TOP 6 PLACES to enjoy a sunset on the ‘gold coast’ KYLE KOTECKI VENTURE STAFF WRITER The sun sets every night, but the view never gets old. Whether you’re looking for a romantic setting or simply want to enjoy nature’s splendor alone or with family, a sunset is a great excuse to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy the simple things. The recipe is simple enough: sand, waves crashing on the shore, clear skies and — of course — a setting sun. That said, the following six places top my list of the best places to take in a sunset. Arcadia Overlook A scenic drive along M-22 will lead you to the Arcadia Overlook,also known as Inspiration Point. You can hop out of your vehicle and take in the sights through the conveniently placed coin-operated binoculars, but if you feel like getting a little workout in you can climb the stairs to the top of the lookout and take in the setting sun from a bird’s-eye view. First Street Beach What better way to unwind after dinner and drinks than taking a stroll along the river and heading to the beach to view a beautiful sunset? Located about a mile from downtown Manistee, First Street Beach is a popular place to watch the sun set. There are parks, basketball and tennis courts, a dog park and baseball diamonds, so there’s
plenty to keep you occupied while you wait for the sun to go down. Fifth Avenue Beach There are plenty of ways to view a sunset at Fifth Avenue Beach in Manistee. You can walk out on the pier, sit on a swing set or take it all in through your windshield if you so choose. After a relaxing day at the beach, why not stick around until nightfall and watch the sun go down? Additionally, Fifth Avenue Beach is a mere stone’s throw away from downtown Manistee. Bar Lake Access A quick drive down Lakeshore Road will take you to the Bar Lake Access, a small beach that provides a great view of the setting sun. There are benches and an ADA accessible waterside deck.
Taking in a sunset on the shores of Lake Michigan is a wonderful way to punctuate a summer night. (File photo)
Frankfort Public Beach The turnaround at the Frankfort Public Beach is a popular destination for Benzie County opacarophiles — also known as a sunset lover — and it’s not hard to see why. Located at the end of Main Street, the turnaround affords visitors a fantastic view and, due to its proximity to downtown Frankfort, there is plenty to do before and after the sun goes down. Stearns Park Ludington’s Stearns Park features a very long parking lot, which means plenty of sightseers can check out the sunset from the comfort of their vehicle. If you’re
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Fifth Avenue Beach is a fantastic place to watch the setting sun, whether from the sand or on the pier. (File photo) looking to get your steps in, you can take a leisurely strollon the breakwater, as well. Stearns Park is just a few blocks
from downtown Ludington, meaning there are plenty of ways to stay occupied while you wait for the sunset to draw near.
