Empire Beach with Kids

Beaches
Written By Third Coast Kids .

If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach with all the amenities, Empire Beach is hard to beat. Of all the beaches around Sleeping Bear Dunes, this is the one I’d choose when I want a beach day that’s easy with kids.

You get a beautiful sandy beach with soft sand and clear water, plus two playgrounds, basketball courts, restrooms, and plenty to explore. There’s also a lighthouse and access to South Bar Lake, so kids have plenty to keep them busy.

Good to Know

  • It gets busy in the summer, and parking is limited, so I recommend going early.

  • Additional parking is available farther up the road if the main lot is full

  • Paid Parking is HEAVILY enforced.

  • Pick up sandwiches from Shipwreck Cafe for an easy beach picnic, or stop at The Grocer’s Daughter for Gelato after a beach day.

  • Great spot to watch the sunset.

Third Coast Kids .
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