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15 Great Lakes BEACH DESTINATIONS
LAKE SUPERIOR
1. CRISP POINT BEACH,
NEWBERRY
On the eastern half of the Upper Peninsula, Crisp Point Beach is a mere 37 miles north of the town of Newberry (the “Official Moose Cap- ital of Michigan”). Unlike many Lake Superior beaches, this one is very sandy, stretching for miles along the shoreline. You may still be able to find an agate for a souvenir, though. For other things to do, you can
visit Crisp Point Lighthouse (end of May-October), which is accessible via a boardwalk to and from the beach. All amenities are free to the public.
2. SQUAW BEACH, BIG BAY
Not too far from bustling and beau- tiful Marquette, Big Bay’s Squaw Beach is a sandy, pebbly oasis on the Lake Superior shoreline. There’s a boat launch, a dock, outdoor grills, picnic tables, pet-friendly areas, and public restrooms. As with many beaches up north, there is a light- house only a few miles away, which has been converted into a B&B.
3. SECOND SAND BEACH
PARK, PEQUAMING
Second Sand Beach Park is ideal for a day of beach fun – from swimming to paddling and
picnicking. Easily accessible, the long, sandy beach stretches and curves around Lake Superior. Fami- lies with young children will appre- ciate the shallower water for play- time, as well as some shady spots to get those kiddos out of the sun.
4. HUNTERS POINT PARK,
COPPER HARBOR
Shoes or sandals are required for this Upper Peninsula beach in Copper Harbor in the stunning Keweenaw Peninsula. Why? Because it’s a mix of boulders and rocks, offering a completely different kind of beach day than simply sitting and relaxing on a sandy shore. Hunters Point
Park encourages exploring, hiking, and climbing. The wooded path to the beach is an easy half-mile walk. You’ll feel secluded at the beach
as you look at the water – nothing but dense forest behind you. Rock- hounds will love casting their eye to the shoreline for some new prizes.
LAKE MICHIGAN
5. SAC BAY COUNTY PARK,
GARDEN
Have you ever heard of the Gar-
den Peninsula? Shaking your head “no” is actually a good thing. Sac Bay County Park is on the southern portion of the peninsula, which is 30
minutes south of US-2 and accessed by County Road 438. It’s a go-to spot for locals and a hidden gem. You’ll be able to enjoy the expan- sive lake, take a dip, and feel like your troubles are a million miles away, which is the effect the Upper Peninsula seems to have on visitors.
6. STURGEON BAY BEACH,
CARP LAKE
This public beach is beloved by locals and travelers who have the scoop. With more than 4,000 feet
of sandy frontage on the majestic Lake Michigan, Sturgeon Bay Beach is only 11 miles from Mackinac City and located within the confines of Wilderness State Park. There is a township park in the vicinity, as well as a dune preserve. There is a turn- around and roadside parking. If you feel like stretching your legs, you can go enjoy more than 16 miles of trails.
7. GOOD HARBOR BAY
BEACH, MAPLE CITY
Serenity. That’s what you’ll find at Good Harbor Bay Beach. It’s not
as “famous” as the neighboring Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire, or North Bar, making it an ideal choice for campers who like a little more privacy and space on the shore- line. The road and parking area
are paved. Since it’s close to both
6 • 2024 MICHIGAN RV & CAMPGROUNDS
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