Discover Summer Fun Along Michigan's Thumbcoast

Start South: Harsens Island & Algonac
Begin your trip in the St. Clair Flats, one of the largest freshwater deltas in the world. Harsens Island, Clay Township, and the Algonac are perfect for paddle sports, bird-watching and fishing. Explore calm and winding channels, hop on the car ferry and slow down on island time.

Stroll, Shop & Dine Along the St. Clair River
Head north to find Marine City, a charming area with a walkable downtown, unique shops, waterfront dining and a cozy live theater that is a local favorite. St. Clair has a scenic boardwalk, paddle sports rentals, summer concerts and a river-view brewery. It's a relaxed, welcoming town with regular live entertainment. Marysville rounds out this trio of St. Clair River communities with a peaceful shoreline path, a beach for sun and swimming, and great spots for fishing.

Port Huron: Where History Meets Dockside Energy
As the river meets the lake, Port Huron welcomes you with stunning blue water, the historic Fort Gratiot Lighthouse (the oldest in Michigan) and a lively social district. Festivals, freighter views, outdoor dining and live music light up summer nights, all with a hometown vibe that still feels authentic and easygoing.

Lake Huron's Coastal Charm: Lexington to Port Austin
For a perfect summer vacation, Lexington blends a sandy beach, boutiques, and harbor concerts on Lake Huron. Port Sanilac's marina town vibe is popular for fishing, sailing, historical museums, and local nightlife. Harbor Beach has offshore lighthouse tours, shallow water shipwrecks, and a gorgeous pier to explore.

Quiet and scenic, Port Hope is a small but charming stop before reaching Port Austin, a popular beach village at the tip of the Thumbcoast. With walkable streets, farm-to-table dining, a beer garden and kayak access to Turnip Rock, Port Austin is a natural place to slow down and soak in the views.

End in Relaxed Caseville
Caseville, on Saginaw Bay, makes for a perfect final stop. Its wide beach, long pier, beachside cafes and laid-back atmosphere offer a fitting end to a peaceful Thumbcoast tour. You'll find kiteboarding, kayaking and even a famous cheeseburger-themed summer festival, all without the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Skip the crowds and take the scenic route. Michigan's Thumbcoast is your shoreline escape. Experience peaceful beaches, vibrant small towns and a welcome that feels like summer the way it used to be.

Just try us out. Visitors often say they had no idea our area was so beautiful and keep coming back. Request your free travel guide or view it online to start planning your trip at bluewater.org.