Best Beaches in Traverse City for Families (Lake Michigan & Bay Access)

Traverse City is perfect for a beach getaway, offering so much to do, see, and all the ways to relax in between beach adventures. The calm waters along Grand Traverse Bay ensure that parents feel good about their children’s safety when splashing about in the lake. The beaches are also easily accessible. Finally, our Midwest town is famous for its family-friendly activities and attractions—including The Great Lakes Children’s Museum, located in the Grand Traverse Mall—so even when you aren’t out on the sand, you’ll have plenty of family-friendly fun to explore.

You may think every beach is family-friendly, but we assure you that is not the case. Our beaches in Traverse City feature shallow water, perfect for wading or splashing, and gentle waves that won’t turn you head over heels when one hits you. And because most will feature amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and even concession stands, parents don’t have to panic when the need to potty arises.

Clinch Park Beach: Easy Access and Family Amenities

Clinch Park Beach is popular with families because it is close to downtown. Offering both an urban charm and family appeal, its playground and picnic area are always busy, and the splash pad can be just what your toddler needs on a warm summer day. If your family has older children, they (and you) will really appreciate the kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis that can be rented for more water fun.

West End Beach: Calm Water and Spacious Shoreline

West End Beach is another downtown beach. It is a bayfront park offering shallow water for the kids, picnic areas, and restrooms, and is a local hub for beach volleyball. The calm waters also make it a great hangout for boaters to anchor offshore and enjoy a lively beach and water party. This beach is perfect for viewing fireworks on the 4th of July or for watching the National Cherry Festival air show, held at that time.

Beaches Along Old Mission Peninsula

The Old Mission Peninsula is perhaps better known for its wineries, but it also offers a selection of beaches and swimming coves. These scenic beaches will be less crowded than the ones in the downtown area, making them perfect for relaxed family beach days.

Old Mission Lighthouse Park features tranquil beaches shaded by mature trees, hiking trails that take hikers deep into the woods, and an actual lighthouse that can be explored during business hours from May through October (and some weekends in November).

Traverse City isn’t a tropical vacation destination, so what you need to pack for a comfortable beach day is going to be a little different. Our first item on the list is a sweater or hoodie, because the rapidly changing weather can bring chilly winds, even in the summer months. But more often than not, the sun will be shining, so sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are suggested, along with water shoes to protect feet on rocky shores.

Safety should be your first priority, which means floaties or life jackets for non-swimmers and paying attention to the beach flag warning system. We’ve broken down the color codes below:

• Green – Low hazard, conditions are fine for swimming

• Yellow – Medium hazard, be cautious but have fun

• Red – High hazard, dangerous conditions

• Double Red – The water is closed, even for wading

The best time to visit our Traverse City beaches for swimming is in July and August. At this time, the weather is more predictable, the temperatures will be warmer, and a summer day at the beach will be everything you dreamed.

There are as many reasons for choosing a vacation rental near the beach as there are people visiting the beaches. The number one reason, however, will always be easy access to the shore. You don’t want to fight traffic and crowds when you are trying to start your fun time on sand and surf, so if you can walk to the beach, all the better.

Our Traverse City vacation home rentals near beaches offer space for groups of all sizes and greater comfort. They will also be equipped with amenities such as kitchens, washers, and dryers. State-of-the-art televisions, fireplaces, decks with grills, seating options, and hot tubs are just a few of the amenities you may find in your near-beach sanctuary.

 Narrowing down your choice for the best family beach rental will be easier than it seems, especially since you really can’t go wrong with any of our properties. You may want to consider whether you prefer a beachfront space for incredible views or one with a short walk to the beach (usually a cheaper option). Additional amenities can include game rooms, hot tubs, or a location near hiking trails.

Another thing to consider when choosing your rental is the timing. By March, many premium vacation rentals will already be booked for the summer, so your best bet is to book early (about 6 months in advance). You may need to book even earlier if you plan to be here during the National Cherry Festival, one of the largest and most attended events in Traverse City.

Finding the best beach rental in Traverse City is easy. Contact Elevated Stays today to book your favorite Traverse City beachfront haven!