Travel Planner

Episode #2311

“Harbor Dreams Along the Thumb Coast”

Episode #2311 Travel Planner

Join Great Getaways as we uncover a hidden treasure along Michigan’s scenic Lake Huron shoreline in the Thumb. From relaxing waterfront views to adventures both on and off the water, this charming harbor town offers the perfect mix of small-town warmth, lakeside beauty, and unforgettable coastal fun.

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Port Sanilac, Michigan

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Port Sanilac MI

Port Sanilac

Port Sanilac

Location: Sanilac County, Michigan

Port Sanilac is a quiet port town on the coast of Lake Huron. Watch the sunrise, listen to the waves and feel the cool lake breeze. Take it all in. With a population of less than 700, this village was originally a lumberjack settlement on the shore of Lake Huron named "Bark Shanty." Nestled on Lake Huron's blue water shore, Port Sanilac is a sesquicentennial treasure just waiting to be discovered. In the heart of the East Ports, Port Sanilac is a great place to bask in the sun, swim, sail, boat, fish, dive, backpack, golf, or camp out along the lake; making it like no other place else in Michigan.

Port Sanilac Harbor of Refuge

Port Sanilac Harbor of Refuge

Location: Latitude 43º 25′ 48″ N – Longitude 82º 32′ 04″ W
Hours of Operation: May - October

Providing a place to dock along shore since 1951, the Port Sanilac Municipal Harbor has remained a premiere destination for boaters on Lake Huron. The Port Sanilac Municipal Harbor is a full service public dockage facility, offering both seasonal and transient stays. Our objective is to provide an enjoyable experience at our Harbor whether you're traveling for work or pleasure. We offer a variety of amenities including a fuel dock with diesel and Rec 90 Gasoline, Bathroom and Shower House, Laundry Facility and a Boaters Lounge with a kitchenette. Only a few steps away you'll find some great restaurants in our walkable downtown area. Come summer with us and take advantage of the best sunrise on the East Side, right here at the Port Sanilac Harbor.

Port Sanilac Marina

Port Sanilac Marina

Location: 7365 Cedar Street - Port Sanilac, Michigan
Location: (810) 622-9651

For more than four decades, sailors have made Port Sanilac their home port on Lake Huron. The Port Sanilac Marina is a full-service marina offering everything from boat sales and storage to full service and maintenance facilities. Port Sanilac Marina offers long term dockage services. Kayak and paddle boat rentals are also available for the day-trippers who stop at Port Sanilac. The harbor is now home to a complete waterfront getaway. Dock your boat, relax in a room with a view of the lake, enjoy a dinner on our waterfront patio, and close out the evening with pizza and ice cream by the docks.

Blue Water Winery

Blue Water Winery

Location: 5475 N Main Street - Lexington, Michigan
Phone: (810) 359-5012

After much renovation, the land, the house, the barn, Connie and Steve planted their first Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir vines in 2005. Next came a period of three years while the vines grew and could produce enough grapes to harvest and turn into wine. And after four years of coaxing premium wine grape vines to grow in a climate and terroir (wine snob for soil) meant for sugar beets and corn, Blue Water Winery has released their first three vintages with five more expected in mid-September.

The Van Camp House

Van Camp House

Location: 135 N Ridge Street - Port Sanilac, Michigan

Andy Fabian graduated from Schoolcraft College in 1998, studying Culinary Arts in their acclaimed program. Before opening The Van Camp House in June 2006, Andy served as a firefighter for 25 years with Livonia, MI and then Port Huron, MI. His dream of returning to his true passion encouraged him to begin his family run business that is open all year in the Village of Port Sanilac. The menu changes on a weekly basis and always features the freshest product available. It is Andy's goal to provide the ultimate dining experience for his customers through the visual presentation, the wonderful aromas, and delicious tastes that is part of every meal at The Van Camp House.

  • The Van Camp House Has Closed

Port Sanilac Lighthouse

Port Sanilac Lighthouse

Location: 81 S Lake Street - Port Sanilac, Michigan

Built in 1886, this lighthouse originally burned kerosene, but was electrified in 1929. It is now a private residence, but the light remains an active aid for navigation. This white brick lighthouse towers above the Lake Huron shoreline in the historic Village of Port Sanilac, Michigan. The lighthouse has helped guide ships and other mariners throughout its entire existence along the Lake Huron shoreline since 1886.

The lighthouse is privately owned and was purchased in December 2014, it was in need of extensive repairs, since then it was extensively restored between 2015 to 2017. The property grounds and lighthouse are generally closed to the public, however the owners have made arrangements with the Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum to provide tower tours during the summer months. In the fall, winter and spring, visitors are encouraged to visit the lighthouse from the sidewalk and other public viewing spaces outside the fence.

Port Sanilac Historic Village & Museum

Port Sanilac Historic Museum

Location: 228 S Ridge Street (M-25) - Port Sanilac, Michigan
Phone: (810) 622-9946

The Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum is a 10-acre heritage site featuring seventeen preserved and restored buildings that highlight the rich history of Sanilac County. Anchored by the 1872 Loop-Harrison Mansion, the museum invites visitors to explore authentically recreated spaces and learn about Michigan’s rural past. Step back in time as you wander through the beautiful gardens and the Victorian, Edwardian, and vintage buildings and exhibits that are featured on the property. Experience the Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum with guided and self-guided tours, restored historic buildings, and year-round programs celebrating Michigan’s Thumb.

Huron Shores Golf Club

Huron Shores Golf Club

Location: 1441 N Lakeshore Road - Port Sanilac, Michigan
Location: (810) 622-9961

At Huron Shores Golf Club, you get the breathtaking scenery, mature hardwoods, and cool lake breezes of a Northern Michigan getaway right here in the Thumb. Established in 1925, our historic 18-hole regulation course is conveniently located just 3 miles north of Port Sanilac. It’s the "Up North" experience you crave, without the five-hour drive—perfectly situated for Mid-Michigan, Metro Detroit, and Thumb area golfers.

Huron Shores is a challenging yet fun 18-hole public course designed to highlight the natural beauty of the Lake Huron coastline. Whether you are navigating our rolling fairways or enjoying the lake views, our classic layout offers a tranquil escape for every skill level.

Sailboat Races

Sailboat Races

Location: Port Sanilac Marina - Port Sanilac, Michigan

Local Port Huron Racing Federation (PHRF) racing is held from late May through late September. The Bark Shanty Sail Club hosts these races along with an annual Lake Huron Yachting Association regatta.

Antique Boat Show

Antique Boat Show

Location: Port Sanilac Municipal Harbor - 7376 Main Street, Port Sanilac, Michigan
2026 Dates: August 15

Port Sanilac Antique Boat Show with Vintage Campers & Classic Cars features over 34 antique and classic boats on display in Port Sanilac Harbor. Boaters and spectators alike are amazed by the variety and quality of the various crafts. Boats, ranging from a lovely, little dinghy to a 57 foot yacht, invite people on board for tours, races across the lake, and to show off their craftsmanship. Fun filled festival for the whole family. View the antique boats, Vintage Campers inside and out, tractors and cars. We also have a great time for the kids with inflatables and crafts. Located in our beautiful harbor park.

Port Sanilac Farmers' Market

Port Sanilac Farmers Market

Location: Sanilac County Historical Museum Grounds - 228 S Ridge Street, Port Sanilac, Michigan
When: Fridays 1 - 5pm (May - October)

The Port Sanilac Farmers' Market is a strict "producers" market. This means that all goods must be made or grown within Sanilac, Huron, or Tuscola County. No vegetables or finished products can be trucked in. This guarantees that the items you buy at the market are truly "local". Here you will find locally grown produce and plants, along with unique handcrafted items.

Fun on the Water

Beaches

VILLAGE BEACH
Location: Park Lane, Port Sanilac, Michigan

PORT SANILAC BEACH
Location: N Lake Street, Port Sanilac, Michigan

MUSIC IN THE PARK
Location: Harbor Park - 7376 Main Street, Port Sanilac, Michigan

There are two public beaches in Port Sanilac. Both beaches offer a wonderful place for families to spend the afternoon in the sun and water. Port Sanilac is a popular fishing destination. Perch are widely available, as well as salmon and walleye. Music in the Park takes place every Saturday night June 12th to September 12th at 7pm in Harbor Park.

The Village beach can be found North of the downtown area, tucked in behind the Lutheran Church. This beach features a small public park with picnic facilities. The second public beach is adjacent to the DNR boat launch. Located on the North side of the northern harbor break wall this beach offers a spacious beach and plenty of parking. Both beaches offer a wonderful place for families to spend the afternoon in the sun and water. Walker Road beach, south of town, offers a beautiful natural setting and convenient kayak launch site for The Heritage Water Trail, however parking is limited to the lucky few.

Episode #2311