South Manitou Island Lighthouse

South Manitou Island Lighthouse is a white tower rising 20 meters high on Lake Michigan's shore, equipped with a third-order Fresnel lens. A covered passage connects the tower to the keeper's dwelling and supporting structures nearby.

The lighthouse was established in 1838 to guide ships through the only natural harbor between the Straits of Mackinac and Chicago. It became an essential navigation aid for vessels traversing this challenging stretch of water.

The lighthouse stands within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where Native American stories explain the origin of Manitou Islands. Local legends tell of two bear cubs that crossed Lake Michigan and were transformed into the islands.

The island is accessible only by ferry from Leland, which requires planning ahead for your visit. Climbing the tower stairs rewards you with views across Lake Michigan and the Manitou Passage.

The keeper's dwelling was constructed in 1858 from yellow bricks, with the construction date carved into the southern wall. These original bricks remain visible to visitors today.

Location: Michigan

Inception: 1840

Architects: Orlando Metcalfe Poe

Height: 20 m

GPS coordinates: 45.00720,-86.09390

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:26