Summer and beach days just go together! And if you’re looking for summer fun close to home, Traverse City, Michigan, has some great beaches for you to explore.
We’ve compiled a list of 10 beaches in Traverse City, plus some ideas on how to make the most of your trip. Pack up the sunscreen, gather the kids and get ready for a great Traverse City beach day!
1. Clinch Park Beach
- Location: Near downtown Traverse City.
- Features: Shallow, clear water perfect for kids, a large playground with a splash pad, restrooms, picnic areas and a concession stand.
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, kayaking and paddleboarding.
2. Bryant Park Beach
- Location: East Bay, north of downtown.
- Features: Shaded picnic areas, restrooms, a playground and a sandy beach with shallow water.
- Activities: Swimming, picnicking and playing on the playground.
3. West End Beach
- Location: West Grand Traverse Bay.
- Features: A sandy beach, volleyball courts, picnic tables and restrooms.
- Activities: Swimming, beach volleyball and walking along the TART Trail.
4. East Bay Park
- Location: East Grand Traverse Bay.
- Features: A shallow swimming area, a playground, picnic areas and restrooms.
- Activities: Swimming, building sandcastles and picnicking.
5. North Bar Lake Beach
- Location: Lake Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore near Traverse City, Michigan.
- Features: With a small outlet to Lake Michigan, the shallow, sandy-bottomed water is warmer, making this a good choice for families with small children.
- Activities: Hiking, swimming and scenic overlooks.
6. Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park
- Location: East Bay, about two miles from downtown.
- Features: A large sandy beach, a playground, restrooms and picnic areas. Ample parking.
- Activities: Swimming, hiking and camping.
7. Haserot Beach
- Location: Old Mission Peninsula.
- Features: A quieter, more secluded beach with clear water, restrooms and picnic tables.
- Activities: Swimming, picnicking and enjoying the serene environment.
8. Bayside Park
- Location: Acme, just outside of Traverse City.
- Features: A sandy beach, a splash pad, playground, picnic areas and restrooms.
- Activities: Swimming, playing on the splash pad and picnicking.
9. Suttons Bay Beach
- Location: Suttons Bay, a short drive from Traverse City.
- Features: A sandy beach, restrooms, a playground and picnic areas.
- Activities: Swimming, exploring the nearby village and enjoying the playground.
10. Old Mission Lighthouse Park
- Location: End of Old Mission Peninsula.
- Features: A beach with a historical lighthouse, picnic areas, restrooms and hiking trails. The shallow water makes it perfect for wading.
- Activities: Exploring the lighthouse, swimming and hiking.
Looking for some extra fun on your Traverse City beach day? Check out these summer favorites!
1. Sports adventure on the water
Rent paddle boards or kayaks for a day of fun on the water. Traverse City offers calm bays that are perfect for beginners and families. You can also rent jet skis for some high-speed fun. Ensure everyone wears life jackets and take breaks to swim!
2. Beachside BBQ and games
Visit one of the public parks like Clinch Park Beach, which offers grills and picnic areas. Bring along your favorite BBQ items and enjoy a cookout right by the beach. Don’t forget to pack games like beach volleyball, frisbee and paddle ball for some active family fun.
3. Scenic bike ride and beach exploration
Traverse City has excellent bike paths that run along the water. Rent bikes for the whole family and enjoy a scenic ride to various beaches around the area. Each stop can include a swim, a game of beach volleyball, or a mini beach picnic. This is a great way to see multiple beautiful spots in one day.
4. Educational beach and nature walk
Combine fun with learning by exploring the nearby dunes and nature trails. One local favorite is the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore which offers both beach access and educational opportunities. For example, the whole family can learn about the unique ecosystem of the dunes before jumping in the refreshing water.
Your Traverse City beach day can be whatever you make it — the possibilities are endless. Give our suggestions a try and remember, life’s a beach!
For more information and to play your trip to Traverse City, visit traversecity.com.
