A Family-Friendly Guide to Fifth Avenue Beach in Manistee, Michigan
Fifth Avenue Beach in Manistee is one of those perfect Michigan summer spots where families can spend the whole day playing, relaxing, exploring, and soaking in the Lake Michigan sunshine. With its long boardwalk, iconic lighthouse, smooth sandy shoreline, and plenty of amenities for kids and adults, it’s one of the top beaches for a full-day family adventure.
Below is a full guide to making the most of your day at Fifth Avenue Beach — from what to bring, to rentals, to beach rules, to nearby treats and activities.
What Makes Fifth Avenue Beach Special
Fifth Avenue Beach sits at the mouth of the Manistee River, offering beautiful sweeping views, clean sandy shores, and a mix of structured and natural spaces. Families love it because it’s easy to navigate, safe, and packed with kid-friendly activities, while still being relaxing for adults.
Towering Slide at Fifth Avenue Beach
Some highlights include:
The scenic boardwalk stretching along the water
The Manistee Lighthouse right on the pier
A super tall slide and other playground features
A merry-go-round kids adore
A convenient snack stand with treats
The option to borrow life jackets (perfect for young swimmers)
A well-maintained, family-friendly swimming area
Hours, Lifeguards & Safety
Beach Hours: Generally open from dawn to dusk
Lifeguards: Fifth Avenue Beach does not have lifeguards on duty, so parents should plan to watch kids closely while they’re in the water
Life Jackets: Families can borrow life jackets at the beach, which is a major perk for younger children or less-confident swimmers
Beach Flags: Look for posted swimming condition flags to understand wave and rip current safety on Lake Michigan
Are Dogs Allowed at Fifth Avenue Beach?
Dogs are not allowed on the main swimming beach area at Fifth Avenue Beach.
If you’re traveling with a pup, head over to the Lions Pavilion Dog Beach, just a short drive away, where dogs can swim and play freely.
Rentals & Amenities
Fifth Avenue Beach has several helpful rentals and amenities that make your beach day easier:
Available Rentals
(Rentals vary by season and staffing, so availability may change.)
Beach chairs
Boogie boards
Sports balls
On-Site Amenities
Clean restrooms
Outdoor rinse-off showers
Snack stand with treats and refreshments
Boardwalk perfect for strollers
Playground with tall slide and merry-go-round
Picnic tables and grassy seating areas
Fishing access right from the beach and pier
Handicap-accessible beach chair for water access
Paved pathway leading close to the shoreline
Things to Do at Fifth Avenue Beach
Whether you plan to spend just a couple of hours or the entire day, there’s plenty to do.
1. Walk Out to the Manistee Lighthouse
Follow the boardwalk and pier to the picture-perfect Manistee North Pier Lighthouse. It’s ideal for sunrise or sunset photos, and older kids love the adventure of walking all the way out.
2. Playground Time
The playground includes the crowd-favorite tall slide and rotating merry-go-round that keeps little ones entertained.
3. Swim & Play in the Waves
Lake Michigan’s clear, shallow edges near the beach make swimming accessible for kids, especially with the option of borrowing life jackets.
4. Enjoy the Boardwalk
Great for strollers, scooters, and relaxing sunset walks.
5. Fishing
Visitors can fish right from the beach or pier, making it a fun multi-generational activity.
6. Grab a Treat
The concession stand serves snacks, drinks, and summer favorites including designer hotdogs, gyros and House of Flavors ice cream.
Tips for Families Visiting Fifth Avenue Beach
1. Arrive Early on Weekends
Parking fills up quickly on hot July and August days.
2. Bring Water Shoes for Littles
Most of the beach is sandy, but the shoreline sometimes has small stones.
3. Don’t Forget Sun Protection
There is limited shade, so bring umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen.
4. Budget for Snack Stops
Between the playground and the water, kids burn lots of energy! The snack stand is convenient, but having your own cooler helps too.
5. Bring a Stroller or Wagon
The boardwalk and paved paths make it very stroller-friendly.
6. Double-Check Wind & Wave Conditions
Lake Michigan can get choppy. Use caution and pay attention to beach flags.
7. Know Where Dogs Can Go
Stick to the Lions Pavilion Dog Beach if you’re bringing pets.
What to Pack for a Perfect Beach Day
Beach towels & blankets
Swimsuits & life jackets (or borrow on-site)
Cooler with water and snacks
Sunscreen & hats
Umbrella or pop-up shade
Sand toys
Water shoes
Cash or card for snack stand + rentals
Camera for the lighthouse walk
Final Thoughts
Fifth Avenue Beach is one of the best family-friendly beach destinations in Manistee. With its wide, sandy shoreline, safe play areas, scenic boardwalk, lighthouse views, and thoughtful amenities like life jacket borrowing and accessible pathways, it’s easy to spend a full, joy-filled day here.
Whether you’re camping nearby at Orchard Beach State Park or visiting Manistee for a weekend, Fifth Avenue Beach is a must-stop for families who love sunshine, fresh water, and easy summer fun.
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