Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Beulah Public Beach
★4.7(420 reviews)FreePark
🕑 3-5 hours👶 Best for ages 1-12. Toddlers and preschoolers thrive in the calm, shallow waters and enjoy the playground equipment, while elementary-aged kids love swimming, building sandcastles, and exploring the shoreline.🧡 Saved by 36 families
About
Beulah Public Beach offers everything families need for a perfect Lake Michigan beach day, with gentle waters ideal for young swimmers and plenty of amenities to keep everyone comfortable. The combination of soft sand, playground equipment, and picnic areas means kids can alternate between water play and land activities throughout the day. With its excellent 4.7-star rating and free admission, this beach delivers outstanding value for families exploring the Benzonia area.
Highlights
- ✓Calm, shallow Lake Michigan waters perfect for confident swimmers and nervous beginners alike
- ✓Playground equipment for when kids need a break from the water
- ✓Picnic tables and grassy areas for family meals and relaxation
- ✓Soft, sandy beach ideal for sandcastle building and beach games
- ✓Stunning sunset views over the lake for evening visits
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 10am during summer weekends to snag a picnic table and the best beach spots, as this hidden gem gets busy by midday.
- 2.Bring water shoes for the kids, as the entry can have some small stones mixed with sand near the waterline.
- 3.Pack a cooler with lunch and snacks since this is a public beach with limited nearby food options within walking distance.
- 4.The playground equipment is located near the picnic area, making it easy to supervise kids who want to alternate between beach and play structure.
- 5.Download offline maps before visiting, as cell service can be spotty in this part of northern Michigan.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings from late June through August for the warmest water temperatures and smaller crowds. Early morning visits also offer calmer winds and glassy water conditions perfect for young swimmers.
What to Know
Admission and parking are completely free. Restrooms are available on-site, but food and drinks are not sold at the beach, so pack everything you need for the day.
Seasonal Notes
Best visited between Memorial Day and Labor Day when water temperatures are warmest (late June through August is ideal). The beach is technically open year-round for walking and exploring, but swimming is only practical during summer months.
Nearby Eats
The Cherry Hut in Beulah (about 5 minutes away) is a local favorite serving burgers, sandwiches, and their famous cherry pie that kids love. For ice cream treats after beach time, head to Beulah's downtown area where you'll find several family-friendly options within a short drive.
More Activities Near Benzonia
Activity
Falmouth Area Library
Free
The Falmouth Area Library is a welcoming community hub in Benzonia that offers families a quiet, educational space to explore books and participate in enriching programs. With dedicated children's sections filled with age-appropriate reading materials and regular story time sessions, this library provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to develop a love of reading while parents can browse resources or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere together.
Adventure
Benzie Area Christian Neighbors
★4.8Free❤️9
This scenic multi-use trail in Benzonia offers families a perfect outdoor escape for biking, walking, and nature exploration. With well-maintained paths winding through beautiful Northern Michigan landscapes, it's an ideal spot for introducing kids to trail activities or enjoying an active family outing together in a peaceful, natural setting.
Museum
Benzie Area Historical Society and Museum
★4.8$❤️10
Step into northern Michigan's past at this charming small-town museum where kids can explore authentic artifacts, vintage tools, and regional history exhibits that bring the Benzie County area to life. With its impressive 4.8-star rating and budget-friendly admission, this hidden gem offers an educational yet entertaining experience that even young children find engaging.
Park
Benzonia Park
★4.6Free
Benzonia Park is a welcoming community gem that offers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With well-maintained playgrounds for multiple age groups, open sports fields for impromptu games, and peaceful walking trails perfect for family strolls, this free park delivers quality recreation without the price tag.