Natural swimming hole
Torch Lake
Lake · Michigan
About this swimming hole
Torch Lake's famously turquoise water and white-sand shallows earn it the nickname the Caribbean of the North. The lake runs nearly 20 miles long northeast of Traverse City, and summer days find hundreds of boaters anchored on its broad sandbars. Public access points like William Good Day Park in Kewadin offer a wading beach, pier, and boat launch for day trips.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | low 70s in late summer |
| Depth | up to 268 ft (lake); shallow sandbars near shore |
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | Free (township park) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | small lot at William Good Day Park; additional roadside access points |
| Amenities | boat launch, picnic tables, pier |
| County | Antrim County |
| Nearest town | Kewadin |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; deep water; heavy boat traffic on sandbars |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Torch Lake?
Yes — Torch Lake is listed as a natural swimming spot in Michigan. Reported water temperature: low 70s in late summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; deep water; heavy boat traffic on sandbars. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Torch Lake require reservations?
No reservations are required at Torch Lake based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Torch Lake?
Reported fee info: Free (township park). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Torch Lake?
The best season is typically June-August.