Michigan, nestled in the Great Lakes region of the United States, is a fantastic vacation destination with numerous stunning beach hotels. These waterfront properties offer the perfect base to explore the amazing coastline and indulge in various outdoor activities and attractions. With its diverse beach towns, pristine sandy shores, and breathtaking Lake Michigan sunsets, finding the best beach hotels in the Wolverine state can be an exciting experience.
Each beach hotel in Michigan offers a unique experience, catering to different preferences and needs. Families can enjoy time together at kid-friendly resorts with various amenities and activities, while couples seeking a romantic getaway can indulge in luxurious beachfront accommodations with spectacular views. Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for water sports, hiking and bike trails, as well as access to nearby recreational hotspots.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan beach hotels provide diverse experiences for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
- The state’s stunning coastline offers pristine beaches, water sports, and scenic trails.
- Beach hotels in Michigan cater to various needs with unique resort amenities and local attractions.
Top Michigan Beach Hotels
Grand Traverse Resort and Spa
Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is located in Traverse City, offering an ideal destination for beach vacations. With its private beachfront property, you can soak up the sun and enjoy various water activities. The resort also features an indoor pool and an on-site spa for those looking to relax after a day at the beach.
Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection
Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection is nestled in the charming town of Petoskey. This luxurious hotel boasts a private beach, stunning views of Lake Michigan, and top-notch amenities, making it an excellent choice for beachfront vacations. With a variety of accommodations, including suites and cottages, the Inn at Bay Harbor caters to a range of travelers and preferences.
Bayshore Resort
Located in Traverse City, Bayshore Resort provides a great beachfront experience by offering guests direct access to the sandy shores of West Grand Traverse Bay. The resort features an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna for guest use, adding to the attractive accommodations and clean, comfortable rooms available.
Four Winds Casino Resort
For those looking for a beach vacation combined with casino excitement, Four Winds Casino Resort in New Buffalo is worth considering. The resort is situated near Lake Michigan’s shoreline, giving guests easy access to the beach. The property offers a casino, various dining options, and an outdoor pool for a complete getaway experience.
Beachfront Experiences
Outdoorsy Activities
Michigan is home to stunning beachfront hotels that offer a range of outdoorsy activities for visitors. With miles of sandy beaches and inviting shorelines, guests can relax and unwind while watching the breathtaking sunsets. For adventure enthusiasts, water sports like kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding are just moments away, allowing you to take in the natural beauty while getting your adrenaline pumping.
Restaurants and Shops
Michigan’s beachfront hotels provide a vibrant dining scene featuring local and international flavors. Guests can indulge in beachside restaurants that capitalize on the fresh catch of the day or opt for cozy, intimate dinners with picturesque sunset views. Shopping enthusiasts can also explore quaint seaside boutiques and charming local shops to discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs and unique treasures.
Beaches and Attractions
Dunes and Beaches
Michigan boasts numerous pristine beaches along its extensive Great Lakes shoreline. Among these, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore stands out as a unique and popular destination. This stunning natural area features towering sand dunes, picturesque shorelines, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Key beaches in the region include:
- Warren Dunes State Park: A popular spot for hiking, swimming, and camping with more than three miles of shoreline.
- P.J. Hoffmaster State Park: Home to beautiful sandy beaches, dunes, and bird-watching opportunities.
- Grand Haven: A resort town featuring a wide sandy beach, iconic lighthouse, and a lively boardwalk.
- South Haven: Known for its charming lighthouse and lovely beach with access to the Black River.
Lighthouses and Shipwrecks
Michigan’s Great Lakes coastline is dotted with numerous lighthouses that have played an important role in the region’s maritime history. Many of these iconic structures are open to the public, offering the opportunity to explore their history and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Some notable lighthouses include:
- Big Sable Point Lighthouse: Located in Ludington State Park, this lighthouse offers guided tours and a chance to climb the tower for a stunning panorama.
- Grand Haven Lighthouse: A must-visit destination in Grand Haven, complete with beautiful beach views and easy access to the nearby boardwalk.
- Point Betsie Lighthouse: Nestled on the shore of Lake Michigan just south of Sleeping Bear Dunes, this picturesque lighthouse is ideal for photography and picnics.
Besides the impressive lighthouses, Michigan’s rich maritime history also includes numerous shipwrecks. The state offers many opportunities to explore these fascinating underwater treasures through diving excursions, making this a popular activity for adventurous travelers and history enthusiasts alike.
Activities and Sports
When staying at one of the best beach hotels in Michigan, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities and sports to enjoy. This area is known for its diverse range of activities for both water and land enthusiasts. Whether you prefer water sports or land-based fun, Michigan’s beach hotels have you covered.
Water Sports
For water sports lovers, Michigan’s beaches offer plenty of options:
- Kayaking is a popular activity for many tourists visiting the area. Traverse City and Saugatuck have numerous rental services and opportunities for guided tours along their scenic coastlines.
- Boating enthusiasts can take advantage of the numerous boat rentals available in the area. Several towns, such as South Haven and Charlevoix, boast beautiful marinas and easy access to Lake Michigan.
- Prefer a more thrilling experience? Water skiing or wakeboarding can be enjoyed in several locations near beach hotels within the state.
Land Sports
Not only does Michigan offer exhilarating water sports, but their land-based options are equally impressive:
- Golfing in Michigan is a popular pastime, with numerous top-rated courses near beach hotels. Mackinac Island, for example, is home to the prestigious Grand Hotel, which has a golf course on its property.
- For those who want to explore Michigan’s picturesque landscapes, hiking and cycling are popular activities near beach resort towns such as Bellaire and Harbor Springs.
Michigan’s beach hotels provide the perfect backdrop for a fun-filled recreational vacation that caters to both water and land sports enthusiasts.
Resort Amenities
Wellness Facilities
Many of Michigan’s beach hotels offer a range of wellness facilities to provide guests with a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. A common amenity includes spa services which often feature massages, facials, and body treatments for ultimate relaxation. Guests can also expect amenities such as free wifi throughout the hotel to stay connected and informed during their stay.
Most beach hotels also offer indoor pools to help guests unwind after a long day at the beach. These pools often have stunning views of the surrounding waterfront and offer a serene environment for guests to relax. Some resorts even provide hot tubs for additional relaxation and therapeutic benefits.
Accommodation Features
Michigan beach hotels strive to ensure that guests have comfortable and enjoyable stays by providing various features and amenities in their accommodations. Some common features in beach hotel rooms include:
- A private balcony or terrace with views of the nearby shore, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning scenery from their rooms.
- Comfortable bedding and modern room amenities to ensure a restful and enjoyable stay.
- Access to recreational activities such as beach volleyball, kayak rentals, or paddleboarding for guests seeking adventurous experiences during their vacation.
These excellent facilities and accommodations allow guests to truly unwind and make the most of their Michigan beach hotel experience.
Family Vacations
Child-Friendly Activities
Michigan offers numerous activities to keep children entertained during family vacations. Some popular attractions include the nearby Musical Fountain at Grand Haven Waterfront Stadium, which hosts nightly performances of dancing water and lights during the summer. Beaches such as Sleeping Bear Point Beach provide fun for kids, while resorts like Great Wolf Lodge have indoor water parks to keep them entertained.
Some beach resorts also offer family vacation packages that include free parking and access to a wide range of child-friendly amenities. Families can also benefit from accommodations that feature a kitchenette for convenient meal preparation, making Michigan beach vacations more economical and enjoyable.
Family-Friendly Properties
Michigan has numerous family-friendly resorts, ideal for comfortable and enjoyable vacations. Some of the best choices for families include:
- Shanty Creek in Bellaire
- Bayshore Resort in Traverse City
- Sugar Beach Resort Hotel in Traverse City
- Boyne Highlands Resort in Harbor Springs
- Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island
These properties provide amenities such as free parking, kitchenettes, and access to Michigan’s beautiful beaches.
Culinary Experiences
Wineries and Breweries
Michigan is home to various wineries and breweries, offering wine and craft beer enthusiasts the perfect experience to pair with their beachside vacation. Some of these establishments are even located near or within the hotel premises, making it easy for guests to enjoy them without straying too far from their accommodation.
- Traverse City: Traverse City hosts numerous wineries, including Chateau Grand Traverse and Bowers Harbor Vineyards, where visitors can savor exquisite wines while enjoying the breathtaking beach views.
- Holland: New Holland Brewing Company and Big Lake Brewing are some examples of breweries worth visiting. They offer a range of award-winning craft beers to tantalize your taste buds.
Best Michigan Restaurants
When it comes to dining options, beach hotels in Michigan offer visitors a chance to indulge in delicious meals prepared by talented chefs. Many hotels feature on-site restaurants, featuring steaks, seafood, cocktails, and other local specialties. Some outstanding restaurant options in Michigan’s beach towns are:
- PARK 600: Located within the Neighborhood Hotel Grand Beach, this restaurant offers 5-star dining experiences for breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner. They focus on locally crafted ingredients, making it perfect for food lovers.
- Traverse City Beach Hotels: Guests can expect to find great restaurants at hotels such as the Cherry Tree Inn and Suites, offering a variety of steak and seafood options, as well as their signature cocktails and wines.
- Charlevoix Beach Hotels: Beach towns like Charlevoix host a range of fine dining options, from upscale seafood establishments to casual eateries offering comfort food with a twist. One such place is GREY GABLES INN, where guests can enjoy steaks, fresh seafood, and seasonal dishes with a magnificent view of the lake.
Recreational Hotspots
Traverse City
Traverse City is a popular destination for beach lovers in Michigan. The city offers a variety of beach hotels such as Grand Beach Resort Hotel and Sugar Beach Resort Hotel. Guests can enjoy crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning views of the Grand Traverse Bay.
Some of the popular activities in the area include:
- Swimming
- Sailing
- Fishing
- Kayaking
Lake Superior Area
For visitors seeking a more pristine and secluded experience, the Lake Superior area is an excellent choice. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers a majestic setting with miles of shoreline, towering cliffs, and tranquil beaches.
Recommended beach hotels in the area include Aqua Log Cabin Resort and Foggy’s Steakhouse and Lodge.
Activities and attractions in the Lake Superior area include:
- Hiking along the lakeshore
- Birdwatching
- Exploring waterfalls
- Captivating sunset views
Sleeping Bear Dunes Region
The Sleeping Bear Dunes region is home to one of Michigan’s most stunning natural landscapes. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features towering sand dunes, miles of beautiful beaches, and breathtaking views.
Notable beach hotels in this region include The Homestead Resort and Leelanau Sands Lodge. Both offer guests direct access to the shore and a range of amenities to enhance their stay.
Popular activities in the Sleeping Bear Dunes region:
- Climbing the dunes for panoramic views
- Swimming and beachcombing
- Hiking and biking through wooded trails
- Scenic drives through the park