Popular Lake Michigan Beaches First Street Beach Area/Douglas Park Where: End of First Street -west from US-31 (Cypress Street) -Manistee GPS: Lat: 44.246457 | Lon: -86.343570 Insider info: One of the largest beaches and recreation areas. Widely known as the “hip beach” since frequent pick-up volley ball games and wind surfing are common sights to see. Dogs have their very own fenced in dog park on the south side of the First Street Beach parking lot and dedicated dog beach on the waterfront below the observation deck near the Lions Pavilion. (walkable pier) Fifth Avenue Beach & Lighthouse Reserve your dates on the bulletin board at the main building First come -First served, with playground, volleyball and more Where: Lakeshore Drive & Fifth Avenue in the Harbor Village Development -Manistee GPS: Lat: 44.251713 | Lon: -86.339879 Insider info: Considered to be one of Manistee’s most beautiful beaches, this great spot is ideal for those looking to walk the beautiful North Pier and enjoy a little more quiet as this beach frequently sees families and a more low-key atmosphere. Also be sure to stop back in the evening and enjoy a beach bonfire at one of the many designated fire pits. (walkable pier) First come -First served with playground, tennis courts, basketball and more Magoon Creek & Sundling Park First come -First served with playgrounds, pier walk, pickleball court and more Where: Off Red Apple Road along Lake Mich. before crossing Fox Farm Road heading south. GPS: Lat: 44.197458 | Lon: -86.365371 Insider info: Great for the outdoor enthusiast. These beaches are usually pretty quiet and would be considered “off the beaten path” ideal for finding beach glass and Petoskey Stones. This is also a great secluded spot for cross-county skiing during the winter months. First come -First served Arcadia Public Beach First come -First served, featuring playground equipment & more Where: West end of Lake Street in Arcadia GPS: Lat: 44.494139 | Lon: -86.241592 Insider info: Arcadia Township owns this beach, which was protected with the help of Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy. Convenient parking, with playground available. First come -First served, featuring playground equipment & more Portage Point Beach Full service State Park and Campground on Lake Michigan Small picnic and playground area Where: West end of Portage Point Drive in Onekama, MI GPS: Lat: 44.361533 | Lon: -86.262926 Insider info: Situated in the rolling dunes at the mouth of Portage Lake on Lake Michigan. Walk the pier and the miles of sandy beach. There is plenty of room to spread out on this large Lake Michigan beach. 84 | VisitManisteeCounty.com