Where to Take Stunning Photos Along Lake Michigan: Top Beach Locations

There are so many beaches and parks along Lake Michigan; however, these are my top four spots for photos. They all provide a lot of variety in backdrops and typically have smaller crowds compared to the larger, more popular beaches.

Windsnest Park

7905 Margaret Ave, West Olive, MI 49460

Windsnest Park in West Olive is one of my go-to spots, especially for maternity sessions. It’s super easy to get to both the grassy area and the beach, and the views by the water are always beautiful. It’s usually quieter during the weekdays than the bigger parks too, which makes it perfect for a relaxed, low-key session.

Kirk Park

9791 Lakeshore Ave, West Olive, MI 49460

Kirk Park, also located in West Olive, is another favorite, especially for couple and senior sessions.The mix of forest, dunes, and shoreline gives you a lot of variety in one spot. While it can be a bit busier on the weekends, it’s still totally doable to find quieter areas, especially if you go earlier in the morning or closer to sunset.

Rosy Mound Natural Area

13925 Lakeshore Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417

Rosy Mound Natural Area in Grand Haven is a bit of a hidden gem for couples sessions. There’s a longer trail with a mix of wooded paths, boardwalks, and scenic overlooks that eventually lead to a stunning beach. The walk to the beach is about a mile and includes quite a few stairs. It can feel like a lot on a hot Michigan summer day, so I recommend bringing comfortable shoes and a bottle of water.

Saugatuck Dunes State Park

6575 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423

Saugatuck Dunes State Park is such a beautiful spot if you're up for a little adventure. The trail to the beach is just under a mile (with a lot less stairs than Rosy Mound) and the views at the end are totally worth it. The beach is wide, peaceful, and has some hidden tall grassy areas just before you hit the beach.