A truly urban beach and harbor, Montrose is not without the debris of modern day life. Pop cans, aged balloon skins and random shoes clutter the sand. Mothers with children under each arm and bags of plastic shovels and snacks trudge to the shore before settling into a dry patch.

The delightful part of Montrose Harbor, though, is the relative calm and the view of boats setting sail into Lake Michigan. You don't have to arm wrestle for towel space with muscle-men or girls in bikinis lathering their skin with coconut oil. Dog owners can even enjoy the sun with their pooch in a separate section for our canine friends.

A small beach-side shop offers pre-made sandwiches and a variety of neon-colored cartoon-themed icy treats. Should you have a hankering for something a little fresher, vendors trail the sidewalk selling elotes and slivers of mango covered in chili and lime juice.

Centerstage Reviewer: Maude Standish