Partly Sunny
Leelanau County, MI · Great Lakes
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
9922 Front St, Empire, MI 49630
A National Lakeshore on the northeast Lake Michigan shore (northwest Lower Peninsula of Michigan, Leelanau County) — 35 miles of beach, towering dunes up to 450 feet above the lake, and the dramatic Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive overlook. Named "Most Beautiful Place in America" by Good Morning America audiences in 2011.
Today's Conditions
Ideal for a beach walk.
NWS alert active · 73°F air
Full NWS forecast for This Afternoon
Partly sunny. High near 73, with temperatures falling to around 70 in the afternoon. Southwest wind around 10 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with a low around 59. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Weather
- 73°F air — ideal beach weather
- Sunny skies — clear conditions
Safety
- NWS alert active — special weather statement issued june 3 at 4:48am edt by nws gaylord mi
Best for walking today
Special Weather Statement issued June 3 at 4:48AM EDT by NWS Gaylord MI
Atmosphere
Water
Sun & Moon
7-Day Beach Day Forecast
Mostly Sunny
Rain Showers Likely
Showers And Thunderstorms Likely
Mostly Sunny
Sunny
Mostly Sunny
What to Bring Today
- critical SPF 50 sunscreen UV index 8 — very high
Always remember water bottle, trash bag (leave no trace).
Beach Info
Parking
NPS lots throughout the park; vehicle pass required.
Dogs
Dogs allowed leashed on most beaches and trails.
Entry Fee
NPS vehicle pass $25/7-day or $45/annual park-specific.
Address
9922 Front St, Empire, MI 49630
Amenities
7-Day Tide Chart →
Full high/low predictions for the next week at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
7-Day Weather →
Extended forecast for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore from the National Weather Service.
Frequently Asked
Is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore dog-friendly?
Dogs allowed leashed on most beaches and trails.
Is there an entry fee at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
NPS vehicle pass $25/7-day or $45/annual park-specific.
Are there lifeguards at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
No lifeguards are stationed at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Swim at your own risk and keep close watch on children.
What amenities are at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
Amenities at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore include restrooms, showers, visitor center, campgrounds, scenic drive, dune climb.
When is the water warmest at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
Great Lakes water temperatures peak in late July and August at roughly 68-74°F near shore — cool compared to the ocean. Best swimming window is mid-July to late August.
Where is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore located?
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is in Leelanau County, MI, at 9922 Front St, Empire, MI 49630.
Nearby Beaches
Updated · Data from NOAA, NWS