A Few of Our Favorite Things... Beaches

Most of them are hiding out in the open, little corners and dogleg breakaways of well-traveled spots. Others are tucked among hemlocks and pines in the back of the beyond, waiting to reward the more stalwart of beach-goers.

When we posed the question “what is your favorite beach in Michigan?” to Sea Grant staff in Ann Arbor, Lansing and around the state, there wasn’t a lot of hesitation. Though, many had difficulty narrowing it down to one or two beaches.

It turns out “the beach” means something different to everyone. For some, it means family fun, a place to romp with the kids or the dog, while others think of research and study. Of course, relaxation and re-centering entered the equation as well. Nighttime talks of childhood memories, games of hide-and-go seek under full moons, wintertime explorations – all types of ways to enjoy the beach came to light.

Lake Michigan, the state’s namesake lake, was a favorite among Sea Grant staff. Soft, sandy beaches, a variety of rocks, dunes and wildlife – it’s not hard to imagine why. Lake Superior was called out for its remote wilderness and lighthouses. Lake Erie was lauded for its accessibility to the metro area and its transformative atmosphere. While biodiversity and lazy Sunday drifting highlighted times on Lake Huron. (Lake Ontario, of course, was the odd lake out with no Michigan coast.) Read on to discover some hidden and some popular beach locales as recommended by the staff of Michigan Sea Grant.

See: Lake Huron Beaches

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