Traverse City Beaches

Spend a day on the beaches around Traverse City and you may think you’ve landed in Malibu. The waves rolling off Lake Michigan, warm sun, soft powdery sand and crystal-clear water create the perfect setting for swimming, sandcastles and lakeside sunsets.

But this is pure Michigan — no saltwater and no sharks, just some of the most beautiful freshwater beaches around. In fact, Traverse City was named one of the best beach towns in North America in the Good Housekeeping 2026 Travel Awards, thanks to its “soft white sand and perfectly clear blue waters.”

Lake Michigan Beaches

If you’re craving big water views and rolling waves, head west to Lake Michigan.

Here, beaches feel expansive and untamed. Spots like Good Harbor Bay Beach and Esch Road Beach offer scenic shorelines framed by dunes and forest, while Empire Public Beach and Frankfort Public Beach pair those views with convenient amenities like restrooms, picnic areas and easy access. Many of Lake Michigan’s locations also offer unforgettable views of the Manitou Islands and Sleeping Bear Dunes. (Double check whether a park pass is required before you go!) 

West Bay & East Bay Beaches 

Closer to town, the East and West arms of Grand Traverse Bay offer calmer waters and easy access, ideal for spontaneous beach days.

Clinch Park Beach is a local favorite, with lifeguards in summer, a snack bar and direct access to the TART Trail. West End Beach and Suttons Bay Beach are great for picnicking and beach games, while East Bay Beach is known for its shallow, warmer water that’s perfect for younger swimmers. And don’t miss Traverse City State Park, another popular East Bay beach. You’ll also find quieter gems like Haserot Beach Park tucked along Old Mission Peninsula. 

Family-Friendly Beaches

Heading to the beach with kids? You’ll find plenty of spots designed for easy, fun-filled days.

Clinch Park is one of the most popular, with a splash pad and nearby rentals for paddleboards and kayaks. East Bay Beach is another go-to thanks to its gentle waves and lifeguards during peak season, perfect for stress-free swimming and long afternoons in the sand.

Dog-Friendly & Quiet Beach Options

Looking to spread out or bring your four-legged friend along?

Spots like Esch Road Beach offer quieter, more natural settings where you can slow down and soak it all in, and there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches where your pup is welcome. Glen Haven Beach and Bohemian Road Beach are great options, and they’re both located in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Please remember to keep your dog leashed and follow all posted guidelines. Also, check for any seasonal or location-specific rules before you go.

Best Beaches for Swimming, Sunsets & Picnics

For swimming, the clear and refreshing waters at Empire Beach and along Grand Traverse Bay are hard to beat.

If sunsets are your priority, head to Peterson Road Beach for glowing end-of-day views you won’t soon forget.

Planning a laid-back afternoon? Beaches like Bryant Park and Frankfort Public Beach make it easy with picnic tables, grills and plenty of space to settle in for the day. 

Beach Safety & Seasonal Tips  

Always check water and weather conditions before heading out, and read these top tips for water safety from Munson Healthcare. Strong currents, high waves and sudden weather changes can happen quickly, even on warm summer days.

Visiting in spring or fall? Dress in layers. The water stays cool well into the warmer months, and lakeside breezes can surprise you.

Plan a Beach Day in Traverse City

Whether you’re beachcombing along the dunes, taking a refreshing swim or lingering for sunset, a beach day is a must in Traverse City.

Looking to make the most of it? Explore nearby watersports and rentals for everything from kayaking to jet skiing, or browse hotels on the water to stay just steps from the sand. Pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure and get ready to settle into lake life!