17 Secret Beaches in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

When most people think of Michigan beaches, their minds drift to the crowded shores of the Lower Peninsula or the touristy spots along Lake Michigan. But venture north to the Upper Peninsula, and you’ll discover a completely different world of pristine coastlines that feel like they’ve been kept secret from the masses.

The UP’s rugged landscape hides some of the most spectacular and secluded beaches in the entire Great Lakes region. Here is a list of 17 secret beaches that offer everything from dramatic cliff views to peaceful sandy coves where you might not see another soul for hours.

Sand Point Beach

Tucked away near Munising, Sand Point Beach sits at the end of a winding dirt road that keeps most casual visitors away. The beach stretches for nearly a mile along Lake Superior’s shoreline, offering soft sand that’s perfect for lounging and crystal-clear water that stays surprisingly warm during summer months. What makes this spot truly special is the way the surrounding forest creates a natural windbreak, making it feel like your own private paradise. The only sounds you’ll hear are gentle waves lapping against the shore and the occasional call of a loon echoing across the water.

Miners Beach

Part of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Miners Beach requires a short hike through dense forest to reach, which naturally filters out the crowds. The beach features unique red and orange sand created by iron-rich minerals in the area, in contrast to the typical sandy beaches found elsewhere in Michigan. Rock formations jut out of the water at various points, creating perfect spots for photography or quiet contemplation. The water here is incredibly clear — you can often see fish swimming in the shallows from 20 feet away.

Whitefish Point Beach

Located at the southeastern tip of Lake Superior, Whitefish Point Beach combines history with natural beauty in a way that few places can match. The beach sits near the famous lighthouse that has guided ships through treacherous waters for over a century, and you can still see remnants of old shipwrecks during low tide. The sand here is fine and white, almost like sugar, and the beach extends for miles with hardly any development in sight. Strong winds make this spot popular with kiteboarders, but on calm days it’s perfect for beachcombing and watching spectacular sunsets.

Agate Beach

Hidden along the Keweenaw Peninsula, Agate Beach earned its name from the semi-precious stones that wash up on its shores after storms. The beach itself is relatively small, maybe 500 yards long, but it packs incredible diversity into that space — from smooth pebbles to sandy patches to dramatic rock outcroppings. Lake Superior’s waves have carved interesting caves and formations into the nearby cliffs, creating natural sculptures that change with the seasons. Early morning visits often reward treasure hunters with perfectly polished agates and other colorful stones.

Twelve Mile Beach

Despite its name suggesting a marathon walk, Twelve Mile Beach is actually accessible via several different entry points, making it easy to find your own secluded section. The beach runs along the eastern shore of Lake Superior and features some of the most consistent sand you’ll find anywhere in the UP. Tall dunes back most of the shoreline, providing natural windbreaks and creating microclimates that can be surprisingly warm even on cool days. The water here deepens gradually, making it one of the safer swimming spots for families with children.

Grand Marais Beach

Not to be confused with its more famous Minnesota counterpart, Michigan’s Grand Marais Beach offers a perfect blend of accessibility and seclusion. The beach sits at the mouth of the Sable River, where fresh water meets Lake Superior, creating interesting current patterns and slightly warmer water temperatures. Smooth stones and driftwood sculptures created by previous visitors dot the shoreline, giving it an artistic feel. The nearby town is small enough that even during peak season, you can find plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the solitude.

Bete Grise Beach

Pronounced ‘Bet-ta-GREES,’ this beach on the Keweenaw Peninsula remains one of the UP’s best-kept secrets despite its stunning beauty. The beach curves around a protected bay, creating calmer waters that are perfect for swimming and kayaking. The dense forest comes right up to the sand’s edge, providing natural shade and privacy. What sets this beach apart is its unique geology — the sand has a slight pink tint from feldspar minerals, and the water takes on beautiful turquoise hues on sunny days that rival tropical destinations.

Au Sable Point Beach

Located within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Au Sable Point Beach requires a moderate hike to reach, which keeps visitor numbers manageable. The beach sits beneath towering sandstone cliffs that create a dramatic backdrop and provide natural protection from wind. A historic lighthouse perches on the point above, accessible via a steep trail for those feeling adventurous. The sand here is incredibly fine and stays relatively cool even on hot days, making it comfortable for bare feet.

Crisp Point Beach

Reaching Crisp Point Beach requires driving down a rough dirt road that can be challenging for low-clearance vehicles, but the journey is worth every bump. The beach stretches for miles along Lake Superior’s remote southern shore, with virtually no development visible in any direction. A historic lighthouse stands sentinel at the point, though it’s been partially reclaimed by nature, adding to the area’s wild character. The isolation here is complete — you might spend an entire day without seeing another person.

Chapel Beach

Accessible only by boat or a challenging multi-mile hike, Chapel Beach represents the ultimate in Great Lakes seclusion. The beach sits at the base of the famous Chapel Rock, where a lone pine tree somehow grows from the top of a narrow rock pillar. Golden sand creates a perfect contrast with the deep blue water and colorful sandstone cliffs. The protected cove stays calmer than the open lake, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling in the surprisingly clear water.

Blind Sucker Beach

Despite its unusual name, Blind Sucker Beach offers some of the most pristine shorelines in the entire UP. The beach sits along the remote Two Hearted River area, made famous by Ernest Hemingway’s writing. Miles of sandy coastline stretch in both directions, backed by dense forest that provides complete privacy. The beach gets its name from a small creek that flows into Lake Superior here, creating a natural harbor where Native Americans once launched canoes.

Sable Falls Beach

Located where the Sable River tumbles into Lake Superior via a series of small waterfalls, this beach combines multiple natural attractions in one spectacular location. The beach itself is relatively small, but the surrounding area offers hiking trails, waterfall views, and excellent photography opportunities. The sound of falling water creates a natural soundtrack that masks any distant road noise. Cool mist from the falls provides natural air conditioning during hot summer days.

Presque Isle Beach

Not the same as the more developed Presque Isle Park in Marquette, this hidden gem sits along Lake Superior’s remote shoreline near the Porcupine Mountains. The beach features dramatic rock formations that create natural windbreaks and private coves perfect for couples or small groups. Ancient volcanic rock creates interesting tide pools during low water periods, home to unique freshwater creatures. The area remains completely undeveloped, with only a rough trail providing access through dense forest.

Tahquamenon Falls Beach

While most visitors to Tahquamenon Falls State Park focus on the famous waterfalls, a hidden beach sits along the Tahquamenon River where it meets Whitefish Bay. The beach features unique dark sand colored by tannins from the river, creating an almost tropical appearance. Warm, shallow water makes this spot ideal for swimming, especially for families with young children. The protected location means calmer conditions than the open lake, and the river current helps keep the water temperature comfortable.

Grand Sable Beach

Stretching for nearly five miles along Lake Superior’s shore, Grand Sable Beach offers endless space for solitude and exploration. Massive sand dunes rise directly from the beach, some reaching heights of over 300 feet and providing spectacular views for those willing to make the climb. The beach itself varies from fine sand to interesting pebble sections, with different areas offering unique character. Strong winds can create impressive wave action, making this spot popular with surfers during storm season.

Pictured Rocks Beach

Beyond the famous boat tours, Pictured Rocks hides numerous small beaches accessible only by foot along the lakeshore trail. These pocket beaches sit beneath towering multicolored cliffs, creating some of the most dramatic scenery in the Great Lakes region. Each beach has its own character, from sandy coves to rocky tidepools to areas where freshwater springs create small waterfalls. The constantly changing light on the cliffs means the scenery never looks the same twice.

Horseshoe Bay Beach

Located on the remote Keweenaw Peninsula, Horseshoe Bay Beach curves around a protected inlet that creates ideal swimming conditions. The beach features soft sand that stays comfortable even on the hottest days, and the curved shoreline provides natural wind protection. Dense forest surrounds the bay, creating complete privacy and a sense of being miles from civilization. The calm water here makes it perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking, with excellent visibility for spotting fish and interesting rock formations.

Nature’s Hidden Treasures Endure

These secluded beaches represent more than just pretty places to visit — they’re living reminders of what the Great Lakes region looked like before development changed so much of our coastline. Each hidden cove and pristine stretch of sand connects us to the same natural beauty that inspired Native American communities, early explorers, and generations of locals who knew where to find solitude. The effort required to reach these beaches ensures they’ll remain special, filtering out casual visitors while rewarding those willing to venture off the beaten path. In an age when true wilderness becomes increasingly rare, these secret shores offer something invaluable: the chance to experience nature on its own terms, exactly as it has existed for thousands of years.