Your Michigan Beach-by-Bus Bucket List
Michigan is known as America’s Third Coast, and for good reason. With more than 3,200 miles of freshwater shoreline along four of the five Great Lakes, no other state in the country comes close. It’s the best state for summer fun at the beach. You can ride Indian Trails to get to some of the best beach cities in Michigan and beyond.
From the Lower Peninsula to Lake Superior, here's your beach-by-bus bucket list, stop by stop:
Alpena, MI — Besser Natural Area
On Lake Huron’s northeastern shore, Besser Natural Area is one of Michigan’s most stunning and least-crowded beach experiences. On a calm day, you can kayak out to the Portland Shipwreck just offshore.
Charlevoix, MI — Lake Michigan Shoreline
Tucked between Lake Michigan, Lake Charlevoix and Round Lake, Charlevoix is surrounded by water on nearly every side with easy beach access and a charming downtown just steps away.
Cheboygan, MI — Cheboygan State Park
On the shores of Lake Huron, Cheboygan State Park offers clear, shallow water, kayak rentals and access to some of the least-populated beachfront in northern Michigan.
Mackinaw City, MI — Straits of Mackinac
With views of the Mackinac Bridge and ferry access to Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City sits at the tip of the Lower Peninsula where Lake Michigan meets Lake Huron. The beaches here are rocky and wild in the best possible way.
Petoskey, MI — Petoskey State Park
Petoskey State Park hugs the shoreline of Little Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan, with a sandy beach, wooded dunes and excellent Petoskey stone hunting along the water’s edge. A beautiful, quieter alternative to the busier southern Michigan beach towns.
South Haven, MI — South Beach
South Beach offers comfortable water conditions, a wide sandy beach, ADA accessibility, and amenities that make a day at the beach that much more fun for everyone. It's also within walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants.
Traverse City, MI — Grand Traverse Bay
One of Michigan’s most beloved summer destinations, Traverse City sits at the foot of Grand Traverse Bay with miles of shoreline, towering dunes nearby at Sleeping Bear and a thriving food and wine scene.
Duluth, MN — Lake Superior
At the western tip of Lake Superior, Duluth is a genuine destination city with an active harbor, a top-listed beach at Park Point, incredible views and a summer festival scene.
Ashland, WI — Lake Superior Shoreline
Ashland sits on Chequamegon Bay, a sheltered inlet of Lake Superior with calm waters and stunning northwoods scenery. If you want Lake Superior without the remote location, Ashland is your answer.
Sheboygan, WI — The Malibu of the Midwest
Sheboygan has earned a serious reputation for its Lake Michigan surf scene —consistent waves and some of the most genuinely beach-forward culture of any freshwater city in the country.
Indian Trails serves all the destination cities to these 10 beaches and more. Fares start at $6. Check routes and book your trip at indiantrails.com.
