1st Street Beach Manistee, Michigan

1st Street Beach is a magnificent recreation area located on the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan in Manistee, USA. This beach is rightfully considered a jewel of the region, winning the title of Best Michigan Beach by USA Today readers for two consecutive years (2024 and 2025). Crystal clear water and white sand make it an ideal spot for those seeking a high-quality beach vacation.

This is not just a place for swimming, but a large-scale recreational complex called Douglas Park. Every amenity for comfort is provided here: from modern showers and restrooms to picnic areas with grills. The territory is fully ADA accessible, and a life jacket station is provided for the safety of visitors.

One of the beach's unique features is its cultural component — the "Origins" sculpture park, where steel installations tell the story of the city's history. It also features one of the most well-maintained dog parks with its own access to the water, making this a popular spot for pet owners.

To find current information on events and recreational area bookings, you can use the official city and county resources.

At 1st Street Beach, everyone will find something to enjoy: from lazy sunbathing to active sports. You can stroll along the clean sandy shore, enjoying panoramic views of Lake Michigan, or head to the Lions Pavilion observation deck to watch one of the most beautiful sunsets in the state.

For those who love an active lifestyle, there are courts for basketball, tennis, and volleyball, as well as a professional 18-hole disc golf course. Families with children must visit Rocket Park and try the legendary 16-foot retro slide, which has been a symbol of fun for generations of locals. A special dog beach is open for pet owners, where four-legged friends can romp in the water to their heart's content.

If you are interested in history or art, be sure to explore the "Origins" sculpture park. Anglers will appreciate the convenient fish cleaning station and boat launch facilities. During the summer season, open-air concerts and vibrant fireworks displays are frequent, and you can grab a bite at the cozy Lake Gulls concession stand, which offers popular beach snacks.

1st Street Beach is located at 100-122 S Lakeshore Dr, and the easiest way to get there is by car. Free parking is available throughout the park area, making the site highly accessible for family vacations with plenty of beach gear.

If you are in downtown Manistee, we recommend taking a scenic walk along the two-mile Riverwalk. Built in the mid-90s, this path stretches along the river and leads directly to the beach, offering an excellent route for pedestrians and cyclists. You can also reach the location by taxi or local public transport.

For those who prefer arriving by water, there is a designated boat launch (usage fee is approximately $5). If you are flying in from another region, the nearest air hubs are the local Manistee County-Blacker Airport or the larger MBS International Airport, which is about a two-hour drive away.

The history of this picturesque location began in 1919, when the city authorities purchased land to create the Douglas Recreation Area. Since then, the territory at the western edge of First Street has been systematically developed, transforming from a wild shoreline into one of the region's most well-equipped recreational zones.

Many infrastructure facilities have their own history: for example, the First Street Bath House building was erected in the early 1960s. Despite several modernization phases, it has retained its functionality and still serves as the main base for visitors. In the early 90s, a large-scale General Development Plan was adopted, leading to the creation of modern pedestrian paths and the famous Riverwalk.

Special attention should be paid to the "Origins" sculpture park. This is not just a beach decoration, but an artistic narrative of the city's history. A series of steel installations tells the story of the industrial and cultural development of Manistee, linking the region's past with its modern appearance. Today, the beach is recognized as one of the best in the USA, confirming its status with prestigious awards in 2024 and 2025.

For a standard visit to 1st Street Beach, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time for a leisurely stroll along the shore, viewing the "Origins" sculpture installations, and relaxing by the water. If you plan to have a picnic or play disc golf, your stay may be longer.

Families with children and dog owners should plan for a half-day trip. The abundance of playgrounds, including the famous Rocket Park, and the presence of a specialized dog beach make for a long and relaxed stay accompanied by the sound of Lake Michigan's waves.

1st Street Beach is welcomingly open to visitors 24 hours a day. You can come here early in the morning to watch the sunrise or stay until late at night, admiring the starry sky over Lake Michigan.

The facility's schedule remains constant: Monday – Sunday, 24 hours a day. This allows guests to plan their visit at any convenient time, whether it's for a short walk or a large-scale all-day family event.

Exploring the surroundings of 1st Street Beach will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this port city and discover its rich architectural heritage. Unique lighthouses and historic mansions are within walking distance or just a few minutes' drive away.

A walk along the coast or through the city's historic districts will reveal many interesting locations: