Mission Point Lighthouse Mackinac Island
Historic lighthouse on a scenic peninsula, offering lake views, a unique rocky beach, and charming grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds
Mission Point Lighthouse Mackinac Island
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic lighthouse on a scenic peninsula, offering lake views, a unique rocky beach, and charming grounds.
"A magical place with clear shallow water and a beautifully maintained lighthouse!"
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
The beach is rocky and full of shells; water shoes are a must for comfortable wading.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient and free parking is available, making access to the lighthouse and beach easy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mission Point Lighthouse
Tip of Old Mission Peninsula
A beautifully restored 19th-century lighthouse offering tours and panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay.
Shallow Beach Waters
Lakeshore adjacent to the lighthouse
Crystal clear, shallow waters perfect for wading, rock hunting, and family fun.
Historic Log Cabin
Near the lighthouse
Explore the history of the lighthouse keepers in this charming, preserved log cabin.
Scenic Drive & Views
Old Mission Peninsula
The drive along the peninsula offers stunning vineyard and orchard views, leading to the lighthouse.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beach Day Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
The beach is rocky and full of shells; water shoes are a must for comfortable wading. +1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient and free parking is available, making access to the lighthouse and beach easy.
💧 Rinse Off Station
A foot sprayer is available to rinse off sand and shells after enjoying the beach. +1
📸 Photo Opportunities
The lighthouse, shoreline, and surrounding peninsula offer numerous picturesque spots for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
The beach is rocky and full of shells; water shoes are a must for comfortable wading. +1
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient and free parking is available, making access to the lighthouse and beach easy.
💧 Rinse Off Station
A foot sprayer is available to rinse off sand and shells after enjoying the beach. +1
📸 Photo Opportunities
The lighthouse, shoreline, and surrounding peninsula offer numerous picturesque spots for photos.
🍷 Wine Tasting Nearby
The Old Mission Peninsula is known for its wineries, perfect for a stop before or after your lighthouse visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mission Point Lighthouse for its stunning natural beauty, historical charm, and family-friendly shallow beach. The well-maintained grounds and free access make it a highly recommended stop. Some note the rocky beach requires water shoes for comfort.
"What a magical place to spend a summer day! The decommissioned lighthouse is beautifully maintained and open for tours. We loved exploring the trails and beach- the water is very clear and there are scattered rocks that make for fun pictures. Wear water shoes if you want to walk out in the shallow water- the shells are hard on the feet. The trees along the beach provide nice shade, there is a drinking fountain and foot sprayer to use. There is convenient free parking and portable potties. Absolutely worth a visit!"
S Peeps
"This is a wonderful historic lighthouse that has been refurbished and maintained well by the local historical society. You can enter the lighthouse for a fee, but parking and access to the shore is free. It is great to walk into the water especially in the summer. You can walk at least a couple hundred feet into the lake because it is very shallow. A great place to visit with family and friends of all ages."
Mayur Patel
"We went right for the beach and skipped the lighthouse. Paved path, several port a potties with hand sanitizer. My 9 year d liked reading about the cabin history and peeking in windows. Water fountain and foot rinse available on path. Bench facing beach then a few steps down to beach. So
E shady areas, depending on time of day. Bring water shoes, lots of rocks big and small. Sand bar goes out a good distance."
Kimberly Chamberlain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mission Point Lighthouse is located at the northern tip of the Old Mission Peninsula, about a 20-30 minute drive north of Traverse City. Take M-37 North, which becomes Peninsula Drive, and follow it all the way to the end. The drive itself is scenic, passing by vineyards and orchards. +1
Yes, there is convenient and free parking available at the lighthouse. This makes it easy to access both the lighthouse and the beach.
Biking the Old Mission Peninsula is a popular activity, and you can cycle to the lighthouse. The roads are generally well-maintained, but be aware of traffic, especially during peak season.
The 45th parallel marker is located near the lighthouse, signifying the halfway point between the Equator and the North Pole. It's a fun photo opportunity for visitors.
Absolutely! The Old Mission Peninsula is renowned for its stunning scenic beauty, featuring rolling vineyards, fruit orchards, and beautiful views of Grand Traverse Bay. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the grounds, beach, and parking at Mission Point Lighthouse is free. There is a fee if you wish to tour the inside of the lighthouse itself.
Tour hours for the lighthouse vary by season. It's best to check the official Mission Point Lighthouse website or local tourism sites for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Yes, the beach access at Mission Point Lighthouse is completely free. You can enjoy the shoreline, wade in the water, and hunt for rocks without any admission charge. +1
No, parking at Mission Point Lighthouse is free for all visitors.
While the grounds are generally accessible, interior tours of the lighthouse are typically seasonal. It's advisable to confirm operating dates and times for tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can tour the historic lighthouse, explore the beach, go rock hunting in the shallow waters, visit the log cabin, and enjoy the scenic views of Grand Traverse Bay.
The water is very shallow for a long distance, making it excellent for wading and safe for children. While not ideal for deep swimming, it's perfect for cooling off and enjoying the lake.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If you plan to spend time on the beach, water shoes are highly advised due to the rocky shoreline. +1
Yes, portable restrooms are available on-site, often stocked with hand sanitizer, providing convenience for visitors. +1
There are picnic tables available, some in shady spots, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings also provide fewer distractions for capturing clear shots. +1
The iconic lighthouse structure, the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan, the rocky shoreline, and the surrounding natural beauty all contribute to its photogenic appeal. +1
Yes, the entire peninsula offers numerous photo opportunities, from the vineyards and orchards to the sweeping views of the bay and the lighthouse itself. +1
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local ordinances and park rules regarding drone usage before flying in the area.
You can capture wide shots of the lighthouse with the water, close-ups of the unique rocks and shells, and candid shots of people enjoying the shallow lake.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With free parking and convenient amenities like portable restrooms and a foot rinsing station, managing a day out with kids is made easier.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Traverse City
Allocate at least half a day to fully enjoy the drive, explore the lighthouse grounds, and spend time relaxing by the water. Pack your water shoes and a picnic to maximize your experience.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Beyond the immediate lighthouse area, the Old Mission Peninsula itself is a photographic paradise with its rolling vineyards, orchards, and sweeping bay views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Lighthouse and Its History
Beyond the tower, explore the charming historic log cabin adjacent to the lighthouse. This cabin provides further insight into the daily lives of those who tended the light.
Pro Tip: Check the lighthouse's official website for specific tour times and any associated fees, as these can vary seasonally.
The Allure of the Mission Point Beach
A key feature is the exceptionally shallow water that extends far out into Grand Traverse Bay. This creates a safe and enjoyable wading experience, particularly for families with young children.
Essential Advice: Due to the rocky nature of the beach, water shoes are highly recommended to protect your feet.
The Scenic Old Mission Peninsula Drive
This route is a favorite for cyclists and drivers alike, offering numerous opportunities to stop and enjoy the views. Many visitors combine their lighthouse visit with wine tasting at the peninsula's acclaimed wineries, making for a perfect day trip.
Plan your route to allow ample time to savor the drive, perhaps stopping at a roadside stand for fresh produce or enjoying a tasting at a local winery.
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