Grand Haven South Pier & Lighthouse
Iconic red lighthouses on a long pier, offering stunning Lake Michigan views and a classic Great Lakes experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Grand Haven South Pier & Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic red lighthouses on a long pier, offering stunning Lake Michigan views and a classic Great Lakes experience.
"It's a beautiful place, one of my favorites on the East shore of Lake Michigan."
🌅 Sunset Spectacles
The pier is a prime spot for breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan. Arrive early for good spots!
🌊 Watch for Big Waves
Massive waves can crash over the pier, creating a dramatic spectacle but also making it slick.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Red Lighthouses
End of the South Pier
Two classic red lighthouses stand sentinel, connected by a catwalk. A quintessential Great Lakes sight.
The Grand Haven Boardwalk
Along the Grand River
A scenic stroll connecting downtown to the pier and state park, perfect for sunset views.
Lake Michigan's Majesty
Grand Haven State Park Beach
Experience the vastness of Lake Michigan, feeling like you're at the ocean with sandy shores.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pier Access & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Spectacles
The pier is a prime spot for breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan. Arrive early for good spots!
🌊 Watch for Big Waves
Massive waves can crash over the pier, creating a dramatic spectacle but also making it slick. +1
🚶♀️ Walk the Long Pier
The pier stretches out into Lake Michigan, offering expansive views and a unique perspective.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking at the state park can fill up fast. Consider parking downtown and walking the boardwalk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Spectacles
The pier is a prime spot for breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan. Arrive early for good spots!
🌊 Watch for Big Waves
Massive waves can crash over the pier, creating a dramatic spectacle but also making it slick. +1
🚶♀️ Walk the Long Pier
The pier stretches out into Lake Michigan, offering expansive views and a unique perspective.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking at the state park can fill up fast. Consider parking downtown and walking the boardwalk.
🥶 Winter Wonders
Visit in winter for stunning ice formations on the lighthouses and pier. Dress warmly!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Grand Haven South Pier & Lighthouse as a beautiful and iconic destination on Lake Michigan, especially during summer. The picturesque red lighthouses and expansive beach are major draws, though it can get very busy and parking can be a challenge during peak times. Some note the difference from ocean beaches, but its charm is undeniable.
"It's a beautiful place, one of my favorites on the East shore of Lake Michigan. It's highly recommended in the summertime when the weather is nice and you can enjoy the beaches and parks in the area."
Alejandro Martinez
"Google 'West Michigan' and it wouldn't surprise me if this appeared. Very busy in the summer and very cold in the winter. An iconic place to visit and a beautiful beach."
Jonathan Cooper
"It's a pretty incredible sight - water as far as the eye can see.
It feels like you're at an ocean beach, but if you've ever BEEN to the coast, you'll know the difference. (I'll admit my bias up front but Oregon has the best beaches!)"
Terry Avery
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The pier is located at Grand Haven State Park. If driving from Chicago, it's about a 3-hour drive. Parking is available at the state park, but can fill up quickly during peak season. Many visitors also enjoy walking the boardwalk from downtown Grand Haven to reach the pier. 
Yes, there is parking available at Grand Haven State Park, which is adjacent to the pier. During busy summer months, it's advisable to arrive early or consider parking in downtown Grand Haven and walking the boardwalk.
Absolutely! The Grand Haven Boardwalk is bike-friendly and offers a scenic route to the pier. Some visitors have enjoyed riding electric bikes along the boardwalk for a quick stop.
You can access the pier directly from Grand Haven State Park beach. Alternatively, the Grand Haven Boardwalk provides a pleasant walk from downtown to the pier entrance.
The pier itself is a long concrete structure. While generally accessible, conditions can be windy and wet. The boardwalk is also a popular and accessible route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the pier and lighthouse area is typically free, especially if you access it from the boardwalk. However, if you park within Grand Haven State Park, there may be a state park entry fee, particularly during the summer season.
The pier and lighthouse are generally accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access may be restricted during severe weather conditions for safety. +1
Yes, Grand Haven State Park typically charges an entrance fee, especially during the peak summer season. This fee often covers parking as well.
The lighthouses themselves are typically not open for public interior tours. Their primary function is to guide ships, and visitors can admire them from the pier and surrounding areas.
While the pier itself doesn't host many events, the nearby Grand Haven Musical Fountain is a popular seasonal attraction. The pier is a great vantage point for viewing fireworks during holidays.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is incredibly popular for photography, offering beautiful golden hour light. Sunrise can also be stunning, and winter offers unique opportunities with ice formations.
You can capture iconic shots of the red lighthouses, the vastness of Lake Michigan, dramatic waves, and the pier itself. Drone photography is also popular for aerial views.
Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions, but always be mindful of other visitors and safety, especially during high wave conditions. Drone usage may be subject to park regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and pier. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the lighthouse. A tripod is recommended for sunset and low-light shots.
Yes, the lighthouses are often illuminated at night, providing a different photographic opportunity. Long exposure shots can capture the light trails of boats.
🎫 🎣 Fishing Tips
Yes, fishing is permitted from the Grand Haven South Pier. It's a popular spot for anglers looking to catch various Great Lakes species.
Anglers often debate between the shore side and river side of the pier. The river side might offer protection from waves, while the shore side might be better for casting into the lake. Experimentation is key!
Common baits for pier fishing in Lake Michigan include minnows, worms, and various artificial lures. Salmon, trout, and perch are often targeted.
Casting distance can vary depending on the target species and conditions. For perch or smaller fish, shorter casts might suffice. For larger game fish, casting further into the lake or near drop-offs could be more effective.
Always ensure you have a valid Michigan fishing license. Familiarize yourself with size and bag limits for the species you are targeting. Check the Michigan DNR website for current regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Kids will be fascinated by the towering red lighthouses and the vastness of Lake Michigan, which can feel like an ocean. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities can get busy. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid the largest crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for little ones.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Don't miss the chance to capture the dramatic waves that often crash over the pier, especially during storms. Winter offers a unique challenge and reward with ice-covered structures. Drone photography is also popular for capturing sweeping aerial views of the pier, lighthouse, and coastline.
+1🎣 Anglers' Haven
Experiment with different fishing spots along the pier – the shore side versus the river side can yield different results. Popular bait includes minnows and worms. Even if you don't fish, watching the anglers can be an interesting part of the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of the Grand Haven Lighthouses
The iconic red paint and the long steel catwalk connecting the lights are distinctive features. This catwalk was once used by lighthouse keepers to access the lights, especially during harsh storms when waves would crash over the pier. The lighthouses stand as a testament to the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes region.
Today, the lighthouses are automated and serve as beloved landmarks, drawing visitors who appreciate their historical significance and picturesque beauty. They are a key part of the Grand Haven identity and a popular subject for photographers and tourists alike.
Experiencing Grand Haven in Different Seasons
Autumn brings a beautiful display of fall colors to the surrounding parks and a crispness to the air, making it ideal for quieter walks along the pier. Winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland. The lighthouses and pier can become encrusted with ice, creating dramatic and otherworldly scenes that attract photographers and winter enthusiasts.
Spring sees the ice melt and nature reawaken. While still cool, it's a great time to visit for fewer crowds and to witness the transition to warmer weather. Each season offers a unique perspective on the Grand Haven South Pier & Lighthouse, from the vibrant energy of summer to the serene beauty of winter.
Safety and Conditions on the Pier
During stormy weather or when waves are high, the pier surface can become extremely slick and dangerous. Visitors are strongly advised to heed any posted warnings and to exercise extreme caution. In icy conditions during winter, the pier can be treacherous. Always wear appropriate footwear with good traction.
It's wise to check the weather forecast and wave conditions before heading out. If the pier looks unsafe or is closed, it's best to admire the lighthouses and the lake from the safety of the boardwalk or the beach. Your safety is more important than a photo or a walk.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit