largest car ferry to sail the Great Lakes; miles of stunning beaches along Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, and two lighthouses including one located right in town, the one attraction above all others remains Ludington State Park. In February 2022, Midwest Living ranked this park the best in the Midwest after Porcupines Mountains State Park. Visitors to Ludington State Park enjoy 5,300 acres of picturesque vistas and sylvan charm in an enamoring serenity.
Copper Harbor
With a population of only 145, Copper Harbor is part town; part village—with just the right look and feel. Michigan’s most northern city sits atop the picturesque Keweenaw Peninsula which boasts a two-fold reputation: It is the site of one of the oldest lava flows in the world—and the only region in the United States where prehistoric, aboriginal mining of copper occurred. Charmingly nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, the cleanest and clearest of all the Great Lakes, Copper Harbor offers a beach experience that is more in harmony with nature in its most pristine. Hunter’s Point, one of the few flat areas around the lake—and Horseshoe Harbor—where the hermit thrushes make the summer air vocal with their flute-like calls—are all outdoor options worth checking out. For hiking or mountain biking, Copper Harbor has a few equals.
South Haven
A city whose official name includes the word “haven” will pique the interest of any curious vacationer. And on a first-time visit, one will confess that South Haven is one of America’s underappreciated gems. Nestled on the mouth of Black River — on the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, South Haven boasts a population of about 4,000. If one will want to start the day with some grilled cheese and bacon or a sumptuous turkey sandwich with tomato soup, Taste restaurant, located at 402 Phoenix Street, is the place to ask for. For a beach experience, however, options are in plenty, including South Beach. This famous beach features an excellent swimming area, stunning vistas on all sides, and a gorgeous lighthouse.
Grand Haven
If summer should find one in Grand Haven, a gem of a town that hugs the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, Grand Haven Musical Fountain will be unfortunate to miss. This enchanting symphony of music, color, and water takes place every night from Memorial Day through Labor Day — and is free of charge. Aside from this famous show, Grand Haven, the first city officially designated as Coast Guard City by an act of Congress, has an estimated 2023 population of 10,000 and is famous for its powder-soft beaches. For a feel of the area’s history and culture, Tri-Cities Historical Museum is the place to lace up for. Otherwise, outdoor lovers will enjoy exploring Grand Haven State Park — whose 48 acres consist entirely of sparkling, beachfront sand.
New Buffalo
Conveniently situated only 70 miles from downtown Chicago, New Buffalo is known as the Hamptons of the Midwest, and that alone should make it a place one will be excited to explore. While not much of a celebrity playground as New York’s Hamptons, New Buffalo is nearly as enchanting. Visitors to New Buffalo will be struck by the almost omnipresence of the name “Whitaker.” There is Whittaker Woods Golf Club, Whittaker Street, and a few other Whittakers. Well, while en route to Chicago, Wessel Whittaker, a navy captain from Buffalo, New York, wrecked his ship near present-day Grand Beach. He would subsequently discover what he believed would be an idyllic setting for a city he wanted to create in the image of Buffalo, New York. Today, one of the town’s highlights is New Buffalo Beach, a relaxing beach that boasts miles of sparkling white sand and a gasp-inducing shoreline.
Muskegon
In the Algonquian language, Muskegon means “marshy river,” a dated reference to the Muskegon River, the second-largest river in Michigan. This town is curled up on the picturesque banks of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Muskegon River. Boasting a population of about 37,000, Muskegon is home to several Victorian mansions visitors often love exploring. The Hackley and Hume Historic Site, for instance, with their ornate gingerbread style, stencilled walls and ceilings, beautiful turrets, and stained-glass windows, are a particular draw. Besides, Lakeshore Bike Trails, with its 12 miles of paved trails, offer amazing views over to the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan. For those who love the smile and scent of flowers, the Monet Garden Of Muskegon is a wonderful refuge that is located right inside the city.
St. Joseph
Whether one will want to explore the woods, in all their mind-calming stillness, or the beach, with all its sun and sand, St. Joseph is one of Michigan’s most charming beach towns. Secreted away in a tiny corner in southwest Michigan on the banks of Lake Michigan, St. Joseph boasts up to seven gorgeous beaches; a variety that will make beach bums spoilt for choice. A particular favorite with many, however, remains Silver Beach, whose sand is soft and clean, and whose waters are sometimes so clear as to be nearly transparent. And with a safe, spacious playground, Silver Beach will be particularly interesting to parents with children tagging along. About 16 miles away, Warren Dunes State Park, whose dunes are among the best freshwater dunes in the world, will be worth checking out.
Glen Arbor
Completely encircled by breathtaking beauty on all sides, Glen Arbor is curled up in Michigan’s picturesque Leelanau Peninsula. With a population of about 200, Glen Arbor offers the authentic charm that small-town lovers often find enchanting. The town boasts a decent number of art galleries art lovers will want to mill around, inviting restaurants that will sate the most persistent cravings of appetite, and a few stores that will effortlessly lighten wallets. For outdoor fun, one can go boating in Crystal River, explore the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail, spend a thoughtful hour at the Little Glen Picnic Area, or venture about 4 miles away to Sleeping Bear Dunes — where bluffs that rise 450 feet above the only great lake lying wholly within the United States—offers heart-stirring views on every side.
Cheboygan
For those looking for a path less traveled, or, according to Robert Frost—the road not taken— Cheboygan would look like it. Boasting a population of about 4,800, Cheboygan is nestled along the river that lends it its name — just where the river joins Lake Huron. That location means one thing: Cheboygan is full to the brim with blue-space fun and adventure. Cheboygan State Park, for instance, stretches over 1,250 acres of beautiful scenery. On clear days, one can see the Mackinaw Bridge from this park, in addition to experiencing the mind-calming quiet amid the rustling leaves and the sound of chirping birds. Along the rugged shoreline of Lake Huron, several hiking trails meander. Away from the outdoors, the downtown has several dining and shopping options, all set in a cool, charming, and slow-paced environment that many will revel in.
The Takeaway
Known as the Wolverine State, despite there being not many wolverines in the state, Michigan boasts one of the most gorgeous coastlines in the United States. Yet the 26th state does not border any coast. The secret is Lake Michigan, the world's largest lake by area located fully in one country — and the more than 11,000 inland lakes Michigan is home to. Nestled along many of these lakes are several charming beach towns that offer amazing blue-space experiences. From Grand Haven to Glen Arbor, Holland to Muskegon, Michigan’s beach towns radiate charm and allure that many may find infatuating.
