11 Best Beachfront Hotels in Traverse City MI

Having had the opportunity to experience it firsthand, we can say that Traverse City is an incredible destination for a beach vacation. The city is blessed with numerous pristine beaches featuring crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and breathtaking sunsets – all of which you can enjoy within walking distance of a beachfront hotel in Traverse City MI.

Travelers can indulge in a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, boating, and fishing. Moreover, Traverse City offers a diverse selection of beachfront hotels in varying price ranges, from luxurious resorts to cozy cabins. And these accommodations provide convenient access to the beaches while offering stunning views of the lake.

In addition to the stunning beaches, Traverse City boasts several captivating attractions and landmarks worth exploring. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Old Mission Peninsula, and the historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse are just a few examples. Besides, the city is also renowned for its wine country, where visitors can partake in wine-tasting experiences, as well as its delectable cherry-based products.

Whether you’re seeking a tranquil and rejuvenating getaway or an action-packed adventure, Traverse City has something to suit every preference. Its scenic beaches, excellent range of hotels, and exciting array of attractions make it an ideal destination for an unforgettable beach vacation.

Pinestead Reef Resort

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Our team wholeheartedly agrees that Pinestead Reef Resort provides the ultimate beachfront experience in Traverse City. A stay at this resort guarantees access to a beautiful shoreline and breathtaking views of East Grand Traverse Bay. The beachfront location is particularly advantageous. It offers seamless opportunities for engaging in water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing. What’s more, the hotel provides convenient equipment rentals to ensure we have everything we need for these thrilling adventures.

The spacious rooms at Pinestead Reef Resort are carefully designed and thoughtfully furnished. They come with private balconies that offer panoramic vistas of the lake. The inclusion of fully-equipped kitchens in each room adds an element of homely comfort. This enabled us to prepare our own meals and enjoy a sense of familiarity.

Moreover, the resort further enhances the experience with its exceptional services and facilities. And in addition to direct access to the bay, guests can also indulge in the amenities provided. These include an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. These offerings make Pinestead Reef Resort an idyllic choice for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

The Beach Haus

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As avid beach enthusiasts, we were captivated by the allure of The Beach Haus, perfectly situated along the picturesque shores of Traverse City, MI. Undeniably the premier beachfront hotel in the area, The Beach Haus treats its guests to an unrivaled panorama of the azure waters of Lake Michigan.

Immersing ourselves in the opulent ambiance, we discovered that the rooms at The Beach Haus have been meticulously designed to provide the ultimate in comfort and luxury. With their spacious layouts and stylish decor, each room becomes a sanctuary of indulgence. Indeed, modern amenities, such as flat-screen TVs, comfy bedding, and private balconies overlooking the beach, ensure a truly lavish experience.

The exceptional services and facilities at The Beach Haus further elevate the stay. We reveled in the exclusivity of the private beach, basking in the sun and relishing the serenity of the surroundings.

The icing on the cake was the exquisite dining experience at The Kitchen. It’s an on-site restaurant renowned for its delectable seafood and handcrafted cocktails, making it an ideal spot for intimate dinners or convivial gatherings.

Furthermore, for those with an adventurous spirit, The Beach Haus boasts a prime location near great attractions. As a result, exploring the iconic Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum, marveling at the majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and going on a delightful journey along the Traverse City Wine Trail were just a few of the remarkable experiences that awaited us.

Park Place Hotel

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With an enviable combination of prime location and exceptional hospitality, Park Place Hotel stands proudly as one of the finest beach hotels in Traverse City. It effortlessly marries convenience and luxury, offering guests a remarkable experience by the lakeside.

As we nestle in this prime spot, the hotel becomes our gateway to the alluring charms of Traverse City. A leisurely stroll takes us to the historic downtown area. It’s a vibrant hub brimming with delightful shops, enticing restaurants, and captivating galleries. Moreover, for nature enthusiasts like us, the renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore beckons, just a short drive away. Its awe-inspiring hiking trails and panoramic vistas of Lake Michigan promise us unforgettable adventures. Alternatively, we can venture to the ever-popular Clinch Park Beach, where a myriad of exciting activities awaits us. From invigorating swims to idyllic picnics and even thrilling canoeing excursions.

And as we stepped into the Park Place Hotel, we were in awe. The rooms exude sheer luxury, ranging from spacious suites adorned with private balconies to cozy retreats boasting plush bedding. Indeed, every detail has been meticulously crafted to ensure our utmost comfort and indulgence.

Aside from all that, the hotel also boasts an array of exceptional amenities, including an inviting indoor pool and a well-equipped fitness center, catering to our wellness needs. The crown jewels of the hotel, however, lie in its high-rise Beacon Lounge and the exquisite fine-dining establishment, Minerva. And these esteemed venues offer us breathtaking views and culinary delights.

Cherry Tree Inn & Suites

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Best location. For us seeking the ultimate beach vacation, Cherry Tree Inn & Suites emerges as one of the prime choices among other beach hotels. Nestled in a coveted location overlooking East Bay, we are treated to unrivaled vistas of the beach and breathtaking sunsets right from our room. Moreover, should we desire to embrace the refreshing waters, the hotel offers a private beach area complete with beach chairs, umbrellas, and other essential beach equipment.

When it comes to accommodations, the hotel presents an array of elegantly appointed rooms and suites. And each one is thoughtfully adorned and equipped with modern amenities to enhance our stay. From flat-screen TVs and convenient kitchenettes to complimentary Wi-Fi access, they cater to our need. The suites, in particular, afford us the luxury of a separate living area and a private balcony, where we can bask in the mesmerizing sight of the rolling waves.

Facilities

As for the facilities, we can indulge in the delights of an indoor and outdoor pool, maintain our fitness regime at the well-equipped fitness center, and savor a complimentary breakfast to kickstart our day. Additionally, families will delight in the presence of a games room and a charming nautical-themed playground designed especially for our little ones.

Furthermore, should we wish to venture beyond the hotel’s enchanting confines, an abundance of nearby attractions beckon us. And the Grand Traverse Mall, the Dennos Museum Center, and the historic Old Mission Peninsula await our exploration. And for those who revel in outdoor pursuits, Traverse City offers an abundance of hiking trails, bike paths, and exhilarating water sports to satisfy our adventurous spirit. Overall, at Cherry Tree Inn & Suites, there truly is something for everyone, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling experience for us all.

Grand Beach Resort Hotel

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Best value for money. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, the Grand Beach Resort Hotel beckons us to indulge in an extraordinary beachfront retreat. With exclusive access to a private beach adorned with comfortable beach chairs and umbrellas, our vacation promises endless days of swimming and leisurely lounging. But that’s not all; as the finest beachfront hotel in Traverse City MI, the Grand Beach Resort Hotel also offers a wide array of thrilling water sports activities to elevate our beach experience.

Moreover, beyond the allure of beachfront excitement, the hotel is dedicated to providing a haven of relaxation and tranquility. Whether we find solace in the spaciousness of their deluxe rooms, the comfort of their suites, or the allure of their exquisite villas, our time spent here will be nothing short of blissful. As for the facilities, the hotel boasts indoor pools, a well-equipped fitness center, and a rejuvenating spa center.

“Overall, staying at Grand Beach Resort Hotel was a great value for money. Though it’s not the ultimate best in the area, we definitely like to come back to this hotel.”

WOW Travel

Should our curiosity beckon us to explore the surrounding area, the hotel’s attentive concierge stands ready to arrange a myriad of tours and activities tailored to our preferences. Alternatively, for those who prefer to venture out independently, we highly recommend a visit to Pirate’s Cove Adventure Park, conveniently located just a stone’s throw away from the hotel. In essence, when it comes to selecting the finest beach hotels in Traverse City, the Grand Beach Resort Hotel undoubtedly secures its rightful place among the top contenders.

Sugar Beach Resort Hotel

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Sugar Beach Resort Hotel stands as a magnificent beachfront oasis in Traverse City, MI, offering us an unparalleled coastal experience. And this idyllic retreat captures our hearts with its awe-inspiring vistas of Lake Michigan and direct access to an exclusive stretch of private beach. Complete with a dedicated boat dock and an array of beach essentials, including chairs, lounges, and umbrellas; the hotel anticipates our every need for a memorable water-centric adventure.

However, Sugar Beach Resort Hotel’s allure extends beyond its captivating beach offerings. Prepare for an exceptional level of hospitality that leaves an indelible mark on our hearts. And as we step into our finely decorated guestrooms, we are welcomed by a harmonious blend of refined aesthetics and remarkable amenities that ensure our utmost comfort. From the indulgent luxury of the private balcony to the sumptuous bedding, inviting sofa, and other thoughtful touches, our stay becomes a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Moreover, the hotel leaves no stone unturned when it comes to providing an exquisite range of facilities. And whether we seek respite in the inviting indoor pool, unwind in the soothing embrace of the hot tub and sauna, pamper ourselves with indulgent treatments at the spa center, or unleash our inner child at the vibrant game arcade, Sugar Beach Resort Hotel caters to our every desire. It is a haven of endless possibilities, regardless of whether we embark on this journey alone, with a beloved partner, or with our cherished family.

Bayshore Resort

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Bayshore Resort emerges as our coveted choice for the premier beachfront hotel in Traverse City MI. Graced with a stunning location on the captivating shores of Lake Michigan, it grants us exclusive private access to the pristine beach and an abundance of delightful activities. And whether we seek solace while lounging on the shore, immerse ourselves in the refreshing embrace of crystal-clear waters, engage in spirited rounds of beach volleyball, or explore the array of thrilling water sports and boat rentals, Bayshore Resort ensures our beachside retreat surpasses all expectations.

Moreover, the hotel lavishes us with a remarkable array of facilities, ensuring our stay is nothing short of extraordinary. And beyond the coveted beach access, we love the indoor pool and hot tub, a lively games room, an invigorating fitness center, and many additional amenities that captivate our senses.

As for our accommodations, Bayshore Resort seamlessly blends elegance and comfort within its Victorian-style guestrooms. These thoughtfully designed havens offer a harmonious fusion of classic charm and modern conveniences, providing us with an exceptional retreat. Equipped with convenient amenities such as a coffeemaker, TV, and mini-fridge, our every need is attended to. However, the pièce de résistance lies in the fact that each room boasts a private balcony, affording us the privilege to savor the captivating lake view throughout our stay.

Pointes North Beachfront Resort Hotel

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Best guestroom. When it comes to beach hotels in Traverse City, Pointes North Beachfront Resort Hotel is one of the absolute best. Nestled along the pristine shores of East Grand Traverse Bay, this extraordinary establishment presents us with a private beach area, allowing us to revel in the sheer delight that beachside bliss brings. Oh, and let’s not forget the breathtaking views that accompany this remarkable experience. And whether we seek blissful moments basking under the warm sun or an exhilarating adventure filled with various water sports, rest assured, the hotel has us covered. Moreover, the hotel graciously provides an array of beach amenities such as comfortable chairs, inviting lounges, and a convenient dock.

In addition to its exceptional beach offerings, Pointes North Beachfront Resort Hotel shines just as brightly with its impeccable services. Picture yourself stepping into generously proportioned and exquisitely designed rooms that leave nothing to be desired. And each sanctuary boasts a private balcony, where we can savor captivating vistas, as well as an array of modern amenities that cater to our every whim.

Facilities

To further enhance our experience, every room even features a luxurious spa bath, providing an oasis of tranquility. Furthermore, the hotel goes above and beyond by offering an impressive range of facilities, including an inviting indoor pool, a relaxing hot tub and sauna, a well-equipped fitness center, and a delightful complimentary breakfast buffet to start our days on the perfect note.

And if being in such close proximity to the breathtaking shores of Lake Michigan weren’t enough, the hotel finds itself just moments away from some of the most enticing attractions that Traverse City has to offer. Within mere minutes, we can easily explore the charming downtown area, which beckons with an array of local shops, enticing restaurants, and delightful breweries that are sure to tantalize our senses.

Parkshore Resort

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Best hotel for families. At Parkshore Resort, the skies are truly the limit. Here, we can expect to get all the best features that a top-notch beachfront hotel could offer. From our aforementioned beachfront location, fun and exciting beach activities, luxurious guestrooms, immaculate services, and so much more.

Our private beach access itself means that we’ll always be near water and can enjoy all the fun and relaxing things that come with it. We can swim, sunbathe, relax at the beach cabanas, or even do exciting stuff like canoeing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. And the views are, as always, great.

Talking about views, we could also enjoy them from the comfort of our own rooms. Because at Parkshore Resort, most of the guestrooms come with a balcony. Additionally, they also have amazing amenities, including Netflix services, mini-fridges, microwaves, and more. Other bigger rooms, like the family suite, even come with fully-equipped kitchens for our convenience.

The Baywatch Resort

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Situated along the picturesque shoreline of East Bay, The Baywatch Resort treated us to breathtaking views of the shimmering water. The kids were thrilled to have direct access to a pristine private beach, where they could build sandcastles and splash in the gentle waves. And the hotel thoughtfully provided beach equipment, such as towels, chairs, and lounges, ensuring our family was fully equipped for a day of seaside fun and relaxation.

The Baywatch Resort not only impressed us with its incredible setting but also with its unwavering commitment to hospitality. And our spacious and luxurious guestrooms offered a welcoming retreat after a day of adventure. Equipped with modern amenities, we felt right at home.

The resort’s on-site facilities catered to our every need, allowing us to unwind and indulge in a range of amenities. We pampered ourselves with rejuvenating spa services, unwound in the soothing sauna and steam room, and made cherished memories swimming in the indoor and outdoor pools. And speaking of which, you may be interested in these hotels with pools in Traverse City.

One of the highlights of our stay was dining at the on-site restaurant, where we savored delectable local cuisine. The flavors were exceptional, and the ambiance added to the overall dining experience. We relished the opportunity to bond as a family over delicious meals, creating lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Alexandra Inn

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Alexandra Inn is the ultimate beachfront hotel in Traverse City MI, offering a luxurious and exclusive experience for our vacation. Situated just far enough away from the bustling city center while still conveniently close to its attractions, Alexandra Inn offers the perfect balance. Not to mention, its prime location right by the beach ensures us to always be in close proximity to the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan.

Every day at Alexandra Inn is an opportunity to unwind and immerse in the beauty of Lake Michigan’s crystal-clear waters. Whether it’s to relax on the beach, take a peaceful beachside nap, practice yoga by the shore, or go for a refreshing swim, the hotel caters to all our desires.

Indulge in delightful coffee breaks at the hotel’s cozy cafe and browse through local goods at the on-site market. Additionally, the hotel’s stunning rooftop terrace, Blush, offers the perfect setting to soak in the breathtaking view while sipping on a refreshing drink. Moreover, for those seeking more recreational options, the hotel provides top-notch facilities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and a games room where we spent some time unwinding and enjoying quality family time.

When it comes to accommodations, Alexandra Inn delivers with tastefully decorated and spacious rooms that exude comfort and style. Each room features a balcony for us to enjoy the scenic surroundings, as well as luxurious amenities to enhance our stay. What’s more, from a cozy sofa bed to a cable TV and a convenient microwave, every detail has been carefully considered to ensure our comfort and rejuvenation during our time at Alexandra Inn.

Our Verdict!

As we’ve surmised, the Alexandra Inn comes number one as the best beachfront hotel in Traverse City MI, on our list. That said, there are other beach hotels in Traverse City that we’d still like to highlight. These hotels have a particular feature that stands out, which you might want to check out.

• Best value for money: Grand Beach Resort Hotel
• Best location: Cherry Tree Inn & Suites 
• Best hotel for families: Parkshore Resort
• Best guestroom: Pointes North Beachfront Resort Hotel

The Best Beaches in Traverse City, MI

Traverse City, Michigan, is renowned for its stunning beaches, featuring crystal-clear waters and soft, sandy shores. As a result, whether you’re in search of relaxation, adventure, or a refreshing swim, Traverse City offers some of the most exquisite beaches in the Great Lakes region.

One of the most popular beaches in the area is Clinch Park Beach, conveniently located in downtown Traverse City. This beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing free parking spaces and essential amenities such as restrooms, changing rooms, and a playground. Moreover, you can easily rent kayaks, paddleboards, and other water equipment right on the beach, adding an extra layer of excitement to your beach outing.

If you prefer a more secluded and serene atmosphere, Bryant Park Beach is an excellent choice. Indeed, offering breathtaking views of the Grand Traverse Bay, this beach requires a small parking fee, but the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings make it well worth it. You’ll find convenient picnic tables, grills, and restrooms available for your comfort and convenience.

For nature enthusiasts, the beaches along the Old Mission Peninsula provide a picturesque setting with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding forests. Nestled within a state park, these beaches offer a range of amenities, including restrooms, picnic areas, and scenic hiking trails. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while enjoying the pristine shores of Lake Michigan.

What is Traverse City famous for?

Traverse City is known as the “Cherry Capital of the World.” The area is also well-known for its natural attractions, which include freshwater beaches, vineyards, and wineries, as well as its proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

What are the best months to visit Traverse City?

If your primary reason for visiting Traverse City MI is to enjoy its dazzling beaches, then be sure to come around from June to August, since it’ll be the prime beach weather around this time. That said, months like May and October are also great options. Around this time, the weather is nice enough, and it’ll be ideal for general sightseeing and lounging around.

How long should you stay in Traverse City?

It really depends on which aspect of Traverse City you want to check out most. And if you’re here mainly to enjoy the beach, then staying for 3 days will be perfectly fine. Even then, you can still do plenty of other things. Overall, whether it’s to check out the unique local shops, breweries, and restaurants in downtown Traverserce City or go on the area’s hiking trails.