This Michigan Lake Looks Just Like Dreamy Caribbean Waters

Now looking at the pic below, you may think "Wow! Those Caribbean waters are beautiful." Now, what if I told you that you do not need to hop on a plane to experience those waters. This is actually Torch Lake located in Bellaire, Michigan! In fact, National Geographic named it the 3rd most beautiful lake in the world according to Pure Michigan.

I actually took my youngest daughter there for her birthday a few years ago. My best friend and her children also joined us along with my oldest daughter.

We rented a pontoon boat and bought a bunch of floats to tie off the boat and enjoy the water. There aren't many publicly accessible beaches. So, if you don't have a boat, this is something that you should consider renting to fully enjoy the lake.  Everyone had an absolute blast. As you can see in the video below, the water is so clear and blue! Just like the Caribbean. There is a sand bar that people pull their boats up to so they can hang out and relax in the sand and sun. There are also several lakeshore restaurants available for you to grab a bite.

If you're like me, you'd love to be out on the water all day. As disappointing as it sounds, we must make our way back to shore at some point. If you are a nature lover, Alltrails says there are 10 hiking & biking trails around Bellaire, Michigan for you to check out. The Torch Lake Nature Preserve Trail is short and beautiful. It's an easy hike too, so the kids would enjoy it.

There are also wineries like Torch Lake Cellars and Water Fire where you can participate in wine tasting and tours.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to Torch Lake and experience water and views just like you would in the Carribean. You won't regret it.

Close your eyes and picture the sound of seagulls, waves crashing, the sun beating down on your face, a cold drink in hand, and the hot sand under your feet. By now you've realized I've just sent you to the beach! I love getting beach time in especially when I can completely relax without distractions. Well today is National Beach Day so I wanted to highlight some great beaches right here in Michigan. We are surrounded by water after all. Luckily I had the opportunity explore so many of these areas within the last couple of years. Make sure you check these out while summer is still in swing!

The Family Destination Guide has put out their list of the top 17 beaches in Michigan. I will highlight five of those here!

Honestly this is probably one of most favorite areas ever on Lake Michigan! You must visit Esch Beach in Empire while there. As you can see from my picture from there, you can have a fire right on the beach, watch the sunset, and stargaze. Its really amazing.

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Another great beach. There is a lighthouse there to check out. I have visited in the winter and it was still very beautiful!

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Now this is one spot I have not been to yet that I would love to check out. It's quite a drive as it's located in the most northern Michigan area of the UP which is the Keweenaw Peninsula. But I bet it's worth the drive. The views seem to just be stunning there!

Oscoda is one of most favorite areas to visit. I have been all over that area between hiking and camping, but must admit I have not visited Oscoda Beach Park yet. It looks beautiful. I will have to check it out!

I love Tawas! I have seen some beach erosion in my past visits but there is still plenty of relaxation to be had at Tawas Point State Park Beach.

These Michigan Beach Towns Are Magical (1051thebounce.com)