Michigan is called the Great Lakes State because it has lovely sandy beaches by the freshwater lakes. Our small Goldendoodle, Kirby, really enjoys going to the beach. He loves playing in the water, chasing toys, and running on the sand. Today, we’re going to tell you about 10 of the best beaches in Michigan where dogs are welcome!
Port Crescent Beach – Port Austin, MI
Port Crescent Beach is a lovely spot in Michigan’s “thumb” area. You can bring your leashed dog along the 3-mile stretch of Lake Huron shoreline. Just remember, dogs aren’t allowed on the swimming beach at the campground. Also, the Port Crescent State Park is a Dark Sky Preserve, so spending the night at the campground and stargazing with your dog could be a great idea!
Kirk Park – West Olive, MI
Kirk Park is a dog-friendly beach where dogs can go off-leash. It’s popular and suitable for families because it has lots of dunes, sandy shorelines, trails, and amenities. It’s located south of Grand Haven. However, dogs are only allowed during limited hours from May to September.
Mission Point Lighthouse Park – Traverse City, MI
A beach near Mission Point Lighthouse in Traverse City is dog-friendly. Well-trained dogs with a good recall can be off-leash here. It’s a great spot for your pup to play in the water and sand. Plus, it’s never too crowded, making it a hidden gem for dog owners!
Warren Dunes State Park – Sawyer, MI
Warren Dunes State Park in Michigan is a top-rated destination with 2.5 miles of dog-friendly Lake Michigan shoreline. It also has hiking trails and a 260-foot dune. To get to the dog-friendly part of the beach, head north of the northernmost swim buoy.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes – Mears, MI
Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a favorite spot for dune enthusiasts and can be a lot of fun for your dog too. Leashed dogs are welcome on the entire 3-mile Lake Michigan shoreline and at Silver Lake, the park’s inland lake. Plus, they can ride with you in the designated ORV area!
Miners Beach – Shingleton, MI
A fantastic dog-friendly beach to check out in the Upper Peninsula is Miners Beach. It’s situated in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and offers a mile of sandy shoreline to enjoy with your dog!
Sleeping Bear Beach – Glen Arbor, MI
Close to the Cannery Boathouse Museum, you’ll discover Sleeping Bear Beach. It’s less crowded because it’s outside the busy Sleeping Bear Dunes and the famous Dune Climb. Plus, it’s easy to reach from the parking lot, so your pup won’t get tired just getting there.
Grand Mere State Park – Stevensville, MI
Two trails lead to the half-mile Lake Michigan shoreline at Grand Mere State Park. This dog-friendly spot is ideal if you want to hike and relax at the beach with your furry friend!
Au Train Beach- Au Train, MI
Au Train Beach sits along the stunning Lake Superior shore, offering a great spot to spend a day in the Upper Peninsula. It’s just 25 minutes south of Marquette. At the beach, there’s a shallow outlet area along the Au Train River where your dog can splash around without big waves from Lake Superior. Plus, it’s usually not crowded.
Buttersville Beach – Ludington
If you’re on the southwest coast of the state, check out Buttersville Beach next to Buttersville Campground. It’s less crowded than Ludington State Park, making it a favorite for dog owners. With so many dog-friendly beaches in Michigan, we hope these tips help you find one you and your dog enjoy!
