June 2026
Summer Beach Vacation in Manistee
When summer arrives in Northern Michigan, there is no better place to soak it all in than Manistee. With stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, family-friendly beach parks, scenic piers, and quieter hidden gems nearby, Manistee offers the kind of beach vacation that feels both relaxing and memorable.
It is not just a local favorite, either. First Street Beach has earned major recognition in recent years, including being voted Best Beach in Michigan by USA Today Readers’ Choice in 2024 and 2025. In 2026, it also earned national attention as the first runner-up for Best Beach in Michigan and was celebrated as the “Best Lake Beach” in the nation by USA TODAY. For travelers planning a summer trip, that makes Manistee an easy choice.
First Street Beach: A Must-Visit in Manistee
Listed first for a reason, First Street Beach continues to stand out as one of the top beach destinations in Michigan. Its spectacular Lake Michigan views, walkable pier, picnic areas, playground, boat launch, and ADA accessible amenities make it a favorite for families, couples, and returning visitors alike.
“(It creates) a scenic stretch of sand framed by dunes and a historic lighthouse. Beachgoers stroll the long south pier for views of the harbor while others spread out along the wide shoreline for swimming, picnicking, and beach volleyball. Adjacent Douglas Park adds grassy picnic areas and additional space for lakeside relaxation,” USA TODAY said. “Whether you’re making epic sandcastles with the kids, lobbing the beach volleyball with friends, or lounging in the sun while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Michigan,” the beach is a great destination for all ages.”
From an early morning walk by the water to a full beach day in the sun, this beach checks all the boxes. It is also the kind of place where summer traditions begin. You can swim, relax in the sand, take in the lighthouse views, and gather again in the evening for one of Manistee’s unforgettable sunsets.
Visitors also love the convenience of Lake Gulls Concession & Rentals, which serves First Street Beach with fun beach foods and rentals. Guests can find beach essentials, chairs, umbrellas, boogie boards, corn hole, volleyballs, and more, making it even easier to enjoy a full day on the shore.
* Photo courtesy of Manistee Tourism
Fifth Avenue Beach and the Iconic Lighthouse Views
Another Manistee favorite is Fifth Avenue Beach. Known for its beautiful sandy shoreline and lighthouse pier walk, this beach is perfect for families looking for a classic Lake Michigan day. After a walk to the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy the playground, volleyball court, tennis courts, and other nearby amenities.
It is also one of the best spots in town for sunset photos. If you want that postcard-perfect Manistee beach experience, Fifth Avenue Beach belongs on your list.
A Nostalgic Beach Tradition Unique to Manistee
One of the most fun and memorable features of Manistee’s beaches is something you do not see everywhere: the vintage aluminum beach slides. One remains at First Street Beach and one at Fifth Avenue Beach, each offering a nostalgic throwback to beach days from decades past.
For many visitors, these slides are part of what makes Manistee special. Kids love them, adults remember them, and they add an unmistakable sense of summer tradition to the shoreline.
Explore More of the Best Beaches in #MyManistee
One of the best things about Manistee is the variety of beach experiences you can find nearby. If you want more than one beach day during your stay, there are plenty of beautiful options to explore throughout the area.
Portage Point Beach offers a scenic setting tucked into the dunes at the mouth of Portage Lake. Arcadia Beach Natural Area is a great choice for a quieter, more natural shoreline experience. Magoon Creek and Sundling Park are perfect for visitors seeking a more secluded stretch of beach, while North Beach Access is ideal for peaceful shoreline walks and a lower-key day in the sand.
Whether you are looking for a lively beach with amenities or a quieter place to relax, Manistee makes it easy to find your perfect spot in the sand.
Stay Close to the Shore with Boardwalk Vacation Rentals
A beach getaway is even better when you have the right place to stay. At Boardwalk Vacation Rentals, guests can choose from a wide variety of vacation homes, condos, and cottages that make it easy to enjoy everything Manistee has to offer.
If you are looking for a waterfront condo experience, explore Harbor Village Rentals or browse Edgewater Condo Rentals for another great stay near the water. Planning a larger family trip or group getaway? A Multi-Family Vacation Rental can give everyone the space they need while keeping you close to the beach and all the best things to do in Manistee.
Vacation rentals give families more room to spread out, prepare meals, relax after the beach, and enjoy summer on their own schedule. For couples, they create a more private and comfortable escape. For longer stays, they simply feel more like home.
Travel Lighter with Equipment Rentals
Want to enjoy the beach without packing the car full of bulky gear? Boardwalk also offers equipment rentals to make your stay even easier.
From beach gear to baby equipment and other vacation essentials, guests can skip the hassle of bringing everything from home and have what they need ready for their stay. It is one more way to simplify your Manistee vacation and spend more time enjoying the fun.
Plan Your Beach Vacation in Manistee
If you are looking for a summer destination with award-winning beaches, iconic lighthouse views, family-friendly amenities, and peaceful hidden gems nearby, Manistee has it all. From the nationally recognized appeal of First Street Beach to the timeless charm of Fifth Avenue Beach and the quieter stretches beyond town, this is a place where summer memories come naturally.
Ready to plan your Michigan beach getaway? Browse Boardwalk Vacation Rentals and start planning your stay in Manistee today.