Top 10 Lake Michigan Beaches in Southwest Michigan
Explore the Best Lake Michigan Beaches Along Red Arrow Highway
Lake Michigan beaches in Southwest Michigan offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, soft sand, and small-town charm. From New Buffalo to Saugatuck, these shoreline gems—many located just off Red Arrow Highway—are among the most popular and picturesque in the Great Lakes region.
Whether you’re beach-hopping with family, relaxing with friends, or planning a romantic escape, this guide ranks the 10 best Lake Michigan beaches and shares what makes each one unique—including nearby attractions, local tips, and what to pack for a perfect day on the water.
1. Oval Beach – Saugatuck, MI
One of the most celebrated Lake Michigan beaches, Oval Beach offers wide shoreline, rolling dunes, and postcard-perfect sunsets. It has been recognized by Condé Nast Traveler and National Geographic as one of the top U.S. beaches.
Highlights:
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Forested dunes and ADA-accessible boardwalk
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Concessions and lifeguards in summer
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Trails connecting to Saugatuck Dunes State Park
Nearby:
Downtown Saugatuck is just minutes away and filled with galleries, restaurants, and shops. Ride the Saugatuck Chain Ferry or take a boat cruise on the Kalamazoo River.
2. New Buffalo Public Beach – New Buffalo, MI
This sandy retreat is one of the most accessible Lake Michigan beaches in Southwest Michigan. Located at the southern end of Red Arrow Highway, it features clean sand, gentle waves, and nearby dining.
Highlights:
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ADA beach mats, kayak/SUP rentals, and playground
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Seasonal lifeguards and restrooms
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Great for families or a romantic sunset visit
Nearby:
Downtown New Buffalo is a short ride away from Copper Top Ridge. Grab a bite at The Stray Dog, shop local boutiques, or walk the boardwalk near the marina.
3. Silver Beach County Park – St. Joseph, MI
A top destination among families, Silver Beach combines lakeshore fun with nearby attractions and walkable access to downtown St. Joe.
Highlights:
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Whirlpool Compass Fountain, splash pad, and playground
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Lifeguards, concessions, and picnic shelters
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Pier and lighthouse views
Nearby:
Walk to the Silver Beach Carousel or Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone. Summer events, farmers markets, and lakefront concerts are frequent in St. Joseph.
4. Warren Dunes State Park – Sawyer, MI
With 1,952 acres of dunes and three miles of shoreline, Warren Dunes is one of the most iconic and expansive Lake Michigan beaches in the state.
Highlights:
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Towering dunes (up to 240 feet) and nature trails
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Dog-friendly beach section
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Picnic shelters and shaded hiking paths
Nearby:
Stop at Greenbush Brewing Co. for craft beer or explore Sawyer Garden Center for local wine and snacks.
5. Weko Beach Park – Bridgman, MI
Tucked into a quiet cove and surrounded by dunes, Weko Beach offers a more serene Lake Michigan beach experience.
Highlights:
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Wooded dune trails and ADA boardwalk
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Seasonal concerts, paddleboard rentals
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Campground with lake views
Nearby:
Downtown Bridgman features Tapistry Brewing, local markets, and easy access to Red Arrow Highway’s wine trail.
6. South Beach – South Haven, MI
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and red lighthouse, South Beach is a popular pick for families and photographers alike.
Highlights:
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Walkable pier, soft sand, and concessions
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Clean facilities and great for sunsets
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Paddleboard rentals and beach volleyball
Nearby:
Visit the Michigan Maritime Museum, stroll Phoenix Street, or cool off with a cone from Sherman’s Dairy Bar.
7. North Beach – South Haven, MI
Just across the river from South Beach, North Beach draws a more active crowd and offers abundant space for sports and lounging.
Highlights:
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Dozens of volleyball courts
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ADA-compliant beach access
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Shade, concessions, and restrooms
Nearby:
Rent bikes for the Kal-Haven Trail or visit the cafes on the city’s north side.
8. Tiscornia Park – St. Joseph, MI
A quieter and more scenic alternative to Silver Beach, Tiscornia Park is a local gem with views of the North Pier lighthouse.
Highlights:
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Boardwalk to lighthouse and fishing access
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Picnic area and pet-friendly beach zones
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Clean restrooms and dune overlooks
Nearby:
Only minutes from downtown St. Joseph, this is a great option for peaceful sunsets or family photos.
9. Jean Klock Park – Benton Harbor, MI
This beach has historical charm and a peaceful feel, with wide dunes and quiet trails.
Highlights:
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Boardwalks, marsh overlooks, and playground
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Grills and picnic shelters
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Long shoreline with calm water
Nearby:
Tour Harbor Shores Golf Club, walk to the Arts District, or visit nearby shops in Benton Harbor.
10. Lions Park Beach – St. Joseph, MI
Perfect for a quiet morning or sunset walk, Lions Park offers calm surroundings and easy trail access.
Highlights:
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Sculpture trail and blufftop benches
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Scenic overlook with stair access
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Less crowded than other city beaches
Nearby:
Connect to the John and Dede Howard Family Trail or walk the bluff to downtown St. Joe for dinner and drinks.
What to Pack for a Day at Lake Michigan Beaches
A successful trip to Lake Michigan beaches starts with the right gear. Here are essentials to pack (with recommended affiliate items):
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Plan Your Southwest Michigan Shoreline Adventure
From towering dunes to historic piers and walkable beach towns, the Lake Michigan beaches along Red Arrow Highway offer something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re exploring on your own or vacationing with family, these shoreline stops are ideal for soaking in the best of the Great Lakes.
Need a place to stay near the beach? Copper Top Ridge is a private vacation rental just a short bike ride from New Buffalo Public Beach. Enjoy direct booking discounts, luxury amenities, and exclusive add-ons like our Luxury Winery & Brewery Tour.