Lake Michigan Beaches
If you've never been to a West Michigan beach, you're missing out on one of America's finest treasures. Clean, soft, sugar-like sands that practically beg you to dig your toes in. Crystal-clear fresh water as far as the eye can see. Gorgeous sunsets that paint the sky orange and purple and pink. It’s like no other place on Earth!
But don’t take our word for it:
- Condé Nast Traveler says the Lake Michigan shoreline is one of the 25 best on the planet.
- Travel+Leisure includes Grand Haven on its list of the world’s top 15 “secret beaches.”
- National Geographic Traveler lauds Saugatuck’s Oval Beach as one of America’s top 2 freshwater beaches.
Find your Beach Vibe
There are nearly 20 Lake Michigan beaches close and convenient to Grand Rapids. Some are almost always bustling with summer activity, others are more private and secluded. Many sit adjacent to soaring sand dunes and wooded forests ideal for exploration and sightseeing. A few are even dog friendly. Explore all the beaches below – and check out some of these personalized recommendations.
After the Beach
Shop and dine in the lakeshore communities of Holland, Grand Haven, Muskegon and Saugatuck/Douglas – each has its own distinct personality, and they’re all ranked among Michigan’s Best Beach Towns by Thrillist.
The lakeshore experience is just 30-45 minutes from the big-city culture, dining and entertainment of Grand Rapids. So you can easily spend a day on the beach and a night on the town – or vice versa!
I had a little more than one full day in Grand Rapids during my trip. In that short amount of time, I discovered that it may not be the biggest city in the state, but it is definitely one of the most interesting and one of America’s most underrated wheelchair friendly cities.
