Get Your H2O Fix at one of Metro Detroit’s Beaches!

By: Toni Cunningham | July 23, 2013
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As the Great Lake State, it would be a shame to not spend at least part of the summer submerged in H2O. I’d take swimming in Michigan over Cali any day: freshwater and no fear of shark attacks.

There’s really nothing better than spending a hot summer day at one of Metro Detroit’s public access beaches. Whether you prefer baking in the sun all day long (my vampire skin shudders at the thought) or splashing in the water, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the warmth while it’s here.

Rule number one for spending a day in the sun: water. The drinking kind. Dehydration is unpleasant, and likely to put a damper on your otherwise perfect day. Also, if you’re looking to bring alcohol, I’d suggest checking out the policy beforehand. Personally, I don’t like confrontation with park rangers.

Secondly, make sure to pack some snacks along with the water and booze—especially if you’re bringing any kiddies along. Other items to complete your day at the beach include, but are not limited to, a Frisbee, football, reading material, chairs, towels, and of course, sunscreen.

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While some beaches do allow pets, I can’t fathom even one scenario where it would be appropriate to bring your dog to the beach. In my mind, bringing Fluffy to sweat it out on the sand for hours is just as bad as leaving him in the car while you grocery shop. It’s way too hot out—leave ‘em at home in the AC!

Kensington Metropark, located in Milford, is home to two beaches: Maple Beach and Martindale Beach. Both are open all summer long, and a day pass (as well as a daily boat launch pass) costs just $5.

Brighton’s Island Lake Recreation Area has canoeing on the lake and volleyball courts on the beach. Boat rentals are available, and there are picnic areas and shelters for a mid-day meal.

Independence Lake is over 300 ft. long and the park offers rowboats and paddleboats for rent. Located in the city of Whitmore Lake, on-the-water activities besides swimming include fishing and boating. As of this year, the park also features a brand new splash park, perfect for little ones.

Groveland Oaks County Park in Holly includes a sandy beach and swimming on Stewart Lake. The best feature of this one is that it’s got a spiraling water slide that goes down into the lake. Zipping down the waterslide is an additional fee, but at $1/ride or $8 for unlimited rides all day, it seems like a sound investment to me.

Lake Orion’s Bald Mountain Recreation Area is perfect for the outdoorsy type. If you find yourself getting too much sun on the beach, you can venture off and take advantage of the fishing lakes, trout streams and hiking trails. It’s known for being one of the most rustic terrains in the area!

Since there are so many local beaches, it might be a good idea to check out a different one each week and cross them all off your list by the end of the summer! Here are a few more options to consider:

Don’t forget your arm floaties!

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