Detroit, Michigan, may be known for its rich automotive history and vibrant culture, but it also boasts some beautiful lakeside beaches within a short drive. Whether you're looking for a lively beach with plenty of activities, a quiet spot to relax, or a family-friendly destination, the beaches near Detroit have something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best beaches near Detroit, perfect for your next coastal adventure.
1. Belle Isle Beach
Belle Isle Beach is one of Detroit's most beloved recreational spots, located on Belle Isle Park, a 982-acre island park in the Detroit River. The beach offers stunning views of the Detroit skyline and the Ambassador Bridge, providing a unique urban beach experience. The sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Belle Isle Park also features a range of attractions that enhance the beach experience. The Belle Isle Aquarium, one of the oldest aquariums in the United States, houses a variety of aquatic life and is a fascinating visit for both adults and children. The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, with its extensive collection of exotic plants and flowers, offers a peaceful retreat and a touch of nature’s beauty. The James Scott Memorial Fountain, a grand marble structure with intricate carvings and water displays, is another highlight of the park.
The park's extensive green spaces and picnic areas make it ideal for family outings and gatherings. There are numerous picnic spots equipped with tables and grills, perfect for a relaxing meal by the water. For those looking for more active pursuits, Belle Isle Park offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, allowing visitors to explore the Detroit River and get a different perspective of the city.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and deer, adding to the natural charm of the island. Belle Isle Beach provides a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, with activities ranging from lounging on the sand to engaging in water sports. The combination of natural beauty, historic attractions, and stunning city views makes Belle Isle Beach a must-visit destination for anyone in Detroit. Whether you're looking to unwind in the sun, enjoy a family picnic, or explore the park's many attractions, Belle Isle Beach offers a unique and enjoyable urban beach experience.
Review Beach Rating: Belle Isle Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Ideal for families with its ample picnic areas and nearby attractions. - Accessibility: 10/10 🚗
Easily accessible from downtown Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Excellent facilities including restrooms, showers, and playgrounds. - Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. - Camping Facilities: 3/10 ⛺
No on-site camping; nearby accommodations available. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views of the Detroit skyline and the Detroit River. - Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Generally well-maintained. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during summer weekends. - Parking Availability: 9/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 10/10 🏞️
Close to the Belle Isle Aquarium, conservatory, and fountain. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in downtown Detroit.
2. Metro Beach Metropark (Lake St. Clair Metropark)
Metro Beach Metropark, now known as Lake St. Clair Metropark, is a popular destination located about 30 minutes northeast of Detroit in Harrison Township. This expansive park features a one-mile shoreline along Lake St. Clair, offering sandy beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The park’s clear waters and gentle waves make it a favorite spot for families.
In addition to the beach, the park offers a variety of amenities, including picnic areas, a splash pad, playgrounds, and a large swimming pool. Visitors can also enjoy boating, fishing, and birdwatching. The park features a marina with boat rentals and a boardwalk that provides scenic views of the lake. Throughout the summer, the park hosts concerts, festivals, and fireworks displays, adding to its lively atmosphere. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or participate in outdoor activities, Lake St. Clair Metropark has something for everyone.
Review Beach Rating: Lake St. Clair Metropark
- Family-Friendliness: 10/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its splash pad, playgrounds, and picnic areas. - Accessibility: 9/10 🚗
Approximately 30 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 10/10 🏖️
Excellent facilities including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and a swimming pool. - Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, boating, and fishing. - Camping Facilities: 4/10 ⛺
No on-site camping; nearby accommodations available. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Lake St. Clair. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during peak season and events. - Parking Availability: 9/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to the marina and boardwalk. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in nearby towns.
3. Kensington Metropark
Kensington Metropark, located about 40 minutes northwest of Detroit in Milford, is a large recreational area that features a beautiful beach along Kent Lake. The park's sandy beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach games. The clear, calm waters of Kent Lake provide a safe and enjoyable environment for families and swimmers of all ages.
The park offers a wide range of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and a nature center. Visitors can rent paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes to explore the lake, or enjoy a scenic cruise on the park's pontoon boat. Kensington Metropark also features an 18-hole golf course, disc golf course, and numerous hiking and biking trails. In the winter, the park offers cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and sledding.
Kensington Metropark is known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're spending the day at the beach, exploring the trails, or enjoying water activities, Kensington Metropark offers a fun and relaxing outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Kensington Metropark
- Family-Friendliness: 10/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately 40 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Excellent facilities including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and boat rentals. - Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, paddleboating, and kayaking. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options; nearby accommodations available. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Kent Lake and surrounding nature. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during summer weekends. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to hiking and biking trails, golf course, and nature center. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in nearby towns.
4. Stony Creek Metropark
Stony Creek Metropark, located about 45 minutes north of Detroit in Shelby Township, is another fantastic destination for beach lovers. The park features a beautiful sandy beach along the shores of Stony Creek Lake, offering a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The lake's clear waters are ideal for a variety of water activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
The park offers numerous amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and a disc golf course. Visitors can rent boats and bicycles to explore the park's extensive trails and waterways. Stony Creek Metropark also has an 18-hole golf course, making it a great destination for golf enthusiasts. The park's nature center provides educational programs and exhibits, adding an educational element to your visit.
With its scenic beauty and wide range of recreational activities, Stony Creek Metropark is a popular destination for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're enjoying a day at the beach, exploring the trails, or participating in water sports, Stony Creek Metropark offers a fun and enriching outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Stony Creek Metropark
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately 45 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Excellent facilities including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and boat rentals. - Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options; nearby accommodations available. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Stony Creek Lake and surrounding nature. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during summer weekends. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Close to hiking and biking trails, golf course, and nature center. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in nearby towns.
5. Belleville Lake - Van Buren Park
Van Buren Park, located on the shores of Belleville Lake about 30 minutes west of Detroit, offers a charming lakeside beach perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a sandy beach area where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and play beach volleyball. The calm, clear waters of Belleville Lake are ideal for swimming and paddling.
The park is equipped with picnic areas, playgrounds, and pavilions, making it an excellent spot for family gatherings and picnics. Visitors can rent paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes to explore the lake or enjoy a peaceful fishing experience from the shore. The park also has several hiking trails that meander through wooded areas and along the lakeshore, providing scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Van Buren Park is known for its serene environment and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice for a relaxing day by the lake. Whether you're swimming, picnicking, or exploring the trails, Van Buren Park offers a delightful and refreshing outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Van Buren Park
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately 30 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good facilities including restrooms, picnic areas, and boat rentals. - Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, paddleboating, and fishing. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options; nearby accommodations available. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Belleville Lake and surrounding nature. - Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be moderately busy, especially during summer weekends. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails and boat rentals. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe with calm waters. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in nearby towns.
6. Sterling State Park
Sterling State Park, located in Monroe, Michigan, about 40 minutes south of Detroit, is a gem along the shores of Lake Erie. This expansive park features a beautiful sandy beach that stretches along the lake, providing ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The park's clear waters and gentle waves make it ideal for families and swimmers of all ages.
In addition to the beach, Sterling State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. The park's network of trails weaves through wetlands and woodlands, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation. Picnic areas with tables and grills are available for visitors to enjoy a meal by the lake.
Sterling State Park is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with Lake Erie being one of the top walleye fishing spots in the country. The park also features a modern campground with full amenities, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you're enjoying a day at the beach, exploring the trails, or camping by the lake, Sterling State Park offers a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Sterling State Park
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its wide beach, picnic areas, and playgrounds. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately 40 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good facilities including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and a campground. - Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, boating, and fishing. - Camping Facilities: 9/10 ⛺
Modern campground with full amenities. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Lake Erie and surrounding nature. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be moderately busy, especially during peak season. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails and fishing spots. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in nearby Monroe.
7. Lake Erie Metropark
Lake Erie Metropark, located about 30 minutes south of Detroit in Brownstown Township, offers a beautiful beach along the shores of Lake Erie. The park features a sandy beach area perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The gentle waves and clear waters provide a safe and enjoyable environment for families and beachgoers.
The park is known for its diverse recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Lake Erie Metropark is part of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, making it a prime spot for observing migratory birds and other wildlife. The park also features a wave pool, a par-3 golf course, and several hiking and biking trails.
Picnic areas with shelters and grills are available for visitors, along with playgrounds for children. The park’s marina offers boat rentals and fishing opportunities, catering to water enthusiasts. Throughout the year, Lake Erie Metropark hosts various events and educational programs, adding to its vibrant community atmosphere. Whether you're relaxing on the beach, exploring the trails, or enjoying the wave pool, Lake Erie Metropark provides a diverse and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Lake Erie Metropark
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its beach, wave pool, and picnic areas. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately 30 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Excellent facilities including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and playgrounds. - Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, boating, and fishing. - Camping Facilities: 4/10 ⛺
No on-site camping; nearby accommodations available. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Lake Erie and natural surroundings. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during summer weekends and events. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails, marina, and wildlife refuge. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in nearby towns.
8. Island Lake Recreation Area
Island Lake Recreation Area, located about 45 minutes northwest of Detroit in Brighton, offers a tranquil beach experience along the Huron River and Kent Lake. This expansive park is known for its diverse recreational opportunities and beautiful natural landscapes. The sandy beach area at Kent Lake is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.
The park features a wide range of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and multiple hiking and biking trails. Island Lake Recreation Area is also popular for its fishing, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities. The park’s unique shooting range and model airplane flying field add to its variety of outdoor activities.
Camping is available within the park, with modern campsites that cater to both tent and RV campers. The park’s scenic trails offer stunning views of the lake, river, and surrounding woodlands, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers. Whether you're enjoying a day at the beach, paddling on the river, or exploring the trails, Island Lake Recreation Area provides a serene and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Island Lake Recreation Area
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately 45 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Excellent facilities including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and a campground. - Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. - Camping Facilities: 9/10 ⛺
Modern campgrounds with full amenities. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Kent Lake and the Huron River. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during summer weekends. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and unique outdoor activities. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in nearby towns.
9. Maumee Bay State Park
Maumee Bay State Park, located about an hour south of Detroit in Oregon, Ohio, offers a stunning beach along the shores of Lake Erie. This park features a beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The clear waters and gentle waves provide a safe and enjoyable environment for families and swimmers of all ages.
In addition to the beach, Maumee Bay State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and golfing. The park has an 18-hole golf course, nature center, and boardwalk trails that meander through marshes and wetlands, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a modern lodge with accommodations.
Maumee Bay State Park is known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're enjoying a day at the beach, exploring the trails, or staying at the lodge, Maumee Bay State Park offers a relaxing and enriching outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Maumee Bay State Park
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its wide beach, picnic areas, and playgrounds. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately one hour from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 9/10 🏖️
Excellent facilities including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and a lodge. - Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, boating, and fishing. - Camping Facilities: 9/10 ⛺
Modern campground with full amenities. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Lake Erie and diverse ecosystems. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during peak season. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails, golf course, and nature center. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Several dining options within the park and nearby.
10. Dodge #4 State Park
Dodge #4 State Park, located about 45 minutes northwest of Detroit in Waterford, Michigan, offers a charming beach on the shores of Cass Lake. This sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The clear waters and sandy lakebed make it a favorite spot for families and swimmers of all ages.
The park provides a variety of amenities, including picnic areas with shelters, playgrounds, and boat rentals. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Cass Lake. The park’s trails offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding woodlands, making it a great spot for hiking and nature walks.
Dodge #4 State Park is known for its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty, providing a peaceful retreat from the city. Whether you're spending the day at the beach, exploring the trails, or enjoying water activities, Dodge #4 State Park offers a delightful and refreshing outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Dodge #4 State Park
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately 45 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good facilities including restrooms, picnic areas, and boat rentals. - Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Great for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
No on-site camping; nearby accommodations available. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Cass Lake and surrounding woodlands. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be moderately busy, especially during summer weekends. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to hiking trails and boat rentals. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited dining options within the park; more available in nearby towns.
11. Walter and Mary Burke Park
Walter and Mary Burke Park, located in New Baltimore, Michigan, about 45 minutes northeast of Detroit, offers a charming beach on the shores of Lake St. Clair. This small but beautiful beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The calm, clear waters of Lake St. Clair provide a safe and enjoyable environment for families and swimmers.
The park features a variety of amenities, including picnic areas with shelters, playgrounds, and a splash pad for children. Visitors can enjoy fishing from the pier, boating, and watching the boats pass by on the lake. The park’s scenic boardwalk offers stunning views of the lake and is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Walter and Mary Burke Park is known for its friendly atmosphere and well-maintained facilities, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're spending the day at the beach, enjoying a picnic, or exploring the boardwalk, Walter and Mary Burke Park offers a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience.
Review Beach Rating: Walter and Mary Burke Park
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with its beach, playgrounds, and splash pad. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Approximately 45 minutes from Detroit with ample parking. - Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Good facilities including restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds. - Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming, boating, and fishing. - Camping Facilities: 4/10 ⛺
No on-site camping; nearby accommodations available. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful views of Lake St. Clair and the marina. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be busy, especially during summer weekends. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking available. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in designated areas. - Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to the boardwalk and marina. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards on duty. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Several nearby dining options.
Detroit, Michigan, and its surrounding areas offer a variety of beautiful lakeside beaches, each with its unique charm and activities. From the urban oasis of Belle Isle Beach to the serene shores of Van Buren Park, these beaches provide the perfect escape for every type of beachgoer. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, the stunning shores and tranquil waters of these beaches await you. So pack your bags, head to the lake, and discover the best beach destinations near Detroit.
Stay tuned for more waves of beach bliss and lakeside adventures at Beach Review!
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