Thumbcoast Articles

Summer Getaway in Port Sanilac, Michigan

Port Sanilac’s historic waterfront village is a charming destination known for its picturesque views, recreational activities, and serene atmosphere. Situated midway along the Thumbcoast, this idyllic location offers an array of opportunities for fishing, sailing, and strolls along the waterfront.

Nautical Life

Stay at a Victorian-era bed and breakfast just a block away from the sandy shores of Lake Huron. The Raymond House Inn offers a quaint overnight experience with only seven rooms, making it perfect for an adult getaway. Another overnight option is a rustic log cabin at the Lake Huron Campground

Day 1

LUNCH

The Stone Lodge is a locally owned, year-round restaurant on M25 just before the village center. Enjoy the comfortable indoor atmosphere or dine on the patio. Menu recommendations:

  • Tequila Sunrise
  • Walleye
  • Key Lime Pie

Culture

Explore 17 historical buildings, including the 1872 Loop-Harrison Mansion and a 1942 U.S. Troop Train Car, at the Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum, which hosts various must-see events all year.

DINNER

If you’re looking for a friendly neighborhood place to eat, the Blue Water Sports Bar and Grill offers excellent amenities, including an outdoor deck and billiards. Menu recommendations:

  • Beer or Wine Flight
  • Baseball Bites
  • Blue Water Burger

ENTERTAINMENT

Visit the harbor for an evening of live Music in the Park overlooking Lake Huron every Saturday at 7 pm from June 15 to September 7. If you prefer, you can also enjoy a live theater performance as an alternative entertainment option.

LIVE THEATRE

The Barn Theatre is a lively theatre venue on the museum grounds with 2024 performances in the summer at 8pm.

  • Things My Mother Taught Me
  • Fleming: An American Thriller
  • Jellofish
  • The Attempted Murder of Peggy Sweetwater
  • The Smell of the Kill
  • Halfway There

Day 2

BREAKFAST

Begin your morning with a freshly brewed cup of coffee from Sanilac Coffee, or have a delicious homestyle breakfast at Roxanne’s, where you’ll be greeted with warm and friendly smiles.

  • Mary’s Special Omelet
  • Coffee and Orange Juice

NATURE WALK

Explore the Sanilac Petroglyphs  and take a scenic walk through nature. This historic state park protects and interprets Michigan’s largest known collection of early Native American teachings carved in stone. Admission is free, and a recreation passport is not required. The park is about 38 miles northwest of the village, but it is worth the road trip.

LUNCH & GOLFING

Spend the afternoon with a leisurely lunch on the outdoor deck and 18 holes at Huron Shores Golf Club. An alternative option to golf is to take a lighthouse tour or sunbathe at the beach. Menu suggestions:

  • Local Craft Beer
  • Summertime Chicken
  • Sweet Potato Fries

LIGHTHOUSE TOUR

Visit the 1886 Port Sanilac Lighthouse and explore the picturesque tree-lined streets along the shore. Although the lighthouse has been privately owned since 1928, limited guided tours are available through the museum in the summer.

BEACH

Take a trip to the “secret beach” from our list of lesser-known beaches and enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing. The 4 Mile Scenic Turnout may look like an ordinary MDOT rest area, but it’s not. It features a beautiful Lake Huron beach with smooth sand. To find it, look for the long, hidden staircase at the north end leading you to the beach. The beach is off M25, 11 miles north of Port Sanilac.

DRINKS & DINNER

You’ll love the vibrant, eclectic atmosphere at Alli Bar, a hidden gem filled with antiques and art. The bar is open rain or shine on Fridays and Saturdays and features live music on Saturdays.

Shoreline Road Trip Map

Other Articles in the Getaway Series

Article by Katie Stepp, Blue Water Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

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