8 Beautiful Beach Towns To Visit Along Lake Michigan

The secret is out: if you want a beach vacation, don't sleep on the Great Lakes, some of the most iconic destinations in the Midwest. Sure, they don't have salt water, but these giant inland seas have everything else you're hoping for from your beach getaway: cute towns, miles of sandy shores, clean water, excellent sunsets, fresh fish, and even the occasional lighthouse. While each of the Great Lakes have their charms, set your sights on Lake Michigan in particular, known as "America's Freshwater Riviera." Not only is it the most easily accessed from major hubs like Chicago (voted one of the most beautiful cities in the world), but dozens of charming beach towns line its banks.

Many of the best beach towns to visit on Lake Michigan are in Michigan itself, but the lake (the only of the Great Lakes completely within the borders of the United States) is also bordered by Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana. From rural getaways to dune-surrounded villages and lively resorts to old-fashioned hamlets, there's a little something for everyone in these Lake Michigan beach towns. The only downside will be choosing which one to visit. And if you can't choose, take a road trip around the whole of the lake, hitting up the hot spots along the way. 

There's no "wrong" time to visit Lake Michigan. Of course, if you're interested in swimming or water sports, you should visit in the summer. Note that early June and late August will be less crowded, while September has cooler temperatures but still plenty of beach days (and fewer people). 

When it comes to awesome Michigan hot spots, Holland (30 miles west of Grand Rapids) definitely makes the list. This aptly-named city has Dutch roots, visible in the authentic windmill in the botanical gardens, and a yearly Tulip Time Festival in late spring. And when it comes to the lake, Holland has it all: dunes and a boardwalk, an iconic lighthouse ("Big Red"), and even a path that tunnels under a dune (Tunnel Park). Holland State Park, ten minutes from the center of town, offers some of the most pristine stretches of coastline in the state. 

Yet another gem on Lake Michigan's eastern shore is Ludington, about 100 miles north of Grand Rapids. Ludington's crown jewel is Ludington State Park, voted one of the top state parks in the Midwest by Midwest Living. Deservedly so, with its seven miles of gorgeous, sandy shoreline, inland lake, and iconic lighthouse. As if one incredible state park isn't enough, Ludington is approximately 30 miles north of Silver Lake State Park, another idyllic stretch of dunes that (unlike Ludington) allows off-road vehicles such as dune buggies. Silver Lake has its own lighthouse, which you can climb for more classic Lake Michigan views.   

On western shores of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin you'll find charming little Sheboygan, a resort town known as the "Malibu of the Midwest." About an hour north of Milwaukee, Sheboygan is a freshwater surfer's paradise (hence the Malibu comparison). Even if you're not much of a surfer, good surfing equals good beaches; both Deland Park and King Park have lovely stretches of sand along with amenities. And good beaches also equals gorgeous sunsets, fishing and sailing opportunities, and even unique golf courses with their own beach access (try Whistling Straits). 

Indiana's most famous stretch along Lake Michigan is undoubtedly the Indiana Dunes, preserved in neighboring state and national parks. Some of the massive dunes stand almost 200 feet above the lake, and host everything from black oak forests to fields of wildflowers. Base yourself in nearby Beverly Shores in order to best experience the Indiana Dunes, along with a hefty dose of small-town charm. Beverly Shores is home to several unique historical landmarks, including the Century of Progress Homes built for the 1933 Chicago World's Fair.

Saugatuck, the artsy hidden gem of Lake Michigan, is a former logging village turned beach haven. Under an hour from Grand Rapids, the highlight of Saugatuck is its beaches. Oval Beach is considered one of the best beaches in the world , thanks to its picture-perfect views and sugar sands. Go for the sand and stay for the trails around the dunes, or for the historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry, the last of its kind in the country.  Avoid the oft-crowded parking lot by taking the Interurban Bus, which will you drop you at the beach for $1.     

For another hidden gem beach city on Lake Michigan, head to South Haven, about one hour southwest from Grand Rapids and two hours northeast from Chicago. With seven public beaches to choose from in town and a long resort history, South Haven is heaven on the lake (make sure to stay in a locally run lakeside bed-and-breakfast to take full advantage). As South Haven is located in Michigan's "Fruit Belt," there's an abundance of fresh produce at farmer's markets, family-run farms, and especially during annual Blueberry Festival in August.

One of the most charming Great Lakes destinations is Door County, Wisconsin. An idyllic, rural peninsula along Lake Michigan's western edge, Door County is known as the "Cape Cod of the Midwest." Thanks to its truly spectacular fall colors, Door County (1.5 hours from Green Bay) is most famous as an autumn destination. However, the rural villages, like Sister Bay, also feature their own beaches and make a great beach destination. From Sister Bay, take a ferry to picturesque Washington Island, visit one of the county's state parks, or sample wine along the Door County Wine Trail.