A Local’s Guide to 8 Breathtaking Beaches in Northern Michigan

It’s no secret that Northern Michigan has an endless supply of gorgeous beaches. Some are tucked away behind pine trees, others are front and center in the middle of town, and some you can only reach on foot. There are so many breathtaking spots, in fact, that it can be hard to decide which one to visit.

During the summer, one of our favorite family activities is to pack a quick cooler, throw a blanket and firewood into our trunk, and head to a beach for swimming, a sunset, and a bonfire. We have spent endless hours combing the area for our ultimate favorite spots, rounding up a list that we choose from, depending on our mood.

Here are a few of our top-rated locations!

Rock Hunter’s Paradise at Bohemia Beach

S Bohemia Rd, Maple City, MI 49664

Located between Glen Arbor and Leland, Bohemia Beach is the ultimate rock lovers’ paradise. Most of our Petoskey Stone collection has been foraged from this beach, and the views are unparalleled. Nestled close to pine trees, the landscape combines forest and endless turquoise blue water as a perfect backdrop for a bonfire.

Beware- the shoreline is rocky, which makes for amazing rock hunting, but can be tough on your feet when getting into the water for a swim.

Pro Tip: There is a dirt road that runs in both directions right before you hit the main parking lot. For more privacy, take it to the right all the way until it dead ends into another parking lot. You’ll experience a quieter beach, but with bathrooms still close by.

Explore Off the Beaten Path at Peterson Beach

Peterson Rd, Honor, MI 49640

Located on the southern end of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore, Peterson Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination. You’ll follow a dirt road for several miles before landing in the parking lot, but the tough travel is worth it. You’ll be greeted with sandy, shallow water, magnificent views of Sleeping Bear, and fewer crowds.

This is our favorite beach to swim, play frisbee, or jump in the waves. It’s easy to lose track of time here on a hot summer’s day, which makes it a worthwhile stop.

Read More: Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Like a Local

Pro Tip: The Platte River isn’t too far from this beach, so if you are looking for an all day adventure, you could easily combine an afternoon at the beach with an evening kayak on the Platte River.

Top-Rated Sunsets at Esch Road Beach

Esch Rd, Honor, MI 49640

Esch Road Beach has it all- a wide, sandy beach, running far in either direction; a warm river to explore that meets Lake Michigan; and close-by hiking trails that allow you to spend a full day adventuring. We love to bring our paddleboards during the evening hours, when the Lake calms down and the sunset is approaching.

Pro Tip: Make sure to swing through Empire to grab a sandwich at Shipwreck Café for a day on the water. Afterwards, hit up Grocer’s Daughter for a tasty cup of gelato or a handcrafted fudgesicle!

Quiet from the Crowds at Elberta Beach

Bye Rd, Elberta, MI 49628

Located a bit further south, and out of the populated beaches of Sleeping Bear Lakeshore, Elberta Beach is a hidden gem. It is easily one of our favorites to jump big waves, fish off the long pier, and sail a kite. This location is never crowded and spectacular in every way. 

Pro Tip: After a day at the beach, stop into the nearby Furnace Street Distillery for a handcrafted cocktail and to let the kids play across the street at one of the area’s best parks.

Get Your Bonfire on at Good Harbor Beach

Good Harbor Bay Trail, Maple City, MI 49630

A short drive from Traverse City, Good Harbor Beach is our favorite beach for an evening bonfire. This is a popular spot, especially during the afternoon hours, but the crowds tend to thin out by sunset. 

To the left, there is a small creek to explore, and there are nooks and crannies to this beach to perch on above the lower beach. The sand is soft, and the energy is always right.

Pro Tip: On your way to the beach, stop in Cedar for some homegrown tacos at Cedar Sol Hydro Farm. Open only in the summer months, everything is locally sourced and fresher than fresh. 

Seek Solitude and Reach the Beach on Foot

If you are looking for a beach that is secluded, try reaching them by foot! I have several spots that I frequently visit when I desire solitude. All of these locations are well worth the hike. Keep it simple by packing some snacks, a drink, and a beach towel, and your day will be made.

Solace at Sleeping Bear Point Beach

Sleeping Bear Dunes Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 49636

Located just beyond the beach at Glen Haven, park at the trailhead for Sleeping Bear Point and prepare for an adventure.

I highly recommend hiking the full 2.5 mile loop to experience stunning views and sandy hilltops, but if you are looking to quickly access the water, head towards the right when you embark on the trail. Within a quarter of a mile, you can take a spur trail that will lead you to the water’s edge.

This is another fantastic site to find unique rocks. Make sure to take some time to climb one of the dunes surrounding the beach- the run back down is well worth it.

Top-Rated Views on Cathead Bay

Densmore Rd, Northport, MI 49670

Head all the way up to the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula to Leelanau State Park, and you’ll find the Leelanau – Cathead Bay trailhead just outside of Northport. Take the Lake Michigan Trail, and you’ll soon find yourself on top of a beautiful vista, with views of the dunes and crystal clear Lake Michigan at your fingertips.

The beach is sandy, shallow, and oftentimes, I find myself the only one here. Build a play fort with washed-up driftwood, seek Petoskey stones, or just simply relax.

Afterwards, grab a beer at the Mitten Brewery in Northport on your way home.

Read More: Take the Road Less Traveled to Northport, Michigan

Green Point Dunes: The Trail That Has It All

Green Point Rd, Frankfort, MI 49635

I’ve saved the best for last. Located amongst the Arcadia Dunes area, Green Point Dunes beach is part of a two-mile loop hike. The hike itself is one of our favorites, featuring lookouts, shipwreck hunting, and winding paths through an old forest. But the beach here is the highlight. Nestled among pine trees, it is what dreams are made of. You can wander the beach in either direction, often finding unique landscapes of looming dunes or hidden coves that are a delight to explore.

Ever since my kids were little, we would come here to find peace and a place away from the often bustling crowds of the summer. There are so many places to visit in conjunction with the trek to the beach- you can find ice cream close by at Arcadia Ice House (a real soda shop!), a beer at 5 Shores Brewery or Stormcloud Brewing Company, and if you are looking for a unique gift shop, make sure to stop at Gwen Frostic’s studio on your drive.

Read More: Discover Frankfort: The Gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes

Savor the Summer at a Northern Michigan Beach

In Northern Michigan, adventures abound at any of the area’s enviable beaches. The shoreline is just one of those magical places of existence, where it’s easy to hit pause- and enjoy the feeling of the sun on your skin and the wind in your hair. I’m already counting the days until my next visit.