Tucked at the far end of a narrow road winding through crystal clear lake and towering sand dunes is my favorite of Michigan's countless local treasures. Portage Point Beach, officially known as Captain John Langeland Park, is located in the village of Onekama. 

Long a summer resort area, this beach is prized by locals and visitors alike for its gorgeous light colored sand, gentle swimming area, small lighthouse at the end of a pier (let the fishing commence!), and scenic views of enormous sand dunes along the northern shore. 

Here's a postcard of a glorious sunset one summer evening, when the wind and waves were high, and the sunlight limned both the clouds and the splashing waves with gold.