Linda’s guidebook to Beaver Island
Sightseeing
You'll never experience anything like it. The beauty is spectacular and it has not been sullied by overdevelopment. Clear, clean water - no salt, no sharks ; ) Miles and miles of nature to explore, historic hiking trails, beautiful beaches and lighthouses, little treasures and shops in the summer, events year-round including music festivals, a fantastic kayaking destination with surrounding islands for exploring. Inspiration abounds for writers, artists, musicians, outdoor enthusiasts.
14 locals recommend
Beaver Island
You'll never experience anything like it. The beauty is spectacular and it has not been sullied by overdevelopment. Clear, clean water - no salt, no sharks ; ) Miles and miles of nature to explore, historic hiking trails, beautiful beaches and lighthouses, little treasures and shops in the summer, events year-round including music festivals, a fantastic kayaking destination with surrounding islands for exploring. Inspiration abounds for writers, artists, musicians, outdoor enthusiasts.
Donegal Bay is our neighborhood's beach, and you are our special guests. Sandbars and clear, clean water. GORGEOUS sunsets! The islanders and visitors come to Donegal Bay every night to take it in. Bring your beach towel! It's a lovely walk from our house. About a mile.
Donegal Bay
Donegal Bay is our neighborhood's beach, and you are our special guests. Sandbars and clear, clean water. GORGEOUS sunsets! The islanders and visitors come to Donegal Bay every night to take it in. Bring your beach towel! It's a lovely walk from our house. About a mile.
The Toy Museum is magical. One of the Island's greatest treasures. Kids of all ages will love it. Lots of things to buy on any budget. Summer months only. Don't Miss It!!!
Beaver Island Toy Museum
37970 Michigan AveThe Toy Museum is magical. One of the Island's greatest treasures. Kids of all ages will love it. Lots of things to buy on any budget. Summer months only. Don't Miss It!!!
Food scene
Circle M
26300 Old Church Crest RdBest restaurant on the island! Summer only
Dalwhinnie is the best breakfast and lunch restaurant on the island. Coffee drinks and fresh food. Right next to McDonough's Market in town.
Dalwhinnie Bakery & Deli
38240 Michigan AveDalwhinnie is the best breakfast and lunch restaurant on the island. Coffee drinks and fresh food. Right next to McDonough's Market in town.
Whiskey Point Brewing Company LLC
38230 Michigan AveGreat new brewery and great craft beer! Wonderful team of owners.
City advice
Book before you go
Transportation to and on the island.
If you're going to bring a car, book weeks in advance for high season! The ferry fills up weeks in advance for holiday weekends.
I do have a car for rent on the island. Nothing fancy, but a 4wd Chevy Blazer with room for 5-6. Chat me up and I'll give you details. My car is parked at Fresh Air Aviation.
I recommend Fresh Air Aviation to fly over. 12 minute flight. Reasonable rates. Newer and better maintained aircrafts, friendly and professional staff, a lovely Island airport, and good service. Fly out of Charlevoix to Beaver Island.
Customs and culture
The "steering wheel wave" is common island culture
Join in the wave!
Customs and culture
"Boodling" is a rite of passage
In the back of a pickup in chairs with a beer in hand, or in a car driving around the island, "boodling" is what Islanders do!
Getting around
Be prepared for a sandy, dusty car!
Don't even bother trying to keep your car clean. It's part of island life and we learn to love it. Island life is relaxed, casual, and no pressure.
Don't miss
Don't miss the Big Rock, the shoe and bra trees, & Old Birch
These classic sites are mid island. A nice drive right down the middle. The 250 year-old birch tree is a fantastic photo op for your family.
Customs and culture
cellphone coverage is spotty and water is well water
You'll have solid wifi in our house, but the cell coverage is hit or miss all over the island, especially the farther from town you get.
There is no "city water." Well water is clean and good for you, but now and then, you'll notice the tint from the minerals. Totally harmless. Our house has a filter system, but there's a Brita filter in the kitchen for even cleaner drinking water.
Don't miss
Must visit Beaver Island Library and the Secret Garden
The Beaver Island library is lovely and friendly, with coffee and tea and internet service. There is a beautiful quiet room in the back for reading, writing, sitting by the fire. The secret garden is my most favorite thing on the whole island, but you'll have to ask me about it if you want to see it!