Can't wait to hit the beach? Me either! With the official start of summer less than two months away, I'm already dreaming of warm sun, cool breezes, and floating in Lake Michigan.

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I was lucky enough to grow up in South Haven, so South Beach on Lake Michigan will always have a special place in my heart.

👇BELOW: VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE MICHIGAN BEACH👇

Janna, Townsquare Media
Janna, Townsquare Media
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But goodness, Michigan doesn't make it easy to pick a favorite beach! We are surrounded by four Great Lakes, plus thousands of inland lakes, which basically means there is a beach for whatever version of summer you are trying to have. Busy and social. Quiet and tucked away. Family chaos. Or just you, a chair, and the sound of waves doing their thing.

USA Today and 10Best have released their newest list of 18 nominated beaches across the state, selected by a panel of travel experts. Now it is up to the public to decide which spots deserve to rise to the top. Voting is open daily, which means yes, you can absolutely make your opinion everyone else’s problem more than once.

Some of Michigan's most well-known beaches are up for the honor, but possibly some hidden gems that are new to you as well. Lake Michigan dominates this year's lineup, but there are also standout spots along Lake Superior and Lake Huron that bring their own kind of beauty and personality.

So here we go again. Another summer, another round of voting, and another chance to defend your favorite stretch of shoreline like it is a personal mission!

Take a look at the full list of nominees below and vote for your favorite Michigan beach once per day through May 18 at noon ET.

Vote for Michigan’s Best Beach in 2026 — Here Are All 18 Nominees

Eighteen beaches are in the running for “Best Michigan Beach” in the 2026 USA Today 10Best readers’ poll.

From iconic Lake Michigan shorelines to hidden gems on Lake Superior and inland lakes, these expert-nominated destinations are among the best in the state. Now it’s up to voters to decide which beaches make the top ten. Browse the full list and vote for your favorite once per day through May18 at noon.

Gallery Credit: Janna

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