Port Austin, MI

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Pure Michigan
Photo by Sarah Kelson
Photo by Aaron Bronkema
Embrace the great outdoors in this peaceful country village, where Lake Huron’s waves lap the shore and nothing seems urgent.

The township of Port Austin has plenty to offer families on vacation. Paddle along picturesque shoreline, hike the forest trails and learn about local history.

Head to the sandy beaches at Port Crescent State Park. Walk through forests, check out dunes and fish off the wooden deck. This natural attraction a 10-minute drive away from the town makes a wonderful spot for a picnic among the trees. Join locals for a bit of cross-country skiing through the woods if you’re here in winter.

Kayak along the shores of beautiful Lake Huron to see Turnip Rock. This local landmark appears to be balancing in the crystal-clear lake waters. Book a paddling tour to the Port Austin Lighthouse 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from the harbor on top of a craggy reef. This striking structure was built in 1878 to ensure that ships passed safely.

Bring binoculars for bird watching at Huron County Nature Center and Wilderness Arboretum. You’ll find miles of trails and boardwalks winding through the marshes and woodland. Read the informational signs along the paths to learn about native plants and animals.

Go on a horse ride at the Knoblock Riding Stable, rent a bicycle or enjoy a round at the miniature gold course. Arrange a fishing charter, go scuba diving or try water-skiing. The possibilities for fun water activities are seemingly endless.

Squeeze in a bit of culture by visiting the interesting Port Austin History Center. You might also like to check out the exhibits at the White Church Gallery of Grindstone, an art gallery showcasing the work of local artists.

If you don’t think you can fit all of these activities into one day, select from plenty of great accommodations and eating options available around town. Port Austin is a little town with a lot to offer.

Sun & Sand Resort

Sun & Sand Resort

2 out of 5
891 Port Austin Rd, Port Austin, MI
The price is NT$3,670 per night from Oct 9 to Oct 10
NT$3,670
NT$3,890 total
Oct 9 - Oct 10
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Port Austin. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Veteran's Memorial Park and Bird Creek Park are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (60 reviews)
"The room was very nicely decorated, appreciated the retro theme. It was a little small for two people and a dog but overall, very nice."

Reviewed on 2025/9/27

Sun & Sand Resort
Lakeside Motor Lodge

Lakeside Motor Lodge

2 out of 5
8654 Lake Street, Port Austin, MI
The price is NT$3,385 per night from Oct 16 to Oct 17
NT$3,385
NT$3,696 total
Oct 16 - Oct 17
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Port Austin. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Veteran's Memorial Park and Bird Creek Park are located ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (174 reviews)
"We enjoyed our stay at the Lakeside Motor Lodge. Our room was very basic, but comfortable. Definitely a no-frills motel, but it was very clean and welcoming."

Reviewed on 2025/10/6

Lakeside Motor Lodge
Blue Spruce Motel

Blue Spruce Motel

2 out of 5
8527 Lake St, Port Austin, MI
Stay at this motel in Port Austin. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (212 reviews)
"Cabin was clean, but beds weren’t so great. Mattresses were pretty hard. Also, a small table, or even a chair would have nice to put things on. All that was in the room was one small nightstand for only one of the two beds. Be aware that Hotels.com makes it look like you are booking an actual motel ..."

Reviewed on 2025/9/28

Blue Spruce Motel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Little Yellow Cottages

Little Yellow Cottages

3 out of 5
114 Union St, Port Austin, MI
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Port Austin. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a picnic area. Popular attractions Veteran's Memorial Park and Bird Creek Park ...
Great stay at the little yellow cottages!
"Great stay for our family of 4. Had everything we needed for the weekend. Also met some wonderful people staying in another cottage around the shared campfire."

Reviewed on 2024/10/25

Little Yellow Cottages
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Reviews of Port Austin

4.8
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
4
5 - Excellent 80%
4 - Good
1
4 - Good 20%
3 - Okay
0
3 - Okay 0%
2 - Disappointing
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2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

We come up to Port Austin often.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

really enjoyed the Farmer's Mkt and art festival this past Saturday. Came home with some unique gifts. I discovered a gift shop in the Ace Hardware store (upstairs) - you must go see! The new Lake Street Bar is clean & nice - good vibe!!