Tawas Point State Park is one of our favorite places for a relaxing Michigan beach day. Between the historic lighthouse, calm Lake Huron shoreline, and the charming town of East Tawas just minutes away, it’s an easy destination to enjoy at your own pace. We never leave Tawas without stopping at Ben Franklin in downtown East Tawas before heading to the beach. The park is known for its shallow, warm water, Victorian lighthouse, and beautiful views along Lake Huron.
⭐ Why I Recommend It
If you’re looking for a laid-back day on the water instead of a packed itinerary, this is the perfect place. We love that you can spend the morning exploring the lighthouse, cool off at the beach in the afternoon, and wander through downtown East Tawas before heading home. It’s become one of those places we find ourselves returning to again and again.
Quick Facts
- 📍 Location: East Tawas, Michigan
- 🏖️ Known For: Sandy beach, historic lighthouse, birdwatching
- ⏱️ Suggested Visit: 2–5 hours (or a full day if you’re spending time at the beach)
- 🗓️ Best Time to Visit: Late May – October (summer for swimming)
- 📸 Highlights: Lighthouse, sandy beach, shallow water, sunsets
Visitor Tips
- 🌊 The water is shallow near the shore, making it a great spot for families with children.
- 🧺 Pack a picnic or beach gear if you plan to stay for the afternoon.
- 🛍️ Leave time to explore downtown East Tawas—Ben Franklin is one of our family’s favorite stops.
- 🌅 Stay into the evening if you can. It’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset over Lake Huron.
🍁 Extend Your Adventure
If you’re visiting Tawas in the fall, don’t miss these nearby stops!
Lumberman’s Monument Visitor Center
Just a short scenic drive from Tawas, this was one of our favorite side trips. The views over the Au Sable River are stunning, and the visitor center does a great job sharing Michigan’s lumbering history. It’s a fun stop for both kids and adults.
⭐ Why I Recommend It
We love pairing Lumberman’s Monument with a trip to Tawas because it offers a completely different side of northeast Michigan. Walking the Highbanks Trail, climbing the sand dunes, and stopping at the scenic overlooks above the Au Sable River make this one of our favorite fall adventures. It’s a peaceful place where you can enjoy nature, learn a little Michigan history, and take in some incredible views.
Quick Facts
- 📍 Location: Oscoda Township, Michigan
- 🕛 Hours: 10 am – 5 pm
- ⏱️ Time Needed: 1-2 Hours
- 🍁 Best Time to Visit: September–October for fall colors, or May–October for hiking
Visitor Tips
- 🪜 Skip the 270+ stairs if you just want the scenic views. The overlook near the monument offers beautiful views of the Au Sable River without the climb. If you do take the stairs, there are benches along the way to rest.
- 🅿️ Parking is FREE.
- 🎁 Browse the gift shop and interactive visitor center to learn about Michigan’s logging history.
- 🥾 Several hiking trails begin here, including the Highbanks Trail and shorter family-friendly walks.
Iargo Springs
Just a few minutes farther down River Road, Iargo Springs features wooden boardwalks leading to crystal-clear natural springs and beautiful overlooks. In autumn, the colorful trees surrounding the Au Sable River make this one of the prettiest fall destinations we’ve visited in northeast Michigan.
⭐ Why I Recommend It
Iargo Springs is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem. The short boardwalk trail leads to beautiful overlooks of the Au Sable River, crystal-clear springs, and peaceful forest scenery. We love stopping here every fall because the colorful trees make the views even more breathtaking.
Quick Facts
- 📍 Location: Oscoda Township, Michigan
- 🕛 Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round
- ⏱️ Time Needed: 1-2 Hours
- 🍁 Best Time to Visit: September–October for fall colors, or May–October for hiking
Visitor Tips
- 🪜 The 300 steps are a workout, so use the resting benches along the way.
- 💦 Bring water and wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the boardwalk and climb the stairs.
- 🅿️ Parking is FREE.
- 🚻 Pit toilets are available.
- 📷 Bring your camera—the overlooks are some of the most photogenic spots along River Road, especially during fall color season.
💡 Worthing Wanders Tip: We love combining Iargo Springs with Lumberman’s Monument and a day in Tawas. Together, they make one of our favorite fall day trips in Michigan.