Two pierhead lights mark Pentwater’s narrow passage between its inland lake and Lake Michigan. From the north pier, a green-banded white beacon stands ahead while the south light rises across the channel, framing the harbor entrance.
Quick Facts
| Location | Pentwater · Oceana County, Michigan |
|---|---|
| Waterway | Lake Michigan · Channel to Pentwater Lake |
| North light | White cylindrical tower with a green band |
| South light history | A steel skeletal beacon replaced the wooden tower in 1937 |
| Harbor history | A wooden south-pier beacon was built in 1873 |
| Navigation | Active Coast Guard aids to navigation |
| Access | Exterior views from the waterfront and public beach |
History & Description
Pentwater’s channel connected its sheltered inland lake with Lake Michigan, supporting the community’s lumber-era harbor. As the entrance was improved, piers and lights helped vessels follow the passage.
A wooden lighthouse was built on the south pier in 1873. Keepers used an elevated catwalk to reach the beacon and tend its lamp above the exposed pier.
In 1937, concrete piers replaced the older timber structures, and a steel skeletal beacon replaced the wooden south-pier tower. Today, the photographs show white column-style beacons with colored bands on opposite sides of the entrance.
Todd’s photographs focus on the North Pierhead Light: a white column with a green band raised on a four-legged base. Wider views show the opposite beacon, shoreline rocks, and the open lake beyond the channel.
Visitor Information
- North-side approach
- Charles Mears State Park at 400 West Lowell Street provides a beach and waterfront setting beside Pentwater’s harbor entrance.
- Viewing both lights
- The north-side beach and waterfront offer views of both pierheads. Stay in public areas and follow posted access restrictions.
- Pier conditions
- Waves can sweep across the concrete, leaving slick surfaces and standing water. View the lights from shore when waves, ice, or weather make the piers unsafe.
- Plan ahead
- Check the Charles Mears State Park information for current access, facilities, and park notices. Plan for exterior views rather than tower visits.
- Photography
- A wide frame captures both lights and the channel. After waves or rain, reflections can add another layer to a view along the north pier; choose a safe, dry viewpoint.
Photo Gallery
Four views of Pentwater’s piers, featuring the North Pierhead Light. Select a photograph to view it larger.
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