Charlevoix beaches are one of the area’s greatest attractions. And to help you explore the vast beaches and incredible waters, the area also offers opportunities for water sports and boating. Every beach is more beautiful and exciting than the last, and entirely worth a stop on your next Northern Michigan vacation.
Lake Michigan Beach
With its white sand and amenities close by, Lake Michigan Beach is the perfect place to spread your towel for a day. Find a concession stand, picnic area, restrooms, playground, and lifeguards at Lake Michigan Beach itself, then take a short stroll through the lively eateries and boutiques of Charlevoix are just a walk away along the lovely Pine River Channel. Expect great Petoskey stone hunting and enjoy the wooded trails and Lake Michigan sunsets.
Look for the new handicap-accessible park being built near the beach in summer 2016!
Find It: 95 Grant St. along the Pine River Channel on the north side of the bridge in downtown Charlevoix
Mount McSauba – North Point Natural Area
This beach is located off the beaten path in a natural area with dunes that roll down to a sandy beach. Here, you’ll find solitude and trails but no lifeguards or facilities.
Find It: Head northeast out of Charlevoix on US 31, turn left (north) at the Charlevoix Golf Club on Mercer Road, turn left on Pleasant Street, and turn right on McSauba Avenue.
Fisherman’s Island State Park
Seven miles of Lake Michigan beach make for a beachcomber’s dream at Fisherman’s Island State Park. There’s camping, too, so go ahead and bliss away a couple days in any of 80 rustic sites—15 of which are nestled in the shoreline dunes. You’ll need a State of Michigan Recreation Passport to enter.
Find It: Follow Bells Bay Road off US 31 for 1.5 miles south of Charlevoix. 231.547.6641
Depot Beach
With lifeguards, a playground, restrooms, and a picnic area, this is a lovely place to spend a day on Lake Charlevoix. There’s also a historical museum in the old train depot for whenever the sun becomes a little too hot.
Find It: 307 Chicago Ave., Charlevoix, 231.547.3253
Ferry Avenue Beach
Ferry Beach is also located on Lake Charlevoix. The gently sloping sandy swimming area is a popular beach for families. Ferry Beach provides lifeguards, playground equipment, a concession stand, picnic areas, and restrooms.
Find it: 224 Ferry Ave., Charlevoix, 231.547.3253
Sunshine Charters
The Sunshine is a 45-foot cruising yacht sailing on both Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan. Tours are flexible and you can charter your own trip according to personal needs. Purchase tickets at the kiosk across from Charlevoix City Dock #1 or call for reservations. 231.547.0266, sunshinecharters.com
Find It: 109 Bridge St., Charlevoix, 231.547.0266
Boat Rentals
You’ll find boat and jet ski rentals for adventurers in and around Charlevoix at Sunset Watersports. Rent a little equipment and have a whole lot of fun in the water. 231.932.1800.
Find It: 833 E. Front St., Traverse City, 231.932.1800