Think of a summer on a beach, and Michigan might not be the first place that comes to mind - yet the state is quickly gaining recognition for its award-winning beaches, scenic lakeside towns, and family-friendly summer activities.

Leading the way is Oval Beach in West Michigan, recently ranked 24th in Tripadvisor's Best of the Best Beaches - an accolade achieved by fewer than 1 % of the platform's eight million global listings. Known for its soft sand dunes, clear freshwater, and breathtaking Lake Michigan sunsets, Oval Beach offers a beach experience that rivals the coasts, without the crowds.

With over 3,200 miles of freshwater shoreline, Michigan also boasts historic lighthouses, walkable resort towns, and countless outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to kayaking and swimming. It's an ideal destination for families, couples, or multi-generational groups looking to combine nature, adventure, and relaxation in a single summer trip.

A Perfect Pairing: Football Fever and Beach Time

With global football set to dominate travel conversations in 2026, Michigan offers the perfect balance of sporting excitement and laid-back summer escapes. While Michigan is not hosting FIFA World Cup matches, it sits strategically near major host cities such as Toronto (4 hours' drive from Detroit), Philadelphia, New York/New Jersey, Atlanta, and Miami - ideal for UK travellers combining sport with sightseeing.

Official FIFA World Cup ticket holders can access the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS), which provides prioritised scheduling of U.S. visa interviews ahead of the tournament. While most UK visitors travel under the Visa Waiver Programme (ESTA), FIFA PASS highlights the U.S.'s efforts to support international fans and streamline travel planning.

For UK visitors planning a longer American adventure, Michigan works seamlessly as part of a multi-stop itinerary, offering direct access from key U.S. hubs and a surprising variety of landscapes within a single state.

A Summer Destination for Families and Explorers

Beyond Oval Beach, Michigan boasts more freshwater coastline than any other state, with beaches stretching along the Great Lakes, historic lighthouses, walkable resort towns, and outdoor experiences ideal for families.

Travellers can explore dune trails, kayak calm inland lakes, cycle scenic coastal routes, or enjoy traditional summer festivals — from food and wine events to music and local culture — making the destination particularly appealing for multi-generational holidays.

A Fresh Take on the American Summer

As British travellers increasingly look beyond the obvious U.S. destinations, Michigan offers something genuinely different: a summer holiday defined by space, nature, and award-winning beauty, paired with the buzz of a globally significant sporting season.

With its mix of celebrated beaches, welcoming towns, and easy connections to the wider U.S., Michigan is ready to surprise — and to claim its place on the UK's summer travel wish list.