Elberta Beach

Elberta Beach is for people who want room to spread out. It sits across the harbor from Frankfort, starting at the Elberta pier and running about a half mile south along Lake Michigan. It is usually less crowded than the beach in town, and the village leaves it largely to nature.

Come prepared. The beach has been undeveloped, without restrooms. The village has announced a grant-funded upgrade with more parking, a pavilion, better ADA access and flush toilets, so check what is open before you count on it.

Park at the beach lot at the base of Bye Road. There are also two public easements to the water at the north and south ends of Lakeside Boulevard, across private land, so stay on the path.

A few rules keep it the way it is: no beach fires, and no driving on the beach or dunes. Leashed dogs are listed as welcome. The pier is at your own risk; stay off it when waves are high.

For restrooms, a playground and downtown close by, use Frankfort Beach instead. More on the big lake is on our Lake Michigan page, and the harbor behind the piers is Betsie Lake.