5 Beaches Near Hancock, MI

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Hancock is located on Portage Lake, which means there are plenty of opportunities to get in the water. The beaches near Hancock, MI, have something for everyone — take a comfortable dip in the relatively warm Portage Lake, or head out to Lake Superior for a refreshing (or bone-chilling, depending on the month) swim.

Want more options? The beaches near Houghton, MI, aren’t far away.

1. Hancock Beach

Hancock Beach in Hancock, Michigan
Hancock Beach is popular with local families

Hancock Beach is the most accessible beach near Hancock — in fact, it’s the only beach within city limits. With its enormous pine trees and wide, grassy lawn, it’s one of the most unique swimming spots in the U.P. Come early to snag a spot; on hot summer days, the beach fills up fast!

2. McLain State Park

The rocky McLain State Park beach is just a few minutes from Hancock, MI
The McLain State Park beach is a 10-minute drive from Hancock

If you’re craving a few hours by Lake Superior, head straight to the beaches at McLain State Park. (The rocky shore above is our favorite of the beaches near Hancock, MI.) Hang out with the family on the beach inside the breakwater, or brave the wilder waters and bigger waves on the beaches that face the big lake. While you’re at it, treat yourself to a little hike on the McLain trails or an ice cream from the park store.

3. Swedetown Creek

The mouth of Swedetown Creek is one of the hidden beaches near Hancock, MI
Swim in Portage Lake at the mouth of the Swedetown

When you’re in the mood for a quick swim without crowds, the tiny beach near the mouth of the Swedetown Creek is the perfect spot. The bottom is sandy and easy on your feet, and the beach is just steps from the parking lot. Sometimes, you’ll see a collection of pontoon boats anchored in the shallow water near the point — but on most days, you’ll have the beach to yourself.

To find this quiet beach, drive out of Hancock on M-203 north (toward McLain’s). It’s on the left about 0.6 miles past Hancock Beach. Turn left immediately after you see Cemetery Road on the right. (Check out the Google map.)

4. Sandy Bottom Park

Sandy Bottom beach is less than 10 minutes from Hancock, Michigan
Sandy Bottom is popular for families with kids

Of all the beaches near Hancock, MI, the one at Sandy Bottom Park might be the most kid-friendly. The water is super shallow, as you can see in the photo above, which means it’s also really warm. Plus, you don’t need to get sandy — just spread out a blanket on the grass.


5. White City Beach

White City beach is the biggest white-sand beach near Hancock, MI

Want to swim on the east side of the Keweenaw? White City Beach is an exciting surprise — it has a massive white-sand beach with plenty of room to sunbathe or play in the sand. It’s well worth the 28-mile drive from Hancock; just make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

Beaches Near Hancock, MI: Things to Do Nearby

The beaches near Hancock are beautiful year-round. If you’re not in the mood to swim — or if you want a pre-swim adventure — check out our favorite spots for hiking near Hancock, MI. Love waterfalls? Head right to Douglass Houghton Falls (the tallest waterfall in Michigan) or go bushwhacking to Quincy Falls. After your adventure, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants in Hancock, MI.