Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse

Located on the scenic northern shores of Lake Michigan, the Manistique East Breakwater Light is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city of Manistique. This historic site in the USA is a classic 40-foot (12-meter) tower with a white structure and a bright red roof, standing at the very end of a long breakwater.

Built between 1917 and 1919, the lighthouse still serves as a vital navigational beacon for ships entering the harbor. Its steel-framed design was engineered to withstand the powerful forces of nature, making it a symbol of resilience for the region. The lighthouse sits at the end of a concrete pier over 1,000 feet (300 meters) long, which protects the port from storm surges.

Today, it is popular with both sailors and tourists. Visitors are drawn to the chance to walk right out into the water and enjoy panoramic views of the lake. With its high rating and status as an active navigational aid, the lighthouse is considered a must-visit on any trip to Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

To plan your visit to the lighthouse, you can use the official information. Although it is an active navigational aid, you can contact the local tourism board for additional inquiries.

The main attraction here is a walk along the long concrete breakwater leading to the base of the lighthouse. It’s a great way to experience the power of Lake Michigan, especially on windy days when waves crash dramatically against the rocks. Photographers love this spot for its stunning sunrise and sunset views, which paint the water and the white tower in incredible colors.

For a more relaxed experience, watching passing ships and yachts is ideal. In the summer, the harbor comes alive with sailboats, fishing, and birdwatching. If you are traveling with family, a lighthouse visit is easy to combine with a trip to Lakeside City Park, which offers cozy picnic areas and playgrounds.

In winter, the landscape transforms into an icy wonderland, attracting fans of unique winter scenery. Active travelers will also enjoy the coastal bike trails and the nearby Hiawatha National Forest, where you can continue your outdoor adventure.

Reaching this iconic maritime landmark is easy. The Manistique East Breakwater Light is located at the Manistique East Breakwater. If you are already in the city center, it’s most convenient to walk or bike along Lakeshore Dr directly to the eastern pier. The distance from the main road (US-2) is only about one kilometer.

For those traveling by car: follow US-2/M-94 into town and then follow the signs for the harbor. The drive from St. Ignace takes about 1 hour (85 km), and from Escanaba, about 1.5 hours (100 km). Free parking is conveniently located at the start of the breakwater near Lakeside City Park.

Public transportation is limited in this region, so a taxi or personal vehicle is the best choice. In the summer, you might also consider arriving at the harbor by boat or as part of a lake cruise, which allows you to see the lighthouse from its most impressive angle — from the water.

The history of this maritime sentinel began in 1917, when the Bureau of Lighthouses in the USA began constructing a durable steel structure. The lighthouse was designed to replace older wooden buildings that couldn't withstand Lake Michigan's harsh storms. Work was completed in 1919, and the tower was soon equipped with a fourth-order Fresnel lens, visible for up to 14 nautical miles.

Over the decades, the lighthouse was modernized: a powerful fog siren was installed in 1922, and the site was fully electrified in the 1930s. During World War II, the lighthouse served an important strategic function, helping patrol coastal waters. In 1972, the operation was fully automated, eliminating the need for a permanent lighthouse keeper.

In 2007, the site was added to the National Register of Historic Places, confirming its architectural and cultural significance. Today, this bright red symbol of the city remains an active navigational aid, standing as a reminder of the Upper Peninsula’s rich maritime traditions.

A standard visit usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. This is plenty of time for a leisurely walk along the 1,000-foot (300-meter) concrete breakwater, taking some great photos of the lighthouse and admiring the vast expanse of the lake.

If you plan to have a small picnic on the shore, watch passing ships through binoculars, or wait for the sunset, we recommend allowing 1–2 hours. Those who want to combine the walk with time at the nearby park or fishing should set aside half a day.

Access for viewing the lighthouse exterior and walking the breakwater is open 24/7. As this is a public space, you can visit at any time to enjoy the peace or capture photos in different lighting conditions.

Keep in mind that the interior of the lighthouse is generally closed to the public, as it remains an automated navigational facility. For safety, it is recommended to plan your visit during daylight hours, especially in the colder months when the breakwater can become slippery due to ice or spray.

Exploring the area around the harbor can greatly enrich your trip. Very close to the lighthouse, you'll find historic markers and cozy spots to relax after your walk along the breakwater.