When I first drove along the Lake Michigan shoreline, I had no idea I’d keep coming back year after year. The charm of each beach town, the endless stretch of freshwater coast, and the variety of experiences—from art galleries to blueberries to hidden sand dunes—makes Lake Michigan feel like a road trip you’ll never finish. But that’s the beauty of it. There’s always another small town waiting to surprise you.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most captivating Lake Michigan beach towns I’ve personally explored—what to do, what not to miss, and how to make the most of your summer (or fall, or even winter) road trip.
What is Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes and the only one located entirely within the United States. It’s the third-largest by surface area and second-largest by volume.
Definition List:
Surface Area
Over 22,400 square miles, stretching across four states—Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana.
Depth
Average depth of 279 feet with a maximum depth of 925 feet.
Shoreline
1,640 miles long, including bays and inlets—making it a playground for outdoor lovers.
Water Type
Freshwater, with sandy bottoms and clear visibility in many areas.
Saint Joseph – Classic Midwest Charm and Lakeside Serenity
One of the first beach towns I fell in love with, Saint Joseph offers a perfectly balanced mix of natural beauty, great food, and family-friendly spots. It’s located in southwest Michigan and often called the “Riviera of the Midwest.”
● Why visit
- Soft sandy beaches like Silver Beach and Lions Park Beach
- Stunning sunsets from the bluff-top parks
- Quaint downtown packed with shops, galleries, and ice cream parlors
● My top tip
Head to Silver Beach Carousel for a nostalgic ride, and then walk over to the Whirlpool Compass Fountain—kids (and even adults) love running through the water jets on hot days.
● Where to eat
Planks Tavern at The Inn at Harbor Shores offers amazing views and farm-to-table dishes. Grab a coffee flight at Rise and Vine inside the hotel—unique and flavorful.
South Haven – Blueberry Bliss and Boardwalk Strolls
If you’re a fan of local charm and blueberry everything, South Haven is a must. I visited during their annual Blueberry Festival and was hooked. It’s one of those towns where you just feel good as soon as you arrive.
● What makes it unique
- Home to the beloved Blueberry Store and annual Blueberry Festival in August
- Gorgeous South Beach with a photogenic red lighthouse
- A bustling marina and historic maritime museum
● Travel insight
The walk along the South Haven pier at golden hour is unmatched. Watching boats return under cotton candy skies is a memory that stays with you.
● Don’t miss
- Try blueberry wine or jam
- Shop at downtown boutiques like Decadent Dogs or Props
- Grab a cone from Sherman’s Dairy Bar
Holland – Dutch Roots and Stunning Coastal Culture
Every time I’ve been to Holland, I’ve discovered something new. From tulip festivals in spring to watching a Lake Michigan sunset in summer, Holland brings a European vibe right here in the Midwest.
● Why you’ll love it
- Big Red Lighthouse is iconic for sunset photos
- Tulip Time Festival in May draws thousands, but summer is more relaxed
- Heated sidewalks in winter, boutique-lined streets in summer
● Personal favorites
- Breakfast at The Windmill Restaurant (go early—locals fill it fast!)
- Strolling downtown and picking up goodies at Cherry Republic
- Waterfront drinks and dinner at Boatwerks
● Quick tip
Holland State Park offers one of the widest, cleanest beaches I’ve ever set foot on—pack a picnic and stay until dusk.
Saugatuck – Art, Dunes, and Sunset Perfection
Saugatuck is effortlessly cool. It’s artsy without being pretentious and laid-back while still being full of energy. It’s also just 15 minutes from Holland, making it an easy two-town day trip.
● Reasons to go
- Known as the “Art Coast of Michigan” for its galleries and artist community
- Oval Beach is one of the most scenic in the Midwest
- Plenty of waterfront dining and shopping
● Can’t-miss experiences
- Catch a live show at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts
- Explore the Dune Rides for a thrill through the hills
- Sip coffee at Uncommon Coffee Roasters—they make the best hot chocolate too
● Traveler tip
Book a table at The Butler for sunset dinner right on the lake—it’s romantic and scenic without being stuffy.
Glen Arbor – Lakeside Simplicity and Cherry Delight
Glen Arbor stole my heart with its balance of small-town simplicity and proximity to nature. It’s right near the Sleeping Bear Dunes, which are a highlight on their own, but the town itself has a quiet charm that sneaks up on you.
● Highlights
- Home to the original Cherry Republic store (sample everything!)
- Perfect base for hiking Sleeping Bear Dunes or floating down Crystal River
- Laid-back shops and lakefront cafés
● What I loved most
- The peaceful vibe of The Homestead Resort
- Paddleboarding on Glen Lake—it’s warm, clear, and calm
- Ending the day with cherry wine slushies
● Insider tip
Start your day early with a hike at Pyramid Point—it’s less crowded and the view over Lake Michigan is unreal.
Traverse City – Cherries, Wineries, and Lakeside Sophistication
Traverse City blends outdoor adventure with a refined, almost coastal-European feel. I’ve spent several long weekends here, and each time the itinerary felt completely different—from wine trails and foodie stops to paddleboarding at sunrise.
● What sets it apart
- Known as Michigan’s wine country with over 40 wineries on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas
- Host of the National Cherry Festival every July
- Gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
● My ideal day
- Morning coffee at BLK MRKT in the Warehouse District
- Kayak the Boardman River or bike the TART trail
- Afternoon wine tastings at Mari Vineyards and Bonobo
- Catching the sunset at Clinch Park Beach with cherry ice cream in hand
● Local tip
Visit in early September for warm lake temps and fewer crowds—plus, harvest season is in full swing.
Petoskey – Victorian Charm and Petoskey Stone Hunting
Petoskey is one of the most elegant and photogenic towns along Lake Michigan’s northern shoreline. The historic architecture, sloping bluffs, and panoramic water views make it feel timeless. My favorite memory? Skipping rocks and hunting for Petoskey stones as the sun dropped low over Little Traverse Bay.
● What to know
- Petoskey stones (fossilized coral) are unique to this area and fun to search for along the beach
- Gaslight Shopping District has beautiful old buildings and great cafés
- Nearby Bay Harbor offers luxury vibes and excellent golf
● Don’t miss
- Sunset at Petoskey State Park—one of the best photo ops on the lake
- Coffee and a book at Roast and Toast Café
- A scenic drive up to Harbor Springs and through the Tunnel of Trees
● Pro tip
Bring water shoes or flip flops when combing beaches—those stones can be sharp!
Quick Travel Guide to Lake Michigan’s Coastal Towns
Lake Michigan’s shore is more than just sand and waves—it’s a collection of microcultures. Whether you’re in the U.P. or the southwest coast, here’s how to navigate it like a pro.
Best Times to Visit
| Season | Pros | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Warm waters, beach events, festivals | Swimming, hiking, kayaking |
| Fall | Foliage, lower crowds, harvest festivals | Winery tours, scenic drives |
| Winter | Quiet towns, skiing, frozen lakes | Cozy getaways, snowshoeing |
| Spring | Blooming trails, fewer tourists | Budget-friendly escapes |
What to Pack for a Lake Michigan Road Trip
It took me a few trips to finally get my packing dialed in. The weather can change fast, especially in northern towns near the lake. Here’s my refined Lake Michigan packing checklist:
● Essentials
- Windbreaker or light waterproof jacket
- Bathing suit and beach towel
- Hiking shoes and casual sandals
- Lightweight daypack
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Power bank for phones
● Optional but Helpful
- Binoculars for birding or lighthouse spotting
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
- Reusable water bottle with filter
- Camp chairs or picnic blanket
- Small cooler for cherries, cider, or snacks
Can You Do a Multi-Town Lake Michigan Trip?
Absolutely—and I’ve done it several times. One of the joys of traveling along Lake Michigan is how close many of these beach towns are to each other. Here’s a sample 5-day itinerary I followed with friends:
Day 1
• Arrive in Saint Joseph
• Sunset at Silver Beach, dinner at Planks Tavern
Day 2
• Explore South Haven and blueberry shopping
• Afternoon drive to Saugatuck, night stay at a local B&B
Day 3
• Hike Saugatuck Dunes, coffee in Holland, lunch in Grand Haven
• Evening arrival in Traverse City
Day 4
• Wine tasting, downtown strolls, cherry shopping
• Overnight in Glen Arbor
Day 5
• Morning hike at Sleeping Bear Dunes
• Head north to Petoskey for a final lakeside dinner
Definition List for Traveler Clarity
Petoskey Stone
A fossilized rugose coral found on Lake Michigan beaches, unique in appearance and often used in jewelry.
Lake Effect Weather
Weather patterns caused by proximity to large lakes like Lake Michigan, often resulting in sudden fog, snow, or storms.
Tunnel of Trees
A famous scenic drive on M-119 between Harbor Springs and Cross Village known for its dense forest canopy.
Sand Dunes
Naturally formed hills of sand, many preserved in state parks, such as Sleeping Bear or Warren Dunes.
Cherry Republic
A local brand and store celebrating Michigan’s cherry industry, with locations in Glen Arbor, Holland, and Traverse City.
Hidden Beach Town Gems Along Lake Michigan
Beyond the well-known towns, there are a few lesser-visited Lake Michigan spots I’ve discovered that deserve a moment in the spotlight. These towns may not always top travel lists, but they offer serenity, local flavor, and postcard-worthy views.
Manistee – Riverwalk Charm and Quiet Beaches
Manistee surprised me with its scenic Riverwalk, uncrowded beaches, and beautifully restored downtown. It’s quieter than nearby Traverse City, which made it ideal for a slow-paced weekend.
● Highlights
- 1.5-mile Riverwalk along the Manistee River
- Historic Vogue Theatre shows old and indie films
- Sunset from 5th Avenue Beach rivals anywhere on the lake
● Travel tip
Climb the North Pier Lighthouse catwalk at dusk—it’s hauntingly beautiful with waves crashing below.
Frankfort – A Peaceful Harbor Town
Located at the base of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Frankfort is a town I return to when I want peace, beach walks, and delicious eats with a view.
● Best experiences
- Swim and relax at Frankfort Beach
- Grab lunch at Stormcloud Brewing Company
- Hike Elberta Bluffs for sweeping views of the shoreline
● Local tip
Visit Point Betsie Lighthouse for photos—especially on a slightly overcast day when the colors deepen and the waves put on a show.
Grand Haven – Iconic Pier and Summer Vibes
If you’re chasing vibrant boardwalk energy and wide sandy beaches, Grand Haven is your spot. It has a beach-town pulse that’s hard to resist during summer weekends.
● Top features
- Grand Haven State Park is clean, huge, and family-friendly
- Musical Fountain show runs nightly during the summer
- Lighthouse pier walk at sunset is an absolute must
● Visitor tip
Arrive early on weekends—parking fills up fast and this beach is a local favorite.
Common Questions When Visiting Lake Michigan
Can I swim in Lake Michigan?
Absolutely. Summer water temperatures range from 65°F to 75°F, with the warmest water along the Michigan coast. Popular beaches have lifeguards, and conditions are often flagged for safety.
Is Lake Michigan safe for kayaking or paddleboarding?
Yes, especially on calmer days. Early morning tends to offer smoother water. Stick to bays or inlets if you’re new, and always wear a PFD.
Are dogs allowed on beaches?
Many Lake Michigan towns offer designated dog beaches or dog-friendly sections. Check town websites or state park rules beforehand.
How long should I plan for a Lake Michigan trip?
For a loop from southwest to northwest Michigan (e.g., St. Joseph to Petoskey), plan for 4–7 days to explore towns without feeling rushed.
Is winter worth it on Lake Michigan?
Yes! Towns like Traverse City, Petoskey, and Holland offer snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and cozy downtown scenes during the holidays. Just dress warm and check road conditions.
Actionable Advice for Planning a Lake Michigan Adventure
Planning your own adventure? Here’s what I recommend after years of exploring this lakefront paradise.
Start Small
● Choose 2–3 towns based on your interests—food, beaches, hiking, or shopping.
● Don’t over-plan. Part of the magic is stumbling into a harbor or hidden trail.
Mix Big and Small
● Pair known towns like Traverse City with quieter ones like Glen Arbor or Frankfort for balance.
● Reserve lodging early in peak season, especially July and early August.
Let the Weather Guide You
● A clear day is great for beaches and kayaking
● Overcast? Explore art galleries, lighthouses, or wine tastings
