The Best Ways to Experience Torch Lake Michigan
Nothing shouts “summertime” like a trip Up North for us Michiganders! When the weather finally breaks, Michiganders head up north and outside to places like Traverse City and Torch Lake.
Starry nights, crisp air, beach breezes – Torch Lake has all of the prerequisites for an epic Michigan summer vacation – plus the crystal clear, Caribbean blue waters it’s famous for.
We’re pretty sure you’ll want to experience this “Caribbean of the North” and its refreshing waters for yourself after reading this article.
The Torch Lake Sand Bar Draws People In
The lake was a local hidden gem for years, but social media turned it into a summer hotspot, drawing hundreds of boats to its sandbars in June, July and August – especially its epic Fourth of July sand bar celebrations. (Local law enforcement has upped their presence so things don’t get as crazy as they used to.)
From what I have heard, Kid Rock owns (or did at one point) a vacation home on Torch Lake and mentions its famous sand bar in his 2008 song, “All Summer Long.”
Although we haven’t spotted Kid Rock at Torch Lake, what he says is true – Torch Lake is amazing – all summer long!
Consequently, Torch Lake Michigan is on many people’s bucket list, whether it’s to join in at the sand bar or to cruise parts of the lake and enjoy the crystal clear waters.
Photo: Andy Low
Visiting Torch Lake Often Requires Planning
What first-time visitors don’t realize, however, is that a Torch Lake visit presents several challenges, like securing rentals, finding the beach and accessing the water.
Don’t worry – read on for how to plan the best Torch Lake Michigan visit. And how to do a day trip to the sand bar.
Photo: Susie VanSkiver
Torch Lake Trip Planner
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About Torch Lake Michigan
Torch Lake Michigan is an amazing place to see. It’s simply beautiful.
Jumping from a Pontoon Boat into Torch Lake. Photo: Susie VanSkiver
Torch Lake Stats
Max Depth: 285 feet – making it the deepest inland lake in Michigan
Average Depth: 111 feet
Length: 19 miles – Michigan’s longest inland lake
Size: Approximately 18,770 acres
Width: About 2 miles wide
Rank: State’s second-largest inland lake
To understand the depths of its beauty and appreciate the deep aqua and turquoise colors throughout this lake, you really have to take it in with your own eyes.
Torch Lake Sandbar
If you’ve heard of Torch Lake Michigan, you’ve heard of the sand bar.
The almost 2-mile stretch of shallow water at the south end of Torch Lake is home to lively, sometimes rowdy, parties over the Fourth of July weekend.
There’s even a floating food truck!
People come from near and far to hang out, listen to music, play games and have a good time on the south end of the lake at the sand bar.
Truly, the sandbar is a summertime hangout magnet that is monitored by the police due to its popularity.
Torch Lake Sandbar. Photo: William Sweetman
It’s a popular place to anchor and swim the day away with friends and family.
Is the Sand Bar Family Friendly?
Most of the time, the Torch Lake Sand Bar is family-friendly. There are times, though, (like the Fourth of July weekend) when the party atmosphere ramps up and the crowd’s conduct will likely not be G-rated.
If you are looking for a family-oriented visit, aim to go on a weekday at a time earlier in the day.
Sand Bar Location
The Torch Lake Sand Bar is located at the southern end of the lake near where Torch Lake meets Torch River at the Torch River Bridge.
Heads up: The bridge over Torch River is narrow.
Fun Stuff: Floating Food Truck & Jet Packs
Torch Lake Food Boat
How fun is a floating food boat?! Torch Lake Tiki serves up delicious burgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, ice cream, pop and more from the Torch Lake Sand Bar.
Torch Lake Tiki Food Boat
But the Tiki isn’t just about food – they also cater to your adventure side. Rent a pontoon boat, kayak, paddle board or even a floating platform.
Put in your reservation and Torch Lake Tiki delivers right to the shore.
Jet Pack Rentals
Flyboard and Hoverboard rentals are available, weather permitting.
Call 231-599-2649 to reserve a water jet pack.
Torch Lake Flyboard and Hoverboards rentals are available. Photo: William Sweetman
Getting to the Torch Lake Sandbar
The Sand Bar is best accessed by boat or kayak, as the sand bar is several hundred yards away from the shore. Swimming (or walking, depending on lake levels) to the sand bar is also an option in certain areas.
Note that public parking spaces in the area are in short supply.
Torch Lake Sand Bar – Photo: Susie VanSkiver
Can you swim to the sand bar on Torch Lake?
You can swim out to the sandbar if you start at the Lake Street Public Access.
Water conditions can change, but as of August 2023, you can walk on the sandy lake bottom out to the sand bar from here. The water is waist-deep on an adult.
If you choose this option, be sure to use this packing list.
Use Kayak Rentals to reach Torch Lake Sand Bar
Add a splash of adventure to your trip by renting a see-through kayak from Clear Water Kayak, a locally-owned business.
The transparent design makes it easy to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Torch Lake. You’ll be shocked to find just how clear the water is, even when it’s obviously quite deep. (See our trip on Instagram!)
2024 Pricing: $60 for 2 hours
Rental Options: Single or tandem kayaks are available. Do note that the tandem kayak has a weight limit of 425 lbs. In some cases, it’s even possible to accommodate kids.
Additional Amenities: Every rental includes paddles and PFD (life jackets)
Book online. Walk-ups are available as inventory allows
Launch spot: If you opt for the clear bottom kayaks, they’ll be launched from Torch River Bridge Torch Lake Access site, located on Cherry Ave on the west side of the river
Packing Lists for the Sand Bar
In addition to life jackets, we recommend bringing along these items on your sand bar adventure:
Boater’s List
Sunglasses, Lake-friendly Sunblock, Hat
Fun: Beach ball, Swimsuit, Towel, Floaties, Football, Speaker
Cooler: Ice, Drinks, Beer, Snacks
List for Kayakers & Swimmers
Once you get out to the sand bar, you’re going to want to swim and play in the water.
A way to anchor your floats and create a floatilla will be appreciated.
Here’s what to pack to make that happen:
Waterproof bags for phone, keys, wallet
Lake-friendly Sunblock (to keep Torch beautiful!)
Floating cooler with ice, drinks and snacks.
Nylon rope/string for tying tubes/kayaks together and anchoring
Inflatable innertubes with handles or grommets for tying
Anchor (can use sand umbrella stakes on shallow spots of the sand bar.
They look like this and are easy to twist into the sand:
Sand Bar Parking Information
Parking at Torch Lake, particularly near the south end where the Torch River pours into the lake, can be a bit challenging.
However, for your convenience, a DNR parking lot is located just opposite Gil Roy’s Hardware. Remember, you’ll need a Michigan Recreation Passport to park here.
Here’s a handy map to help you find your way:
Torch Lake Public Access Sites
Torch Lake Public Access points are quite numerous, but most of them are located at the end of a street and do not have beaches. They also have very limited parking, at least in the vicinity of the Torch Lake Sand Bar.
But, if you are lucky enough to find public access parking, it’s free.
Lake Street Public Access
7586 Crystal Beach Rd NW, Rapid City, MI 49676
Labeled in Google Maps as Torch Lake Sand Bar Public Access Point, the sign from the water reads Lake Street.
This is the best place to launch sand bar trips if you don’t have a boat.
It’s shallow all of the way out to the sand bar and you can swim out to the sandbar from here.
It’s also tricky to find parking here. If your group wants to launch from this site, plan to have someone drop off your gear and park elsewhere.
Limited street parking is available, as is the DNR lot.
Pine Street Public Access
Pine Street Public Access is about 2 miles down from the main boat launch at the river.
You can swim here, but there is not much of a beach at all.
The sandbar is also accessible from here, but if you’re looking for the food truck, you’ll be quite far from it.
The access is long and narrow with parallel parking as the only option.
Torch River Bridge Parking & Boat Ramp UPDATES Coming Soon!
The Michigan DNR is currently expanding the Torch River Bridge Boating Access Site. The improvements include:
- Parking: Ample spaces for vehicles with trailers, and walkways for boaters
- Access: Dual launch ramps
- Special Features: A dedicated launch for non-motorized vessels with its own parking
- Facilities: A basic vault toilet
- Additional Parking: An overflow area
- Traffic Flow: Improved patterns on Torch Lake Drive
Construction is set to begin in April 2024 and last until September 2024. A detailed design of the proposed site is here.
Boating Torch Lake
One of the best way to experience Torch Lake is by boat (see below for rental locations). The lake is perfect for tubing, waterskiing and riding jet skis.
There are multiple boat launches and public access points around the lake so everyone doesn’t have to put in near the sand bar.
Chain of Lakes
You can also get a boat out on Torch Lake using the Chain of Lakes, as Torch is connected to many bodies of water via a network of rivers.
The Chain of Lakes Water Trail is an inland water trail made up of interconnected lakes and rivers which flow into the East Grand Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan.
The river directly south of Torch Lake, the Torch River, connects Torch Lake to Lake Skegemog.
Boating Lake Skegemog to Torch River can be tricky, as you need to navigate a stump field, but it’s doable and will take you about 30 – 60 minutes to reach Torch Lake depending on traffic. You’ll enter Torch Lake very close to the Sandbar.
You can also access Torch Lake by renting a boat in Bellaire and floating down the Clam River from Clam Lake.
That’s where you’ll find the Dockside restaurant. It’s a popular trip and will likely take you over an hour to reach Torch Lake from Bellaire.
No matter where you start from, be sure to keep an eye on your fuel gauge. Gas is only available in a few locations and Torch Lake is huge!
Torch Lake Boat Rentals
As I mentioned, the best way to experience Torch Lake Michigan is by using Torch Lake rentals.
Rent a boat and have it delivered to your vacation rental, or pick it up at a local marina for a day on the water.
Torch Lake Boat rentals book up far in advance, especially for popular times like the Fourth of July.
Be sure to get your rentals locked in as far in advance as possible.
Torch Lake Sandbar. Photo: Lesley Hassenrick
If you’re looking to make it out to the Sand Bar, a kayak or SUP rental can suffice, too.
Here’s a list of places offering Torch Lake boat rentals, kayak rentals, jet ski rentals and paddleboard rentals:
| Rental Business Name | Details | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Crazy Waves Rentals | Paddleboards, Pontoon boat rentals, Jet Skis Free pickup and Delivery. They have 3-seater SEADOO jetskis. | (231) 633-4091 |
| H2O Sports Rentals | Pontoon boat rentals, SUP rentals, Fat Tire Bikes delivered to your location | (231) 944-3339 call or text |
| Dewitt’s Marine Inc. 6509 Crystal Springs Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615 | Captain for hire, pontoon boat rentals, Tritoon rentals. | (231) 377-6611 |
| Torch River Marine 12906 Cherry Ave, Rapid City, MI 49676 | Pontoon boat rentals, tritoon boat rentals, ski boat rentals | (231) 322-4495 |
| Luhrs Landing Marina 13707 Torch River Rd, Rapid City, MI 49676 | Full-service marina with gas, food, boat rentals, public launch, repairs. Including pontoon Boat Rentals, kayak rentals | (231) 322-2868 |
| Riverside Marina 115 West Cayuga St, Bellaire, MI 49615 | Pontoon rentals, small boat rentals, kayak rentals, canoe rentals, fishing gear. | (231) 533-8559 |
| Northaire Pontoon Rental Clam Lake, Near Dockside, and Bellaire | Three Locations -Northaire Resort – Clam Lake Location Pontoon rentals -Northaire Torch Lake Location 6349 Old Torch Lake Dr – 204 W Cayuga St, Bellaire, MI 49615 | (231) 377-7764 |
| Dockside Torch Lake 6326 Old Torch Lake Dr, Bellaire, MI 49615 | Located on Torch Lake at the mouth of the Clam River Pontoon & Wave Runner Rentals | (231) 377-7777 |
| M&K Marine | Pontoon boat rentals delivered to your location. Kayak& Tube rental by request. | (231) 620-8783 |
| Bellaire Pontoon Rental 204 W Cayuga St, Bellaire, MI 49615 | Pontoon boat rentals, E bike rentals. Hourly and Daily parking rates at boat docks on Intermediate River in Bellaire, MI. | (231) 377-7764 |
| Butch’s Tackle & Marine 6235 Crystal Springs Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615 | Pontoon boat rentals, speedboat rentals, jet ski & WaveRunner rentals, fishing boat rentals, kayak rentals, towable tube rentals, SUP paddleboard rentals, Water carpet rentals. | (231) 377-6787 |
| Grandvalley Marine 11988 SE Torch Lake Dr, Alden, MI 49612 | Rentals for Kayaks, Stand Up Paddle Boards, and a Pontoon. Launch point is on the SW end of Torch Lake within 5-minute paddle from the SANDBAR. | (231) 331-6245 |
| Torch Lake Tiki Torch Lake Sand Bar | Pontoon rental, kayak rental, SUP, Lilly Pads | (231) 322-3070 |
| Clear Botton Kayak Rentals Torch River Bridge Area | See-through kayak rentals | (231)-632-6583 |
Torch Lake Public Boat Launches
Even though it’s 19-miles long, there aren’t many public boat launches that can handle motor boats directly on Torch Lake. (There are quite a few places you can launch a kayak or stand up paddleboard.)
However, because it’s part of the Chain-o-Lakes, boaters often use the boat ramps on connected rivers and lakes and then motor over to Torch for the sand bar, tubing and other fun.
Map of Torch Lake Boat Launch Locations
Torch River Bridge Boat Launch
Torch River & Cherry Ave, Rapid City, MI 49676
- sand bar access
- Michigan recreation passport required
This boat ramp is technically on Torch River, but it’s so close to the river mouth, it’s practically in Torch Lake. The boat launch is near the sand bar and is the one most people drive to. However, there is no parking at this tiny launch – you’ll need to put your trailer and vehicle elsewhere. Also, it’s operated by the DNR, so a Michigan recreation passport is required.
This single boat launch has portable toilets and is undergoing a major upgrade in 2024, it may not be open for use.
Aarwood Rd Torch River Boat Launch (DNR)
8548 Aarwood Tr, Rapid City, MI 49676
- Launches into Torch River
- short distance to Torch Lake and the sandbar
This boat launch is very busy in summer, being the option many boaters use to access the Torch Lake sandbar. There’s limited parking here. Facilities include 2 concrete boat launches and a small seasonal dock. Gas is available at the nearby Luhr’s Landing.
Alden Boat Ramp
9180 Helena Rd, Alden, MI 49612
Paved boat launch at the bend in the road. Alden Safe Harbor has shopping docks and a boat launch. Easy walk into Alden for shops and restaurants. Portable restrooms. Parking at nearby Alden Depot Park.
Clam Lake Boat Launch (DNR)
7989 Hoy Dewey Dr, Bellaire, MI 49615
Not as busy as some of the other sandbar boat ramps. Located on the north side of Clam Lake. Consists of a single concrete boat ramp with dock.
Eastport Boat Launch
Eastport Landing, Central Lake, MI 49622 (just off of M-88)
Located on north end of Torch Lake. Not close to the sandbar. This is a small boat launch with a large parking lot (55 parking spaces). Pit toilets. Has a small beach area off to the side. Very busy on weekends. Recreation passport required.
Torch Lake Day Park
12201 Public Dock Rd, Kewadin, MI 49648
On the north end of Torch Lake (not by the sand bar). The boat launch is next to a park with beach, playground and other amenities. Concrete single-lane boat ramp with concrete dock. Small parking area. Fee: $10 per trailer to park in trailer lot. $5 to launch kayak, canoe, stand-up boards.
Torch Lake Beaches
Torch Lake is known for its sandy spots like the sandbar – but the these spots aren’t found on the Torch Lake beaches.
Rather, it’s the lake bottom itself that is sandy in many places – once you get past the rocky shoreline.
Most of the Torch Lake beaches and public access points are either rocky or grassy and water shoes are recommended.
Torch Lake Township Day Park
If you’re looking for a sandy beach to lay out on, your better bet is a visit to nearby Lake Michigan or Grand Traverse Bay.
Here’s a helpful map of the swimming beaches located around Torch Lake, MI.
Places listed below offer public swimming beaches on Torch Lake:
Torch Lake Township Day Park and Boat Launch
12201 Pub Dock Rd, Kewadin, MI 49648
Torch Lake Township Day Park is one of the few Torch Lake public beaches where you may find a sandy beach (depending on the water level).
It’s also the location of the Torch Lake Township Boat Ramp.
In addition to the beach and boat launch, this park has a basketball court, a nice playground, restrooms and two pavilions.
The water here is crystal clear, and depending on the time of year you visit and how warm the summer has been, may be quite cold.
Water shoes are helpful when swimming here – the area close to shore is rocky for about 5-10 feet out. After that, you’ll hit the sand and the swimming area is quite large.
The beach area is shaded and mostly grassy.
Torch Lake Beaches in Alden, MI
There aren’t big, sandy beaches in Alden, but you can make your way to the water from one of several public access points. The Train Depot Park, the Ballfield and the public access at the boat docks all provide Torch Lake access points.
There’s a small Torch Lake swimming beach in Alden at Archie Valleau Landing near the safe harbor docks downtown.
If you’re looking to launch a kayak or SUP, these places are ideal. If you’re looking for a place to lay on the beach, you may want to choose another spot.
Forest Home Township Family Park
Bellaire, MI 49615
Forest Home Township Family Park (aka Family Day Park) is a park on the upper northeast side of Torch Lake.
This small, secluded, peaceful little park is open for day use only with picnic tables, grills, a portable toilet, parking area and stairs down to the lake for 103 feet Torch Lake Public Beach access.
The park also has a carry-in boat launch as well as a dock. The walk-in trail to the beach/boat launch is windy and is suitable for small boats such as kayaks and canoes.
Forest Home Township Park Canoe Launch
The beach here is rocky – it’s a good place to go rock hunting – you might even find a Petoskey stone! You’ll want water shoes or sandals. There’s no sand here for laying out.
Torch Lake 4th of July
Few places celebrate Independence Day like Torch Lake.
Torch River Bridge over the 4th of July. Photo: Sheli Langejans
The Torch Lake Fireworks, funded by donors, are always on July 3rd.
The fireworks are shot off from the south end of Torch Lake near the sand bar at dusk, which is around 10:30 PM.
Torch Lake Fireworks are on July 3rd every year Photo: Sheli Langejans
The following day, the Fourth of July, is the biggest sand bar day, drawing lots of people in pontoon boats ready for fun.
Take a look at the sand bar from 2020:
Things to Do Near Torch Lake
The Torch Lake area offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility or simply a slice of small-town charm.
With its vibrant turquoise waters and picturesque surroundings, it may become your favorite summer getaway.
But if you’re staying awhile and looking for other things to do near Torch Lake, visit the nearby small towns of Alden, Bellaire or Elk Rapids.
Explore nearby hiking trails with stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests or go kayaking. Be sure to hunt for Petoskey stones.
Everything in the Torch Lake area is spread out and you will generally need a car to get from one place to another.
Torch Lake Michigan Rentals – Cabins, Vacation Rentals & Other Lodging Options
If you want to stay ON Torch Lake in the summertime, book as early as possible. Many rentals are scooped up a year in advance. Also, know that the shores of Torch Lake are filled with million-dollar homes that have been slowly replacing the tiny vacation cottages of the old days.
As summer gets closer, Torch Lake Rentals are harder to come by in the prime months of July and August because demand is sky-high. For waterfront rentals, expect to pay premium rates.
Another option – find a lakefront property to rent on one of the Chain of Lakes and motor over to Torch Lake via the network of rivers and lakes. Popular options include renting on Intermediate Lake, Lake Skegemog, or Elk Lake.
You can also look for nearby non-waterfront lodging if you want to trailer your own boat or rent directly from a marina.
Ask the local marina if you can dock your boat rental at the marina overnight – this may be an option if you are staying nearby but not at a waterfront property.
Torch Lake Vacation Rentals
Torch Lake House Rentals can be found on VRBO and Airbnb, either on or near the lake.
VRBO vacation rentals tend to have longer minimum night stay requirements than Airbnb rentals. Many times in the summer months, the houses and cottages rent by the week from Saturday to Saturday.
Here are several that caught our eye:
Torch Lake Vacation Rental on the Clam River.
Sleeps: 8, 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bath 📷 VRBO
Torch Lake Vacation Rental near Alden, MI.
Sleeps: 6, 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath 📷 VRBO
Torch Lake Vacation Rental near Rapid City, MI.
Sleeps: 6, 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath 📷 VRBO
Torch Lake Vacation Rental near Rapid City, MI.
Sleeps: 6, 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath 📷 VRBO
Torch Lake Vacation Rental near Rapid City, MI.
Sleeps: 8, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath 📷 VRBO
1930s Cabin rental near Torch Lake.
Sleeps: 5, 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath 📷 VRBO
Bunk bed Torch Lake Vacation Rental near Rapid City, MI.
Sleeps: 8, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath 📷 VRBO
Hot Tub Torch Lake Vacation Rental on the east side of the lake.
Sleeps: 9, 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bath 📷 VRBO
More VRBO Vacation Rentals at Torch Lake, MI
– 500′ to Torch Lake & the park– Walk to quaint Alden, MI. Sleeps: 6, 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bath
– Lakefront Cottage – Rapid City, MI. Sleeps: 6, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath
– Cute Cottage in Alden – Alden, MI. Sleeps: 6, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath
– Sandy Beach Cottage – Alden, MI. Sleeps: 8, 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath
– Family Friendly Lakefront Home – Central Lake, MI. Sleeps: 12, 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath
– Cute Cottage Walk to Torch Lake – Alden, MI. Sleeps: 4, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath
– Lovely Home on East Side – Alden, MI. Sleeps: 8, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath
– Quaint Cottage on Torch Lake – Central Lake, MI. Sleeps: 6, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath
– Summer on the Beach at Torch Lake – Alden, MI. Sleeps: 6, 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath
– Waterfront Torch Lake Cottage – Rapid City, MI. Sleeps: 8, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath
– Torch Lake Dream Cottage – Rapid City, MI. Sleeps: 5, 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath
– Rare Sandy Beach Frontage – Central Lake, MI. Sleeps: 8, 2 Bedroom, 3 Bath
– Exceptional Lakefront Cottage – Alden, MI. Sleeps: 6, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath
– Beautiful Lake Sunset Views – Clam River, MI. Sleeps: 9, 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath
– Lakeside Cottage – Elk Lake, MI. Sleeps 24, 6 Bedroom, 4 Bath
Map of available VRBO Torch Lake vacation rentals.
B&Bs Near Torch Lake Michigan
9076 Helena Rd, Alden, MI 49612
If you can, stay in the Torch Lake Room at the Inn at Torch Lake in Alden and let Harvey make you a scrumptious breakfast!
The Inn has five rooms available, including one apartment. The Inn at Torch Lake is a featured Romantic Getaway.
4417 Trillium Ridge, Central Lake, MI 49622
Torch Lake Bed and Breakfast’s claim to fame: they are the only bed and breakfast located on the world-famous Torch Lake. Stay here and be treated to fabulous views, free breakfast, kayaking, paddle-boarding, snorkeling and dock fishing.
Torch Lake Michigan Campgrounds
Several campgrounds will get you close to – but not on – Torch Lake Michigan.
Head to Torch Grove RV Campground to get close to the Torch Lake sand bar – just make sure you’re camping in an RV.
Barnes Park is a good option if you can snag a reservation.
Chain O’Lakes Campground is a bit of a drive, but puts you near the Grass River Natural area and downtown Bellaire.
| Torch Grove RV Campground 6815 Crystal Beach Rd NW, Rapid City, MI 49676 | Located near the south end of Torch Lake (Sandbar!) No tents allowed – only RVs. 32 sites. Located across the road from Torch Lake’s public access. |
| Barnes Park Campground 12298 Barnes Park Rd, Eastport, MI 49627 | Antrim County owns and operates Barnes Park Campground. It is close to Torch Lake, but is actually located on Grand Traverse Bay. This is a great place to catch a sunset. |
| Chain O’Lakes Campground 7231 S M 88 Hwy, Bellaire, MI 49615 | Located near Lake Bellaire and Clam Lake, this campground is seven miles from Torch Lake. Full hookup RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. |
Condos Near Torch Lake
A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort is perched on a bluff overlooking Torch Lake.
It offers 1-4 bedroom lodging options, many with lake views.
Mom & Pop Resorts On or Near Torch Lake
These Torch Lake resorts book up almost instantly – a year in advance. Get on a waiting list and grab an open week ASAP if you find one
| Sunrise Acres Cottages 889 N. West Torch Lake Dr Kewadin, MI 49648 (231) 883-4714 | Sunrise Acres is an 8-acre parcel with four small pet-friendly cottages. Each non-smoking cottage has 2 bedrooms (sleeps 6), a bathroom, living area, and small kitchen. In between the cottages and the beach is a large community fire pit (limited wood provided), horseshoes and a playground area. Just off the beach are four mooring buoys for boats or personal watercraft (limit one per cottage). |
| Northwind Resort 12553 S West Torch Lake Dr Rapid City, MI 49676 (231) 322-4554 | Northwind Resort is situated directly on the spectacular shores of Torch Lake, across from the world renowned “Sandbar” and within view of Torch River. Northwind has its own small private beach on which children can play or sunbathe. One free mooring spot per room is available for guests and will be assigned at time of check-in. |
| Northaire Resort 7067 Crystal Springs Rd Bellaire, MI 49615 231-377-7764 | Their cottage & cabins are located along the south shores of Clam Lake/Torch Lake in Antrim County. They also rent pontoon boats on Torch Lake. |
| Torch Bay Inn and Cottages 4871 US 31 Eastport, MI 49627 231-599-2412 | 8 rooms and 6 cottages located within a 1/2 mile of Torch Lake |
Torch Lake Restaurants & Food Stops
The following are restaurants and convenience stops you can access by boat from Torch Lake Michigan:
| Dockside, Torch Lake 6340 Old Torch Lake Dr, Bellaire, MI 49615 | If you want to reach a restaurant by boat on Torch Lake, Dockside it is – this is a Torch Lake icon. You can dock your boat here and eat. They also offer pontoon rentals. |
| Johnny’s Torch Riviera 12899 Cherry Ave, Rapid City, MI 49676 | Short walk inland. Italian & American sit-down restaurant located at the mouth of Clam River at Torch Lake. (231) 322-4100 |
| Torch River Shack 7711 Crystal Beach Rd NW, Rapid City, MI 49676 | Riverside convenience store, accessible by boat. Serves pizza, sandwiches, beer. Offers pontoon rentals. (231) 322-4000 |
| Clam Shack at DeWitt Marine 6309 Crystal Springs Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615 | Boating convenience store located at Dewitt Marine on Clam River, Torch Lake. Gas, beer, wine, snacks, boating accessories, apparel, etc. |
| Torch Lake Beer Company 9149 Helena Rd, Alden, MI 49612 | Short walk, directly across from boat launch in Alden. Serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Pizza, beer, fish & chips and more. |
Torch Lake FAQs
Where is Torch Lake?
Torch Lake is in the northwest part of Michigan’s lower peninsula.
Thankfully, this Michigan treasure is just over a 2 ½ hour drive from the Grand Rapids area (airport GRR), and just 30 miles (45 minutes) from Traverse City, MI (airport TVC).
Can I put Torch Lake in my GPS?
Yes, but if you do put Torch Lake into your GPS, it will likely show results for Torch Lake township, a small municipality on the north end of the lake.
There is no beach here, and it is 18 miles (25 minutes) away from the sand bar access.
Can you get to Torch Lake Sand Bar without a boat?
Yes! If you want to go to the sandbar, but don’t have a boat, you’re in luck. You can wade out to the sandbar from the public lake access pocket park that’s just north Torch River Marine.
The water depth varies and can be anywhere from calf-deep to chest-high (on and adult.) If you have kids, consider using pool floats and life jackets to reach the sand bar.
Is there a beach near the Torch Lake Sand Bar?
There aren’t any sandy beaches near the sand bar. If you’re looking for a place to build sand castles on Torch Lake, you’ll need to head to Torch Lake Day Park on the north end of the lake, some 20 miles away.
That said, if sand castles and beach umbrellas are your thing, there are great beaches in nearby Elk Rapids that would be perfect for you.
Does Torch Lake have Swimmer’s Itch?
Swimmers itch has been reported in the area on occasion. If you do visit the sand bar, apply and maintain a thick layer of sunscreen and shower after exiting the water to help keep your skin itch-free.
Add Torch Lake to Your Summer Bucket List
Vacationing at Torch Lake Michigan is a dream come true. Let us know if you have any tips for us to add!
More Michigan Travel
Do You have a tour guide of Torch Lake that could be Postal mailed?
Hi Mary! We do not do postal mailings. So sorry! Perhaps try a Torch Lake area chamber of commerce?
We’d love to go here and check it out!