Lake Charlevoix consists of the West Arm, East Arm, and the South Arm. The South Arm is the only part that is commonly referred to or mentioned as an “Arm”, whereas, the East Arm and West Arm are commonly referred to as the “main body” of Lake Charlevoix. Lake Charlevoix is Michigan’s third largest inland lake by area at 17,200 acres behind Houghton Lake at 20,075 acres (maximum 21ft deep) and Torch Lake at 18,722 acres (maximum 285ft deep). Lake Charlevoix has a max depth of 122ft on the main body and 58ft on the South Arm. Lake Charlevoix may be the third largest inland lake but it has a longer shoreline at 56 miles versus Torch Lake’s 40.8 miles and Houghton Lake’s 30 miles. You can easily spend the day cruising around Lake Charlevoix.

If you're looking to rent a pontoon, tritoon, jetski, fishing boat, kayak, paddle board, Summertime Rentals has a plethora of options to choose from! They are located on the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix.

Downtown Charlevoix’s small-town charm and boutique shopping has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a great book, specialty food items, Charlevoix memorabilia, new clothing, artwork, and sweet treats- you can find it here. Stop at Harwood Gold and walk the streets of downtown or to the Lighthouse! Check out more here: Attractions & Shopping

Downtown Petoskey is a small town with cute shops and restaurants. The town overlooks Little Traverse Bay which can be observed up close by walking down the pier (pictured below) to the lighthouse at the end of Solanus Mission Beach - short walk from downtown. Here you can jump off the end of the pier and enjoy lunch on the rocks.

Downtown Harbor Springs is Northern Michigan's version of Nantucket. With jaw dropping lakefront homes and boats that cost more than most homes, this preppy town is a fun day trip to watch sailboats come in while enjoying a cocktail on the beautiful Lake Michigan. The small town consists of only 2 streets but has great food and shops!

For all of you that enjoy spending time on the golf course, there are amazing courses in Northern Michigan to choose from! Check out the courses here: Golf | Charlevoix, Michigan | Charlevoix the Beautiful!

Best Golf:

- Bay Harbor Golf Club (Bay Harbor - Pictured Below)

- Crooked Tree Golf Club (Petoskey)

- Harbor Point Golf Club (Harbor Springs)

- The Highlands (Harbor Springs)

- The Monument & Alpine Courses (Boyne City)

Charlevoix is located on the shores of Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan. There are multiple beaches and easy access to boat launches on these beautiful freshwater lakes. The beaches in Charlevoix are free, most are pet friendly and open to the public. There are also two state parks located close to town, some restrictions may apply for entry. Beaches in Charlevoix, Michigan!

Lake Charlevoix has several public beaches including...

West Side: Ferry Beach, Depot Beach

East Side: Young State Park, Whiting Park, Peninsula Beach

South Side: Elm Point Beach, Tourist Park​

Best Beaches:

- Fisherman Island State Park (Lake Michigan)

- Petoskey State Park (Lake Michigan)

- Michigan Beach Park (Lake Michigan)

- Ferry Beach Park (Lake Charlevoix)

- Old Mission Point Park (Lake Michigan)

Whether you’re looking for trails along Lake Michigan’s shoreline or a scenic inland trail, Charlevoix has some great options. Mt. McSauba Recreation Area, Charles Ransom Nature Preserve, and Fisherman’s Island State Park. All have amazing views of Lake Michigan.

Lavender Hill Farm is a hidden gem. The farm is one of Michigan’s biggest lavender farms with sweeping fields of purple that are truly spectacular. Home - Lavender Hill Farm

Best Wineries:

-Petoskey Farms Vineyard & Winery (Petoskey)

- Boyne Valley Vineyards (Petoskey)

- Bonobo Winery (Traverse City)

- Brys Estate Vineyard (Traverse City)

- Chateu Chantal (Traverse City)

From Charlevoix:

- Petoskey (20 Minutes)

- Harbor Springs (40 Minutes)

- Tunnel of Trees Drive (50 Minutes)

- Traverse City (1 Hour)

- Old Mission Peninsula Wineries (1 Hour)

- Sleeping Bear Dunes (1.5 Hours)