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Nothing says summer quite like a week spent surrounded by crystal-clear water, breathtaking sunsets, and total relaxation. My family recently returned from Torch Lake, Michigan, and if it isn’t on your radar, it definitely should be. Known as Michigan’s Caribbean, Torch Lake stretches over 19 miles with blue-green waters that will satisfy anyone’s need for a “beach” vacation.
Why Torch Lake?
Torch Lake, one of the largest inland lakes in Michigan, is a popular summer destination and a perfect setting for your favorite water activities and soaking up the sun. June, July, and August are the busiest times to visit when the kids are out of school and temperatures heat up. We visited in mid-June and found it peaceful and quiet – ideal for a relaxing getaway. While the evenings were cool and the water a bit chilly, that didn’t stop us from diving in!
Here are my recommendations for how to plan your visit to Torch Lake. If you are going during the summer months, be sure to plan in advance because accommodations and watercraft rentals will be in high demand. And although the lake is perfect for a family vacation, it is also a great place for your next couples getaway, adult retreat, or bachelor/ette party!
Planning Your Trip
Getting There
Torch Lake is located in Northern Michigan. It is an easy drive as it is near major highways and interstates but not easily accessed through public transportation. When you get to Torch Lake, you will need a car to get around the area.
Traverse City is 40 miles away, where the Cherry Capitol Airport (TVC) is located, which is the most convenient option to fly into for your visit. The next closest airport is the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids, which is about 168 miles away. You will need to rent a car at the airport as there is no convenient public transportation to take you to the lake.
HOT TIP! Stock up on groceries in Traverse City before arriving – local markets near the lake are pricier and have limited selection.
Where to Stay
In the summer, you will pay a premium for lodging in Torch Lake. Most of the accommodations are vacation rentals, which is actually a benefit because there aren’t many restaurants in the area and a rental makes it easy for you to cook your own meals.
Because of the limited availability, especially homes right on the lake, you will pay a premium and need to book far in advance. However, I found it well worth it to be right on the lake – our rental had a dock and was on the sandbar so we could go right into the water.
There are a few small inns and bed and breakfasts near the lake, but no large hotel chains in the immediate area. The Inn at Torch Lake is in Alden, which borders the lake and is probably the closest option. More options are available in nearby Bellaire, which is about 20 minutes away.
What to Do in Torch Lake
The lake provided the perfect setting to sit on the dock and read a book, but there are many other activities you should try while you are at the lake!
Go to the Sandbar
The sandbar is a unique experience that is not to be missed. Located at the south end of the lake, the sandbar is a shallow area where boats gather and anchor for the day to swim, hang out, and spend time in the sun. There is even a bar boat where you can purchase beverages and a food boat! If you don’t have a boat, don’t worry – you can also access the sandbar with kayaks and paddle boards. In June, the sandbar wasn’t overly crowded, but the area gets busy as the summer progresses, especially over the Fourth of July.
Rent a Boat
To really enjoy all that Torch Lake has to offer, you need a boat. Boat rentals are offered by the day or for longer periods of time. During our week-long visit, we rented a pontoon boat and had a blast exploring the chain of smaller lakes and rivers connected to Torch Lake. We took the boat down the Clam River to Lake Bellaire and spent an afternoon tubing, which was a blast. Another great option, especially if Torch Lake is crowded, is to head down the Torch River to Lake Skegemog and Elk Lake.
You can rent boats of varying sizes and horsepower depending on how you want to use it. Some rentals, like ours, even include tubes. If you really want to get serious about family fun, rent a boat with a slide on it. Several operators offer delivery, which is the option we chose and made it very convenient.
Be sure to understand all costs up front, and know that there will likely be an additional cost for filling the boat with gas after it is returned.
Enjoy Other Water Activities
Renting a boat is expensive, but even without one you can still enjoy your time out on the lake. Because the water is so calm, it is perfect for kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. If adventure is more your style, you can also rent jet skis, flyboards, and hoverboards.
Go Fishing
Torch Lake is a great spot for fishing, with species like bass, trout, pike, and perch. There are spots directly on the shore and shallow rivers where you can throw out your line if you don’t have a boat. No one in my family can be considered an expert, but we still had a great time trying! And, we even caught one (tiny) fish. Please note that you need a valid fishing license and there are size and catch limits.
Explore Nearby Towns
There are several towns very close to Torch Lake that are worth exploring. Alden, Bellaire, and Elk Rapids are just a few miles away, with shopping areas and restaurants.
If you are looking for more extensive shopping and restaurant choices, thirty minutes away is Traverse City which has a larger downtown area. I highly recommend stopping at The Filling Station microbrewery for beer and delicious pizza. Traverse City is known as the “Cherry Capitol” of the world and is home to the National Cherry Festival, which would be a great stop on your vacation!
Final Thoughts
Torch Lake was the perfect multigenerational getaway for our family. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, couples retreat, or a fun weekend with friends, this destination has something for everyone. While it’s no longer a hidden gem, it’s still a more affordable and accessible alternative to international travel—especially if you’re within driving distance.
Have questions or need help planning your trip? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to help you plan your perfect Torch Lake escape!
