Population: The population of Suttons Bay, Michigan as of 2023, was about 586 people.
Located along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, Suttons Bay, Michigan is one of those rare places that feels both lively and laid-back at the same time.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or just passing through on a tour of the Leelanau Peninsula, you’ll find plenty to love about this charming waterfront town.
With its perfect mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and unforgettable experiences, Suttons Bay offers something for every kind of traveler. While you could spend days exploring all it has to offer, these three must-do activities will give you a true taste of what makes this place special.
Explore the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail
If you’re a wine lover—or even just a casual sipper—you can’t visit Suttons Bay without checking out the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. This region is known for its cool-climate wines, which means you’ll find crisp Rieslings, bright Pinot Noirs, and surprisingly complex reds that thrive in Michigan’s unique growing conditions.
What makes this experience truly special is where you’re tasting. Imagine yourself on a sun-drenched patio, sipping a glass of wine while overlooking rolling vineyards and the sparkling waters of Grand Traverse Bay. Sounds like a dream, right? Here are two must-visit wineries that showcase the best of the region.
Black Star Farms: More Than Just a Winery
Black Star Farms is so much more than a tasting room—it’s a full-on wine country experience. This sprawling estate offers:
- A vineyard inn where you can stay overnight
- A tasting room with award-winning wines
- A farm-to-table café serving locally inspired dishes
- Beautiful walking trails through the property
If you want a well-rounded wine, food, and nature experience, this is the place to go.
Mawby: A Sparkling Wine Lover’s Dream
For something a little different, check out Mawby, one of Michigan’s only wineries dedicated entirely to sparkling wines. Their bubbly creations range from crisp and refreshing to bold and complex, making this a fun stop even if you’re not usually a sparkling wine fan. The laid-back tasting room and friendly staff make the experience even better.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Wine Tour
- Self-guided or guided? If you want a stress-free experience, book a wine tour with transportation so you can just relax and enjoy.
- Best time to visit? Fall is absolutely stunning with the vineyard leaves turning golden, but summer is prime for patio season. Spring offers a quieter, more personal experience.
- Pace yourself. There are plenty of wineries nearby, but taking your time at just a couple will give you a more enjoyable and immersive experience.
Whether you’re a serious wine enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, the wineries of Suttons Bay offer a perfect blend of great wine, beautiful scenery, and that unmistakable Northern Michigan charm.
Suttons Bay Beach & Marina
One of the best things about Suttons Bay? You don’t have to choose between a day of adventure and a day of relaxation—you can do both. Suttons Bay Beach, just a short walk from downtown, is the ideal spot to unwind by the water, take a swim, or even try out some fun water activities.
A Beach That’s Actually Convenient
Unlike some Michigan beaches that require a bit of a trek, Suttons Bay Beach is right in town, making it super easy to pair a beach day with shopping, dining, or wine tasting. You can grab a coffee from a local café, take a morning walk along the shore, and still have the whole day ahead of you.
The beach itself features:
- Soft sand and a gentle, sandy-bottom entry into the water
- Calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming (especially for families with kids)
- Scenic bay views, where you can watch boats drift in and out of the marina
Paddle, Float, or Just Take in the View
If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the bay from the water. On a calm day, paddling along the shoreline gives you a unique perspective of the town’s charming waterfront homes and nearby wooded areas.
Not up for paddling? The Suttons Bay Marina, located right next to the beach, is a great place to just sit back and watch the boats—from small fishing vessels to impressive sailboats.
Best Times to Visit
- Summer – Peak beach season with warm water and lively activity.
- Fall – Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and gorgeous fall colors reflecting on the water.
- Spring & Winter – Great for peaceful walks along the marina, even if it’s too chilly for a swim.
No matter the season, Suttons Bay Beach is one of those spots that reminds you why Michigan’s lakeshore towns are so special.
Shop & Dine in Downtown Suttons Bay
Small-town shopping and dining always feel more personal, and Suttons Bay’s downtown is full of one-of-a-kind local gems. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect souvenir, want to browse unique boutiques, or just need a great meal, you’ll find it all within a few walkable blocks.
Boutique Shopping with a Story
Suttons Bay is home to shops that are anything but ordinary. A couple of standouts:
- Bahle’s – A family-run clothing store that’s been around since 1876. Whether you’re looking for high-quality outdoor wear or stylish, classic clothing, this historic shop is worth a visit.
- Enerdyne – A quirky science and nature shop with everything from telescopes to fossils. It’s the kind of store you walk into just to browse but leave with something cool you didn’t even know you needed.
Where to Eat & Drink
All that shopping works up an appetite, and luckily, Suttons Bay has some incredible food and drink spots.
- Martha’s Leelanau Table – This cozy, farmhouse-style restaurant focuses on locally sourced, farm-to-table cuisine. Expect fresh Great Lakes fish, homemade pastries, and a menu that changes with the seasons.
- Hop Lot Brewing Co. – Not just a brewery, but an outdoor beer garden experience. Enjoy craft beer under the trees, sit around a fire pit, or even book a heated igloo in the winter for a unique cold-weather outing.
Why Downtown Suttons Bay is Special
- Everything is walkable. There is no need to drive from shop to shop.
- The local charm makes every purchase and meal feel more meaningful.
- No matter the season, downtown always has a warm, welcoming feel.
Whether you’re shopping, dining, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Suttons Bay’s downtown is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Suttons Bay may be a small town, but it packs a lot of charm, adventure, and flavor into one unforgettable destination. Whether you’re sipping wine at a vineyard, lounging by the bay, or exploring local shops and restaurants, you’ll quickly see why so many visitors fall in love with this lakeside gem.
So next time you’re planning a trip to Northern Michigan, make sure Suttons Bay is on your list.