Vans Beach
A serene, hidden gem on Lake Michigan near Fishtown, offering clear turquoise waters, stunning sunsets, and unique stone hunting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, good for stone hunting
Vans Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, good for stone hunting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, hidden gem on Lake Michigan near Fishtown, offering clear turquoise waters, stunning sunsets, and unique stone hunting.
"Vans Beach is a hidden gem! The water is crystal clear, the sand is soft, and the views of Lake Michigan are stunning."
🚗 Early Bird Parking
The small parking lot fills quickly. Aim for an early arrival, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. :car:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! It's a great spot for furry friends to enjoy the sand and water. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters
Lake Michigan shoreline
Experience stunning, crystal-clear turquoise waters that rival tropical destinations. Perfect for wading and swimming.
Sunset Spectacle
Western shoreline
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan. The vibrant colors paint the sky, creating a magical evening ambiance.
Stone Hunting
Shoreline
Search for unique Leland Blue and Petoskey stones along the sandy shore. A fun activity for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Pack for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Early Bird Parking
The small parking lot fills quickly. Aim for an early arrival, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. :car:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! It's a great spot for furry friends to enjoy the sand and water. :dog:
💎 Rock Collector's Dream
Keep an eye out for Leland Blue and Petoskey stones. They're a unique souvenir from your visit. :gem:
☀️ Pack Your Essentials
No concessions here! Bring water, snacks, and any beach gear you need for a comfortable day. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Early Bird Parking
The small parking lot fills quickly. Aim for an early arrival, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. :car:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! It's a great spot for furry friends to enjoy the sand and water. :dog:
💎 Rock Collector's Dream
Keep an eye out for Leland Blue and Petoskey stones. They're a unique souvenir from your visit. :gem:
☀️ Pack Your Essentials
No concessions here! Bring water, snacks, and any beach gear you need for a comfortable day. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Vans Beach is lauded as a hidden gem for its stunning, clear turquoise waters and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape near Fishtown. Visitors love the opportunity to hunt for Leland Blue and Petoskey stones and the beautiful sunset views. However, the limited parking and lack of amenities are noted drawbacks.
"Vans Beach in Leland, Michigan, is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Michigan, located near the famous Fishtown historic district. This compact lakeside spot is known for its beautiful views, soft sand, crystal-clear water, and tranquil setting.
Highlights
• Stunning Views: The beach offers sweeping vistas of Lake Michigan, especially picturesque at sunset.
• Easy Water Access: Gently sloping sand and shallow entry make it suitable for swimming and wading.
• Pet-Friendly: Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a favorite for visitors with pets.
• Serenity: Less crowded than larger public beaches nearby, Vans Beach provides a quieter experience, perfect for relaxation.
• Rock-Hunting: The shoreline is popular for searching for Leland Blue stones and Petoskey stones.
Things to Keep in Mind
• Limited Parking: The small lot fills quickly in peak summer months, so early arrival is suggested.
• Few Amenities: There are no concessions or lifeguards. Restrooms are available but basic.
• Rustic Atmosphere: The beach is largely undeveloped, preserving its natural charm but offering little shade or structured recreation."
T F F
"Beautiful spot right in Fishtown. Secluded but easy to get to, with plenty of beach and a decent amount of parking within a short walk away. Scenic and amazing turquoise water, makes you feel like your in Florida!"
Sabina Damaschin
"We went in late April. Overall the beach is beautiful and long so it wasn't too crowded. We parked in the lot which was smaller fitting maybe a dozen or so cars. There was a single well kept port a john. Access to the beach is a short 5 minute sandy walk. We went looking for Leland rocks and were able to find some though very small ( rice grain sized) as well as some Petosky stones. They had a variety of other neat rocks which my daughter enjoyed. The local town nearby was delightful and we were able to go into a local toy store with a sweet owner who let me daughter play around with toys. There was a great coffee shop called the Hive nearby as well. There wasn't a lot of food options given it was off season but we were able to get a quick lunch at Vis."
Chrissie Tran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vans Beach is located in Leland, Michigan, near Fishtown. Access is typically via M-204. There's a small parking lot directly at the beach access point.
Yes, there is a small parking lot. However, it fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider arriving early or exploring nearby parking options if the lot is full.
Yes, Vans Beach is conveniently located near Fishtown. It's a short walk from the historic district, making it easy to combine visits.
From Traverse City, take US-31 North to M-204 West towards Leland. Vans Beach will be on your left as you approach Leland.
The beach access involves a short sandy walk. While not paved, it's generally considered less 'intensive' than some other beach access points, but mobility can still be a factor.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Vans Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. It's free to access and enjoy.
Vans Beach is open year-round, from dawn until dusk. There are no specific operating hours as it's a public natural area.
No advance booking is necessary as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
No, there are no lifeguards on duty at Vans Beach. Visitors swim at their own risk.
Basic facilities include a porta-potty. There are no concessions, picnic tables, or extensive amenities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The sand at Vans Beach is soft and pleasant for walking and relaxing. It's a key feature contributing to its charm.
Yes, the water is known for being crystal-clear and has a gentle slope, making it suitable for swimming and wading.
Vans Beach is a popular spot for finding Leland Blue stones and Petoskey stones. You can also find other interesting beach stones.
Compared to larger public beaches, Vans Beach is generally less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience. However, it can get busy during peak summer weekends.
Activities include swimming, sunbathing, searching for stones, paddleboarding, kayaking, and enjoying the sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food vendors or restaurants directly at Vans Beach. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks.
The charming Fishtown historic district nearby offers several dining options, from casual to more formal. Local cafes and restaurants in Leland are also a short drive away.
Yes, you can have a picnic. Just be sure to pack out everything you pack in to keep the beach clean.
The Hive is a popular coffee shop nearby, and restaurants like The Riverside Inn or The Leland Lodge offer dining experiences.
Yes, The Hive, a local coffee shop, is a great spot to grab coffee and treats before or after your beach visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, especially during sunset, offers stunning light for photography. Early mornings are also beautiful and less crowded.
The expansive shoreline with its clear water, the dramatic sunsets, and the unique Leland Blue stones make for great photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Vans Beach is pet-friendly, so it's a perfect location to capture memorable photos of your dog enjoying the beach.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Vans Beach. Enjoy capturing the natural beauty.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views, while a macro lens can be useful for close-ups of stones. A polarizing filter can enhance water and sky colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks as there are no concessions. Bring beach toys and consider a small umbrella for shade. The easy access and relatively calm waters make it a stress-free option for a day out with children. Remember to supervise children closely, as there are no lifeguards.
🐾 Pet Owners
Remember to bring water for your pet and a leash at all times. Cleaning up after your pet is essential to keep the beach enjoyable for everyone. It’s a great place to get some exercise and fresh air with your dog in a beautiful setting.
💎 Rock Collectors & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the beach's natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for quiet contemplation, enjoying the lake views, and observing the local environment. The lack of crowds enhances the peaceful, immersive experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Leland Blue and Petoskey Stones
Many visitors report success in finding smaller pieces of both types of stones, especially after storms or during lower water levels. The shallow entry and sandy bottom of Vans Beach make it relatively easy to comb the shoreline for these natural souvenirs. It’s a rewarding activity that adds an extra layer of discovery to a beach day, turning a simple stroll into a treasure hunt.
Remember that while many stones can be found, the most prized specimens are often rare. The joy is in the search itself, and the beautiful, smooth stones you do find make for perfect, natural mementos of your trip to the Michigan coast.
Experiencing Vans Beach with Pets
When visiting with pets, it's essential to adhere to the leash laws to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for everyone. Always bring water for your pet, especially on warm days, and be mindful of their comfort. Cleaning up after your pet is also crucial to maintaining the beach's pristine condition.
The relaxed atmosphere of Vans Beach, combined with its pet-friendly policy, makes it a standout choice for travelers who don't want to leave their four-legged friends behind. It’s a place where both humans and their pets can unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Michigan.
The Rustic Charm and Limited Amenities
This lack of commercialization contributes to the beach's tranquil and less crowded feel, especially outside of peak times. Visitors are encouraged to be self-sufficient, bringing everything they need for their visit, including food, drinks, and any beach gear. This approach helps preserve the beach's natural beauty and quiet ambiance.
While some might prefer more facilities, many visitors appreciate Vans Beach for its undeveloped character. It offers a more authentic connection with nature, allowing for a peaceful escape without the hustle and bustle of busier tourist spots. It’s a place to disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of sun, sand, and water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit