Ready to hit the beautiful sandy shores of the Great Lakes? Whether you’re heading to Sleeping Bear Dunes, Holland State Park, or the hidden gems up north, a beach day (or week!) in Michigan is pure summer magic. But if you’ve ever forgotten a key item and had to pay $18 for a gas station towel… you know it pays to pack smart. So here’s your go-to guide of 10 beach essentials for the ultimate Michigan beach vacation—fun, sun, and chill vibes included!
Michigan beaches are irresistible, and you’re going to want to dive in more than once. What is the number one beach essential you should bring? You have to bring at least two swimsuits so you always have a dry one ready for round two (or three). One for swimming, one for lounging—it’s a beach rule, trust us.
Not all towels are created equal. Go for oversized and quick-drying, especially if you’re hopping between lakes. Bonus points if it has a fun print or color for easy spotting in the sand!
I love those Turkish Beach Towels because they are sand-free and quick dry, because nobody wants to take the beach home with them.
Yes, even in Michigan. Those rays bounce right off the water and will turn you into a lobster before lunchtime. Go for broad spectrum, at least SPF 30, and don’t forget the ears and the tops of your feet!
Even better if you can choose a mineral sunscreen with the cleanest ingredients possible, because you put that stuff all over your skin in the sun.
Big, floppy, baseball-style, straw—whatever your sunny beach vibe, bring a hat. It’ll keep you shaded during those sunny afternoon walks and double as a cute beach accessory for selfies.
The Michigan sun can be BRIGHT. Another beach essential is a good pair of Sojos sunnies to protect your eyes and keeps you from squinting all day.
Bonus: No one will know you’re secretly watching seagulls try to steal chips.
Some of our Michigan beaches are soft and sandy, others are more pebbly or have cool rocky areas to explore. Bring comfy sandals or water shoes so you’re ready for anything—beach walks, water dips, or quick runs to the ice cream truck.
You’ll need something to haul all your gear. Look for one that’s roomy, easy to clean, and has pockets. Trust me, you’ll want separate spots for sunscreen, snacks, your book, and the 27 shells you’ll probably collect.
Or you can get a rubber tote that is easy to rinse off after your visit to the beach. This is definitely a beach essential!
Whether you love to sprawl or sit up with a good book, bring a large beach blanket or folding chairs. Michigan breezes can pick up fast, so grab a blanket with corner pockets for sand or a chair with built-in cup holders for maximum chill.
This is not just a beach essential, this is a life essential. Stay hydrated, beach babe! It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re soaking up sun, but Michigan days can get hot. A cold, refillable water bottle is your beachside best friend.
Even the sunniest days in Michigan can end with a chilly breeze once the sun dips behind the dunes. Our last beach essential is a cozy hoodie or lightweight sweater so you can stay and watch the sunset without turning into a popsicle.
With these 10 must-have beach essentials packed and ready, you’re all set for a Michigan beach adventure that’s as relaxing or action-packed as you want it to be. Don’t forget your beach playlist, your waterproof speaker, some snacks, a refreshing drink and your sense of adventure. The lakes are calling—and you’re already halfway out the door.
If you’re also looking for the Best Travel Essentials, check out Alexa’s most recent blog here.
Let us know what you favorites Michigan beaches are!
Eve xxx
