Lake Michigan Beaches Near Traverse City offer a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From the bustling Front Street Beach in downtown Traverse City to the serene and secluded Good Harbor Bay Beach in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this region boasts some of the most picturesque and diverse shorelines along the Great Lakes.
Most Popular Beaches
Front Street Beach
Located in the heart of downtown Traverse City, this beach offers a picturesque setting with its sandy shore and stunning views of the Grand Traverse Bay. It is a popular spot for watching the sunset over the bay, creating a romantic and unforgettable experience for couples and tourists alike.
Bryant Park
Known for its family-friendly amenities, Bryant Park is a hub of activity during the summer months. It features a wide sandy beach, picnic areas, volleyball courts, and even a splash pad, making it a great spot for families to enjoy a fun-filled day by the water.
Prettiest Beaches
Leelanau State Park
This park offers a sandy beach surrounded by rolling sand dunes and stunning views of Lake Michigan. It is a tranquil setting perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Good Harbor Bay Beach
Located in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Good Harbor Bay Beach offers a tranquil setting with its sandy beach and panoramic vistas. It is ideal for those looking for a more secluded beach experience.
Least Crowded Beaches
Good Harbor Bay Beach
This beach is tucked away in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and offers a tranquil setting with its sandy beach and panoramic vistas, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and a peaceful atmosphere.
North Bar Lake
Located just south of Sleeping Bear Dunes, North Bar Lake features a peaceful freshwater lake alongside its sandy beaches, making it an idyllic spot to unwind.
Other Notable Beaches
Clinch Park
This beach is great for being in town, with new facilities including a picnic pavilion, pristine restrooms, a kids’ splash pad, and nearby rentals for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards.
Haserot Beach
This pristine park on Old Mission Peninsula is seldom busy and offers a playground, picnic area, restrooms, and a boat launch, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
East Bay Park
The water is warm and shallow at this beach, making it ideal for young families and those looking for a relaxed atmosphere.
West End Beach
This beach is great for socializing, with multiple sand volleyball courts, a beautiful mile-long beach, and boats anchored close to shore for summertime mingling.
Traverse City State Park
This state park stretches out with a quarter-mile of pristine sand on Grand Traverse Bay and offers camping facilities with over 300 modern sites in a wooded setting.
Hiking Trails
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
This national park offers numerous hiking trails, including the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, which spans 27 miles and connects to several beaches and scenic areas.
Traverse City State Park
The park offers several hiking trails, including the TART Trail, which connects to downtown Traverse City and other nearby attractions.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
East Bay Park
This beach allows dogs and is a great spot for families with pets.
Traverse City State Park
The park allows dogs in certain areas, including the campground and some trails, but not on the beach.
Additional Information
- Boat Rentals: Getmyboat offers a convenient platform to book boat rentals, jet skis, yachts, pontoon boats, and fishing charters to enhance your beach experience.
- Water Safety: Munson Healthcare provides top tips for water safety to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience.
References:
– https://www.getmyboat.com/journal/destinations/beaches/best-beaches-in-traverse-city/
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g42758-Activities-c61-t52-Traverse_City_Grand_Traverse_County_Michigan.html
– https://www.traversecity.com/outdoors/beaches/
– https://www.mlive.com/entertainment/2016/08/10_beaches_traverse_city.html
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g42182-d3381363-Reviews-Lake_Michigan_Beach_Park-Empire_Leelanau_County_Michigan.html