The Most Beautiful Lighthouse in Michigan, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the lighthouse you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on May 6, 2024 06:19

Lighthouses have stood along the shores of Michigan for generations, serving as beacons for mariners and capturing the admiration of visitors and locals alike. With such a diversity of styles and histories, deciding which lighthouse holds the most aesthetic appeal or historical value is a popular debate. This ranking allows enthusiasts and travelers to cast their votes, aiding in the discernment of which lighthouse is deemed the most beautiful by the public. By contributing to this dynamic tally, voters play a crucial role in shaping perceptions and guiding future visitors to these iconic structures. Each vote can highlight lesser-known lighthouses or reaffirm the status of renowned ones, influencing travel plans and increasing appreciation for Michigan's maritime heritage. Your participation ensures a comprehensive and current ranking, reflecting the opinions of those who value and cherish these coastal guardians.

What Is the Most Beautiful Lighthouse in Michigan?

1

60
votes
Big Sable Point Lighthouse - Ludington

With its striking black and white stripes, this lighthouse is a popular attraction for visitors to Ludington State Park. The tower stands 112 feet tall and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan.
The Big Sable Point Lighthouse in Ludington, Michigan is a stunning landmark that attracts visitors from near and far. Standing tall and proud, it offers a picturesque view of Lake Michigan and its surrounding dunes.

Location: Ludington, Michigan

Year Built: 1867

Height: 112 feet

Material: Brick and cast iron

Fresnel Lens: Fourth order
2

22
votes
White Shoal Light - Lake Michigan

George A. Mallory

This lighthouse is known for its unique red and white candy cane stripes. Located in the middle of Lake Michigan, it is accessible by boat or air.
The White Shoal Light is a stunning lighthouse located in Lake Michigan, near the Straits of Mackinac. Standing tall at 121 feet, it is often regarded as one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Michigan. The lighthouse is renowned for its unique red and white-striped exterior, which gives it an iconic and picturesque appearance. It was built to guide ships through the treacherous White Shoal reef, a dangerous area for maritime navigation.

Location: Lake Michigan, near Straits of Mackinac

Height: 121 feet

Exterior: Red and white striped

Purpose: Maritime navigation

Construction Material: Cast iron
3

20
votes
Russell Sekeet (amtrak_russ) · CC BY 2.0

St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse - St. Joseph

Captain William Robinson

This lighthouse stands at the end of a long pier and marks the entrance to the St. Joseph River. Its red and white tower is a popular spot for photos.
The St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse, located in St. Joseph, Michigan, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the state. Perched at the end of the North Pier in Lake Michigan, this stunning lighthouse attracts visitors with its picturesque setting and impressive architectural design.

Year Built: 1905

Construction Material: Cast Iron

Height: 35 feet

Focal Height: 52 feet

Light Range: 12 miles
4

22
votes
Point Betsie Lighthouse - Frankfort

Captain William Robinson

This lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in Michigan, dating back to 1858. Its white tower and red roof make it a picturesque spot for photos.
Point Betsie Lighthouse is a historic and picturesque lighthouse located in Frankfort, Michigan. It is renowned for its stunning setting on the shores of Lake Michigan and its iconic red brick exterior. This lighthouse has become a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich maritime history of the area.

Location: Frankfort, Michigan

Year Built: 1858

Height of Tower: 39 feet

Height of Light Above Water: 52 feet

Construction Material: Red brick
5

7
votes
Grand Traverse Lighthouse - Northport

Located on the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, this lighthouse offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding area. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for even better views.
The Grand Traverse Lighthouse, located in Northport, Michigan, is considered one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the state. It sits atop a picturesque bluff, overlooking Lake Michigan and offering stunning views of the surrounding area. The lighthouse is admired for its striking red brick exterior and white tower, showcasing classic architectural elements that add to its charm and aesthetic appeal.

Year Built: 1858

Height: 55 feet

Location: Northport, Michigan

Fresnel Lens: Fourth-order

Materials: Brick and wood
6

11
votes
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse - Mackinaw City

George D. Armstrong

This lighthouse is located at the northern tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula and marks the entrance to the Straits of Mackinac. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history.
The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Mackinaw City, Michigan. It is considered to be one of the most stunning lighthouses in Michigan due to its picturesque location overlooking the Straits of Mackinac.

Location: Mackinaw City, Michigan

Year Built: 1892

Height: 59 feet

Construction Material: Cream-colored brick

Architecture: Victorian-style
7

8
votes
Whitefish Point Light - Paradise

George P. McLain

This lighthouse is located on Lake Superior and marks the eastern end of the shipwreck-strewn Whitefish Point. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about the area's maritime history.
Whitefish Point Light, located in Paradise, Michigan, is considered one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the state. It stands tall and proud on Whitefish Point, overlooking Lake Superior. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the surrounding area and plays a crucial role in guiding ships safely through the waters of Lake Superior.

Location: Paradise, Michigan

Year Built: 1861

Height: 67 feet

Construction Material: Brick

Light Characteristics: Flashing white light every 20 seconds
8

6
votes
James Conkis · CC BY-SA 4.0

Eagle Harbor Lighthouse - Eagle Harbor

Phineas Shelden, Jr.

This lighthouse is located on the Keweenaw Peninsula and offers stunning views of Lake Superior. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history.
The Eagle Harbor Lighthouse is located in Eagle Harbor, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Superior. It is one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Michigan and is known for its picturesque location.

Year Built: 1851

Height: 50 feet

Construction Material: Red brick

Light Type: Fourth-order Fresnel lens

Lens Focal Length: 9 feet
9

11
votes
Tawas Point Light - East Tawas

Located on the shore of Lake Huron, this lighthouse offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding area. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history.
Tawas Point Light, also known as the East Tawas Lighthouse, is a picturesque lighthouse located on Tawas Point, near the city of East Tawas, Michigan. This historic lighthouse stands at the end of a sandy peninsula that extends into Lake Huron, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Year Built: 1876

Height: 70 feet

Materials: Brick and cast iron

Light Range: 16 nautical miles

Focal Plane: 70 feet above lake level
10

6
votes
Kayura Mendonza · CC BY-SA 3.0

South Haven South Pierhead Light - South Haven

This lighthouse is located at the end of a long pier and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan. Its red tower and white lantern room make it a popular spot for photos.
The South Haven South Pierhead Light is an iconic lighthouse located in South Haven, Michigan. It is one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the state, attracting countless visitors each year with its picturesque setting and historical charm.

Location: South Haven, Michigan

Year Built: 1872

Height: 35 feet

Construction Material: Cast Iron

Tower Shape: Square

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Ranking factors for beautiful lighthouse

Location

The surrounding area and overall setting of the lighthouse should be considered. Is it near a picturesque shoreline, on a rocky cliff, or within a charming harbor? Does it offer panoramic views and photo opportunities?
Architectural design

The uniqueness, style, and elegance of the lighthouse structure should be assessed. Consider its shape, color, and construction materials.
Historical significance

Evaluate the lighthouse's role in Michigan's history. Does it have any significant stories or events tied to it, such as being a witness to major shipwrecks or being a key navigational aid during wartime?
Preservation

Check the lighthouse's condition and how well it has been maintained. A well-preserved structure can greatly contribute to its overall beauty.
Accessibility

How easy is it for visitors to access the lighthouse? Are there available hiking trails, boat tours, or other means to get to the location? A beautiful lighthouse that is easily accessible has added appeal.
Seasonal variations

Assess the beauty of the lighthouse throughout different seasons. Does it stand out more during sunsets, is it a popular spot for bird-watching, or does it look particularly enchanting in autumn or winter?
Cultural impact

Consider if the lighthouse has any cultural significance in the local community. Does it serve as an iconic landmark or is it tied to local customs or legends?
Availability for events

Are there any special events that take place at the lighthouse, such as weddings, art exhibits, or educational programs? These events can add to the overall appeal of the lighthouse.
Nighttime lighting

Evaluate how the lighthouse is lit at night, and whether the evening lighting enhances the lighthouse's beauty.
Visitor experience

Consider the overall visitor experience at the lighthouse, including available amenities, guided tours, and interpretive displays. A memorable and informative visit can further contribute to the perception of the lighthouse's beauty.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful lighthouse in Michigan. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Lighthouse is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1374 views
172 votes
10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Big Sable Point Lighthouse - Ludington
White Shoal Light - Lake Michigan
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse - Mackinaw City
South Haven South Pierhead Light - South Haven

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Lighthouse once every 24 hours. The rank of each Lighthouse is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful lighthouse in michigan

Michigan is home to more than 120 lighthouses, making it the perfect state to explore for those who love these iconic structures. These lighthouses were built to guide sailors and ships through the Great Lakes, and each one has its own unique history and architecture. Among these lighthouses, there are some that stand out as particularly beautiful and breathtaking. In this article, we will be exploring some of the most beautiful lighthouses in Michigan, and what makes them so special. So whether you're a lighthouse enthusiast or just looking for a scenic adventure, read on to discover some of the most stunning lighthouses in Michigan.