Michigan’s Top 10 Beaches for Engagement Photos

November 21, 2023

Couples

Photographing the connection, the emotion and the heart of your love story.

A man and a woman chasing each other around on a beach at lake michigan

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Michigans top 10 beaches for captivating engagement photos is now revealed! Michigan, with its diverse landscapes, boasts some of the most enchanting beaches that serve as perfect backdrops for love stories. If you’re planning an engagement photo shoot and dreaming of waves, sand, and endless horizons, here are the top 10 beaches in Michigan that will elevate your engagement photos to a new level of romance.

1. Oval Beach, Saugatuck Michigan:

Oval beach is hidden gem among all of these beautiful Michigan Beaches. It’s perfect for a chilly November engagement session when the beach is mostly empty. After your session, Saugatuck has a few amazing options for dinner as well to finish your date night off with a toast!

2. P.J. Hoffmaster State Park, Muskegon:

Nestled along the Lake Michigan shoreline, P.J. Hoffmaster State Park offers a mix of wooded dunes, sandy beaches, and stunning vistas. The beach’s natural beauty provides a versatile canvas for capturing the essence of your love.

3. Laketown Beach – Holland Michigan

With its iconic “Big Red” lighthouse and picturesque views of Lake Michigan, Holland State Park is a romantic destination for engagement photos. The beach, framed by vibrant sunsets, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

4. Grand Haven State Park, Grand Haven:

This bustling beach town offers a vibrant atmosphere and the stunning Grand Haven Pier as a backdrop. Engage in a playful session on the sandy shores or capture the magic as the sun dips below the horizon.

5. Jean Klock Park – Benton Harbor

A man and a pregnant woman playing on a Lake Michigan Beach Together

Jean Klock Park in Benton Harbor, Michigan, offers a stunning backdrop for any photoshoot with its pristine sandy beaches and the vast expanse of Lake Michigan. The park’s picturesque sunsets, with their breathtaking hues of pink and orange, create a magical ambiance perfect for capturing cherished moments. Its natural beauty, coupled with the serene, tranquil atmosphere, makes Jean Klock Park an idyllic setting for unforgettable photos.

6. Pere Marquette Park, Muskegon:

Boasting one of the longest beaches in the state, Pere Marquette Park provides a scenic setting with its expansive shoreline and captivating dune grass. The pier and lighthouse add a touch of nautical charm to your engagement photos.

7. Saugatuck Dunes State Park, Saugatuck:

For couples seeking a more secluded and intimate setting, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers pristine beaches surrounded by lush dunes and forests. The untouched beauty of this location creates a dreamy, romantic ambiance.

8. Petoskey State Park, Petoskey:

Up north, Petoskey State Park combines the allure of a sandy beach with the unique charm of Petoskey stones. The crystal-clear waters of Little Traverse Bay provide a serene and captivating setting for engagement photos.

9. South Haven Beach, South Haven:

South Haven’s vibrant beach, framed by a picturesque lighthouse, offers a classic coastal setting. The sandy shores, azure waters, and iconic views make it a versatile location for capturing the essence of your love.

10. Grand Mere State Park – Stevensville Michigan:

While not directly on Lake Michigan, Point Betsie Lighthouse Beach on Crystal Lake offers a serene and intimate setting. The historic lighthouse, dune grass, and crystal-clear waters provide a picturesque backdrop for engagement photos.

Tips for a Perfect Beach Engagement Shoot:

Timing is Everything: Aim for the golden hour just before sunset for warm, flattering lighting.
Wardrobe Choices: This all depends on your photographer and how you style yourself for the session! My clients receive an outfit inspiration Pinterest board to help them sort through their options. My winter outfit Pinterest board can be found here and my summer outfit Pinterest board can be found here
Embrace Candid Moments: Capture the natural, unposed moments that showcase your authentic connection.
Accessorize: Consider bringing props like a cozy blanket or a bouquet for added visual interest.

LET’S CONNECT!

Engagement Photos at Saugatuck Dunes State Park

Cinematic Engagement Photos on Oval Beach in Saugatuck Michigan

Michigan’s beaches offer a diverse array of landscapes, each with its own unique charm. Whether you prefer the dramatic dunes, the classic coastal vibe, or the serene lakeside ambiance, Michigan’s beaches provide the perfect canvas for a love story captured in photographs that will last a lifetime. Let the waves witness the beginning of your forever.

To find out more about having me photograph your love story, connect with me here.