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3-star hotel Check-in 16:00 · Check-out 11:00

The Baywatch Resort

Relax at The Baywatch Resort, a casual beachfront hotel in Traverse City, MI. Enjoy whirlpool tubs, LGBTQ+ friendly vibe, close to Dennos Museum & Cherry Capital Airport.

1529 US-31, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States View on map
9/10
Exceptional Based on 977 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free breakfast Free parking Accessible Air-conditioned
What recent guests emphasize

The Baywatch Resort

A casual beachfront resort noted for its stunning bay views, welcoming staff, and relaxing atmosphere with practical room amenities.

Guests often praise

  • Comfortable beds and clean, spacious rooms, often highlighting the balcony views of the bay.
  • Friendly, attentive, and accommodating staff who enhance the guest experience.
  • Convenient room features including microwaves, mini fridges, and large whirlpool tubs.
  • Relaxing beachside location with easy access to nearby parks and attractions.
  • Breakfast delivery system praised for flexibility despite limited menu options.

Worth knowing

  • Breakfast is limited and served cold in boxed delivery to rooms, with no onsite dining room.
  • Front desk may not always be staffed, although staff are friendly when present.
  • Shower facilities are strong but may require assistance for guests with mobility issues; shower chairs and bars are available on request.
  • Occasional mix-ups with breakfast orders reported but generally handled promptly.
  • Proximity to medical facilities adds convenience for guests needing easy access to healthcare.

Best for

  • Visitors seeking a comfortable, casual beachfront stay with beautiful bay views.
  • Travelers who appreciate personalized, friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • LGBTQ+ guests looking for an inclusive and welcoming environment.
  • Guests interested in nearby outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cultural visits.
  • Families or groups valuing roomy accommodations and practical in-room amenities.
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About this property

Welcome to The Baywatch Resort

Overlooking the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay, The Baywatch Resort is a casual beachfront hotel located at 1529 US-31 in Traverse City, Michigan. Guests benefit from convenient parking and easy access to local attractions, with the nearest bus stop just a minute away on foot and Traverse City State Park a short 5-minute walk. The resort's relaxed setting suits visitors looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural sites nearby.

The accommodation features understated rooms equipped with whirlpool tubs, balconies offering bay views, and thoughtful touches such as mini-fridges and microwaves. Reviewers often highlight the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms, as well as the welcoming staff who contribute to a friendly atmosphere. While breakfast options are delivered to guest rooms from a small menu selected the night before, opinions on this service vary, with some appreciating the convenience and others finding it limited.

Facilities include a large workout room and a coffee station, supporting those who prefer to maintain a fitness routine during their stay. The Baywatch Resort is also LGBTQ+ friendly, reflecting an inclusive environment. Check-in time is from 4 pm, with check-out by 11 am, accommodating most travel schedules.

Nearby activities add to the appeal, with places like the Dennos Museum Center offering art exhibits and family-friendly experiences, Mt. Holiday providing seasonal outdoor recreation such as skiing and zip-lining, and Mari Vineyards hosting tours and tastings with scenic views. The hotel is also conveniently close to Cherry Capital Airport, reachable within a 7-minute drive.

The Baywatch Resort provides a straightforward, comfortable base for travelers interested in waterfront access and local attractions. While some guest feedback notes minor inconsistencies, particularly with breakfast service and front desk availability, many appreciate the location, clean rooms, and attentive staff that make for a pleasant visit.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Free breakfast
Free parking
Accessible
Air-conditioned
Beach access
Kid-friendly
Kitchens in some rooms
Hot tub
Fitness center
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Pool
Pet-friendly
Airport shuttle
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

S5
SK 5000 Apr 18, 2026
10

The bed is comfy with fresh smelling, clean sheets. The room was spotless and the balcony view was amazing! The staff was incredibly welcoming and super friendly. The mini fridge and microwave in the room added convenience. The huge spa bathtub was luxurious. Our stay was perfect and we would come back without hesitation.

TL(
Tara Lynn (Photographer) Mar 25, 2026
10

Complementary water and snacks are just part of the splendor associated with our stay at the Baywatch Hotel. The beds are comfortable and the view of the bay from the balcony was splendid even in winter. The shower had a strong spray with hot water There is a large workout room on the second floor with a coffee station too! Breakfast is Complementary but somewhat different. There is no dining room. Breakfast is limited to a small menu that is picked from the night before and hung on the room door at whatever time the occupant chooses. I may still have it and if I do I'll post a photo of the menu. Keep in mind to that if you have difficulty with standing in the shower they may have a shower chair and a suction cup bar for the wall that can be asked for and used by anyone needing it. This hotel is also not horribly far from the hospital.

PC
Paul Chappell Mar 22, 2026
10

I cant wait to come back to The Baywatch Resort in the summer. Even when its iced over, its beautiful. When I checked in, Mikaila was awesome. She took her time...she visited with me. Recommended Bubbas Burgers for supper. Sent me a text to check on me after I went to the room. And I believe it was Michael that later checked to make sure my heat was working because Im from the South and not as tough as they are. It was. I feel like Ive known them for years. Wonder experience.

JD
Joy Dodd Feb 13, 2026
10

Amazing location, great value, clean rooms, beachy atmosphere. Front desk is sometimes not manned but they are friendly. We stayed two nights and it was wonderful! We had two comfortable king size beds and a balcony facing the bay. Amazing views. Breakfast was ok for a boxed breakfast. Our last day we didn’t get our boxes and when we called and got them delivered one was the wrong box. But otherwise a good stay overall.

AP
Annette Powell Feb 07, 2026
10

We celebrated our 20th anniversary here and it was very memorable! The staff decorated the hotel room for us, and went above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay! The room and hotel was clean. There’s an amazing common area with games and beverages. The views are stunning! Thank you for an amazing stay!

SA
Stephanie Adkins Jan 06, 2026
10

We loved the option of a double King room for the variety of family we had. It made staying in one room more comfortable. Breakfast delivered to our room each morning was a bonus. We will be back - and recommend to others.

NF
Nicholas F Jan 05, 2026
10

The hotel was extremely clean and welcoming. Perfect location, and right on the beach! Would highly recommend. The breakfast , though limited to a few options was convenient the way they allow you to pick a time for delivery to room and hang on your door handle. All and all I would say here again.

RC
Renee C Jan 01, 2026
10

AMAZING! The views were awesome. The room was very roomy and nice. The bed was comfortable and there was plenty of room for the granddaughter to run off some of her energy. Breakfast was ok, as you pick from a list and it is brought to your room at the time you choose. It is served to you cold, depending on which breakfast you choose, and you warm it up in the microwave.

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find The Baywatch Resort

Traverse City, Michigan, USA

This casual beachfront hotel overlooks the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay. The nearest bus stop is a minute away by foot. Traverse City State Park is a 5-minute walk away.

  • US-31 at Grand Beach (Westbound) 3 min Walk
  • US-31 at Economy Inn (Eastbound) 3 min Walk
  • Cherry Capital Airport 7 min Car · 15 min Transit
  • Manistee County Blacker Airport 1 hr 20 Car · 12 hr Transit
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in Michigan. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

Mt. Holiday 580 reviews

Mt. Holiday

3100 Holiday Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States

4.6 · Ski Resort
Dennos Museum Center 464 reviews

Dennos Museum Center

1410 College Dr, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States

4.7 · Art Museum
Mari Vineyards 1,012 reviews

Mari Vineyards

8175 Center Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States

4.5 · Winery
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