Pentwater Celebrations

Nothing represents the West Michigan area more than our beloved lighthouses--from Manistee's North Pierhead Lighthouse to Silver Lake's Little Sable Point. These beacons of light guide vessels and boaters from the waters of Lake Michigan into our safe harbors. Most of them are now open to the public during the summertime, giving you a glimpse into their rich maritime history.

Click on any of the lighthouses below to find out hours and directions.

The North Breakwater Lighthouse at Stearns Beach in Ludington is photographed by locals and tourists all year long. It is now ranked #1 in Michigan lighthouses to visit, and is a great place to watch the sunset or wave at the S.S. Badger carferry as it cruises out onto Lake Michigan. The breakwall leading out to the lighthouse is a popular venue for fishermen and those who enjoy walking the mile-long round trip Originally built in 1871 and replaced in 1924, the light shines across nearly 20 miles of water, and its familiar horn warns boaters of impending bad weather.

The Big Sable Point Lighthouse is located in the Ludington State Park. Its black and white, 112' tower is one of the tallest on Lake Michigan. Built in 1867, it was the area's first light station, and became fully automated in 1968. The Big Sable Point Lighthouse Keeper's Association is responsible for the upkeep of the structure, and they also operate the gift shop that is housed in the original keeper's quarters. For a small fee, visitors can climb the 130 steps to the top of the tower, which offers a spectacular view.

The North Pierhead Light and South Pierhead Light in the nearby village of Pentwater is a familiar duo that add to the Victorian feel of this quaint harbor town.

Little Sable Point Lighthouse, located in the Silver Lake State Park, is the other "point," located 20 minutes south of Ludington. This 107' brick structure was constructed in 1874, and an automated light was installed in 1954. Little Sable Point means "little point of sand," representing its location as it juts out into Lake Michigan.

North Pierhead Lighthouse is located between the 1st Street and 5th Avenue beaches in Manistee. First built in 1869, it burned in the Great Fire and a new one was constructed in 1872. Its unique wooden catwalk was eventually replaced by an iron one around 1900.

This array of lighthouses beautifies the coastline and protects all who venture onto the water.

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