AlongtheshoresofMunisingBaywithin Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Sand Point’s history dates back to 1932 when it was purchased from the Cleveland-Cliffs Iron Company for one dollar. Originally a strategic location for the Munising Coast Guard Station it has transformed into a much loved destination for both locals and tourists, offering both natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
The Coast Guard station, constructed in 1932 at a cost of $15,000, quickly became an important outpost along Lake Superior’s rugged coastline. Opening its doors on May 16, 1933 with a crew of ten, the station served until its decommissioning in 1960. Subsequently, Sand Point found new life as the park headquarters for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the late 1960s, continuing its importance in the region.
Today, Sand Point Beach draws visitors looking for leisure and relaxation with its views and inviting waters. Sunbathers are commonly found along the beach during the day, while evening strollers enjoy sunsets over Munising Bay—a hallmark of the Upper Peninsula’s charm. The beach’s shallow, relatively warmer waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, a contrast with the chillier depths found elsewhere along the lakeshore.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Sand Point Beach offers more than just sun and surf. Small boats can be easily launched from the shore, allowing adventurers to explore the bay’s calm waters. Accessibility is also a priority, with a Mobi mat enabling wheelchair users to navigate from the parking lot to the water’s edge during summer and early fall.
Nature lovers flock to the Sand Point Marsh Trail, adjacent to the beach, where diverse wildlife thrives in the marshlands. Birdwatchers find the trail a haven for observing local avian species in their natural habitat, adding an educational dimension to a day spent at the beach.
Sand Point’s distinctive pink sand, a product of erosion from nearby garnet cliffs, adds a unique aspect to its shores, attracting curious beachcombers and geology enthusiasts. The nearby free boathouse museum further enhances the visitor experience, showcasing artifacts and memorabilia from the Coast Guard era.
As summer unfolds and travelers seek comfort in the beauty of Michigan’s Great Lakes, Sand Point remains a destination that blends historical significance with recreational enjoyment. Whether exploring its sandy stretches, launching a boat into the bay, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, visitors to Sand Point are guaranteed an experience that embodies the spirit of Michigan’s maritime heritage.
