Michigan Claims 2 of The Best Lake Beaches in America

Michigan isn’t just about automotive legends and stunning fall foliage, it’s also home to some of the best beaches in the United States. For those of us who live in the Great Lakes State, it comes as no surprise, but for others around the country, it's now something to add to their travel bucket list.

Fodor's Travel, experts in travel guides and online tourism information, released a list of the 15 Best Lake Beaches in the U.S. So many assume a great beach needs to be on the shoreline of an ocean, but we're here to dispel the myth.

"When most people think of booking travel for a “beach trip,” they traditionally think of destinations located along the coast. Many people don’t realize that there are many underrated beaches across the U.S. that aren’t necessarily oceanic, but still just as beautiful. Here are more than a dozen of the best lake beaches across the United States, with no ocean in sight", they said. 

Out of the 15 best lake beaches to make the list, two are right here in Michigan. First in the #5 spot is The Beaches of Sleeping Bear Dunes in Traverse City on the shores of Lake Michigan.

"Visitors will encounter dune bluffs that can tower as high as 450 feet above the water. Travelers can set their home base in the nearby town of Empire, offering easy access to the park and its gorgeous beaches, including Empire Beach, Esch Road Beach, Peterson Beach, Platte River Point, Good Harbor Bay Beach, or Bohemia Beach. The sparkling clear waters set against a backdrop of towering golden sand dunes make for a spectacular place to watch the sunset at night", they wrote. 

 

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In the #7 spot, and a personal favorite, is the stunning North Shore Beach at Grand Haven State Park.

"Grand Haven State Park and public beach offer miles of golden sand, clear water, a historic pier to explore, with close proximity to the downtown area. It’s a wonderful getaway for visitors of any age. The park’s North Shore Beach in particular is a must-visit hidden gem. It’s located on the calmer side of the Grand River channel, so visitors can enjoy the same fantastic sands and tranquil water conditions while being just far away from town that it feels like a relaxing respite", Fodor's described. 

 

Both beaches were in some pretty impressive company scattered around America. You can view the full list of the 15 Best Lake Beaches in the U.S. here, and make sure to find time to enjoy 2 of the very best right in our own backyard.