Photo by Jason Brower

Check out last year's rankings here, but things have changed a little for 2024!

Without further ado, let's step into our top 10 beaches on Lake Michigan as we head into this summer. Lake Michigan's a little special to us, as we've been based in Milwaukee for a couple years now, and it's the lake most accessible to much of Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana.

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Beach - Located near Empire, Michigan, this beach offers stunning sand dunes, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a designated natural area known for its natural beauty.

2. Oval Beach - Situated in Saugatuck, Michigan, Oval Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming. It offers soft sand, gentle dunes, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. The beach is accessible by a short walk through a beautiful wooded area.

3. Warren Dunes State Park Beach - Located in Sawyer, Michigan, this beach is nestled within Warren Dunes State Park. It features towering sand dunes, wide sandy beaches, and scenic trails that provide stunning views of Lake Michigan. The beach is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and kiteboarding.

4. Indiana Dunes National Park Beach - Located in Porter, Indiana, this beach is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park, offering over 15,000 acres of beautiful dunes, forests, wetlands, and shoreline. The beach provides easy access to the lake and offers scenic views, swimming, picnicking, and hiking opportunities.

5. Silver Beach - Situated in St. Joseph, Michigan, Silver Beach is known for its soft sandy shoreline and a vibrant atmosphere. With amenities like a splash pad, a playground, and a carousel, it's a popular spot for families. The beach is also home to the Silver Beach Amusement Park Museum and offers stunning views of the lighthouse.

6. Grand Haven State Park Beach - Located in Grand Haven, Michigan, this beach is part of Grand Haven State Park. It stretches along the shore for two miles, offering soft sand, dunes, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. The beach is known for its pier and lighthouse, as well as its vibrant summer festivals.

7. North Beach - Situated in Racine, Wisconsin, North Beach is one of the best beaches on Lake Michigan's western shore. It offers a wide sandy shoreline, a designated swimming area, and convenient amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and beach volleyball courts. The beach is also known for hosting the annual "Taste of Wisconsin" festival.

8. Saugatuck Dunes State Park Beach - Located near Saugatuck, Michigan, this beach is within the Saugatuck Dunes State Park, a pristine natural area. The beach offers secluded stretches of sand, towering dunes, and peaceful trails. It is an ideal spot for hiking, birdwatching, and escaping the crowds.

9. Pere Marquette Beach - Situated in Muskegon, Michigan, Pere Marquette Beach is a popular destination with its expansive sandy shoreline and stunning views of Lake Michigan. The beach offers amenities such as picnic areas, a playground, and volleyball courts. It is also home to the historic South Pierhead Light.

10. Bradford Beach - Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Bradford Beach is a vibrant urban beach with a lively atmosphere. It offers soft sand, clear water, and a range of amenities, including a beach volleyball court, a bathhouse, and seasonal food and drink vendors. The beach often hosts events and live music during the summer months.

These ten beaches on Lake Michigan offer an array of natural beauty, recreational activities, and stunning lake views. Whether you're looking for a tranquil escape, family-friendly fun, or vibrant urban beach experiences, these beaches have something for everyone.