This is the summer weekend we'd plan for friends visiting Bellaire for the first time. It's built around one big day on Torch Lake, with easy mornings and good dinners on either side. Swap pieces in and out to suit your group.
Before you go
- Book your boat first. Pontoons sell out on July and August weekends. See boat rentals on Torch Lake.
- Make a dinner reservation for Saturday if your group is big.
- Pack water shoes, sunscreen and a waterproof phone case.
Friday: settle in
Afternoon: arrive, stock the fridge and get the lay of the land. If you're coming up through Traverse City, see getting to Bellaire.
Evening: walk downtown Bellaire. Dinner on the patio at Corner Bistro, 102 N. Bridge St., or a pint and pub food at Short's Brewing Company, open since 2004. Expect a wait at Short's on a summer Friday, so put your name in and walk to Bee Well Mead & Cider at 116 N. Bridge St. while you wait.
Night: back to the house for the hot tub and a fire.
Saturday: Torch Lake
Morning: grab coffee and pastries at Ruthann's Gourmet Bakery & Coffeehouse downtown, then pick up your boat. Go early: the water is calmest and the color is best in the morning.
Midday: head to the Torch Lake sandbar at the south end of the lake. It's a no-wake area, so idle in, anchor near the drop-off and don't dive. Bring a second anchor, plenty of water and a trash bag.
Afternoon: cruise the shoreline to see Torch Lake's turquoise water over the sand. Our Torch Lake by boat guide has a route, plus where to stop for fuel and ice cream. Watch the wind: Torch gets choppy fast in the afternoon.
Evening: grill at the house, or drive down to Elk Rapids for dinner at Cellar 152 and a walk along the harbor. See our Elk Rapids guide.
Sunday: woods and water
Morning: walk the boardwalks at Grass River Natural Area, about 6 miles south of Bellaire. It's flat, easy and good for every age. Or ride or hike a loop at Glacial Hills before it gets hot.
Midday: one last swim. Richardi Park, just north of downtown, is the quickest, or try the Alden public beach on Torch Lake. More options in beaches near Bellaire.
Afternoon: pick up a drink for the road at Bee Well or the Short's Pull Barn in Elk Rapids, and head home.
Easy swaps
| If | Try |
|---|---|
| It rains | See rainy day things to do |
| You'd rather paddle | The Chain of Lakes Water Trail, with kayaks from Paddles & Pedals or Riverside Marina |
| You want Lake Michigan | A sunset in Charlevoix. See day trips from Bellaire |
| You're here for the Fourth | See Fourth of July on Torch Lake |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best summer weekend activity in Bellaire?
A boat day on Torch Lake, with a stop at the sandbar at the south end of the lake. Book your boat early for July and August weekends.
Do I need a boat to enjoy Torch Lake?
No. The Alden public beach and Torch Lake Township Day Park both give you access to Torch Lake's clear water from shore.
When should I book a summer weekend in Bellaire?
As early as you can. July and August weekends are the busiest time of year for homes, boats and restaurants.
Sources
Built from our own guides to the sandbar, boat rentals, beaches, restaurants and breweries, each of which lists its sources. Bee Well address from Bee Well Mead & Cider. Checked November 1, 2026.