The Ludington Area boats 28 miles of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan, which means there are plenty of places for people to dig their toes in the sand and soak up the sun. We thought we would break down two of our more popular beaches to help you narrow down where to spend your next beach day in Pure Ludington.
Stearns Park Beach
Named by USA Today Travel as one of the Top 50 Great American Beaches (2012), Stearns Park Beach offers a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for playing in the water or building a sandcastle. Stearns Park Beach is located just blocks from downtown and has many amenities that make for a day at the beach packed with fun things to do. Some of the highlights include a grassy area with plenty of picnic tables and grills, a playground, skate park, mini-golf, volleyball and shuffleboard. Beachgoers can also enjoy free parking and concession stands with fun snack foods like deep fried oreos! A long, walk-able pier juts out to the North Breakwater Light. Stearns Park is also a favorite spot for watching the sunset over Lake Michigan.
Ludington State Park Beach/First Curve Beach
Ludington State Park beach is known by the locals as "First Curve". As you head out to the Ludington State Park along M-116, you make your way down a winding road along Lake Michigan nestled between sand dunes. This is known as "First Curve" and is a favorite place for beachgoers looking for a more secluded beach. While there are no amenities like at Stearns Park Beach, that is what makes this beach attractive to visitors and locals alike. The scenic atmosphere is quiet and relaxing. Looking out on to Lake Michigan feels like you are at the ocean. You can park for free along M-116, but recreation passports are required when you enter the park entrance. The park entrance is located about 5 miles down the beach, which means there are any number of places to pull off the road and enjoy the beach.
Once inside the Ludington State Park, you will find the beautiful Lake Michigan Beachhouse which is a popular destination for families camping inside the state park. Inside the beachhouse you can enjoy concessions and a gift shop. The large wrap-around porch is a great place to catch the sunset as well.
No matter where you choose to spend your beach day, you are sure not to be disappointed. So grab your beach towels and sunscreen and head for the sands of Lake Michigan here in Pure Ludington!
