TAWAS CITY, Mich. (Michigan Back Roads) – Get to trading stories about beaches around Michigan and the conversation is probably going to dwell on the beaches and dunes along Lake Michigan.

Another of the secrets about the Sunrise Side is that there are beautiful unspoiled beaches at Tawas Bay.

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Six different beaches provide miles of golden sand. In addition, there are biking and hiking trails, and extensive woodlands, that make Tawas Bay a great getaway. The bay is defined by a curved point of land. On the southern end is Tawas City Shoreline Park and on the other end of the curve is Tawas Point State Park and the Tawas Point Lighthouse. Those two points are connected by good roads, biking and walking trails and those beautiful beaches.

Tawas Bay is perfect for sailing, paddling, fishing, power boating, and wave runners. It is also a favorite destination for kite boarding. All of the Lake Huron beaches slope gently down to the bay, creating a great place for outings to play in the sand and water.

The Tawas Point Lighthouse is just a short ride from downtown. Tawas Point is a favorite spot for watching migratory birds.  It is particularly well-known for the varieties of warblers that gather there. Over 160 species were recorded during the Birding Festival weekend in 2016. Other festivals in the area include Perchville, which is one of the longest running festivals in Northern Michigan, and the Tawas Point Lighthouse Festival. Another spot for bird watching is the Eagle’s Nest Overlook at the Canoe Memorial. The nest has been used by a pair of bald eagles since the 1980s.  If you head out there, binoculars will come in handy.

The golden beaches of Tawas Bay include Tawas City Beach on U.S. 23 which has grills, picnic areas, changing areas, restrooms & day fee. Tawas Point State Park on Tawas Beach Rd. has all facilities & fee. Sand Lake Beach on Indian Lake Rd. a U.S Forest Service Fee area, picnic area, pit toilet. Long Lake Public Beach on Kokosing Rd in Hale has a picnic area, swimming and beach & no fee. Loon Lake Public Beach west of Hale to Putnam Rd. has a picnic area, pit toilet & no fee.

Inland from the beaches is the Huron National Forest. The Au Sable River is a major attraction and the trails through the forest are some of the best in Michigan. The Corsair Trails System is the crown jewel of the Silver Valley. There are many miles of scenic groomed trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. The lure is the forest itself, the deep snowfalls, and the clean fresh air. There are amazing scenic views from such spots as Silver Valley and the high banks. At the Au Sable Highbanks, you can see clear across the Au Sable River Valley. Sometimes you can watch thunderheads and snowstorms advancing from 20 miles away. The Hoist Lakes Trail System will offer a challenge for even the expert adventure skier. There are 10,000 acres and over 20 miles of excellent trails.