Did you know that there are hidden gem beaches near Detroit and its neighboring communities? No matter the season, there's something wonderful about spending time along the shoreline - and you certainly don’t have to be a bonafide beach bum to appreciate the beauty of the waterfront. Metro Detroit might not be the first place that comes to mind when you imagine shoreline adventures, but you might be surprised to learn that our region is home to its fair share of gorgeous beaches. When you’re ready to plan a trip to some of the prettiest waterfront spots within driving distance of the Motor City, check out our road trip route to some of the most amazing hidden beaches in Detroit and Metro Detroit.

If you'd like to adjust the route to suit your own travel needs, be sure to check out our adjustable road trip map.

1. Belle Isle Beach (Belle Isle, Detroit)

While it might not be a secret to those of us who have called Detroit home for years, Belle Isle Beach still remains something of a hidden gem among folks who don’t reside directly in the Motor City. This relaxing spot along the shores of the Detroit River is the perfect place to kick off your beach tour, and you don’t even have to leave the city limits. You'll be enjoying a dreamy beach adventure before you know it. Does it get much better than this? It’s one of the best beaches near me.

2. Walter and Mary Burke Park (New Baltimore)

Head to the small town of New Baltimore for a waterfront adventure on the shores of Lake St. Clair at Walter and Mary Burke Park. Open from 8:00 a.m. until dusk, this park houses a scenic boardwalk, a traditional beach area, a playground for younger visitors, and convenient access to downtown New Baltimore. You’ll appreciate the community vibe whether you stop here to take a quick dip during warmer months or simply to stretch your legs when temperatures are cooler, making it one of my favorite Detroit beaches.

3. Lakeside Beach (Port Huron)

Make your way up to the beautiful city of Port Huron for a fun-filled family adventure at this beach, which sits inside Lakeside Park. The Lake Huron views alone make a visit to this spot worth it, but you’ll also find a fantastic picnic area, plenty of space to spread out along the shore, and clean facilities that are well-maintained. There’s an entry fee to access Lakeside Park, but the memories you craft here are priceless.

4. Clover Beach (Linden)

Offering access to Byram Lake, this underrated beach at Linden County Park is the perfect place for a day of family fun and recreation. The park is open year-round, offering opportunities to appreciate cross-country skiing and other wintertime activities when snow falls. If you’re a beach fan, though, Clover Beach is best explored during warmer months, when the cool water offers a welcome reprieve from hot temperatures. You'll be returning to Clover Beach time and time again. It’s one of my favorite hidden beaches near Detroit.

5. Eastwood Beach (Shelby Charter Township)

You might have spent time hiking or picnicking at Stony Creek Metropark in years past, but have you checked out its lovely beach? Eastwood Beach sits within the park and offers a little something for everyone, whether you’re keen on lounging atop the sand or enjoying the water with a paddleboard rental. When it's hot outside, enjoy a bit of splashing in the cool water. By the time you leave this delightful spot, you’ll be counting down until your next visit.

6. Mercer Beach of Walled Lake (Walled Lake)

This small but spectacular beach has likely flown under your radar during past outings, but trust us when we say that it deserves a spot on our list of beaches within driving distance of Detroit. With 200 feet of shoreline upon the beautiful Walled Lake itself, this awesome locale offers a welcome and scenic reprieve from the stress of daily life. Bring along your camera to capture a few photos of your adventure here.

7. GetAway Bay (formerly known as Milan Beach) (Milan)

While this beach is privately owned, it’s open to the public and offers access to a six-acre lake. The beach itself remains relatively little-known in Metro Detroit, which only adds to its charm -- but guests who are in the know have been stopping by since the early 1960s. Try your hand at volleyball, enjoy the water park floats, or simply lounge along the calming waters. You'll feel like you're part of a long-standing tradition when you spend time at GetAway Bay. Easily one of the best-secluded beaches near Detroit!

And if you’re headed out on a road trip, don’t forget the road snacks!

Now that you're up to date on the best hidden gem beaches near Detroit and Metro Detroit, you can start planning your next waterfront adventure. Are there any other hidden treasures in Metro Detroit that we should have included on our road trip route? We would love to hear from you, so share your thoughts with us in the Facebook comments, or make an official recommendation for some of the best natural attractions in Detroit by filling out our nomination form.

Can't get enough of the great outdoors? You'll want to read about these fantastic and history-rich hiking trails near Detroit.