17 Michigan Islands to Explore: Ferries & Insider Tips 

Looking for a memorable island getaway—without leaving the Midwest? You’re in luck. Michigan is home to dozens of freshwater islands, and I’ve personally explored many of them. In this guide, I’m sharing 17 unique Michigan islands that are perfect for your next trip—whether you’re dreaming of kayaking, hiking, stargazing, or enjoying fresh fudge on a breezy summer day.

From famous destinations like Mackinac Island to hidden gems only reachable by boat, there’s a Michigan island experience for every traveler. Let’s get started!

When it comes to travel adventures, Michigan offers all there is to have in a state and more. Now, we’re adding these 17 Must-Visit Michigan Islands to the top of your to-do list when it comes to new treasured experiences in Michigan. From populated islands to remote isles; from islands with the sweet smell of fudge wafting on the air to islands rife with the scent of fresh pine, there is an island in Michigan for you.

Read on if you’re looking for a memorable escape and a unique adventure. These Michigan Islands will have you forgetting you’re located in the Midwest.

You can also scroll to the bottom for our map of 17 Must-Visit Michigan Islands.

Lake Huron Islands

Mackinac Island

Let’s start with a Michigan classic! Mackinac Island is a step back in time and feels just like you’re stepping into a postcard—no cars, just horse-drawn carriages, bikes, and the clip-clop of hooves on charming streets. Explore historic Fort Mackinac, the world-famous Grand Hotel, and pastel storefronts. Don’t miss the fudge shops (trust me, you’ll smell them before you see them!). This iconic island is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a must for every Michigan bucket list.

With the beautiful layout and many offered tours and bike trails, you’ll forget about needing or wanting your usual choice of four wheels. Mackinac Island has to offer tourists, with charming Inns and hotels, bike tours, fudge shops, ice cream, and more. This historic and charm-filled island will have you coming back for more for an enjoyable summer trip.

How to Get Here:
Take a ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace with Shepler’s or Arnold Transit Company. Ferries run frequently from late April through October. You can also fly into Mackinac Island Airport via charter flights from St. Ignace or Pellston. No cars are allowed—get around by foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage

Bois Blanc Island

Just southeast of Mackinac, Bois Blanc Island is a haven for nature lovers. With only a handful of amenities and a tiny year-round population, it’s the perfect place to unplug. Bring your bike or kayak, and keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, foxes, and even bobcats. If you crave peace and quiet, Bois Blanc is your off-the-grid escape.

Serving as a quiet contrast to its popular neighbor of Mackinac, this island is popular for its day trip visits to enjoy Michigan nature, by bike, kayaks and walking. You might even spot local wildlife including bald eagles, foxes, bobcats, and even rattlesnakes.

How to Get Here:
Catch the Plaunt Transportation ferry from Cheboygan, Michigan. The ferry operates daily from May to November (weather permitting) and can accommodate vehicles, bikes, and walk-on passengers. You can also bring your own boat and dock at the public marina. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure if bringing a vehicle

Les Cheneaux Islands

This chain of 36 islands (French for “the channels”) is a paradise for kayakers, sailors, and anyone who loves small-town charm. Some islands offer cozy vacation rentals; others are untouched nature reserves. Summer brings fun events and a relaxed, friendly vibe—perfect for a laid-back Michigan getaway. Visit in late summer for their Wooden Boat Show and local lake-town festivals.

How to Get Here:
Drive north across the Mackinac Bridge, then east on M-134 to Cedarville or Hessel. Two of the 36 islands are accessible by car; the rest require a boat or kayak. Public boat launches are available in Cedarville and Hessel. The Albert J. Lindberg Airport (just outside Hessel) welcomes private and charter flights

Charity Island

Located in Saginaw Bay, Charity Island is a standout destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and history buffs. The island is part of the Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge and is known for its remote, protected habitat. While the island is mostly uninhabited, a seasonal lighthouse keeper’s residence offers overnight lodging, and guided dinner cruises bring visitors to explore the island’s rugged beauty.

PRO-TIP: Charity island is visible from both Caseville and Au Gres, just south of Tawas.

Lime Island

This Lake Huron island is a hidden nature experience that offers secluded relaxation and a break away from the mainland. This Michigan island is in St. Mary’s River at the east end of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the only way to reach this island is through your boat or by finding someone willing to charter for you.

Hidden in the St. Mary’s River, Lime Island is all about seclusion and natural beauty. With just a few rustic cabins and campsites, it’s a place to truly unwind. Watch for black bears, breathe in the fresh air, and let the river views reset your soul.

How to Get Here:
Lime Island is only accessible by private boat or charter from Raber, Michigan, across the St. Marys River (about 2–3 miles). There is no public ferry service. Park your vehicle in Raber and arrange your own transportation by watercraft

Drummond Island

Known as the seventh-largest lake island in the world and the second-largest freshwater island in the United States, Drummond Island is a nature-lover’s dream. It’s packed with hiking trails, shipwreck dives, ATV routes, and cozy lodges. Whether you’re camping or glamping, Drummond Island promises endless fun and zero boredom.

How to Get Here:
Take the year-round car ferry from DeTour Village in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The ferry runs hourly and accommodates vehicles, bikes, and walk-on passengers. You can also arrive by private boat or fly into Drummond Island Airport

Round Island

If you’ve ever been to Mackinac Island by ferry , chance are good that you’ve caught a glimpse of Round Island. Accessible by boat, Round Island is in Lake Huron and houses a unique, eye-catching lighthouse on a cobblestone strip.

This island seems straight out of a painting, with ever-lasting surrounding blue waters, bright green trees, and the charming placement of the red and white lighthouse. With no docks, roads, or developed hiking trails on the island, Round Island is a visit for the true, rustic campers and visitors.

How to Get Here:
Round Island is only accessible by private boat or kayak from nearby Mackinac Island, St. Ignace, Hessel, or Mackinaw City. There is no public ferry service. Occasionally, guided kayak tours or special lighthouse events offer limited access.

Islands in Lake Michigan

Beaver Island

Serving as the largest island located on Lake Michigan, Beaver Island offers a great relaxing trip for a beautiful nature-filled escape. Known as “America’s Emerald Island”, this Michigan island is popularly known as one of the best stargazing locations in the United States. It’s a perfect spot to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!

You’ll also find many lodges, inns, motels, and glamping offering experiences located on the island for all visitors.

How to Get Here:
Take the Beaver Island Boat Company ferry from Charlevoix, Michigan (about 2 hours; first-come, first-served). You can also fly from Charlevoix Airport with Island Airways or Fresh Air Aviation (20-minute flight). Both options accommodate bikes and pets for an additional fee

North and South Fox Islands

North Fox Island and South Fox Island are two remote, uninhabited islands located in northern Lake Michigan, about 17 miles west of the Leelanau Peninsula. Both islands are known for their rugged beauty, sandy beaches, and dense forests, offering a true wilderness experience for adventurous visitors. Both islands are important habitats for migratory birds and native wildlife.

• North Fox Island is publicly owned and managed as a natural area by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. It features a grass airstrip and is accessible only by private boat or small aircraft. There are no facilities or services, making it ideal for experienced campers and boaters seeking solitude and pristine nature.
• South Fox Island is mostly privately owned, with a small portion managed by the state. Access is restricted, and visitors must obtain permission before landing. The island is home to the historic South Fox Island Lighthouse, which dates back to the 1860s and is occasionally open for tours during special events.

How to Get Here:
Due to their isolation and lack of amenities, trips to the Fox Islands require careful planning and respect for the natural environment. These islands are best suited for those looking for an off-the-grid Michigan adventure. Visit Grand Traverse Regional Land for more info.

North Manitou

North Manitou is remote, quiet, and a backpacker’s favorite. Ferries from Leland (Fishtown) bring you to this wild island where primitive camping, hiking, and solitude await. If you want space to roam and a refreshing dose of Michigan nature, this is your spot.

Come prepared—there are no services on the island.

South Manitou Island

If you’ve ever traveled to Glen Arbor, you might have caught a glimpse of South Manitou from the shoreline of Sleeping Bear Bay. Located in Lake Michigan and not far from the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this Michigan uninhabited island serves as a Michigan nature wonder with dune formations and white cedar trees that are over 500 years old.

Visitors travel to this island by ferry to camp in rustic settings and hiking. Don’t forget to check out the cool history this island holds within its ghost towns and coast guard station, locating the famous Francisco Morazan shipwreck. The view of the sleeping bear dunes will have you wonderfully surrounded by Michigan’s unique nature and scenery, proving this island to be a special trip for the historic tales and untouched beauty.

How to Get Here:
Board the Manitou Island Transit ferry from Leland (“Fishtown”), Michigan. The ferry operates seasonally, with most trips in summer. Reservations are recommended for campers[not directly cited, based on standard ferry operations].

Lake Superior Islands

Isle Royale

This island gem located in Lake Superior is a great place for many outdoor adventures and scenery to admire the beautiful freshwater lake. Isle Royale can be reached by boat or ferry and offers places to camp and two resorts: the Rock Harbor Lodge and Windigo Camper Cabins.

Make sure to bring your food to the island, for there are only two restaurants located on the island. Whether for a day trip or a long camping stay, Isle royal is a beautiful, isolated trip to unwind and reconnect with nature and makes a unique summer experience with their boating and camping experiences.

How to Get Here:
Reach Isle Royale National Park by ferry from Houghton or Copper Harbor, Michigan, or Grand Portage, Minnesota. Seaplane service is also available from Houghton. All access is seasonal (May–September) and reservations are strongly recommended[not directly cited, based on standard ferry operations].

Grand Island in Munising

North of Michigan Upper Peninsula and located in the township of Alger County and along the shores of Lake Superior, Grand Isle provides discovery for amazing Michigan scenery, including sandstone cliffs and the famous Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Just under an hour’s drive from popular Marquette, this Munising island is home to pristine sandy beaches, hardwood forests and clear inland lakes. Enjoy overnight stays with rustic camping or offered cabins, and plan out your stay hiking, visiting beaches, kayaking, and stargazing the beautiful, unpolluted night skies.

How to Get Here:
Take the Grand Island Ferry from Munising, Michigan. The ferry operates seasonally and carries passengers and bikes; private boats and kayaks are also welcome[not directly cited, based on standard ferry operations].

Sugar Island

Located at the eastern tip of the Upper Peninsula, Sugar Island serves as a wonderful stop along the St. Marys River.

Matching its sweet name, Sugar Island sure is a treat to visit during the summer months, offering a Michigan island adventure full of perfect beach days, boat rides, wild trails, water trails, and pure relaxation. Soak your feet in the clear freshwaters and explore the soft, white sandy beaches on this special must-visit Michigan island.

How to Get Here:
Use the Sugar Island Ferry from Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The ferry runs year-round and accommodates vehicles, bikes, and walk-on passengers[not directly cited, based on standard ferry operations].

Islands in Southeast Michigan

Belle Isle

This Michigan island is in the Detroit River and deserves a spot on the list. This island park is a beautiful location and serves as a great getaway from the bustling city life of Detroit. The grand Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is a sight to marvel at, with elegant glass panels and a whimsical botanical garden.

Don’t forget the Belle Isle Aquarium, with emerald, green, curved tile ceilings, stored with wonders from the ocean, or the Dossin Great Lakes Museum and Belle Isle Nature Center, all located within the island. Serving their mission to protect and take care of their natural environment, Belle Isle is a park the state of Michigan holds dearly to its heart.

How to Get Here:
Drive across the MacArthur Bridge from Detroit. Belle Isle is accessible by car, bike, or on foot. Parking is available on the island, and Detroit public transit offers routes nearby[not directly cited, based on standard access]. You must have a Michigan State Park Recreation Passport (around $14) which can be purchased on the island.

Grosse Ile

Located in the Detroit River, Grosse Ile has a strong community vibe and lots of seasonal festivals. With parks, bike trails, and summer food trucks, it’s a fun destination for families.

How to Get Here:
Drive south from Detroit and cross the Grosse Ile Toll Bridge or the free Wayne County Bridge. The island is accessible by car, bike, or boat[not directly cited, based on standard access].

Harsens Island

Located at the top of Lake St. Clair, and less than an hour from Detroit, this island is a popular Located at the top of Lake St. Clair, Harsens Island is a fisherman’s paradise and a summer retreat for nearly 2,000 residents. Enjoy boating, fishing, local restaurants, and the peaceful charm of this historic island.

How to Get Here:
Take the Champion’s Auto Ferry from Algonac, Michigan. The ferry runs year-round and carries vehicles, bikes, and walk-on passengers[not directly cited, based on standard ferry operations]

Plan Your Michigan Island Trip

Each island on this list offers something different—from backcountry adventure to cozy fudge shops. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a family getaway, Michigan’s islands deliver scenery, serenity, and a splash of the unexpected.

Have you explored any of these islands? I’d love to hear which ones are your favorites—or what’s on your bucket list!