Best Beaches in Traverse City

Haserot Beach is a serene and picturesque beach located on the Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City, Michigan. It offers a tranquil escape from the crowds, with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is nestled in a U-shaped cove along the East Grand Traverse Bay, providing beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, and picnicking, while exploring nearby attractions such as vineyards and hiking trails.
The beach is ideal for those seeking a relaxing getaway, with its calm waters making it suitable for children and adults alike. However, it lacks lifeguards, so caution is advised when swimming.
Haserot Beach is named after the Haserot family, early settlers in the area, adding a touch of local history to its charm.

Power Island, located in West Grand Traverse Bay near Traverse City, Michigan, is a 200-acre haven offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The island is known for its rich history, having been owned by Henry Ford and hosting notable figures like U.S. presidents and industrial giants. It features over three miles of waterfront and five miles of hiking trails, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and those seeking adventure. The island is dedicated as a quiet nature preserve, providing a peaceful environment for relaxation and exploration.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, boating, or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches. The island is connected to Bassett Island via an isthmus during low water levels, adding to its unique charm. With ten primitive campsites on Power Island and five on Bassett Island, it's an ideal spot for camping and immersing oneself in nature.

The island's history includes tales of ghostly encounters and legendary gatherings, adding a layer of intrigue to its natural beauty. Today, it is owned by Grand Traverse County and managed to preserve its natural state for public enjoyment.

Bryant Park in Traverse City is a charming beach destination located on the shores of West Grand Traverse Bay. It offers a serene beachfront with a large sand area and shallow waters, making it perfect for swimming. The park is surrounded by great white pine trees and features a vibrant playground, enhancing its appeal for both relaxation and recreation. With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Bryant Park is an inviting spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or an active day out, the park provides a picturesque setting amidst natural beauty.
The park's proximity to Traverse City's historic Old Town district adds to its charm, offering beautiful views of the bay and a small, intimate setting. It is easily accessible with parking facilities available nearby.
Bryant Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a mix of leisure and adventure in a beautiful natural setting.

Maple Bay Beach in Acme Township, Michigan, offers a serene and picturesque setting along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay. The area is known for its natural beauty, with opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming and kayaking. The beach itself is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The surrounding landscape features rolling hills and forests, making it an ideal location for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing getaway.

The nearby Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is a notable attraction, offering luxurious accommodations and amenities such as golf courses and a spa. This combination of natural beauty and modern amenities makes Maple Bay Beach a unique destination for those looking to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

The beach is also close to Traverse City, which provides access to a variety of cultural and recreational activities, including dining, shopping, and exploring local attractions.

North Bar Beach, located near Empire, Michigan, is a picturesque destination within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It features North Bar Lake, a shallow and warm lake ideal for families with small children, and a short walk over the dunes leads to the expansive Lake Michigan beach. The area offers a unique combination of tranquil lake swimming and the excitement of Lake Michigan's waves. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, hiking, and water activities like kayaking and canoeing. The beach is accessible via a crushed stone trail, making it a great spot for both relaxation and adventure.
The surrounding landscape is dotted with pine trees and offers stunning views, especially during fall when the foliage is vibrant. The area is rich in natural beauty and ecological diversity, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
North Bar Beach is also known for its dynamic shoreline, where the sand bar connecting North Bar Lake to Lake Michigan can open and close depending on wave action, creating a fascinating natural spectacle.

Good Harbor Beach, located in Maple City, Michigan, is a stunning stretch of shoreline within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The beach is approximately one mile long, featuring soft, white sand and offering breathtaking views of Good Harbor Bay. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, and fishing, while also taking in the beautiful sunsets over Pyramid Point and the Whaleback. The area is rich in history, with remnants of the historic village of Good Harbor visible near the shore.

The beach is part of a larger natural area that includes hiking trails and scenic overlooks, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding landscape is dotted with attractions such as the Glen Arbor Arts Center, which showcases local art and hosts various events.

Good Harbor Beach is known for its serene and natural beauty, providing a tranquil escape from urban life. However, it lacks extensive amenities, so visitors should plan accordingly. Despite this, the beach offers a unique and peaceful experience, especially during sunset when the sky is painted with vibrant colors.

Traverse City State Park is a beautiful beach located in Traverse City, United States. The beach is approximately 800 feet long and has soft, white sand. activities available at the beach include swimming, fishing, picnicking, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Traverse City State Park has several amenities including restroom facilities, a playground for children, and a designated area for dogs. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season to ensure a safe swimming experience.

Torch Bay Nature Preserve is a serene escape located in Kewadin, Michigan, offering scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and stunning waterfront views along Torch Lake. This 38-acre preserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a network of trails that wind through lush forests and along the tranquil waters of the bay. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The preserve is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for wildlife observation. The changing seasons add to the allure of Torch Bay, with vibrant fall foliage and winter's peaceful snow-covered landscapes providing picturesque backdrops for outdoor adventures.

One of the unique features of Torch Bay Nature Preserve is its accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible nature trail and canoe launch available. The preserve began as a dream by the people of Torch Lake Township and became a reality in 2000, thanks to a grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. Local contributions and a Coastal Zone Management grant helped develop the trails and facilities.

Torch Bay Nature Preserve is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a sanctuary for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the natural world. Visitors can pack a picnic to enjoy by the shore or simply take a moment to breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the tranquility around them.

Bryant Park Beach is a serene and picturesque destination located in Traverse City, Michigan, on the shores of West Grand Traverse Bay. The beach offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and recreation. It features a large sandy area and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The park also includes a playground and a grassy area shaded by great white pine trees, providing a natural retreat for both locals and visitors. Bryant Park is situated in the historic Old Town district, offering beautiful views of the bay and a peaceful setting for picnics and leisure activities.
The beach is approximately 200 feet long and has a beautiful white sand color, making it a charming spot for those seeking a quiet beach experience. While it has limited amenities, it does offer bathroom access and allows leashed dogs in the park, though not on the beach itself.
Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, picnicking, and beach volleyball, though lifeguards are not present, so caution is advised when swimming.

East Bay Park in Traverse City, Michigan, is a charming beach destination perfect for all ages. Located at the base of East Grand Traverse Bay, it offers a shallow beach ideal for young swimmers, along with a playground, picnic areas, and public restrooms. The park is a popular spot for families, providing a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of shade and scenic views. It's also a great place for boating enthusiasts, featuring a developed boat access point. The surrounding East Bay Beach District offers vibrant hotels, restaurants, and recreational activities, making it a thriving sector for both locals and tourists.

The area is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and other water sports. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the bay while taking a leisurely walk or engaging in more adventurous activities like parasailing. The nearby TART trail provides additional opportunities for hiking and biking, connecting the area to Traverse City and beyond.

East Bay Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Northern Michigan, with its tranquil lakefront setting and lively community events.

Old Mission Beach, located on the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City, Michigan, offers a serene and idyllic getaway. The beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and shallow shoreline, making it perfect for swimming and family outings. The area is surrounded by lush vineyards and scenic hiking trails, providing a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy beach hopping, kayaking, or simply relaxing in the tranquil atmosphere. The nearby Mission Lighthouse is a historic landmark and a must-visit attraction.
The Old Mission Peninsula is also famous for its wineries and cherry orchards, contributing to Traverse City's status as the Cherry Capital of the World. The region's culinary scene is vibrant, with a focus on local produce and artisanal products.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an active outdoor adventure, Old Mission Beach offers something for everyone.

Taylor Park Long Lake Township is a picturesque beach located in Traverse City, Michigan. The beach offers a 400-foot sandy shoreline with clear blue waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It features a playground for children, making it an ideal spot for families. The park includes restrooms, picnic tables, and grills, and dogs are allowed on leashes. Taylor Park is situated in a beautifully forested area, providing a serene natural setting for visitors.

The park is one of two public beaches in Long Lake Township and is easily accessible from Traverse City. It offers a volleyball court and a small dock, enhancing the recreational experience. The natural surroundings and amenities make Taylor Park a popular destination for those seeking outdoor activities and relaxation.

Traverse City itself is renowned for its scenic beauty, wineries, and outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, making Taylor Park a great base for exploring the region.