North Beach Park – A West Michigan Gem
North Beach Park, among the many west Michigan beaches, is a low-key alternative to the buzzing beach at Grand Haven State Park.
Families have great reason to love this lesser-known Lake Michigan destination in Ferrysburg MI: the large playground, updated facilities, and wheelchair-accessible beach walk make this a thoughtful escape.
Plus, North Beach Park is also one of over 50 hiking trails. It’s one of the closest spots around to find sand dunes with a short hike to a scenic overlook of the big lake.
You’ll want to stay late and watch a beautiful Lake Michigan sunset when your plans allow.
North Beach Park Overview
18775 North Shore Dr, Ferrysburg, MI 49409
Located about 45 minutes west of Grand Rapids, MI, North Beach Park is tucked away in a little spot in Ferrysburg, just north of Grand Haven.
Because of the sprawling Grand River and Spring Lake just to the south, there are very few roads leading to North Beach Park. It’s a little off the beaten path – you have to work to get there.
Hit the Beach
The beach at North Beach Park is large, with 745 feet of sandy Lake Michigan shoreline.
It’s clean and well-kept.
The picnic pavilion, playground, and amenities are located on a hill perched above the beach.
You’ll need to climb down that hill to get to the water.
There are no lifeguards are on duty at this park.
Practice safe swim practices and be aware of changing weather conditions. Life jackets may be available for visitors to borrow.
BEACH SAFETY ALERT
Water currents in Lake Michigan can pull even good swimmers under. People drown in the lake every year. Pay attention to the flag system, use life jackets when swimming, and learn how rip currents work.
Take a Beach Break on the Playground
The main playground structure is located close to the pavilion.
It’s newer and has a soft, rubbery surface.
There are several sets of swings nearby, with one accessible swing and several toddler swings.
Hike the Dunes
When you visit, be sure to climb the wooden staircase up the dune stairs for an amazing view of Lake Michigan on the dune deck.
The North Beach Park Loop is a short dune & lake view trail that includes boardwalks, stairs, sandy spots, and wooded sections.
Hike to PJ Hoffmaster State Park
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make the trek from North Beach Park to adjacent Hoffmaster State Park via the North Ottawa Dunes trail system.
The length of the hike varies with the trails you choose, but plan on about a five-mile hike (one-way). If you’re not up for a 10 – mile hike but want to try it, we suggest bringing another adult and vehicle. Park a vehicle at both of the parks and hike one way and drive back to the other vehicle.
Amenities & Activities at North Beach Park
The park has a nice reservable picnic shelter next to the great playground.
Along with the shelter, there are also picnic tables and grills – some strategically placed near shade trees.
You’ll also find:
- Sugar-sand Lake Michigan swimming beach
- Dune stair-climb trail with panoramic lake views
- Modern restrooms (closed in winter)
- Beach walkway
- Beach volleyball court
- Hiking trails that connect with PJ Hoffmaster State Park
Parking at North Beach Park
Parking is typically easy at North Beach Park.
The lot can get full on holidays or really good beach days, though. There is a per-vehicle fee for parking.
You can also park for free at Coast Guard Park and hike 0.6 miles through the woods to the beach (this is hilly).
The park is part of the Ottawa County Park system and charges its associated fees.
The daily motor vehicle fee is $8 per vehicle for residents or non-residents.
Purchase daily permits at the credit card pay station on-site if no attendant is available.
You may also purchase an annual permit. It’s $25 for non-residents or $15 for Ottawa County residents.
This is strictly enforced. While we visited, numerous vehicles were ticketed for non-compliance.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed at North Beach Park?
It depends on the date.
Dogs are allowed at North Beach Park in the off-season.
Dogs are not permitted from May 1 – Sep 30. Any dogs that do visit the park must be on a 10-foot leash.
How long is the hiking trail at North Beach Park?
North Beach Park has a 0.67 mile loop
What is the difficulty level of the hiking trail?
This is an easy trail, but does have some stairs, sandy spots, and wooded sections.
Is North Beach Park accessible?
A barrier-free beach walk will let wheelchair users get close to the sand, but not always the water.
In years past, the beach walk has extended further down the beach. In 2022, it was much shorter.
In 2016, the park debuted a beach wheelchair. The playground does have an accessible swing.
What time of year is North Beach Park open?
The park is open year-round, but hours change seasonally.
March – Oct 15: 7 AM – 10 PM
Oct 16 – Feb 28: 7 AM – 8 PM
Nearby Attractions
Map of Grand Rapids Parks and Trails
Find your next outdoor adventure near you with this map of the best hiking trails, playgrounds, and parks in West Michigan.
Can we bring in a motorhome for the day at north beach ( we have a handicapped daughter?