A wealth of sandy beaches awaits visitors along the shores of the Great Lakes, which comprise the largest freshwater system in the world. Spanning eight American states and one Canadian province, the Great Lakes include Lakes Erie, Huron, Michigan, Ontario, and Superior. Each summer, families and beach enthusiasts flock to these expansive shores, where the lakes resemble inland seas with their vastness and sometimes turbulent waters.
While many are familiar with popular destinations such as Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan, there are lesser-known yet equally inviting beaches to explore. Here are six of the finest sandy getaways for families looking to enjoy the Great Lakes.
Bayfield Peninsula and Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Located approximately 70 miles east of Duluth, the Bayfield Peninsula features some of the most stunning beaches on Lake Superior. Known for being the deepest and coldest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior draws visitors for its breathtaking scenery and recreational opportunities.
Travelers often visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which consists of 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland shore. A popular starting point is Bayview Beach, where a one-mile walk leads to the serene Friendly Valley Beach. For a unique experience, the Frog Bay Tribal National Park, managed by the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, offers a short hike to its sandy shore with picturesque views of the Apostles.
Ferry rides from Bayfield to Madeline Island provide access to Big Bay State Park and Big Bay Town Park, both of which feature a 1.5-mile sandy spit and a lagoon. Accommodation options include the Woodside Cottages of Bayfield, with cozy cabins starting at $175.
Nicolet Beach, Door County, Wisconsin
Door County, which juts into Lake Michigan, boasts 300 miles of shoreline and 55 beaches. Among these, Nicolet Beach in Peninsula State Park stands out for its sandy shores and water activities. Visitors can rent paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks, while rental bikes connect them to scenic trails like Sunset Trail, which leads to a nature center and a historic lighthouse.
For a quieter retreat, Whitefish Dunes State Park offers a mile and a half of pristine white sand and hiking trails through lush woodlands. Loma Cottages, located on a former farmstead in Egg Harbor, features amenities such as saunas and pickleball courts, with rates starting at $350.
Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan
About two hours northeast of Chicago, Saugatuck is home to Oval Beach, known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Facilities include bathrooms, a concession stand, and beach wheelchairs to enhance accessibility. Visitors can reach the beach via a 302-step staircase up Mount Baldhead, leading to a fun descent through the dunes.
The Kalamazoo River, which flows into Lake Michigan, offers additional recreational options such as kayaking and vintage motorboat tours from Retro Boat Rentals. Nearby accommodations include BeachWay Resort & Hotel, with a pool and suites featuring kitchenettes, and the renovated Starlite Resort, starting from $159.
Presque Isle State Park, Erie, Pennsylvania
Despite Pennsylvania’s limited Great Lakes coastline, Presque Isle State Park in Erie offers a unique experience. This peninsula features 7 miles of varied swimming beaches, making it a National Natural Landmark.
Beach 7, known as Waterworks Beach, provides accessibility with a ramp and beach wheelchairs, while Beach 11, or Kohler Beach, is popular with families thanks to its calm, shallow waters. For those seeking volleyball and quieter spots, Beaches 6, 9, and 10 cater to those needs. Guests can stay at the Courtyard Erie Bayfront, which offers waterfront dining and rooms starting at $184.
Saugeen Beach, Bruce Peninsula, Ontario
Located on Lake Huron’s eastern coast, Saugeen Beach offers nearly 7 miles of sandy shores. This beach attracts kiteboarders, surfers, and paddleboarders, making it a lively destination. April Brown, co-owner of the June Motel, highlights the local “sunset culture,” where visitors gather to admire the evening sky.
The June Motel, a renovated midcentury hotel featured in the Netflix series “Motel Makeover,” provides a poolside restaurant and rooms starting around $358.
Sandbanks Provincial Park, Prince Edward County, Ontario
Sandbanks Provincial Park is renowned for its remarkable beach environment, formed over 12,000 years of natural processes. The park features the world’s largest freshwater barrier dune system, with family-friendly Outlet Beach and the longer Lakeshore Beach providing shallow waters and gradual inclines.
Visitors can explore the park’s six trails that wind through the woods. Day-use reservations are required, available five days in advance for $21 per vehicle. Prince Edward County is also known for its wineries and artisanal food scene, making it a vibrant destination. For accommodation, cottages at the Birch on West Lake are available for rent starting from $275.
Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, the Great Lakes offer abundant options for beachgoers this summer. From the rugged beauty of Lake Superior to the serene shores of Lake Ontario, families can find their perfect spot along this expansive freshwater system.
