12 Secret Beaches in Michigan’s Thumbcoast
Discover the ultimate escape when you travel along M25 on Michigan’s Thumbcoast for a must-see summer experience. Explore charming small towns, hidden public beaches, and breathtaking views of Lake Huron. We invite you to uncover our top picks of lesser-known, no-frills beaches near Michigan’s major cities. Check out the map link below for location overviews and driving directions.
Featured Photo | Cary Rouse – 4 Mile Scenic Turnout, Palms
Shh… don’t tell anyone!
1. Ballentine Beach
Take a quick mid-day break at this beach, only 2.5 miles from Downtown Port Huron. Enjoy a fun-filled day with good food, unique shops, and sunbathing. Watch freighters passing by with views of the oldest lighthouse in Michigan, Fort Gratiot Light, in the distance. There is limited street parking available at 3100 Conger St., Port Huron.
2. Krafft Beach
This beach requires a 600-foot walk from the parking area to the water, but it’s definitely worth it. You can soak up the sun, enjoy the calm and clear waters, and take in the excellent views. Limited street parking is available at 1108 Krafft Rd., Port Huron.
3. Keewahdin Beach
Keewahdin is a beach access with very close parking, making a quick dip in Lake Huron convenient. The water levels and size of the beach will vary yearly; however, there’s plenty of sand to enjoy this year. There’s limited street parking at 4498 Gratiot Ave., Fort Gratiot.
4. Washington Beach
The tranquil blue waters are an outstanding feature of this beach. The shaded areas in the afternoon are perfect for those who want to enjoy being by the water without being in direct sunlight. Parking is limited and is available close to the water along the street at 3171 Washington St., Burtchville Township.
5. Burtchville Park
The beach is ideal for a fun day out with family and friends. It offers a range of excellent amenities, including a well-maintained playground for kids, ample parking facilities for visitors, sports courts for various activities, spacious picnic areas for gatherings, and easy access for drop-in paddle sports enthusiasts. It is located at 3632 Harris Rd., Burtchville Twp.
6. Jeddo Beach
Jeddo Beach is nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the main road; this hidden gem features a long pathway leading to the serene blue waters of Lake Huron. It is located off Lakeshore Rd. at the end of Jeddo Rd. in Burtchville Township.
7. North Beach
In the Village of Port Sanilac, North Beach is a peaceful Lake Huron getaway spot for the day away from crowds. It is on Park Lane and features a covered pavilion and a charming vintage playground.
8. Forester Beach
Sanilac County’s oldest beach is within a small campground open to the public. The 68-acre park offers several amenities, including a playground, camp store, and boardwalk. It is located at 2820 N. Lakeshore Rd., Carsonville.
9. 4 Mile Scenic Turnout
This MDOT roadside park features a stunning and extensive hidden beach! To access it, look for the less obvious staircase leading downhill through the trees at the north end. The park is located off M25 at Mills Rd., Palms, and is dog-friendly.
10. Delaware Park
The beach at Delaware Park, located inside a 111-acre day-use county park, is best described as serene and natural. You can enjoy the quiet beach or take a hike on the trail. It’s about 14 miles north of Port Sanilac at 6438 Lakeshore Rd./M25, Palms. This beach is dog-friendly.
11. Stephens Park
You may have driven right by this beautiful beach off M25 and never known it was there. It’s on Park St. in Forestville, about 13 miles south of Harbor Beach. Discover a breathtaking overlook of Lake Huron and a wonderful picnic spot.
12. Eagle Bay Beach
This beach is off the beaten path, and most visitors don’t know about it. The beach has an access point for drop-in paddling to Turnip Rock. According to ebird.org, 144 species of birds have been discovered here, including Bald Eagles. It’s 1.6 miles off M25 at 9298 Wallace Rd., Port Austin.
TikTok Video
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Article by Katie Stepp, Blue Water Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
