By Casey Gilling | Northern Michigan Realtor
Buying a home on Lake Charlevoix isn’t just about finding a lakefront property—it’s about understanding the lake itself.
With nearly 60 miles of shoreline and over 17,000 acres of surface water, Lake Charlevoix is one of Michigan’s most diverse lakes, and each section offers a completely different lifestyle, value range, and even boating experience. Yet most buyers don’t realize how much this matters… until it’s too late.
Here’s a breakdown of the main bays, coves, and waterfront zones of Lake Charlevoix—and what you need to know about each one.
Round Lake (Downtown Charlevoix)
Best For: Walkability, marina access, prestige living
Not Ideal If: You want peace, privacy, or dockside swimming
- Round Lake connects Lake Charlevoix to Lake Michigan via the Pine River Channel. It’s technically its own body of water, but it functions as the lake’s gateway.
- This is the most walkable location on the entire lake—you can dock your boat and walk to restaurants, bars, and shops.
- It’s also home to the Charlevoix City Marina, making it one of the busiest spots for boating traffic in the summer.
- Real estate here is premium: extremely limited inventory, high prices, and quick sales.
- Important detail: Because of the boat traffic and seawalls, swimming directly off your dock isn’t ideal in most cases.
Ironton Bay / Ferry Zone
Best For: Central access, boat-up dining, active lifestyle
Not Ideal If: You want still water or total quiet
- Located near the historic Ironton Ferry, this area has quick access to both the South and North arms, making it perfect for all-day boating.
- It’s also home to The Landing, one of the lake’s few boat-up restaurants, making it a hot spot in summer months.
- You’ll find a mix of homes—from classic cottages to newer builds—with moderately deep water and accessible shoreline.
- Underrated factor: This area has slightly more exposure to wind and waves than protected bays, which can matter for newer boaters or families with small children.
Horton Bay
Best For: Vintage charm, shallow entry, swimming
Not Ideal If: You’re looking for modern homes or deep water for large boats
- Horton Bay is rich in history—Ernest Hemingway spent summers here, and the area still carries that laid-back, untouched feel.
- Most of the shoreline here has a gentle slope and sandy bottom, which makes it one of the best areas for families with kids who want to wade and swim.
- You’ll find older cottages, many of which have been in families for generations, and limited new construction.
- Buyer tip: Many homes are on smaller lots with shared or seasonal roads, so access and plowing in winter can be something to ask about.
North Arm
Best For: Deep water, big docks, custom homes
Not Ideal If: You want nightlife or walkability
- The North Arm stretches northeast from Ironton and is one of the deepest and quietest parts of the lake.
- It’s ideal for large boats and offers consistent water depth, which is a must if you’re looking to dock a cruiser or pontoon long-term.
- Many homes here are custom-built on large lots with wooded privacy.
- Pro insight: Water clarity tends to be better here due to limited wave churn and less sediment disturbance.
Boyne City Bay
Best For: Year-round living, events, short-term rentals
Not Ideal If: You’re seeking high-end exclusivity
- This is the most vibrant year-round community on the lake, anchored by the walkable downtown of Boyne City.
- The shoreline here is more developed and public, with parks, marinas, and city beaches.
- A major draw is the city’s openness to short-term rentals, making this a great investment spot if you’re thinking income.
- Details to consider: Homes closer to downtown may have smaller lakefront lots, and some areas experience higher boat noise during summer festivals and events.
Advance / Holy Island Area
Best For: Seclusion, calm water, upscale privacy
Not Ideal If: You need fast access to towns or public docks
- Located on the southwest edge of the lake, this area is highly private with minimal public access points.
- Holy Island, which is connected to the mainland by a short bridge, features some of the lake’s most hidden and exclusive homes.
- The water is calm and protected from most wind, making it a go-to spot for kayakers, paddleboarders, and quiet boating.
- Little-known fact: Cell reception and internet speeds in this area can vary, so check before buying if connectivity matters to you.
Loeb Bay
Best For: Ultimate privacy, natural shoreline, limited inventory
Not Ideal If: You want quick access to town or amenities
- One of the least-talked-about parts of the lake, Loeb Bay is perfect for people who want to disappear.
- It’s located off Lake Shore Drive and Ferry Road and offers wooded, untouched parcels with very few homes.
- Real estate here is rare and often passed down through families—so when something does hit the market, it’s usually unique.
- Hidden factor: Most properties are on private roads, so maintenance, plowing, and road agreements should be reviewed carefully before buying.
Final Thought: The Lake Is the Market
If you’re serious about buying or selling on Lake Charlevoix, location on the lake is everything. Each bay attracts different buyers, supports different price points, and offers its own lifestyle. It’s not just about lakefront—it’s about where on the lake.
For buyers, understanding those nuances will help you avoid costly mistakes and find a home that actually fits how you live.
For sellers, knowing how to position your home based on its location is just as important.
→ Is it tucked away in a private cove?
→ Steps from downtown?
→ On deep water with dock access?
These details influence pricing, marketing, and who your ideal buyer really is.
Let’s Talk Strategy
Whether you’re thinking about buying your first place on Lake Charlevoix or preparing to list a family home that’s been in your life for decades—I’ll help you approach it the right way.
I know this lake, I study this market, and I’m based just minutes away.
Casey Gilling
Real Estate Agent | Kidd & Leavy
