Muskegon's Breathtaking Beach Parks
With Lake Michigan to the west and Muskegon Lake to the north, Muskegon has no shortage of spectacular freshwater beaches. Visitors and locals flock to our shorelines to partake in an abundance of outdoor recreation – swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, kitesurfing and more. Of course, the stunning sunsets over the water and the towering sand dunes are a pretty big draw, too. When you stay with us at The Pidge Inn, we invite you to check out Muskegon's three city-maintained beach parks: Pere Marquette Park, Kruse Park and Harbour Towne Beach.
Pere Marquette is a popular beach destination along Lake Michigan's shore, located only a two minute drive or a ten minute walk from The Pidge Inn. Read our blog post about why this beach park is a great place to soak up the sun. Just south of Pere Marquette sits Norman F. Kruse Park, a favorite spot for swimming, walking, hiking and picnicking. Named for one of Muskegon's mayors, Kruse Park stretches for one mile along Lake Michigan. From the top of the boardwalk that overlooks the beach, you are guaranteed some amazing vistas of the lake, particularly at sunset. Traverse down the boardwalk ramp over the dunes to the beach below. Picnic shelters, nature trails, a playground and basketball courts are all available at this park.
Kruze Park also happens to be one of the most famous dog beaches in Michigan. A well-marked section of the northern part of the beach is designated for leashed dogs and their owners to enjoy. Dogs that want to take a dip in the lake water can do so off-leash. If you're a dog lover, it's fun to watch dogs socializing, enjoying the waves, running after balls and catching frisbees in the sand.
Muskegon's third city beach park is Harbour Towne Beach, located just 100 yards to the east of The Pidge Inn. While Pere Marquette and Kruse parks run along the shore of Lake Michigan, Harbour Towne overlooks Muskegon Lake and the channel leading to Lake Michigan. Hop on one of our beach bikes and make the short ride to this small sandy beach with calm water that will feel like your own private oasis. In the morning, it's a quiet, reflective spot to watch the sunrise. Muskegon Lake is also a popular place for boating and walleye and salmon fishing.
“Sometimes just being on a beach with my loved ones is all the adventure I need.” – Guy Laliberte
