Ferry Beach

Ferry Beach is the beach to pick in Charlevoix when you have small kids. It sits on Lake Charlevoix, the inland lake rather than Lake Michigan, and the sandy swim area gets deeper gradually instead of dropping off.

The City of Charlevoix runs it, and the basics are close together: a playground, restrooms, a picnic area and a concession stand in season. Stand-up paddleboard rentals are listed here too, so older kids can get out on the water while the little ones dig in the sand.

Planning a family get-together? The city has three pavilions at Ferry Beach, each with picnic tables, grills and outlets. Reserve one through the city’s recreation department.

For a change of scene, Michigan Beach on Lake Michigan sits by the South Pier Light, with a playground of its own. For another Lake Charlevoix beach, Young State Park is up the lake toward Boyne City; you need a Recreation Passport on your car there.

There is no lifeguard information listed, so watch kids in the water and check posted notices when you arrive.