Harbours: Exploring Port Sanilac, Michigan

Nestled on the western shore of Lake Huron, Port Sanilac, Michigan, is a classic harbour town that blends history, charm, and boating convenience. Just 90 miles north of Detroit, this small waterfront village is a favorite for cruisers making their way along Michigan’s “Thumb Coast” as well as families seeking a quiet weekend getaway on the Great Lakes. With a well-kept harbour, modern amenities, and a community that embraces its nautical heritage, Port Sanilac has plenty to offer boaters and visitors alike.

The Harbour and Marina Facilities

At the heart of Port Sanilac is its municipal harbour, a well-managed facility that provides transient slips, seasonal dockage, and full boating services. The marina accommodates vessels up to 60 feet in length, with both power and water hookups available. Amenities include:

• 90+ slips for seasonal and transient boaters
• Fuel dock with gasoline and diesel
• Pump-out station
• Restrooms and showers
• Picnic areas with grills
• Wi-Fi access

The harbour is a harbour of refuge, which means it is designed as a safe haven for boaters seeking shelter during unexpected Lake Huron weather. This feature alone makes Port Sanilac a vital waypoint for sailors and cruisers traversing the lake.

Nearby harbours along the same coast include Lexington State Harbor (just 12 miles south) and Harbor Beach Marina (about 20 miles north). These options make it easy for boaters to plan short day hops along Michigan’s eastern shoreline, connecting a string of welcoming communities.

Things to Do in Port Sanilac

Port Sanilac is more than just a stop for fuel and dockage—it’s a destination with history, entertainment, and recreation.

1. Sanilac County Historical Village & Museum

Located just a mile from the harbour, this living history complex offers a step back into Michigan’s 19th-century past. The grounds include over a dozen preserved buildings, including a schoolhouse, log cabins, and the iconic Lighthouse Keeper’s Home. The museum also hosts Civil War reenactments, farmers’ markets, and community events throughout the summer.

2. Port Sanilac Lighthouse

Built in 1886, the Port Sanilac Lighthouse is still an active navigational aid on Lake Huron. While the tower itself is not always open to the public, the grounds are accessible, and visitors can enjoy the sight of this historic structure that has guided sailors for over a century.

3. Local Beaches

The village has several public beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying Lake Huron’s blue waters. The beaches are known for their quiet charm compared to the busier destinations further south.

4. Waterfront Dining and Shops

The waterfront area has a mix of casual restaurants, ice cream shops, and gift boutiques, all within walking distance of the marina. A summer evening stroll along Main Street often leads to live music or outdoor dining overlooking the lake.

5. Fishing and Diving

Anglers will find that Lake Huron waters off Port Sanilac are well-stocked with salmon, lake trout, and walleye. The area is also popular with scuba divers, thanks to several shipwrecks in the Sanilac Shores Underwater Preserve, one of Michigan’s premier diving destinations.

Dining and Local Flavors

For a small harbour town, Port Sanilac has a good range of dining choices:

• Stone Lodge: A cozy restaurant known for hearty American fare, including steaks and seafood.
• Uri’s Landing: A favorite for its lake views and diverse menu, ideal for dinner after a day on the water.
• Blue Water Sports Bar & Grill: Casual, lively, and popular with locals. Great for burgers, wings, and a cold beer.
• Lakeview Motel & Restaurant: A spot that offers breakfast classics and comfort food staples.
• Mary’s Diner: A traditional diner experience, perfect for a hearty breakfast before setting out on the lake.

For dessert, the Village Pub & Ice Cream Parlor or one of the seasonal pop-up ice cream stands near the marina make for a sweet treat on warm evenings.

Outdoor Recreation Beyond the Harbour

Port Sanilac is also a gateway to outdoor activities beyond boating:

• Hiking and Biking Trails: The area has quiet country roads and small trails perfect for cycling and walking. The Bridge to Bay Trail, while not directly in town, is accessible with a short drive and offers long stretches for serious cyclists.
• Golfing: The Huron Shores Golf Club is just a few miles inland, offering a well-maintained 18-hole course.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Calm mornings on Lake Huron make for great paddling opportunities, with rental options available near the harbour.

In winter, Port Sanilac transitions into a hub for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, proving that the town thrives year-round, not just in boating season.

Events and Seasonal Highlights

Port Sanilac has a lively calendar of events that make it especially appealing during the summer months:

• Music in the Park: Free weekly concerts held at the harbour.
• Boat Blessing Ceremony: A local tradition marking the start of the boating season.
• Civil War Days at the Historical Village.
• Harbour Festivals with food vendors, crafts, and fireworks.

These events give visitors a taste of the community spirit and are often timed perfectly for transient boaters stopping in for the weekend.

Nearby Harbours and Day Trips

If you’re cruising the Lake Huron shoreline, Port Sanilac is ideally situated between several other boating destinations:

• Lexington State Harbor (12 miles south): A larger marina with a lively downtown featuring shops, restaurants, and summer concerts.
• Harbor Beach Marina (20 miles north): Known as the “world’s largest man-made freshwater harbour,” offering excellent protection and a charming small-town atmosphere.
• Port Austin (farther north): At the tip of Michigan’s “Thumb,” Port Austin is known for kayaking, Turnip Rock, and farmer’s markets.

These locations make for convenient day sails or weekend hops, with Port Sanilac serving as a comfortable midpoint.

Practical Boating Information

• Coordinates: 43°25′N 82°32′W
• Depth: Harbour entrance depth is maintained around 10 feet, suitable for most cruising sailboats and powerboats.
• Harbour Office: VHF Channel 9 and 16 for docking assistance.
• Fuel Prices: Expect to pay between USD $5.00–$5.50 per gallon for gasoline and slightly more for diesel in 2025 (approx. CAD $6.80–$7.50).
• Slip Fees: Typically around USD $1.25 per foot, per night (approx. CAD $2.25).

Disclaimer: Prices vary by season and are subject to change.

Why Stop in Port Sanilac?

For boaters navigating Lake Huron, Port Sanilac is more than just a practical stop—it’s a place where you can step off the dock and immediately feel part of the community. With its historic lighthouse, welcoming harbour, and easy access to restaurants and attractions, it’s an ideal waypoint whether you’re cruising the Thumb Coast or planning a leisurely weekend escape.

The combination of reliable marina facilities, a safe harbour of refuge, and small-town charm makes Port Sanilac a standout destination on Michigan’s Lake Huron shoreline.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a sailor chasing the horizon, a family looking for an accessible boating trip, or a history buff drawn to lighthouses and preserved villages, Port Sanilac has something to offer. It’s a harbour that feels both practical and personal—a place where the lake meets heritage, and where boaters can count on both shelter and a warm welcome.