These Sparkling Michigan Beaches Are The Best Spots To Find Pretty Petoskey Stones
Considering that our state is almost completely surrounded by the Great Lakes, there are obviously a lot of beaches to choose from. You can't really go wrong with any of them if you're just looking to lay on a towel and soak up the sun. If there's a bit of the treasure hunter in you then you can look to Michigan's lakes to find some cool stones unique to our state!
Petoskey Stones have been the official state stone for over 50 years. The rocks are made from fossilized coral that went extinct probably about 350 million years ago.
When looking for the stones, don't get discouraged if nothing stands out to you right away. When the rocks are completely dry, they just look like they're plain gray.
Bring a spray bottle or a bottle of water with you so that you can better identify your treasures. If you go after a rainstorm, then nature has done the job of wetting the rocks for you!
The best time to look for stones is in the spring when the ice has melted and brought stones into the beach that were previously deeper out in the water.
Now that you're armed with some tips and tricks and a little history of the stone, you're ready to explore the best beaches that Michigan has to offer.
Rex Beach
Price: Free
Address: 9890 Old Dixie Hwy., Ellsworth, MI
Why You Need To Go: Look at those white sands and teal waters and tell me it doesn't look just like a coastline in Hawaii.
Besides, the obvious beauty of the place, it's got a great opportunity for rock hunting. There's a nice gentle hike from the parking lot to the shore that will get you revved for a day in the sun.
Mt. McSauba Beach
Price: Free
Address: 09223 Mt. McSauba Rd., Charlevoix, MI
Why You Need To Go: This beach gives you the most amazing views (and the best workout) when you climb up to the dunes while still having one of the best shorelines for Petoskey Stones that you can imagine.
There are some other beautiful hikes that lead to waterfalls in the area as well in case you're big on nature.
Grand Haven Beach
Price: Free
Address: Grand Haven City Beach, S. Harbor Dr., Grand Haven, MI
Why You Need To Go: This beach isn't as rocky as the other two so the rock hunting might not be as plentiful, but the atmosphere of this beach really makes it a must-visit.
There is so much going on in this adorable lakeside town. You'll have plenty of opportunities to eat some food by the water and people-watch the busy area.
Fisherman's Island State Park
Price: You need a recreation passport which costs $11 if you enter the park in a car. If you walk or take a boat to the beach, there is no admission fee.
Address: 16480 Bells Bay Rd. S., Charlevoix, MI
Why You Need To Go: This beach is going to be the spot if you're looking for a sleepy afternoon walking on the sand and beefing up your rock collection.
There's some awesome architecture in the area as well like this Mushroom House that looks like it came straight out of The Hobbit.
Every time you visit the beaches surrounding Petoskey and Charlevoix in the north, you can participate in a little treasure hunt for these beauties.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.