In a land of jaw-dropping beautiful lakes, Torch Lake is considered by many to be the state’s crown jewel. On sunny days, when the turquoise waters are reminiscent of the Caribbean, it’s hard to argue with them. Beautiful, certainly, and generous enough to offer plenty of room to play on a Northern Michigan vacation.

Stretching 19 miles, Torch Lake is Michigan’s longest lake—and boasting over 18,000 acres, it’s also the state’s second-biggest lake. When you figure in the fact that Torch is a keystone in the magnificent 75-miles of interconnected water known as the Chain of Lakes, well, the possibilities of fun on this Northern Michigan attraction are endless.

Related Read: 10 Cool Things You Didn’t Know About Torch Lake and the Chain of Lakes.

How to Play the Torch Way: Torch Lake Beaches, Boating & More

Best Torch Lake Beaches with Public Access

William K. Good Day Park | Torch Lake Township

For all its largess, Torch Lake doesn’t offer many public access beaches and none of them are traditional sugar-and-sand beaches like those on nearby Lake Michigan. But if you’re looking to dip your toes into these gorgeous waters (and trust us, you do), the pretty little beach at William K. Good Day Park in Torch Lake Township is the place. Pavilions, picnic tables, a public boat launch and swimming area make this a great spot to spend the day.

Find William K. Good Day Park: The eastern end of Public Dock Road, on US-31 just a few miles south of M-88. If you need more info, dial up the Torch Lake Township Clerk at 231.599.2036.

William K. Good Day Park on Torch Lake.

Photo by Kelly Hofman

Torch Lake Public Beach | Alden, MI

The Torch Lake public beach in the tiny resort town of Alden is another place to spread a towel or take a dip. Towel off, throw on your cover-up and your flip-flops and hit the eateries and shops that are a stone’s throw away. Since this beach faces due west, this is where you’ll want to head at sunset.

Find Torch Lake Public Beach: Downtown Alden at the dog-leg on South East Torch Lake Drive (C-Hwy 593).

Photo by Tess Crowley

Boating on Torch Lake

The best way to access Torch Lake is by boat. If you don’t have your own, rent your craft of choice—from pontoons to powerboats and everything in between—at Dewitt Marine at the mouth of the Clam River near Bellaire (6509 Crystal Springs Rd., Bellaire, 231.377.6611). Stop by The Clam Shack, with easy dock access to gas up and stock your cooler for a day on the water.

Torch Lake Fishing Charters

With an average depth of 200 feet, Torch Lake is a lake and brown trout paradise. You just might catch perch or Atlantic salmon, too. Set your downriggers and get ready to reel. Day or night charters are available through Torch Time Charters North.

Find Torch Time Charters: 3842 Thierry Circle, Eastport, 231.590.1949.

Visit the Torch Lake Sand Bar

Torch’s famed sand bar, on the lake’s south end, is a bustling boating spot on sunny summer days (particularly so over the July Fourth holiday), so those seeking a little more peace and quiet will find the lake’s northern stretches more their speed.

Torch Lake Sandbar

Photo by Justin Meeder

Explore the Towns Surrounding Torch Lake

The charming resort towns of Alden, Bellaire, Eastport, Clam River and Torch, all located on Torch’s shores, come alive in the summer with eateries and boutiques. Check out Mammoth Distilling, a newer craft distillery in Central Lake, popular Short’s Brewing Company in Bellaire, and Blue Water Bistro and Pizzeria near Alden.

Photo by Tess Crowley

Getting to Torch Lake & Staying in Torch Lake

Just 17 miles northeast of Traverse City, Torch Lake is easily accessible to Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City.

Find Hotels Near Torch Lake Michigan:

Just click a town below and find outdoor fun, restaurants, craft drink and more!

Bellaire
Charlevoix
Traverse City

Photo(s) by Dave Weidner