Ludington is a lively port town set at the mouth of the Pere Marquette River and surrounded by the pristine Lake Michigan shoreline. It’s a gateway to the Gold Coast and puts you within striking distance of sandy beaches, rolling dunes and postcard-perfect lighthouses. Venture inland to discover boutique wineries and family-friendly fruit orchards.
Things to do in Ludington
Stearns Park Beach stretches for more than 700 metres along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The soft sand is perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles. Facilities like a playground, café and minigolf course make it popular with families. A short trail leads to the North Breakwater Light, a fantastic place to enjoy the sunset and watch the famous S.S. Badger Carferry cruising into the harbour.
Ludington State Park stretches along the banks of Lake Michigan and is fringed by sandy beaches. Relax on the sand, swim in the lake and stretch your legs on the hiking trail to Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Guided tours take you behind the scenes of the 34-metre tall lighthouse.
Escape the crowds in the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area, a 1,400-hectare reserve set within the Huron-Manistee National Forest. It protects some of the most beautiful stretches of the Lake Michigan shoreline and is a haven for local birdlife. Hiking trails wind through the forest and across the enormous dunes, some more than 40 metres high.
Ludington is one of the top sport fishing destinations in Michigan, with the chance to reel in trophy-sized salmon. In addition to Lake Michigan charters, you can cast a line in Hamlin Lake for pike, perch, bass and bluegill.
Getting around Ludington
Ludington is compact and easy to get around on foot. Parking is available throughout the town centre and at popular beaches and parks. The S.S. Badger Carferry runs between Ludington and Manitowoc in Wisconsin from May to October. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is a four-hour drive away.