Charlevoix’s red lighthouse stands where the town’s channel opens into Lake Michigan. Blue railings lead toward its steel legs, and boats pass close by on their way between the lake and harbor. In daylight the tower is a bright point of color; at sunset, its lantern and outline become part of the changing lake horizon.
Quick Facts
| Location | South Pier, Pine River Channel entrance, Charlevoix, Michigan |
|---|---|
| Waterway | Lake Michigan; entrance to Round Lake and Lake Charlevoix |
| Station established | 1885, with a wooden light on the north pier |
| Present tower | 1948 |
| Tower height | Approximately 40 feet |
| Construction | Square tapered steel tower with an open braced lower section |
| Appearance | Red tower and gallery; black lantern |
| Status | Active aid to navigation |
| Ownership | City of Charlevoix |
| Preservation | Charlevoix Historical Society |
| Light operation | U.S. Coast Guard |
| Visitor access | Public exterior viewing from the beach and pier; tower closed |
History & Description
Charlevoix’s first pierhead lighthouse was erected on the north pier in 1885. The wooden structure later moved to the south pier as the harbor developed. Its purpose was practical: to identify the entrance from Lake Michigan and guide vessels toward the protected waters beyond the channel.
In 1948, the present steel tower replaced the aging wooden light. The design combines an enclosed upper body with an open, cross-braced base. A gallery surrounds the lantern above. It is a compact harbor structure whose shape remains easy to recognize from the water.
The lighthouse’s color has changed during its service. It was painted white for a period before restoration returned it to red in 2009. The City of Charlevoix owns the structure, the Charlevoix Historical Society cares for its preservation, and the Coast Guard operates the light.
That shared stewardship continues today. Preservation work has addressed the concrete base, lantern, coatings, and steel surfaces, including a substantial painting and repair project in 2025. Maintaining the structure protects both a working navigation light and a familiar part of the town’s waterfront.
Todd’s photographs place the tower in that working setting: the Emerald Isle ferry at the entrance, gulls over the beach, pedestrians along the channel, and the drawbridge framing the distant light. These are different views of the same connection between town and lake.
Historical references: U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office · Charlevoix Historical Society.
Visitor Information
Visit for the exterior, the waterfront walk, and the changing views across Lake Michigan. The lighthouse is accessible from the Lake Michigan Beach area near downtown.
- Find the lighthouse
- Follow the waterfront toward the South Pier at the Lake Michigan end of Pine River Channel. The lighthouse directory places the pierhead at the foot of Grant Street, about two blocks west of US-31. Open the lighthouse location →
- Access
- The pier and beach provide exterior views. The tower is closed; do not plan on a climb or interior tour. Follow current signs and any pier closures.
- Conditions
- The pier is exposed to Lake Michigan. Stay ashore when waves wash across it or ice makes the walkway unsafe. The beach offers a useful alternative viewpoint.
- Photographs
- Try the beach for a side view, the pier railings for a direct approach, and the channel for boats passing the light. Sunset adds warm sky color and a darker tower silhouette.
- Learn more
- The Historical Society’s Museum at Harsha House, 103 State Street, provides local maritime history and Lighthouse Passport stamping. Check its current hours with the Historical Society.
Visitor information checked October 11, 2026 against the Historical Society and University of North Carolina Lighthouse Directory. Follow posted conditions at the waterfront.
Photo Gallery
Ten photographs by Todd. Select a photograph to view it larger.
From our Etsy shop
Bring Charlevoix Home
The red tower, the blue pier railings, and a sky brushed with gold—Charlevoix’s waterfront makes a memorable impression. Keep that lakeshore feeling close with a vintage-inspired South Pier Lighthouse poster.
A reminder of a favorite Michigan getaway, or a thoughtful gift for someone who loves lighthouses.
Shop the Charlevoix Poster →View available options and current pricing on Etsy.
Follow the Northwest Michigan Shore
Explore more lighthouse sites along Lake Michigan and its islands.
Explore the Michigan lighthouse map →