Beachfront Getaway In Ludington

By Norman Reed Managing Editor

Located on Lake Michigan’s shores, this community of around 7800 in offers the perfect summer getaway with scenic sand dunes, local breweries, and laidback beach vibes.

Enjoy the Beach

Stearns Park hosts the largest beach in Ludington, featuring 2,500 feet of sandy shoreline, free parking, concessions, picnic spots, and the iconic Ludington North Breakwater Light. Join the public Sunset Bonfires on the fourth Thursday of the month from June through August for live music and stunning sunsets.

Fishing: Charter a boat through the Ludington Charter Boat Association to fish for salmon, trout, and steelhead.

Waterfront Sculpture Park: South of Stearns Park Beach, this park has bronze sculptures, a children’s playground, and is perfect for watching the S.S. Badger.

Buttersville Park: A dog-friendly beach with fewer crowds, ideal for games of fetch and water fun with your furry friend.

Explore Ludington State Park

Ludington State Park spans 5,300 acres with Hamlin Lake to the east and Lake Michigan to the west. Popular activities include:

Lighthouse Trail: A 3-mile hike through sand dunes to Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Climb the 112-foot tower for breathtaking views.

The park has more than 300 campsites and three concession shops. Rent bikes, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and boats. The Lake Michigan Beach House offers snacks and exhibits. Note: The park will be closed for renovations from September 2024 to July 2025.

Dive into History

Port of Ludington Maritime Museum: Explore the area’s nautical past with exhibits on lighthouse optics, car ferry life, and local shipwrecks. It is open through October 19.

Historic White Pine Village: Step back in time to the late 19th and early 20th centuries with historical buildings and a post-visit ice cream treat.

Cultural Trails: Discover the area’s history through self-guided trails focusing on agriculture, barn quilts, sculptures, lumber, music, and maritime heritage.

Ludington Area Center for the Arts: Visit for summer art exhibits and the West Shore Art Fair in Rotary Park from July 6-7, featuring fine artists, live music, and children’s activities.

Savor Local Flavors

Jamesport Brewing Company: Enjoy a variety of beers, including the blueberry wheat, in their pet-friendly Portside Garden.

Ludington Bay Brewing Co.: Try locally inspired brews like “S.S. Badger Blue” and “James Street Brown Ale.”

Suds on the Shore Craft Beer + Wine Festival: Held on August 17 in Rotary Park, featuring craft brews, wines, ciders, meads, cocktails, and live music.

Cluck Bucket Food Truck: Seasonal offerings include pulled chicken, mac and cheese, and fresh-baked pretzels with various dips.

Old Hamlin Restaurant: A beloved spot for all-day breakfast, steak dinners, and hot sandwiches.

Stix: An entertainment center with a nautical-themed restaurant, outdoor biergarten, bowling, and live music.

House of Flavors: End your night with ice cream classics like banana splits and hot fudge brownie sundaes, or try “The Original Pig’s Dinner.”

Enjoy your extended weekend in Ludington, a town that’s easy to love and hard to leave.