12 Secret Beaches in Michigan’s Thumbcoast
The ultimate escape is closer than you may know about! Traveling M25, Michigan’s Thumbcoast, is a must-see summer experience filled with charming small towns, secret public beaches, and unforgettable Lake Huron views. We invite you to discover our top picks of the lesser-known, no-frill beaches not too far from Michigan’s major cities. Use 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 dip & located only 2.5 miles from Downtown Port Huron. Enjoy a fun-filled day of good eats, unique boutiques & sunbathing. Watch freighters passing with views of the oldest lighthouse in Michigan, Fort Gratiot Light, in the distance. There’s limited street parking at 3100 Conger St., Port Huron.
2. Krafft Beach
This beach access has a 600-foot walk from parking to the water, a small hike but worth it. Soak up the sun and enjoy the calm, clear waters with excellent views. There’s limited street parking at 1108 Krafft Rd., Port Huron.
3. Keewahdin Beach
Here’s another lovely beach access; it’s small but has very close parking for a quick dip in the lake. The water levels will vary every year; however, there’s more beach to love this year. There’s limited street parking at 4498 Gratiot Ave., Fort Gratiot.
4. Washington Beach
The calm blue waters are a nice amenity here. The shady spots in the afternoon are great for those that want to enjoy a beach without all the sun. The parking is close to the water but limited along the street at 3171 Washington St., Burtchville Township.
5. Burtchville Park
There are a few nice amenities at this beach: a playground, easy parking, sport courts, and picnic areas. The beach is a easy drop-in spot for paddle sports. Shown here on July 4th, a busier time, but still plenty of room! It’s located at 3632 Harris Rd., Burtchville Twp.
6. Jeddo Beach
This beach is secluded and off the main road with a long downhill pathway leading to the blue waters of Lake Huron. The park is off Lakeshore Rd. at the end of Jeddo Rd., Burtchville Twp.
7. North Beach
The Village of Port Sanilac’s North Beach is a quiet retreat off the beaten path. Onsite there is a covered pavilion and a small retro playground. Park Lane, Port Sanilac.
8. Forester Beach
Sanilac County’s oldest beach is inside a smaller campground open to the public. There are a few amenities at this 68-acre park, including a playground, camp store, and boardwalk. 2820 N. Lakeshore Rd., Carsonville.
9. 4 Mile Scenic Turnout
This MDOT roadside park has a beautiful and expansive secret beach! You have to find the not-so-obvious staircase going downhill through the trees at the north end. Located off M25 at Mills Rd., Palms.
10. Delaware Park
Serene and natural best describe this beach inside a 111-acre day-use county park. 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.
11. Stephens Park
You may have passed right by this beautiful beach off M25 and never knew it was there. Discover a breathtaking overlook of Lake Huron and wonderful picnic spot. It’s on Park St. in Forestville, about 13 miles south of Harbor Beach.
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
