Frankfort Beach: A Serene Escape on Lake Michigan
Discover the breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere of Frankfort Beach, a perfect getaway on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Nestled in the charming town of Frankfort, Michigan, Frankfort Beach offers tourists a picturesque escape with its pristine sandy shores, stunning sunsets, and inviting waters of Lake Michigan. Ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers, this beach is a perfect spot to relax, swim, or explore the nearby dunes and trails. Don't miss the vibrant local community and the enchanting atmosphere that makes this destination a must-visit.
A brief summary to Frankfort Beach
- Frankfort, Michigan, 49635, US
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach; there are plenty of picnic tables available.
- Check out local events and festivals happening in Frankfort during your visit for a unique experience.
- Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially on hot summer days.
- Explore nearby hiking trails for stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start from the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor Center located at 9922 Front St, Empire, MI. Head northwest on M-72 toward Lake Michigan. After about 10 miles, merge onto M-22 N toward Crystal Lake/Frankfort. Continue on M-22 for approximately 8 miles until you reach Frankfort. Once in Frankfort, turn left onto Main St, then take a right onto 1st St. Follow this road until you reach the beach access at Frankfort Beach, which will be on your left. Look for parking signs.
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Public Transportation
While public transportation options are limited, you can use the Benzie Bus service. From the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor Center, take the Benzie Bus Route 10 towards Crystal Lake. Get off at the stop near Crystal Lake (approx. 30-40 minutes ride). From there, transfer to Route 8 toward Frankfort. Once you arrive in Frankfort, walk towards Main St, then head to 1st St. Frankfort Beach is a short walk from there, located at the end of 1st St.
Discover more about Frankfort Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Arcadia Dunes Baldy Trailhead
12.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arcadia Dunes Baldy Trailhead, a premier hiking destination with stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Platte Plains Trail
18.4 km
Discover the tranquil Platte Plains Trail in Michigan, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable hiking experience.
Empire Bluff
22.6 km
Explore the breathtaking views of Empire Bluff, a stunning natural wonder in Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Sleeping Bear
30.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Sleeping Bear, a stunning mountain peak offering panoramic views and outdoor adventures in Glen Arbor Township, Michigan.
Glen Haven Village
34.7 km
Explore Glen Haven Village, a historical landmark full of charm, stunning landscapes, and rich stories of Michigan's past along Lake Michigan's beautiful shores.
Sleeping Bear Point
35.4 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
Sleeping Bear Bay
39.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Bay, a serene escape with stunning views, outdoor adventures, and rich natural heritage in Michigan.
Traverse Bay Tours
41.4 km
Discover the beauty of Traverse Bay through personalized tours that showcase the region's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delectable flavors.
Port Oneida Beach
42.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and recreational charm of Port Oneida Beach, a picturesque park on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Pyramid Point Overlook
45.1 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Pyramid Point Overlook in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a must-see for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Hippie Tree
48.9 km
Explore the Hippie Tree in Traverse City, a vibrant landmark where creativity and community come together under its sprawling branches.
The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park
49.0 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park, a must-visit destination in Traverse City, Michigan.
The Barrel Room
49.4 km
Explore Traverse City's The Barrel Room for exceptional local wines, ciders, and a charming event venue experience in a rustic setting.
Left Foot Charley
49.4 km
Experience the taste of Michigan at Left Foot Charley, Traverse City's top winery offering exceptional wines and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
49.6 km
Discover the charm of The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, where history meets modern shopping, dining, and community events in Traverse City.
Unmissable attractions to see
Frankfort Public Beach And Playground
0.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Frankfort Public Beach and Playground, where sandy shores meet stunning Lake Michigan views and family-friendly fun awaits.
Elberta Dunes South Natural Area (EDNA)
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Elberta Dunes South Natural Area, a serene hiking paradise along Lake Michigan with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Green Point Dunes
5.8 km
Discover the enchanting Green Point Dunes, a nature preserve in Frankfort, Michigan, where breathtaking landscapes meet serene outdoor adventures.
Point Betsie Lighthouse Beach
6.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm at Point Betsie Lighthouse Beach, a stunning destination along Lake Michigan's shoreline.
Point Betsie Lighthouse
6.6 km
Discover the charm and history of Point Betsie Lighthouse, a stunning lakeside attraction and museum offering breathtaking views and local crafts.
Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm and Boutique
8.3 km
Experience the charm of alpacas and artisanal shopping at Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm and Boutique in Frankfort, Michigan - a unique gem for every traveler.
Old Indian Trail
9.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Old Indian Trail in Honor, Michigan - a majestic hiking destination perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Benzie Area Historical Society and Museum
11.7 km
Explore the rich history of Benzonia at the Benzie Area Historical Society and Museum, where local heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve
12.0 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve, a tranquil nature preserve along Lake Michigan, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Inspiration Point
12.5 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Lake Michigan and the natural beauty of Arcadia at Inspiration Point, a premier scenic spot for tourists.
Gravity Hill
13.3 km
Experience the wonder of Gravity Hill in Arcadia, Michigan, where the laws of physics blur, creating a fun and incredible optical illusion.
Sleeping Bear Tour Co.
16.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sleeping Bear Tour Co. with unforgettable hiking and bird watching experiences in Michigan's natural beauty.
M-22
19.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of M-22, Michigan's scenic byway, where stunning lakeside views and charming towns await every traveler.
Old Facefull
22.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and outdoor adventure at Old Facefull, a stunning tourist attraction in Bear Lake, Michigan.
Michigan Legacy Art Park
23.0 km
Discover the unique blend of art and nature at Michigan Legacy Art Park, an inspiring outdoor gallery in the heart of Michigan's wilderness.
Essential places to dine
Dinghy's Restaurant & Bar
0.6 km
Experience mouthwatering American cuisine and refreshing drinks at Dinghy's Restaurant & Bar in picturesque Frankfort, Michigan.
The Cherry Hut
12.5 km
Experience the taste of Michigan at The Cherry Hut – where delicious pies meet warm hospitality in Beulah.
Platte River Inn
18.1 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of American cuisine at Platte River Inn – your cozy culinary retreat in Honor, Michigan.
Wild Tomato
23.8 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Wild Tomato at Crystal Mountain, where local ingredients meet breathtaking views.
Grille 44
24.4 km
Discover the flavors of Bear Lake at Grille 44 – your go-to grill restaurant for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
Joe's Friendly Tavern
24.5 km
Experience the best of grill cuisine at Joe's Friendly Tavern in Empire – where hearty meals meet friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Lakeside Café
24.5 km
Experience delicious American cuisine with breathtaking lakeside views at Lakeside Café in Bear Lake.
Shipwreck Cafe
24.8 km
Experience the charm of Shipwreck Cafe in Empire, MI – where delicious sandwiches meet stunning natural beauty.
Empire Village Inn
25.0 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine at Empire Village Inn in scenic Michigan - your perfect dining destination after exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Rosie's Place
28.7 km
Discover the heart of Bear Lake at Rosie's Place - where comfort food meets local charm in a cozy atmosphere.
The Glenwood
29.8 km
Discover culinary excellence at The Glenwood in Onekama – where local flavors meet exquisite dining.
Stone Oven
33.5 km
Experience the delightful flavors at Stone Oven in Lake Ann - where comfort food meets affordability in a cozy setting.
Trattoria Funistrada
33.6 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Funistrada in Maple City, where every dish tells a story.
Dilbert's
35.1 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at Dilbert's in Interlochen, Michigan - where every meal starts your day off right!
Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
35.7 km
Savor local flavors at Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor – where craft beer meets delicious cuisine and delightful ice cream.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nature Walk Studio
24.6 km
Experience the charm of Empire, Michigan with unique gifts and local art at Nature Walk Studio, the perfect spot for memorable souvenirs.
Sleeping Bear Gallery
24.7 km
Explore the Sleeping Bear Gallery in Empire, Michigan, where local artistry meets the stunning landscape of the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Empire Outdoors
24.8 km
Discover outdoor essentials and unique gifts at Empire Outdoors, your go-to store near Sleeping Bear Dunes for all adventure seekers.
Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
24.9 km
Discover the taste of artisanal chocolates at Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop in Empire, Michigan, where every bite is a celebration of quality and flavor.
Dune Center Store
32.0 km
Discover the Dune Center Store, a charming bookstore near Sleeping Bear Dunes offering literature, maps, and gifts that celebrate the natural beauty of Michigan.
Bay Wear
35.6 km
Explore Glen Arbor's Bay Wear for unique clothing and exceptional service in a charming boutique setting.
Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
35.6 km
Discover the best of Michigan’s cherry delights at Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, where gourmet treats and local beverages await.
Evolve
35.7 km
Discover a delightful selection of books and unique gifts at Evolve, Glen Arbor's charming bookstore and gift shop.
Arabella
35.7 km
Explore Arabella Jewelry in Glen Arbor for stunning handcrafted pieces and stylish women's clothing, capturing the essence of Michigan's beauty.
Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
35.7 km
Discover Anderson's Glen Arbor Market, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce, local beers, gourmet deli items, and delicious pizza takeout in Glen Arbor, MI.
Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
35.7 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Glen Arbor, MI, offering unique art, handmade jewelry, and eclectic treasures that capture the local spirit.
Cottage Book Shop
35.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of literature at the Cottage Book Shop, a cozy bookstore in Glen Arbor, Michigan, perfect for book lovers and casual readers alike.
The Totem Shop
35.8 km
Explore The Totem Shop in Glen Arbor, MI – your one-stop destination for outdoor sports gear, local souvenirs, and sweet treats.
Momentum Apparel / CSEA Inc.
35.8 km
Discover Glen Arbor's unique style at Momentum Apparel—your go-to boutique for fashion and local flair.
Cottonseed Apparel
35.8 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite jewelry at Cottonseed Apparel, your go-to destination in Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blue Slipper Tavern
30.5 km
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Traks Bar & Grill
39.8 km
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Stu's Pub Inc
43.8 km
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Bucksnort Bar
49.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere at Bucksnort Bar, the heart of Mesick's culinary scene.
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
50.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Traverse City at Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant, where local ingredients meet a lively atmosphere.
Kilkenny's Irish Public House
51.0 km
Immerse yourself in an authentic Irish experience at Kilkenny's Irish Public House with traditional cuisine, drinks, and vibrant entertainment in Traverse City.
Brady's Bar
51.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Brady's Bar in Traverse City, where great food, craft beers, and friendly service await every visitor.
Low Bar
51.3 km
Discover Low Bar in Traverse City – a prohibition-style cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks in a cozy, vintage setting for an unforgettable night out.
Dillinger's Pub
51.3 km
Experience the charm of Dillinger's Pub in Traverse City, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant bar atmosphere in a rustic setting.
Union Street Station
51.3 km
Experience the charm of Union Street Station, Traverse City's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Parlor TC
51.4 km
Discover Traverse City's vibrant nightlife at The Parlor TC, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
North Bar
51.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine at North Bar in Traverse City, a must-visit destination for food and drink lovers.
The Pub
51.5 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Pub in Traverse City, where delicious food, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
U And I Lounge
51.6 km
Discover the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of U And I Lounge in Traverse City, where great drinks and friendly service await.
Beacon Lounge
51.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beacon Lounge in Traverse City, a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing with a diverse drink selection.
