Lake Michigan Lighthouses: 19 Beautiful Lights Worth the Trip

Did you know Michigan has more lighthouses than any other U.S. state? Over 115 lights dot our Great Lakes shoreline, and nearly half of them line the coast of Lake Michigan. From bold red pier lights to historic towers on remote islands, these beacons are more than scenic landmarks—they’re living reminders of our maritime past.

Whether you’re planning a fall road trip, summer beach getaway, or a weekend lighthouse tour, this guide highlights 19 must-see Lake Michigan lighthouses you won’t want to miss.

Why Visit Lake Michigan’s Lighthouses?

These coastal icons aren’t just for history buffs. Michigan’s lighthouses offer stunning lake views, unforgettable photo ops, and access to some of the most charming small towns in the Midwest. Many are still active, and several can even be climbed or stayed in overnight.

Fall is an especially great time to visit—cool breezes, fewer crowds, and golden light make it a perfect season to explore.

Southwest Michigan Lighthouses

St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouses

St. Joe has this relaxed beach-town energy that pulls you in the moment you arrive. It’s one of those places where you can park your car and not need it again for the weekend. The twin lighthouses on the North Pier are iconic—chances are, you’ve seen them on a calendar or a postcard. Built in 1907, they mark the mouth of the St. Joseph River and are connected by a raised catwalk that’s especially stunning in the golden light of evening.

I’ve visited during summer and winter, and both times felt like a completely different world. In the warmer months, the sunsets over the lake are absolutely magical, and in winter, the lighthouses get this incredible ice coating that makes them look like frozen sculptures.

My Tip: Stroll the downtown after your lighthouse walk—grab some fudge, pop into an art gallery, or sip wine at one of the tasting rooms. This place is ideal for a long weekend.

South Haven Lighthouse

This bright red lighthouse is a beloved part of South Haven, and I remember walking out on the pier for the first time, just stunned by how pretty it all was. The light sits at the end of the South Pier where the Black River empties into Lake Michigan. The views go on forever. On summer days, the pier fills with families, couples, and photographers trying to capture that perfect Michigan moment.

One of my favorite things here is watching the tall ship Friends Good Will sail past the lighthouse—it feels like stepping back in time. If you’re lucky, you might catch her gliding out into the lake as the sun dips low.

If You Go: South Beach is ADA-accessible and a great place for a picnic. There’s a paved walkway along the beach, and the whole area is very walkable.

Holland Harbor Lighthouse (“Big Red”)

If you’ve seen a photo of a Lake Michigan lighthouse, there’s a good chance it was Big Red. This lighthouse looks more like a house than a tower, and its vibrant red color makes it instantly recognizable. It’s located at the entrance to Holland’s harbor, and while you can’t go inside, it’s still one of the best photo ops in the state.

I like to view it from the north side of Holland State Park or take the hike up Mt. Pisgah, where you get a sweeping view of the harbor, lighthouse, and Lake Michigan beyond. It’s especially beautiful in spring when tulips are blooming around town.

Local Bonus: Downtown Holland is full of cute shops, Dutch bakeries, and a Victorian park that honors L. Frank Baum, author of The Wizard of Oz.

West Michigan Lighthouses

Grand Haven South Pier Lights

Grand Haven’s two lighthouses are pure Michigan. Connected by a catwalk and painted bright red, they sit along a wide boardwalk that’s almost always buzzing with activity. I love coming here at sunset, grabbing some ice cream, and watching people fish off the pier or stroll out to the lights.

The lighthouses themselves are beautifully maintained—the inner light is cylindrical and the outer one looks almost like a red house perched on the edge of the world. In summer, Grand Haven has a huge beach scene, but I also love it in the quieter shoulder seasons.

Accessibility Tip: The boardwalk and beach paths are ADA-friendly, and Grand Haven even offers a free beach Trak chair so everyone can get close to the water.

Little Sable Point Lighthouse (Mears)

Located just south of Silver Lake, Little Sable Point Lighthouse is a hidden gem—tall and elegant, with beautiful reddish-pink bricks that seem to glow in the sunlight. What makes this lighthouse special isn’t just its design—it’s the setting. It stands alone on a quiet, dune-lined beach that’s still surprisingly wild and untouched.

I’ve spent hours here just wandering the shoreline, watching the waves roll in and the sunlight shift across the water. It’s not unusual to spot a couple of doves or seagulls perched in the lighthouse’s windows, making it feel even more timeless.

Don’t Miss: Come in the early evening and bring a blanket—the sunsets here are simply breathtaking.

Big Sable Point Lighthouse (Ludington)

This one’s a bit of a trek—but that’s part of what makes it so memorable. Tucked away inside Ludington State Park, Big Sable Point Lighthouse isn’t visible from the road. You park, then hike nearly two miles along a sandy trail flanked by grassy dunes and forest. It’s peaceful, quiet, and absolutely worth the walk.

The lighthouse itself is stunning—a tall, black-and-white-striped tower standing proudly over Lake Michigan. You can climb to the top and look out across the dunes and water, which is a must if you’re able. The on-site gift shop has some great keepsakes, and the volunteer docents are always happy to chat about the history of Ludington.

Make it a Day: Ludington State Park is one of the best in Michigan. Bring a picnic, walk the trails, and stay for sunset. It’s easy to fill an entire day here.

Muskegon South Pierhead & Breakwater Lights

Muskegon is one of those underrated cities with a big maritime past. It has not one but two historic lighthouses: the bright-red South Pierhead Light, which you can climb, and the boxy, geometric South Breakwater Light that stands at the end of a rocky path over the channel.

The Pierhead Light is more traditional and inviting, and the climb offers great lake views. The Breakwater Light, on the other hand, feels almost industrial—lonely and dramatic against the waves. It’s a study in contrast, and both are fascinating to see side-by-side.

While You’re There: Pere Marquette Park is just steps away. It’s one of my favorite Lake Michigan beaches—clean, spacious, and full of amenities, from paddleboard rentals to beach volleyball courts.

White River Light Station

Step back in time at this almost 150-year-old lighthouse by Whitehall, now a museum filled with nautical history. During the 1860s, a Whitehall local decided the White River Light Station was necessary for ships traversing in and out of the White River – and so the White River Light Station was built.

The light-colored bricks used in its construction create a homey atmosphere and the trees all around make this isolated beacon a must-see destination without the crowds that other lighthouses can draw in.

Alleged to be haunted, it’s a fun Halloween destination. The station is surrounded by peaceful trails, and the sister towns of Whitehall and Montague offer cozy inns and B&Bs for your stay.

Point Betsie Lighthouse

If I had to choose one lighthouse that captures the spirit of Lake Michigan, Point Betsie would be near the top of the list. Nestled just north of Frankfort, this white structure with its bold red roof is perched right at the water’s edge where the big lake meets Crystal Lake. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Michigan—and for good reason.

Whether you visit in summer with wildflowers blooming or in winter when the building is encased in ice, Point Betsie delivers that unmistakable “wow” moment. The lighthouse is beautifully maintained and offers a museum, tours, and even overnight stays in the keeper’s quarters if you book ahead. Standing there, watching waves crash into the rocky shoreline, you’ll understand why it captures so many hearts.

Make it a Weekend: Frankfort is a laid-back beach town full of charm. Grab lunch at L’Chayim Deli, sip a beer at Stormcloud Brewing, or browse the boutiques downtown. If you’re staying overnight, Hotel Frankfort is a great pick, or you can head a little inland to Crystal Mountain Resort.

South Manitou Island Lighthouse

The only lighthouse on this list found on an island, the South Manitou Island Lighthouse is a unique Lake Michigan Lighthouse. 

Located within the boundaries of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Leelanau County, it’s one of northern Michigan’s most remote lights.

The island light is visible from the mainland, some 20 miles away. 

This most identifiable landmark on the island is over 100 feet tall, and visiting the island for a closer look is well worth it. From the dock, a half-mile walk through the village and to the boardwalk will take you over the dunes to the lighthouse where you can get a tour and see the breathtaking view from the top. 

If You Go: You can get to South Manitou by private boat or passenger ferry. It’s a 90-minute trip by ferry to South Manitou Island; service is provided by Manitou Island Transit You can camp on the island (it’s primitive) or you can find accommodations in nearby Leland or Glen Arbor. We love staying at The Homestead, a beachfront resort in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes. They offer a wide range of accommodations at different price points, and it’s pet-friendly, too.

Old Mission Point Lighthouse

At the northern tip of the Old Mission Peninsula, where vineyards and cherry orchards stretch down to the water, you’ll find this quaint white lighthouse standing watch over Grand Traverse Bay. Built in 1870, Old Mission Point Lighthouse is modest in size but big on charm.

The drive out here is part of the experience—curving roads, farm stands, and stunning bay views. Once you arrive, you can walk the trails, explore the lighthouse museum, and enjoy a quiet moment by the water. It’s a peaceful, scenic escape just minutes from Traverse City.

Wine & Wander: Pair your lighthouse visit with stops at Chateau Chantal or Black Star Farms for wine tasting. Don’t forget to pop into the Old Mission General Store for snacks and local goods.

Grand Traverse Lighthouse (Leelanau State Park)

Located at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, this beautiful lighthouse is surrounded by the quiet woods and rocky beaches of Leelanau State Park. Built in 1858, it has a classic white tower and red roof—and inside, a museum that dives into the maritime history of the region.

One of the things I love about this spot is how uncrowded it feels. You can hike the trails, comb the beach for stones, or just sit and listen to the waves crash below. It’s family-friendly, scenic, and a peaceful place to spend a few hours.

Don’t Miss: The lighthouse is open seasonally, so check ahead before visiting. And be sure to explore the cute towns of Northport and Suttons Bay on your way there or back.

Seul Choix Point Lighthouse

Tucked away on the northern shore of Lake Michigan, Seul Choix (pronounced “Sis-shwa”) means “only choice” in French—a nod to this lighthouse’s role as one of the only safe harbors for ships in the 1800s. Built in 1892, it’s still operational and remains one of the Upper Peninsula’s most atmospheric spots.

Some say it’s haunted by a former keeper, and while I can’t speak to the ghost stories, I can tell you this place has a presence. The white tower with its red roof stands alone, framed by pine trees and lake mist. The attached keeper’s quarters now house a fascinating museum.

Make a Day of It: Combine your visit with a trip to Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring), just under an hour away. It’s a crystal-clear spring with a self-pulled raft and a view into the deep emerald water below—truly magical.

More Lake Michigan Lighthouses to See

Manistee’s North Pierhead Light
Grand Traverse Light
Pentwater Pierhead Lights
Charlevoix South Pier Light Station