| Omena was Leelanau's earliest resort area. The resort atmosphere still survives in the many lovely homes found along Omena Point, a small peninsula that extends down about a mile into the Grand Traverse Bay. The land around the point lies high and is heavily wooded—it's a beautiful spot in every way. |
| Omena
Est 1852
Omena lies midway along Leelanau County's west shore on Grand Traverse Bay. It is five miles south of Northport, 11 miles northeast of Leland, and 25 miles north of Traverse City.
Omena, The Beautiful... here nature has bestowed her most lavish gifts of loveliness and beauty upon woodland and waters; She has molded the rolling hills, clad them in the most enticing forests, and washed the foothills with the sparkling crystal waters of Omena Bay, where storm seldom disturb it, and the tiny little pleasure boats can ride in safety. There are no marshes or stagnant water to be found here, objects can be plainly seen where the water is from twenty to thirty feet in depth. The pure and bracing atmosphere has a magic and beneficial effect upon the people so unfortunate as to be afflicted with malaria or hay fever. The summer tourist begin to flock here from every quarter of the United States and many have become so fascinated with the loveliness of the place that they have built beautiful homes." — Beauty Spots in Leelanau, 1901 Souvenir. Referenced in Vintage Views of Leelanau County by Byron & Wilson.
What's Best?
An ever changing consortium of year round and seasonal residents that continually dig into their personal resources to purchase property around Omena to conserve the places they love and cherish.
Where to Meet Locals?
At the post office, just after you pick up your morning paper from the country store. At the OTYC weekly potluck supper. Marveling at the latest works of art at the Tamarack Gallery.
About the School District
Northport Public School is a K-12 school with 276 students located in the village of Northport. The district covers 45 square miles, serving Northern Leelanau County.
Historical Sketch
In 1852, Reverend Peter Dougherty and a band of Ottawa and Chippewa led by Chief Agosa moved across the bay from the Old Mission Peninsula to establish a new settlement. O-me-nah is an Indian word meaning "is that so?" Dougherty
often would use this expression, which amused the Native Americans and they suggested the village be named Omena.
Click for a map of Omena
Omena Photos
Omena Links
Leelanau Township Chamber of Commerce
Sunset Lodge Bed & Breakfast
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