Empire Beach

Empire Beach offers everything families dream of in a Lake Michigan destination: soft sandy shores, gentle shallow waters perfect for young swimmers, and the peace of mind that comes with on-duty lifeguards. With spacious picnic areas and plenty of room to spread out, this beach combines natural beauty with family-friendly amenities that make it easy to spend an entire day by the water.

• ✓Lifeguard supervision during peak summer season
• ✓Shallow, calm waters ideal for young children learning to swim
• ✓Soft sandy beach perfect for sandcastle competitions
• ✓Stunning Lake Michigan sunsets
• ✓Clean facilities and well-maintained picnic areas

1. 1.Arrive before 10am during summer weekends to snag prime parking spots and claim your beach territory before the crowds arrive.
2. 2.Bring water shoes as the sandy bottom occasionally has small stones near the water's edge.
3. 3.Pack a pop-up tent or large umbrella since natural shade is limited, and remember extra towels for the kids to warm up between swims.
4. 4.The water stays quite cold even in summer (typically 60-70°F), so consider bringing wetsuits or rash guards for sensitive kids.
5. 5.Download the parking app ahead of time as the lot fills quickly, and keep quarters handy for the meters just in case.

Visit on weekday mornings from late June through August for the warmest water and smallest crowds. Early morning (8-10am) offers calm waters and easy parking, while mid-afternoon brings the warmest air temperatures but also peak crowds.

Parking is free, and restroom facilities are available near the beach. There are no food vendors on site, so pack a cooler with snacks and drinks, or plan to drive into downtown Empire just a few minutes away.

Best visited from late May through early September when lifeguards are on duty and water temperatures are most comfortable. The beach is accessible year-round for walking and playing in the sand, but swimming is only practical during summer months. Lifeguard services typically run from mid-June through Labor Day.

Joe's Friendly Tavern in downtown Empire (5 minutes away) serves classic burgers and sandwiches kids love, or grab pizza and ice cream at Grocer's Daughter Chocolate just up the road.