OT: Michigan family-friendly beaches

Submitted by Jinjooappa on

My 5.5 year old daughter is disappointed that we aren't going to the beach this year. We'll be in Ann Arbor for a bit touring the old stomping grounds. What is the best beach destination, from Ann Arbor, for a family of 5 including said daughter and 2 toddler boys? 

I'm looking for:

  • Monday and Tuesday stay leaving Tuesday afternoon
  • Nice(ish) hotel
  • Proximity. The boys hate being in the car so the beautiful beach areas north of probably Ludington are too far
  • Accesible for families with little kids (youngest is a little over a year)

Travel will be at the beginning of August. TIA for any recommendations.

 

MGoBoard

lilpenny1316

July 23rd, 2015 at 10:22 AM ^

Only state park on Lake Erie.

I finally used my recreational passport ($10/year I believe) to go there last weekend.  It's off Exit 15 on I-75, in Monroe.  There is a Hampton Inn and a few other hotels at that exit and the entrance to the state park is a mile from the interstate.

My kids are 7, 5 and 1.5 years old and they all enjoyed themselves.  

http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/details.aspx?id=497&type=SPRK

Joined: 11/19/2009

MGoPoints: 61859

leftrare

July 23rd, 2015 at 11:29 AM ^

The lake is very high this year so beaches tend to be a little more confined than in years past.  I'll just throw out my own local knowledge of the New Buffalo area... Rent a house in Grand Beach or Union Pier/Lakeside.  Prices vary based on proximity to the lake.  You can get a reasonable rate 1/4 to 1/2 mile from the beach but definitely stay on the lake side of Red Arrow Hwy/12.

 

 

Joined: 06/30/2008

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AlCzerviksRide

July 23rd, 2015 at 12:01 PM ^

has its privileges.  Like others have said, any over here are worth the drive.  We live in Holland, so go there most, but are often in South Haven with the kids (best boat watching) Grand Haven without the kids (best adult-type entertainment), and we make trips to most others from Ludington and Pentwater, all the way down to St. joe. 

If you do head over to South Haven, there is a small ice cream shop on the east side of 31 at exit 20 called Sherman's.  I cannot recommend this place enough.

Joined: 12/18/2014

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MGJS SuperKick Party

July 23rd, 2015 at 12:11 PM ^

St Joesph. Great location.

Check out the Inn at Harbor Shores. It's a little expensive but super nice. Built last year and it's Well kept up.

The beach is maybe 5 minutes away. The beach has one of the nicest splash pads I have ever seen. Plus there is a carousel.

Super nice area!

Joined: 08/04/2010

MGoPoints: 14460

gwkrlghl

July 23rd, 2015 at 12:40 PM ^

Coming from A2, if you're looking for <1 hour you're probably stuck with Maumee Bay, right?

Anything on Lake Michigan is going to be 2 hrs plus. Muskegon / Grand Haven / Holland is going to be about 2:30. St Joe and south might be about the same

Joined: 04/13/2012

MGoPoints: 72

wingverine

July 23rd, 2015 at 12:42 PM ^

Would Love Camp Dearborn, small private beach, tons of actives for the family. if I remember correctly it's about 45 mins from AA. Haven't been there since I was a kid, now in Denver not sure if it's the same or better. Their web site is campdearborn.com Either way have a Fantastic Vacation & Be Safe! Go Blue Vacation!

Joined: 08/07/2009

MGoPoints: 66

isai

July 23rd, 2015 at 1:22 PM ^

Best for kids is Duck Lake State Park just north of Muskegon and south of Whitehall. A stream connects Duck Lake to Lake Michigan which is shallow and warmer. This is definitely a little known gem!

Joined: 04/09/2012

MGoPoints: 133

GoBlueinMN

July 23rd, 2015 at 1:43 PM ^

There are a few Lake Huron beaches in Port Huron, which is about 90 miles from AA or the Lakeport State Park a little north of Port Huron is a good spot.

That being said, I would go for a Lake Michigan beach if the distance is tolerable.

Joined: 01/29/2010

MGoPoints: 14119