20 Attractions to Explore Near Beaver Head Light

Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve is a delightful park situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, the preserve covers 29 acres of majestic views and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the nature trails, beach areas, and observation points overlooking Little Sand Bay. A wide variety of wildlife call the area home including birds, turtles, foxes, deer and more. Kayakers can spend an afternoon paddling along the bay while anglers fish for trout and salmon in Michigan's most productive fishery.

Donegal Bay, is a hidden gem. Boasting just over three miles of sandy shoreline and crystal clear waters, it makes for a paradise escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Those who wish to venture out on the lake will find plenty to keep them busy including sailing, fishing, swimming and kayaking - with the option of guided tours or simply enjoying the peacefulness of nature all around.

Beaver Island Harbor Light, is one of only two surviving lights from the state's earliest range lights. It was first established in 1839 and marks the entrance to Lake Michigan for ships sailing from Peninula Point Harbor. The 45-foot tower and small attached lighthouse keeper’s house were built on a rock platform about 900 feet offshore. The light was automated in 1967 and continues to guide ships safely into the harbor at night.

The Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge, is a sanctuary for some of the most unique and diverse species of wildlife. Home to more than 130 migratory, resident, and endangered bird species, the refuge also provides a safe haven for several species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Meandering through the marshy islands are old growth forests including maple-beech forest and carpets of wildflowers. The refuge offers nature lovers the ability to explore endless opportunities.

Whiskey Island is a vibrant coastal community known for its abundance of natural beauty as well as recreational opportunities. Located near the northern tip of Lake Michigan, Whiskey island offers ample access to charming white sand beaches, picturesque sunsets, and tranquil harbor towns. Visitors can explore public trails along the waterfront or take part in various activities such as fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, or sightseeing on a charter boat tour.

Squaw Island, located off the shore of Charlevoix County in Michigan, is a beautiful natural wonder. Surrounded by freshwater and tranquil waters, it is an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway. The island boasts numerous amenities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking trails to explore the area's flora and fauna. Whether you're wanting to take a leisurely boat ride around the island or venture out on adventure in a kayak or canoe, Squaw Island has something to offer everyone!

Ile Aux Galets Light is a historic lighthouse built in 1927, the lighthouse boasts a 65-foot rock tower with an upper gallery made of steel and whitewashed bricks. It is the only active light house along Lake Michigan's northern shore. The light keeper's residence is also located on-site and features Whitefish Point Shingle Style architecture. The structure was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981 and today stands as a beacon for lake-goers around the area.

Fisherman's Island State Park is a great place to spend a day outdoors. The park offers 2,678 acres of beaches, dunes, forests, and wetlands to explore. Visitors can find plenty of activities to enjoy from exploring the trails to fishing in the harbor. In addition to the beachfront recreation area, there are two campgrounds for overnight stays, offering over 300 campsites for those who want to truly immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.

The Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse, has a rich and intriguing past. Constructed in 1869, this lighthouse operates as an air-controlled navigational signal aid designed to guide vessels safely through the otherwise treacherous waters of Lake Michigan. The tower consists of octagonal pyramidal design on top of an enclosed dwelling. At 105 feet tall, it is one of the tallest lighthouses in the country and can be seen across Lake Michigan's horizon.

Michigan Beach Park is a scenic coastal retreat. It offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with plenty of gorgeous views overlooking Lake Michigan. Nature lovers can spend the day exploring various hiking trails, while beach aficionados flock to the park for its many swimming spots. The region also provides innumerable photographic opportunities, as well as plenty of recreational activities such as fishing, boating and picnicking.

Tunnel of Trees is one of the most spectacular views in the world. Located on M-119 between Harbor Springs and Cross Village, it's a picturesque drive through an expanse of beautiful hardwood trees that shape and frame the road for miles. Winding along Lake Michigan's shoreline, drivers can witness the changing of seasons, with brilliant fall colors to the lush greens in summertime. On cool clear days passengers can catch glimpses of strong windswept sand dunes towers.

The Charlevoix Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Charlevoix County. Through their museum, events, exhibits, collections, and research opportunities, they are committed to providing an opportunity for people to experience and better understand the amazing and unique stories of this special place. They also offer educational programming for all ages that explore the region's diverse heritage.

The Charlevoix Historic Train Depot, is a unique testament to the county's long transportation history. Built in 1921, the depot was a thriving center of commerce until it closed in 1984 as Amtrak terminated its service through Michigan. In 1990, volunteers restored the depot with generous donations so that visitors may learn about and appreciate Charlevoix's railway past. The building, now on the National Register for Historical Places, serves dual purposes.

Grays Reef Light, located near the northernmost part of Lake Michigan, is an iconic beacon. Built in 1932, it stands 92 feet tall with a cylindrical tower measuring just over 16 feet in diameter. The light from the beacon can be seen from as far away as 8 nautical miles and exhibits a signature flashing pattern of red and white. It has been used over the years not only to guide sailors but to provide a sense of security and hope for those who call the Great Lakes home.

The Grand Traverse Lighthouse offers a unique glimpse into maritime history. This historic beacon has been providing guidance to sailors along the Manitou Passage since 1858. Boasting spectacular views of Lake Michigan, with its beige-colored steel tower stretching 88 feet skyward, it is one of only a handful of Michigan lighthouses that still contains much of its original hand-crafted features, including spiral staircases and deep bronze bivalve lenses.

Leelanau State Park is a tranquil oasis of natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy attractions like a historic lighthouse, or walk the beach where they will be surrounded by rolling sand dunes and have breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Families will appreciate the park's modern camping facilities and its extensive trail system, perfect for exploring or jogging. It's also a great spot for fishing or birdwatching - many species call the park home.

The Leelanau Peninsula is known for its stunning landscape and varied recreational activities. Spanning nearly 65 miles along the coast of Lake Michigan, the peninsula boasts picturesque sand dunes, miles of beaches, lush vineyards and orchards, and rugged outdoor trails. Visitors to the area can explore one-of-a-kind lakeside towns like Leland or Northport while sampling local delicacies or take a trip up M-22 to experience incredible views of rolling countryside.

Castle Farms provides a remarkable experience for all visitors. The castle is an architectural wonder from the early twentieth century originally built by Albert Loeb and was once known as "The Playground of the Midwest." Currently, it serves as one of Michigan's top attractions, offering guided tours of its historic grounds and buildings, shopping opportunities in their multiple stores, and seasonal festivities such as their Victorian Holiday Open House and the Music on the Lawn concert series.

Waugoshance Lighthouse is a 102-foot wooden tower built in 1851 and one of the first lighthouses on Lake Michigan. Located at the most dangerous location on the lake, Waugoshance stands as an iconic reminder of early efforts to ensure safe navigation between Lake Michigan ports. Although it sustained heavy damage from ice during numerous winters, Waugoshance continued to be staffed until 1924 when an automated light was established.

This can truly be called a beacon of beauty in the Great Lakes. Standing tall against the horizon at 80-feet and outlined with red brick, it's a structure that often takes your breath away. Constructed in 1910 to ensure safety of ships passing through Lake Michigan, White Shoal features both a light tower plus an adjoining keeper's house. The lighthouse lens, fueled by oil and electricity intermittently throughout history, guided hundreds of vessels safely along its journey each year