Explore the Thumb

More things to do in Port Austin & Caseville, Michigan

Make a day of it—or stay a little longer! Discover beaches, scenic spots, local favorites, and family fun around Michigan’s beautiful Thumb coast.

Port Austin

Beach & nature

Port Crescent State Park

Explore sandy Lake Huron beaches, dunes, and nature trails near Port Austin.

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Nature trails & wildlife

Huron County Nature Center & Wilderness Arboretum

Explore peaceful wooded walking trails, discover native plants and wildlife, and enjoy a quiet escape into nature on Loosemore Road near Port Austin.

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Tip-A-Thumb Favorite · History & Scenery

Historic Huron City & Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse

One of our favorite scenic corners of the Thumb! Discover the historic charm of Huron City, beautiful Lake Huron shoreline views, and the nearby Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse. Great for sightseeing, photos, and local history. The historic village and lighthouse are separate stops; building access and visiting hours may vary.

Local favorites

Port Austin Farmers Market

Browse local produce, crafts, and seasonal finds during market season.

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Scenic landmark

Turnip Rock

One of Lake Huron’s most recognizable natural landmarks, best viewed from the water. Turnip Rock is not accessible from Tip-A-Thumb’s Pinnebog River route. For information about kayaking to Turnip Rock, visit Port Austin Kayak.

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Waterfront

Port Austin State Harbor

Enjoy a walk by the waterfront and take in the harbor atmosphere.

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Caseville

Beach & nature

Caseville County Park

Enjoy the Lake Huron shoreline and a classic beach day in Caseville.

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Village stroll

Caseville Waterfront

Explore the village waterfront, local shops, and places to eat.

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Seasonal event

Cheeseburger in Caseville

Learn about the community’s popular seasonal celebration and check event dates before visiting.

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Family Fun & Local Businesses

Mini golf · Family fun

Sandy Dunes Putt-Putt

Enjoy a round of miniature golf with family and friends while exploring the Thumb. A fun stop after a day at the beach!

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2755 Port Austin Road, Port Austin

989-738-6066

Lake Huron · Fishing charters

MI Maverick Sportfishing Charters

Head out on Lake Huron with Captain Paul Nienaltowski for a fishing adventure targeting lake trout, walleye, and salmon. Based in Port Austin.

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Canoes & kayaks

Tip-A-Thumb Canoe Rental

Paddle the Pinnebog River to the sandy beach at Port Crescent and back. Family-owned since 1975.

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Tip-A-Thumb Favorites

After a day on the Pinnebog, grab a bite at one of our local favorites! Here are a few places we enjoy around Michigan’s Thumb.

Pinnebog

Heck’s Bar

A hometown stop for a bite to eat after a day exploring the Thumb.

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Caseville

Lefty’s

A local favorite to check out while visiting Caseville.

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Grindstone City

Shelly’s

A welcoming stop near the Lake Huron shoreline in Grindstone City.

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Port Austin

K-Blocks BBQ

Stop by for barbecue while exploring the Port Austin area.

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Tip-A-Thumb Recommended Markets & Essentials

Need snacks, supplies, or cash before heading out on the river? These two nearby local markets are handy stops for visitors.

Port Austin · Party Store & Camping Supplies

Port Crescent Market

Across from Port Crescent State Park campground, this convenient local market carries snacks, groceries, coffee, firewood, and camping and fishing essentials.

1799 Port Austin Road, Port Austin

989-450-3465

Port Austin · Meat Market & Groceries

Walt’s Meat Market

A local favorite for fresh-cut meats, house-made sausages, deli items, baked goods, and other essentials—great for stocking up before a weekend by the lake.

3189 Port Austin Road, Port Austin

989-738-7020

Tip-A-Thumb Recommended Local Services

From roadside assistance to home improvements, here are a few more local businesses we'd like to share with our visitors.

Local Healthcare & Emergency Resources

Exploring the Thumb? Here's a nearby hospital to know about during your visit.

Hours, events, availability, and access may change seasonally. Check with each attraction or business before heading out. Map links open location searches.