Lake Michigan is home to dozens of scenic beaches—even if they aren’t the traditional saltwater variety.
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The lake transforms each summer into a Midwestern dreamland. From sunny days at the ‘beach’ to scenic hikes through protected reserves, it’s a place where nature meets relaxation… and family fun. Welcome to the magic of Michigan’s beach towns, stylized as ‘beachtowns’.
If you’ve never heard of them before, they line Lake Michigan’s eastern border, offering some of the best sunsets on white sand in the country. Publications like Condé Nast named the beaches amongst the best in the world, while Travel + Leisure considers them some of the best-kept beach secrets in the country.
If you wrote off Lake Michigan as a great beach destination, think again. Here’s what you need to know about its seven increasingly famous beach towns, along with scenic rentals available in each.
Meet the 7 Lake Michigan beach towns making waves
Silver Lake/Hart
Small town charm meets coastal views in Silver Lake and Hart. Hart is renowned as one of Lake Michigan’s most scenic small towns, while Silver Lake State Park gives you access to some of the lake’s best beaches. Nearby, there are impressive dunes where you can off-road, along with miles of hiking trails.
Stay at one of these scenic waterfront rentals:
Muskegon
Active travelers who enjoy watersports will have dozens of adventures at their fingertips in Muskegon. It’s got an expansive beach that is perfect for days in the sand, along with the entire Lake Muskegon to explore. But there are other things to do around town, including Michigan’s Adventure amusement park, the popular Museum of Art, an actual WWII submarine, and some of Michigan’s best breweries.
Stay at one of these scenic waterfront rentals:
Grand Haven
History is alive and vibrant in Grand Haven, giving you a storied vacation. Recorded history stretches back three centuries in Grand Haven, making it one of Michigan’s best places to dig into the past. It’s also home to one of the country’s most-photographed lake lighthouses.
Stay at one of these scenic waterfront rentals:
Holland
Getting out into nature is a breeze in Holland, whether you’re looking for sand dune adventures or lazy beach days. The first place to stop is Holland State Park, then head over to Tunnel Park to take on some of Michigan’s largest sand dunes. When you’re ready to relax, head to Lake Michigan for a classic beach day, then wrap up your afternoon with a walk through Holland’s scenic main street.
Stay at one of these scenic waterfront rentals:
Saugatuck Douglas
Welcome to the best beaches in Michigan—and even the world. The famed Oval Beach has been name-dropped on Nat Geo, Conde Nast Traveler, and more. Consider this the perfect place to hole up for a few weeks with friends and families while you take on Lake Michigan one lazy beach day at a time.
Stay at one of these scenic waterfront rentals:
South Haven
Nature and downtime go hand in hand in South Haven. You can drift from the vibrant forests on its eastern edge to its sprawling, sandy beaches to the west. The area is also home to a handful of popular resorts, meaning you can expect plenty to do in the way of leisure, from hikes to scenic drives.
Stay at one of these scenic waterfront rentals:
St. Joseph/Benton Harbor
You’ve got options on how to enjoy Lake Michigan thanks to St. Joseph and Benton Harbor’s many beaches. There are seven total for you to explore, along with additional protected state parklands, and they’re all within reach during your stay. Expect a charming small-town experience, too, including a walkable downtown area and a picturesque carousel.
Stay at one of these scenic waterfront rentals:
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