BEAVER ISLAND
Over in the midwest state of Michigan is an island that rests on a freshwater Great Lake; Lake Michigan. The island is called Beaver Island (Emerald Isle of America). Ferries and planes depart daily from Charlevoix to Beaver Island. A ferry ride takes approximately two hours and a plane ride about 15 minutes. Weather conditions must be considered when visiting Beaver Island so the best time to visit is from the end of May to the end of October when the weather is most favorable.
In 1847 James Jesse Strang brought his small band of Mormons to Beaver Island and in 1849
Saint James was established on the island. James Jessee Strang crowned himself King and was the only king every crowned in the United States. Today Saint James is a lively harbor town and the main hub of the island. This is where you'll find everything from the chamber of commerce to lodging to restaurants.
Saint James Township Just steps from the ferry is my favorite place to stay, Harbor View Motel.
Overlooking Saint James "harbor" this classic motel has views of Paradise Bay. It's within walking distance of the public beach, community center, shops, restaurants, and the lighthouse. Two bedroom cottages and deluxe motel rooms with a homey atmosphere are offered for reasonable rates. There are grills, outdoor tables, games, and a lovely outdoor swimming pool on the premises. Request room #15 when booking your reservation at Harbor View Motel.
Biologists and nature lovers are drawn to the magnificent beauty of Beaver Island. Students and working professionals can take courses through Central Michigan University which has a biological station on Beaver Island. Courses such as Bird Diversity, Foundation of Ecology, and Freshwater Biology are offered during the summer months and enrollment keeps growing every summer.
Approximately 35% of Beaver Island is state forest land. The island is 13 miles long and 3 to 6 miles wide. Surrounded by the majestic Lake Michigan, there are dozens of idyllic spots to enjoy sand and beach. Inland lakes include Lake Geneserath, Greenes Lake, Fox Lake, Font Lake, Egg Lake, Round Lake, and Barneys Lake. A good map will help you navigate around the "emerald isle" and find some real hidden gems.
It's an adventure just getting to and from "Beaver Island" because the only two modes of transportation are via airplane of ferry. Fresh Air Aviation and Island Airways offer daily flights. The 15 to 20 minute flight has a few departures from Charlevoix to Beaver Island and from Beaver Island to Charlevoix. The ferry run by Beaver Island Boat Company takes approximately two hours each way and has the most departures during the busy summer months.
If you enjoy camping, the campgrounds here will really connect you with nature. Saint James Township Campground and Bill Wagner Peanine Township Campground offer rustic campsites. There are no showers or electricity, just pit toilets and hand pumps. The cost for a campsite is $10.00 per night. If camping is too rugged, Beaver Island has plenty of Airbnb rentals in private homes.
The enchanting Beaver Island has plenty of things to do even if it is small. Whether you wish to bicycle, walk, or drive around the island you'll find hidden treasures at every corner. Beaver Island is a one of a kind place; here you can still keep your car and house unlocked, friendly locals will give you a complimentary ride, strangers will greet you with a smile and hello. Time goes by slower on Beaver Island. It's uncrowded and there's no traffic jams or loud sirens either. Pristine wilderness, an idyllic harbor village, historic homes, fishing boats, and glorious beaches make Beaver Island a true emerald isle gem.
Churches:
Beaver Island Christian Church
Holy Cross Catholic Church
St. James Episcopal Church
Museums:
Beaver Island Toy Museum
Beaver Island Historical Society
Beaver Island Marine Museum
Places to Stay:
Beaver Island Lodge is nestled in the woods on Lake Michigan. The 13 room lodge has plenty of comforts including an on site restaurant serving award winning food. A ten minute to 15 minute walk from the ferry.
Harbor View Motel has an ideal location and rooms are cozy and sparkling clean. An outdoor swimming pool is open from June until Labor Day.
Lazy K Farms Bed and Breakfast is a 60 acre horse farm located about two miles from the harbor.
Owners Bill and Andy will make you feel right at home. A bountiful breakfast is served in the morning.
Shops and Restaurants:
The Blue Pearl is a ladies shop specializing in clothing. A lovely shop.
Grilled Cheese Food Truck is right across from the ferry dock. Amazing grilled cheese sandwiches and mac & cheese made by the owner.
Island Treasures Resale Shop has lots of merchandise at good prices.
Dalwhinnie Bakery & Deli serves breakfast and lunch. It's cozy inside and the staff is friendly.
Here you'll get great food like the Irish Skillet and Veggie Haystack for breakfast and burgers, pizza, sandwiches, wraps, and quesadillas for lunch. Mouth watering bakery items are also available from opening to close.
McDonough's Market is a full service grocery store catered to locals and tourists.
Power's Do it Best Hardware is the islands convenience store offering lots of important products under one roof.
Shamrock Bar & Restaurants is where you'll find the locals sitting at the bar having a beer and meal.
There's a fireplace inside to enjoy on colder days and live entertainment.
Island Highlights:
Beaver Island and St. James Lighthouse
Beaver Island Community Center
Donegal Bay
Mt. Pisgah Sand Dune
Spectacular Sunrise and Sunsets
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