
Michigan is a stunning Midwestern state in the USA that is known for its long and pristine shoreline and many things to do. It is a popular state to visit among anglers, having some of the best bass fishing spots. While you are here, you can visit Mackinac Island, which is home to some historic forts and a lush park that has plenty of trails for you to explore. Detroit has lots of museums that offer a glimpse into the history of the city, such as Motown Museum and Detroit Historical Museum. If you are here to frolic on the beaches, you can head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Cheboygan State Park. If you wish to have easy access to some of the most gorgeous waters in the country, check out this list of the best beach resorts in Michigan, USA.
What to look forward to in Michigan:
Festival of the Arts - Every June, the city of Grand Rapids hosts this three-day event to celebrate artisans and performers. You can witness music and dance performances without having to pay a fee, and there will also be international food options.
Detroit International Jazz Festival - Spend your Labor Day weekend in Detroit, as the city has been the site of this thrilling celebration for the last 40 years. Every September, the biggest free Jazz festival in the world features dozens of musicians, including rising stars and well-known acts.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on January 29, 2025.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
Beach life in Michigan
To make the most of your beach getaway in Michigan, visit the state during the summer months between June and August, when the chance of rain is at its lowest. However, do note that this is also the busiest season, as tourists come to enjoy the state’s lakes.
If you don’t mind braving the crowds to enjoy Michigan’s sugar sand shoreline, here are some options for you. Petoskey State Park along Lake Michigan is an excellent place to swim, and you may even uncover some Petoskey stones, known as Michigan’s state stone. Another option is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Empire, which has various beach options and a ferry service that will take you to nearby islands.
Meanwhile, Tiscornia Park Beach is a quieter option with warm waters. It’s a great pick for families with children or those who want to picnic near the sea.
Beach resorts in Michigan, USA
1. Drummond Island Resort & Conference Center (from USD 133)
Varied dining options, excellent breakfast, but some mixed reviews on onsite restaurant.
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms and amenities.
Beautiful, tranquil location with convenient access to hiking trails and onsite restaurant.
Plenty of activities, rustic feel, and modern amenities. Some areas may need maintenance.
Set in Drummond, this three-star resort boasts a private beach area, a well-equipped fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool. As a sports enthusiast, I also appreciate that there is a tennis court on-site. Of course, plenty of watersports are available here too.
After a fun day at the resort’s beach, you can head back to your comfortable and spacious room that is equipped with a kitchenette, a modern bathroom with complimentary toiletries, and a flat-screen TV with kids’ channels provided.
- Property highlights: There are plenty of ways for guests to enjoy the water surrounding this accommodation. They will have complimentary access to canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding equipment and can also play beach volleyball.
- Nearest beach: The shore of Lake Huron is on the edge of the property.
- Suggested rooms/units: For a rustic experience, book the Russell Cabin featuring a gorgeous stone fireplace and a large kitchen.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "The waterfront is about a mile from the main lodge, so be prepared to walk or drive if you want to use the beach. The waterfront on the property is very pretty." - by Google reviewer, Patti Samar
Drummond Island Resort & Conference Center
208.91 km (129.9 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
2. The Inn at Harbor Shores, Saint Joseph (from USD 196)
The Inn at Harbor Shores | In-Room ViewsEver wonder what our rooms are like? Let us show you... #TheINN #LuxuryRooms Saint Joseph, Michigan Experience The INN | InnAtHarborShores.com | (269) 983-1111
Posted by The Inn at Harbor Shores on Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Located in the city of St. Joseph, The Inn at Harbor Shores is a four-star property that features both indoor and outdoor pools that are open all year round, and a spa and wellness center. There are four beaches nearby, and the resort offers free shuttle services to the beaches for its guests.
The cozy rooms at this luxury resort come with a balcony for some stunning views as well as a flat-screen TV for entertainment. Each unit also has a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries and soft bathrobes for freshening up after a fun-filled day at the beach.
- Property highlights: Guests with boats can take advantage of the on-site marina with boat slips. Otherwise, they can rent swan and paddle boats here.
- Nearest beach: The harbor is right in front of the property.
- Suggested rooms/units: Guests with mobility issues can book the Handicap- Accessible King.
The Inn at Harbor Shores
299.32 km (186.0 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
3. Cottages at Bay Harbor, Petoskey
This three-star beachfront paradise in Petoskey offers vibrant and roomy accommodations. If I were a guest here, I would appreciate that the rooms are equipped with coffee-making facilities to help start your day right, as I consider myself a caféphile. Each unit also comes with a microwave for heating up some simple meals, a TV for entertainment, and an ensuite bath for freshening up.
With a private beach area, you can easily relax on a quiet afternoon as you perfect your tan. There is a seasonal outdoor pool for guests who wish to indulge in a refreshing swim without having to leave the premises.
- Property highlights: During your stay at this resort, you can unwind in a beachside cabana.
- Nearest beach: The beach is just a few steps from the pool area.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: Admire the stunning lake from the private covered porch of the Two-Bedroom Lakeside Cottage, which also has a fully equipped kitchen and private laundry amenities.
Cottages at Bay Harbor
85.88 km (53.4 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
4. Grand Traverse Resort and Spa (from USD 164)
Good breakfast, but overpriced dining options and limited doordash choices
Varied pricing, $100-$120 a night more appropriate for some accommodations
Perfect location near Traverse City, though a bit far from downtown
Huge resort with golf course, glass elevator, swim and fitness facilities, multiple pools, and private lake access
The resort, located in Traverse City, is just a short walk away from the private beach, so those who wish to enjoy some water sports will find this accommodation convenient. It features two swimming pools, and the indoor pool is open all throughout the year, so you can enjoy some refreshing laps without having to worry about the weather.
The property has a wellness center that offers fitness and yoga classes, and a spa offering rejuvenating body treatments and hair services. Parking is available for a fee and prior reservation is not necessary.
- Property highlights: Enjoy your time in the water at this establishment by renting watersports equipment, such as kayaks, jet skis, and paddleboards.
- Nearest beach: The beach is a few steps from the pool.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: If you'd like to stay as close to the water as possible during your stay, book one of the units at The Shores, which is only a quick stroll from the bay.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "We liked being close to the beach & the beach wasn’t crowded." - by Google reviewer, Matilda Gits
Grand Traverse Resort and Spa
13.35 km (8.3 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
5. Mackinaw Beach and Bay Inn & Suites
This three-star all-suite resort is set just a short distance from Mackinaw City Beach and has cozy guest rooms that come with a private bathroom equipped with free toiletries, tea/coffee makers, and two flat-screen TVs with cable channels.
The units also come with a balcony where you can sip on your favorite beverage as you take in beautiful views of the surroundings.
- Property highlights: This resort has a sprawling beach area so guests can swim and sunbathe to their heart's content. You can also ask about hosting your wedding right on the sand.
- Nearest beach: The beach awaits just in front of the accommodation.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: Book the air-conditioned Family Room with Lake View with essential amenities, including two beds, a private bathroom, and a coffee machine.
Mackinaw Beach and Bay Inn & Suites
135.42 km (84.2 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
6. Clear Lake Resort, West Branch (from USD 113)
Close to local businesses for dining options. Some cabins have limited storage spots.
Reasonable prices for 14 units, including cabins and lakefront homes. Boat rentals available.
Beautiful, somewhat remote location near Clear Lake. Close to local businesses and trails.
Cabins equipped with full kitchens, BBQ grills, and dog-friendly. Community feel and ample storage space.
Located in the city of West Branch in Michigan, the resort features a private beach area, perfect for those who want to relax with their loved ones on a quiet afternoon. There are water sports facilities on-site, which guests can access at an extra charge. Other activities such as hiking are also offered.
The units here are spacious and come with stunning lake views and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Some units also have full kitchens, which I would appreciate if I were staying here because I love to bake!
In addition, you can access the parking spaces on the property for free, giving you the option to explore the top attractions in the city by car.
- Property highlights: This resort offers rentals for pontoon, fishing, and paddle boats. You can also fish along its 400-ft (121.92-m) dock.
- Nearest beach: The shores of Clear Lake are just a few steps away.
- Beach access: Depending on which cabin you book, you can enjoy either private or public beach access.
- Suggested rooms/units: Other than private beach access, Cabin 12B offers guests a full kitchen and a fire pit area.
Clear Lake Resort
114.69 km (71.3 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
7. Tawas Bay Beach Resort (from USD 91)
Good dining options with beach bar, but some guests found the restaurant prices high and service slow.
Reasonable pricing for modern facility and beachfront location.
Conveniently located within walking distance of downtown area and attractions.
Beachfront location, outdoor bar, pool, sauna, and close to downtown attractions.
Let the good times roll! The summer season is upon us! Ernest Entertainment will be playing the inside lounge this Saturday and Sunday, starting at 8pm. Bikinis Bar open Sat/Sun/Mon noon to 10pm.
Posted by Tawas Bay Beach Resort on Friday, May 27, 2022
Boasting a location right in front of the beach, Tawas Bay Beach Resort features a private beach area where guests can enjoy some quality time under the sun. Each accommodation comes with free WiFi access for updating your socials, an ensuite bathroom with a hairdryer, and coffee-making facilities for your daily caffeine fix. The cozy-looking rooms also have pillow-top beds that I think would be a great place to settle down with a book.
There are also facilities on-site that allow you to enjoy some water sports. After an adventurous day, you can head to the wellness center, which features a sauna, a fitness center, and a hot tub.
- Property highlights: With 600 ft (182.88 m) of beach, this resort ensures guests never run out of fun things to do. They can rent a jet ski or boat or play beach volleyball before getting a refreshing drink from the beach bar.
- Nearest beach: One of Lake Huron's beaches is just in front of the accommodation.
- Suggested rooms/units: For a truly relaxing experience, book the King Bay View unit with an in-room hot tub.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "The beach is right out the back door, with lounge chairs available and a beach bar right there. The bartender at the beach bar was very friendly." - by Google reviewer, Dana C
Tawas Bay Beach Resort & Conference Center
178.71 km (111.1 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
8. Silver sands resort, Mears
Delicious breakfast available at the on-site restaurant, and various dining options nearby.
Reasonable pricing for a clean, simple room near the beach and town center.
Conveniently located near restaurants, shops, and within walking distance to the beach and sand dunes.
Outdoor grills, spacious pool, and a central location for sightseeing and activities.
Situated a short stroll away from the beach, this modern resort in Mears is ideal for couples and traveling families. You can have access to the water sports facilities on the premises at an extra charge, which I think would be an exciting amenity to take advantage of to really be able to enjoy the water. There is also a private beach area where you will enjoy sunbathing.
If you do not wish to leave the property but want to enjoy a refreshing swim, you can take advantage of the seasonal outdoor pool that is heated and fenced for added comfort, safety, and privacy. The picnic area is available for guest use, so you can enjoy al fresco dining with your loved ones in the evening.
- Property highlights: This property offers an in-house watersports facility. You can also go canoeing or fishing here.
- Nearest beach: The beach is on the edge of the property.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: The Two-Bedroom Apartment is an excellent option for larger groups, as it has spacious living, dining, and kitchen areas for the family to gather and bond.
Silver sands resort
136.65 km (85.0 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
9. Chimney Corners Resort, Frankfort (from USD 210)
Convenient dining options nearby, such as Rocks Landing, and easy access to restaurants and a grocery store in Frankfort
Reasonable pricing comparable to other properties in the area
Perfectly situated across the street from Crystal Lake and close to Lake Michigan beaches and Traverse City
Well-equipped cabins with kitchen amenities and cozy gas fireplaces
The resort, located in Frankfort, offers guests quick and easy access to two beaches, namely Frankfort Public Beach and Elberta Beach. Both these beaches are about 5 mi (8 km) from the resort. All units come with complimentary WiFi and a tea/coffee maker, which is extra handy for coffee lovers like me.
Select rooms have panoramic views of the nearby lake, which you can enjoy through the large windows. You can have access to the parking spots on the premises at an extra charge if you are planning to explore by car.
- Property highlights: At this property's beach, guests can use the chairs, outdoor showers, and paddleboards. They can also rent kayaks and standup paddleboards.
- Nearest beach: The beach is just in front of the property.
- Beach access: Some of the accommodations here offer access to a private beach.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Bluewater unit offers a fully equipped kitchen as well as a spacious furnished deck very close to the water.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Great private beach on Crystal Lake and hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore." - by Google reviewer, James Kirk
Chimney Corners Resort
Address: 1602 Crystal Drive
44.6 km (27.8 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
10. Miller's Cottages, Ontonagon (from USD 138)
This is a three-star accommodation in Ontonagon with cozy self-catering cottages with fully equipped kitchens for easy meal preparation. For indoor entertainment, each unit comes with a TV with cable channels. You can access the WiFi at no extra charge throughout the premises.
As the property is located just in front of the beach, guests can enjoy numerous water activities, including swimming and canoeing. If you are looking for refreshing beverages, you can take advantage of the vending machines found on-site.
- Property highlights: To make beach getaways even better, this resort offers a variety of free amenities, including beach furniture and toys, lifejackets, kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
- Nearest beach: This property has a road leading to the beach.
- Suggested rooms/units: Spruce Valley #8 is a compact accommodation perfect for couples. It even has air conditioning and a full kitchen.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
“Lots of extras – water craft, charcoal and lighter fluid, beach chairs, wood all handy and inexpensive or free. we had lovely sunset fire on the beach.” - by Google reviewer, Jim Jmad
“Easy access to the beach where we had a bonfire a few different nights.” - by Google reviewer, Brent Bloomingdale
Miller's Cottages
Address: 22608 Lakeshore Rd
371.44 km (230.9 mi) from Great Wolf Lodge Water Park | Traverse City
Explore the best of Michigan
If you are visiting Michigan simply to relax, there are plenty of beaches in this state that will surely leave you in awe and offer you that relaxation. Check out the best beach resorts in Michigan, USA, for a great stay.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data