
St. Ignace Public Marina
A picturesque waterfront hub offering stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac, a charming lighthouse, and easy access to Mackinac Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

St. Ignace Public Marina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque waterfront hub offering stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac, a charming lighthouse, and easy access to Mackinac Island.
"A very nice well kept Marina and Boardwalk that leads out the lighthouse. Its a nice walk with plenty of benches to stop and enjoy the views."

👟 Watch Your Step!
Be mindful of wooden planks on the boardwalk; splinters can happen! Wear appropriate footwear.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of the lighthouse, boats, and the Mackinac Bridge.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Ignace Lighthouse
End of the boardwalk
A charming lighthouse offering picturesque views of the Straits of Mackinac and passing freighters.

Boardwalk Stroll
Along the marina
Enjoy a leisurely walk on the well-maintained boardwalk, perfect for birdwatching and boat gazing.

Freighter Sightings
Straits of Mackinac
Witness massive Great Lakes freighters navigating the busy shipping lanes near Mackinac Island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Marina Access & Parking
Ferry to Mackinac Island
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Watch Your Step!
Be mindful of wooden planks on the boardwalk; splinters can happen! Wear appropriate footwear.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of the lighthouse, boats, and the Mackinac Bridge.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Conveniently located downtown, close to shops and restaurants.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Stroll
A great spot for a walk with your dog, offering scenic views.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Watch Your Step!
Be mindful of wooden planks on the boardwalk; splinters can happen! Wear appropriate footwear.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots of the lighthouse, boats, and the Mackinac Bridge.
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Conveniently located downtown, close to shops and restaurants.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Stroll
A great spot for a walk with your dog, offering scenic views.
🚢 Ferry Access
Easy access to Mackinac Island ferries; book tickets online for potential savings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. Ignace Public Marina for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and scenic boardwalk leading to a charming lighthouse. It's a convenient and picturesque stop for photos, boat watching, and easy access to Mackinac Island ferries. Some minor concerns include potential splinters on the boardwalk.
"Stopped by to take a few photos and see the lighthouse. Take a few photos of the area."
Marien Schwartz
"This is a very nice well kept Marina and Boardwalk that leads out the lighthouse. Its a nice walk with plenty of benches to stop and enjoy the views..There's also clean and well kept bathrooms at the public Marina and the location is right down town not a far walk from the stores and restaurants its a nice place to explore with your kids or take the dog for a walk...."
C. Hiller
"Granddaughters wasn't wearing her shoes on the boardwalk and hot the biggest splinter in her foot. There was an employee there who was so helpful. She was a blessing at that moment"
Theresa Holliman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The marina is located in downtown St. Ignace, easily accessible by car. Parking is available on-site, but can fill up quickly during peak times. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from nearby downtown hotels and attractions.
Yes, there is parking available at St. Ignace Public Marina. However, it's recommended to arrive early, especially during summer and weekends, as spots can be limited.
Absolutely! The St. Ignace Public Marina is situated right downtown, making it a short and pleasant walk from most shops, restaurants, and accommodations.
Yes, St. Ignace is often called the 'Gateway to the Upper Peninsula' and is a great starting point for exploring the UP.
St. Ignace is accessible by car via I-75. It's also a common destination for those taking ferries to Mackinac Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access the public areas of the marina, boardwalk, and lighthouse. You can enjoy the scenic views and walk around freely.
The St. Ignace Lighthouse is accessible from the public boardwalk, and there are no tickets required to view it from the outside.
You can purchase ferry tickets from companies like Shepler's Ferry either online in advance or in person at their terminal near the marina. Booking online can sometimes offer discounts.
The public areas of the marina are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific dockage or facility hours may vary.
While not a primary event venue, the marina area can be a scenic spot for local gatherings or a backdrop for events like the St. Ignace Truck Show.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a walk on the boardwalk, admire the lighthouse, watch boats and freighters, and access ferries to Mackinac Island. It's also a great spot for photography.
The boardwalk is generally well-maintained and should be accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, offering a smooth surface for easy navigation.
Yes, clean and well-kept restrooms are available at the public marina for visitors.
While the marina itself is for boats, there are beaches nearby in St. Ignace where you can swim in Lake Huron.
Visitors often spot various birds, and the clear waters might offer glimpses of fish like salmon.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Yes, the marina is located downtown, offering easy access to numerous restaurants, cafes, and drive-ins. Clyde's Drive-In and Gateway City Garage are popular local spots.
While there aren't dedicated restaurants directly on the marina, you can enjoy takeout from nearby eateries and find benches along the boardwalk to eat with a view.
Clyde's Drive-In is famous for burgers with a view of the Mackinac Bridge. Gateway City Garage offers smash burgers, and Salty Mac is a local brewery with self-serve taps.
Yes, downtown St. Ignace now has a social zone, allowing you to enjoy food and drinks from participating establishments in designated outdoor areas.
Absolutely! St. Ignace has several drive-ins and casual eateries perfect for a quick and tasty meal before or after visiting the marina.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse, the boardwalk with boats in the background, and views of the Mackinac Bridge are prime photography locations. Sunset can also offer beautiful light.
Yes, the marina offers excellent vantage points to photograph the large Great Lakes freighters as they pass through the Straits of Mackinac.
Consider a helicopter tour for aerial shots of the Mackinac Bridge and surrounding area, or visit Castle Rock for panoramic views.
Early morning or late afternoon/evening (golden hour) often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Yes, St. Ignace offers several viewpoints of the iconic Mackinac Bridge, including from the marina area and various points along the waterfront.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
⚓ Boaters & Anglers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Straits: Boating to Mackinac Island
Beyond the marina, the Straits of Mackinac are a vital shipping channel for Great Lakes freighters. From the St. Ignace waterfront, you can often witness these massive vessels navigating the waters, a truly impressive sight for maritime enthusiasts. The proximity to Mackinac Island also makes St. Ignace a convenient departure point for those looking to explore the island's charm by boat, offering a unique perspective compared to the standard ferry experience.
St. Ignace: The Gateway to Michigan's Upper Peninsula
The town offers a variety of unique experiences that complement a visit to the marina. Consider a helicopter tour for breathtaking aerial views of the Mackinac Bridge and the surrounding landscape, or climb Castle Rock for panoramic vistas. St. Ignace also hosts various car and truck shows throughout the year, drawing enthusiasts and adding a lively atmosphere to the town, with the marina area often providing scenic backdrops. This blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant local events makes St. Ignace a compelling destination in its own right, with the public marina serving as a central hub.
Culinary Delights with a View
For those looking to explore further, downtown St. Ignace has embraced a 'social zone' concept, allowing patrons to enjoy food and drinks from participating venues in designated outdoor areas, enhancing the dining experience. The town also boasts breweries like Salty Mac, featuring a unique self-serve tap system, perfect for sampling local craft beers. Whether you're craving a classic burger, a casual bite, or a craft brew, St. Ignace provides ample opportunities to dine with a view, complementing your marina visit.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit