At the end of M 37, on the tip of Old Mission Peninsula, is a large, wide beach area with extremely shallow water, a picnic area, a reconstruction of an early settler's cabin and privies.  It is an ideal spot for wading.  The lighthouse there is not open to the public.  Beach sites are accessible along the final mile of M 37 until the road ends at the park.  To reach this park, take M 37 to the end of Old Mission Peninsula.  At this point you are about 22 miles from Front Street in Traverse City.