11 Great Lakes Marinas With Lighthouse Walks And Pier Benches
Looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the Great Lakes? Marinas with lighthouse walks and pier benches offer the perfect setting. These spots provide a chance to relax while taking in the view of the water and shoreline. Whether you are strolling along a lighthouse path or sitting on a pier bench, there is always something calming about the sound of the waves. Take a break from the hustle and bustle, and let the natural beauty of these lakesides refresh you.
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Holland Harbor Marina (Holland, MI)
Holland Harbor Marina offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and a lovely lighthouse that is a perfect spot for a walk. The pier benches along the marina provide a peaceful place to relax, with a gentle breeze and the sound of the waves lapping against the shore. The iconic Big Red Lighthouse, located near the marina, serves as a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant landscape, with nearby parks and trails offering more opportunities for scenic views.
The marina itself is well-equipped with modern amenities, making it a comfortable stop for boaters and tourists. Its proximity to downtown Holland means you can easily explore the local shops, restaurants, and attractions after a relaxing time at the marina. Whether you are watching the sunset over the water or enjoying a stroll along the pier, this marina is a true gem along the Great Lakes. The walk to the lighthouse is particularly scenic, with each step offering a new perspective of the lake and the surrounding area.
Point Betsie Marina (Crystal Lake, MI)
Located on the shores of Crystal Lake, Point Betsie Marina offers a serene atmosphere for boaters and visitors. The marina is known for its beautiful lighthouse and the winding paths that lead to it. Visitors can walk along the pier, taking in the peaceful sights of the lake and the surrounding natural beauty. The benches along the pier provide a perfect spot to sit and relax, enjoying the views and the fresh air.
Beyond the marina, the area is rich in history and natural beauty. Point Betsie Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes and offers panoramic views of the water and nearby dunes. The surrounding landscape is great for hiking, bird watching, and photography, offering plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the environment. Whether you are looking for quiet moments of solitude or a chance to explore the area’s natural wonders, Point Betsie Marina is an excellent destination.
South Haven Marina (South Haven, MI)
South Haven Marina, located along the shores of Lake Michigan, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The marina is home to the South Haven Lighthouse, which stands tall at the entrance to the harbor, offering stunning views of the water and nearby landscape. The pier benches at the marina make it a great place to watch the boats come in or enjoy the sunset. The lighthouse walk is well-maintained and offers visitors a scenic route with plenty of opportunities to take in the fresh lake breeze.
The marina is known for its bustling atmosphere, especially during the summer months when visitors come to enjoy the waterfront. It is within walking distance of downtown South Haven, where you can explore shops, restaurants, and local attractions. The marina offers a range of services for boaters, including boat rentals and fishing charters. Whether you are a visitor or a local, the South Haven Marina provides the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of Lake Michigan.
Ludington State Park Marina (Ludington, MI)
Ludington State Park Marina is a beautiful spot along Lake Michigan, offering both a marina and lighthouse walks for visitors. The Big Sable Point Lighthouse is located nearby, accessible by a scenic walk that takes you through diverse landscapes. The marina itself is surrounded by nature, with plenty of benches along the pier to relax and enjoy the view. The area is known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and swimming, making it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
In addition to the lighthouse and marina, Ludington State Park offers a range of other attractions, including miles of trails and sandy beaches. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from dunes to forests, and enjoy the variety of wildlife that call the area home. The marina is well-equipped, with boat slips available for both short-term and seasonal rentals. With its peaceful environment and beautiful surroundings, Ludington State Park Marina is an excellent spot to relax and enjoy the best of the Great Lakes.
Grand Haven Municipal Marina (Grand Haven, MI)
The Grand Haven Municipal Marina, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a prime spot for those looking to explore the area’s natural beauty. The marina is just steps away from the Grand Haven Lighthouse, a landmark that has guided sailors for over a century. A walk along the pier brings you close to the lighthouse, and benches along the way provide a perfect spot to stop and enjoy the view. The combination of the lighthouse and the picturesque marina makes this an ideal destination for a peaceful day by the water.
Grand Haven itself is a charming town with a lively waterfront and a variety of dining and shopping options. The marina offers full-service amenities, including fuel docks and boat rentals, making it a popular spot for boating enthusiasts. In addition to the lighthouse, Grand Haven is known for its iconic musical fountain, which is the largest of its kind in the world. Whether you’re spending the day on the water or enjoying the local shops, the Grand Haven Municipal Marina offers plenty to explore.
Manistee Marina (Manistee, MI)
Manistee Marina, located along the shores of Lake Michigan, is known for its charming atmosphere and beautiful lighthouse views. The nearby Manistee River Lighthouse offers a picturesque setting for a lighthouse walk, with benches located along the pier to sit and enjoy the sights. The marina is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and wildlife watching, making it a great spot for outdoor lovers. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the water or take in the view of the lighthouse and its surroundings.
The town of Manistee adds to the marina’s appeal, with its historic district and vibrant waterfront. The marina itself offers a range of services for boaters, including slip rentals and fishing charters. In addition to the lighthouse walk, visitors can explore the nearby beaches, parks, and trails, making it a well-rounded destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Manistee Marina is a great place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the best of Lake Michigan.
Muskegon Lake Marina (Muskegon, MI)
Muskegon Lake Marina is a tranquil spot located along the shores of Lake Michigan, offering stunning views and easy access to the water. The marina is located near the Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse, which stands proudly at the entrance to the harbor. The lighthouse walk provides scenic views of both the marina and the lake, and benches along the pier offer a quiet place to relax. Muskegon Lake itself is a favorite for boating, fishing, and nature watching, making this a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Muskegon offers a range of attractions, including the Muskegon State Park and the beautiful Pere Marquette Park. The marina itself is well-equipped with amenities for boaters, including docks and slips for rent. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the area while exploring the local parks and beaches. With its combination of natural beauty and convenient location, Muskegon Lake Marina is a great place to unwind and enjoy the best of the Great Lakes.
Bayfield Marina (Bayfield, WI)
Bayfield Marina, located on the shores of Lake Superior, offers an idyllic setting for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Lakes. The marina is close to the Bayfield Lighthouse, where visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the pier with breathtaking views of the lake. The benches along the marina provide the perfect spot to sit and watch the boats or relax while taking in the surroundings. The area is a favorite for kayaking, boating, and fishing, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities.
The town of Bayfield adds to the marina’s charm, with its quaint streets and historic buildings. The marina offers various services for boaters, including docking and fueling stations. The surrounding area is known for its hiking trails, local farms, and nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which provides even more outdoor exploration opportunities. Bayfield Marina is the perfect place to experience the natural beauty of Lake Superior while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Saugatuck Harbor Marina (Saugatuck, MI)
Saugatuck Harbor Marina offers a peaceful escape along the shores of Lake Michigan, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the water and surrounding landscapes. The marina is close to the Saugatuck Lighthouse, where you can take a leisurely walk along the pier. With benches available along the walkway, it’s the ideal spot to pause and enjoy the view of the lake. The area is well-known for its charming town, art galleries, and boutique shops, making it a perfect place to spend a day exploring.
The marina provides excellent services for boaters, including slip rentals and easy access to nearby beaches and parks. Saugatuck itself is a popular destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and art lovers, with plenty of attractions to explore. Whether you’re enjoying a boat ride on the lake or wandering through the local shops, Saugatuck Harbor Marina offers a relaxing retreat with scenic views and plenty of things to do.
Charlevoix Marina (Charlevoix, MI)
Charlevoix Marina, located on Lake Michigan’s beautiful shoreline, offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for visitors. The marina is home to the Charlevoix Lighthouse, which stands as a beacon of maritime history. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the pier and sit on benches while taking in the stunning views of the water. The marina is a popular spot for boaters, with easy access to the lake and nearby parks.
The town of Charlevoix adds to the marina’s charm, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. The marina offers a wide range of amenities, including boat rentals, docking stations, and fuel services. Visitors can also explore the nearby beaches and hiking trails, adding to the area’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Charlevoix Marina provides the perfect spot to relax, enjoy nature, and explore the surrounding area.
Cheboygan Marina (Cheboygan, MI)
Cheboygan Marina offers a relaxing environment on the shores of Lake Huron, known for its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere. The marina is located near the Cheboygan Lighthouse, which provides visitors with a scenic walk along the pier. With benches placed along the walkway, it’s a great spot to enjoy the beauty of the lake and watch the boats go by. The area is also popular for fishing and birdwatching, making it an ideal location for nature lovers.
The town of Cheboygan is home to a rich history and a variety of local attractions. The marina offers a range of services for boaters, including docking and fueling stations. Visitors can explore the nearby parks, beaches, and historical sites, providing plenty to see and do. Whether you are enjoying a peaceful day by the water or exploring the local area, Cheboygan Marina offers a memorable experience on Lake Huron.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.