10 Awesome Things to Do On Beaver Island: Michigan’s America’s Emerald Isle
Beaver Island may be the largest island in Lake Michigan, but it’s so much more than than. From hiking, biking taking in the scenic island views to explroring the strange history that will delight historians and storytellers alike, Beaver Island offers a unique experience like no other in Michigan.
Here are some of my favorite things to do on this amazing Lake Michigan Island.
Explore Beaver Island, Michigan
Located off the coast of Charlevoix in northern Michigan, the island boasts some amazing opportunities for outdoor activities and many chances to experience the natural beauty of Michigan in a special island setting.
Also known as “America’s Emerald Isle” due to its lush emerald forests, the island is rich in fascinating history and is also a great vacation spot, especially in the summer and early fall months.
Discover Beaver Island, the Emerald Isle
Beaver Island, located between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, is the largest island in Lake Michigan at 55 square miles and stretching 13 miles in length.
Beaver Island is home to over 600 people, keeping a fairly consistent population year-round. The island has a thriving community, with gas stations, convenience stores, coffee shops, airports, clinics, schools, and various other establishments.
There are also miles of roads for driving, but the most frequent mode of transportation is getting around by a moped or bicycle.
How Do I Get to Beaver Island?
Located 32 miles from the mainland in Charlevoix County, Beaver Island requires a boat or plane to get there.
There’s a boat company offering ferry rides to the harbor, and there is also a private airline that operates between Charlevoix city and Beaver Island, as well as other areas of northern Michigan, like Mackinac Island or Bois Blanc Island.
What is There to Do on Beaver Island?
Explore Beaver Island on Bike
If you’re adventurous, you can choose the 40-mile path around the island, but I like to break it up into smaller trips during my stay that allow me to really savor the different areas of the island. Maps are available on the island, butmt favorite ride is to Donegal Bay. Donegal Bay is a paved trail about 1.5 miles long. It starts in St. James and runs along Donegal Bay Road to the St. James Picnic Area and campground with a beautiful beach. You can find more trail maps here.
See Michigan’s Dark Sky
Miles away from the artifical light of the main land, you can clearly see the beauty of the night sky and catch some amazing views of the the Northern Lights and shooting stars. Beaver Island is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary, which, like a Dark Sky Park, provides opportunity to explore night sky free from light pollution.
Beaver Island Music festival
The Beaver Island Music Festival, also known as Music in the Woods, is a 3-day outdoor event combining nature, renewable energies, music and artwork. Both local and nationally-known bands are featured at this fun event.
Visit the Beaver Head Lighthouse
Scenic Beaver Head Lighthouse is located on the south and of the island and was built in 1852. I like to climb the wrought-iron steps to the top of the 46-foot lighthouse and take in the beautiful views of Lake Michigan.
Take a Scenic Drive Around the Island
Whether your bring you own vehicle via the Beaver Island car ferry or rent on on the island, this is a perfect spot for a scenic drive. You can pick up a copy of a self-guided driving tour on the island or download one here from the Beaver Island Historical Society. It features more than 20 historical sites to explore on the island.
EXPERT TIP: If you plan to bring your own car on the ferry, be sure to book in advance as space is limited.
Kayak the Beaver Island Water Trail
This 42-mile water trail that goes around the entire island, and is perfect for paddlers.
Take a Hike in the National Wildlife Refuge
With its lush green forests and sandy beaches, it’s no wonder that Beaver Island is a popular spot for summer vacations.
As part of the 705-acre Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge, made up of nine islands in Michigans Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, you’ll find variety of protected waterbirds and plant species. There are many great spots for fishing, and there is an abundant animal population of deer, squirrels, beavers, rabbits, raccoons, songbirds, waterfowl, foxes, and the occasional coyote or moose.
There are also many beautiful flora and fauna, including uncommon or endangered species like the dwarf lake iris or the Michigan monkey flower. Hiking through the island’s woodlands is a great way to unwind and take in the surrounding nature.
Check out the Mormon Print Shop Museum
Remeber when I mentioned Beaver Island’s strange history? Well, this is the place to learn all about “King” Jesse James Strang, who moved his flock of Mormon followers to the island in in 1850’s to form his own “kingdom.”
Though he never claimed to reign over Beaver Island itself, his sect was the main religion on the island and Strang often asserted his power over the island’s inhabitants, Mormon or not. Being fed up with him, a group formed and assassinated him in 1856 at the St James Harbor, by firing three gunshots into his back. It’s said that there were witnesses (including officers) who did nothing to warn nor defend Strang.
All of this and then more is documented in this local museum, as well as the lives of many other Irish settlers of the island.
EXPERT TIP: There are other interesting museums to explore here including the Toy Museum amd the Marine Museum.
Go Fishing on Fox Lake
Fox Lake is said to be the best spot for fishing on Beaver Island, and even I was was able to catch a perch on this 18-foot deep lake. When I visited last June, the lake seemed practically teeming with bluegill, large-mouth bass, walleye and perch.
More Things to Do on Beaver Island
There are various events held throughout the year, as well as farmer’s markets and festivals, and you’ll also find some soft sandy Lake Michigan beaches perfect for splashing on swimming.
Also stop by one of the various gift shops for a souvenir!
While signal may be spotty in some areas, some service providers have invested in installing antennas on the island, and there is high-speed internet available in most restaurants, as well as in the library or community center which also have public computers.
Planning Your Trip to Michigan’s Beaver Island
Making plans for your trip can be a real hassle, especially if you don’t have prior knowledge about your destination and how you can make the most of your time there.
To make trip planning less stressful, I’ve provided answers to several questions frequently asked by visitors like you. I’ve also included methods of travel from the mainland to the island, along with links to fare prices.
The Beaver Island Boat Company
Founded in 1984, Beaver Island Boat Company (BIBCo) has always strived to provide passengers and freight shippers with safe, reliable, comfortable, convenient, and affordable transportation. They have two ferries—the Emerald Isle and the Beaver Islander—to safely transport passengers, vehicles, and freight between Charlevoix and Beaver Island. Yes, you can bring your car aboard!
The Emerald Isle can hold over 290 passengers, up to 20 vehicles (with capability for even a semi-truck!), and 90 tons of freight. It has 150 indoor or covered seats, five unisex restrooms—one of which is handicap accessible with a baby changing station, power outlets, wi-fi, and vending machines.
The Beaver Islander can hold over 170 passengers, up to 10 vehicles, and 40 tons of freight. This ferry also has a few vending machines and restrooms, but it’s not handicap accessible. The Beaver Islander runs on most weekends during the summer, but the Emerald Isle runs more frequently.
Check out BIBCo’s Ferry schedule and fares on their website. A boat ride to the island takes two hours.
Fresh Air Aviation
“Take a breath of fresh air” and fly with Fresh Air Aviation! If you want a fast and convenient ride to Beaver Island, Fresh Air Aviation makes it their mission to provide a safe and comfortable flight with excellent service, and the trip only takes 15 minutes.
The planes have quiet engines and interiors that make it pet-friendly, and there is ample space for your luggage. Flights run daily all year-round, and their schedule runs between 8am or 9am through the afternoon or early evening, based on demand.
The planes fill quickly, especially during the summer, so making your reservations ahead of time is strongly recommended.
Ticket prices vary depending on age, pets, or business, so make sure to check out their rates. You can choose between roundtrip or one-way, in case you want to ride a combination of both the plane AND ferry.
If you choose to visit during winter in Michigan, air transportation is your only option.
Where Can I Stay on Beaver Island?
If you’re looking for a nice place to rest your head during your trip to Beaver Island, there are several options. The hotels and motels on Beaver Island are pleasantly affordable, and you can land a great deal with their competitive prices. To get you started in your search, here’s a list of highly rated places.
Beaver Island Lodge
Address: 38210 Beaver Lodge Dr, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Phone: (231) 448-2396
Beaver Island Retreat
Address: 34195 King’s Hwy, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Phone: (614) 571-5062
Emerald Isle Inn
Address: 37985 King’s Hwy, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Phone: (231) 448-2376
Harbor View Motel
Address: 26246 King’s Hwy, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Phone: (231) 448-2201
Bill Wagner Campground
Address: 31790 East Side Dr, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Phone: (231) 448-2505
Where Can I Get Food on Beaver Island?
There are several convenience stores and gas stations on the island, but if you want quality food and internet access, there are some great restaurants you’ve got to try out during your stay. Here’s a list of some great suggestions to start with.
Daddy Franks
Address: 26320 Forest Ave, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Hours: 11:30am-9pm, every day
Phone: (231) 448-2570
Shamrock Restaurant
Address: 26245 Main St, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Hours: 11:30am-9pm, every day
Phone: (231) 448-2278
Circle M
Address: 26300 Old Church Crest Rd, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Hours: 5-9pm, every day
Phone: (231) 448-2513
Dalwhinnie
Address: 38240 Michigan Ave, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Hours: Sunday – Friday, 8am-2pm; Saturday, 8am-8pm
Phone: (231) 448-2736
Paradise Bay Coffee Shop
Address: 34230 Donnell Mor’s Lane, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Hours: Thursday – Monday, 8:30am-3pm (Summer only, check before you go)
Phone: (231) 448-3003
Whiskey Point Brewing Company LLC
Address: 38230 Michigan Ave, Beaver Island, MI 49782
Phone: (231) 448-2112