Beyond Mackinac: 8 Captivating Michigan Islands to Explore

Whether you are a native Michigan resident, or have never visited the Great Lakes state, you've heard of Mackinac Island. Although this 4.35 square mile island's 2020 census showed a permanent population of just 583 people, its visitors surpass the 1,000,000 mark each year. But Mackinac is not Michigan's only island. Let's take a look at some of Michigan's islands that are worth the trip.

North & South Manitou Islands: Let's start with the North Manitou & South Manitou Islands that, because of "The Legend of Sleeping Bear Dunes," many call the heart of Michigan. Commonly described as calm, beautiful, and remote, these islands have no stores or restaurants. They are so desolate, in fact, that there are only a couple places on each of the islands where campers have access to water. Campers are dropped off by ferry once per day to enjoy an escape from reality while hiking, camping, snorkeling around a shipwrecked freighter, and even seeing some of Michigan's biggest and oldest trees.

Bois Blanc: The only way to experience the beauty of Bois Blanc is through the Plaunt Transportation ferry. The fact that many outside of Michigan have not heard of this island is surprising due to the fact that it neighbors Mackinac Island. And even though it is much bigger than Mackinac, it is much more desolate. So desolate, in fact, that the only buildings on the island are a small convenience store and an old inn. The rest of the island is virtually untouched and ready for a visit.

Drummond Island: ORVs or ATVs more your thing? Then Drummond Island, located east of the Upper Peninsula in northern Lake Huron, is the Michigan island for you. Offering over 60 miles of ATV trails, and 40 miles of ORV routes, Drummond Island is considered Michigan's "largest closed loop off-road trail system geared toward newbies, experts, and everyone in between." Sure to be a lot of summer fun.

Grand Island: When it comes to Grand Island, there is something to do 365 days a year, depending on your desired level of adventure. The warm weather months offer waves on the shorelines, cottages for rent, bonfires and relaxation. However, the winter months bring adventurers to explore the beautiful ice caves that line the shores with their blue and green-tinted beauty.

Belle Isle: One of Michigan's most popular islands, Belle Isle has something for everybody year-round. Offering a picture-perfect view of the Detroit skyline to the south, as well as the opportunity to watch freighters cross the river in the summer. There is great ice skating and gorgeous views to be had during the winter months.

Isle Royale: As the fourth largest lake island in the world, and one of Michigan's five national parks, Isle Royale attracts upwards of 17,000 visitors per year. Located in the middle of Lake Superior, wildlife and outdoor adventure await. And, because of its lack of easy accessibility, (but definitely not its beauty) it is actually one of the least visited national parks in the country. If you can handle the 5-hour boat ride from the Upper Peninsula, the secluded beauty at the end of the ride is worth the trip.

Les Cheneaux Islands: Approximately 30 miles northeast of the Mackinac Bridge, you can experience the series of 36 islands that stretch along 12 miles of Lake Huron's shoreline. The name "Les Cheneaux" is French for "The Channels." This beautiful stretch of Michigan islands is perfect for sailing and boating due to the protection from the Great Lakes' winds provided by all the trees on shorelines throughout the channels.

Beaver Island: Located 27 miles off the coast of Charlevoix, Beaver Island is home to a couple hundred permanent residents. However, summer brings thousands of tourists to visit some of the state's most beautiful beaches, brilliant stars, and crystal-clear waters. During the summer months, residents joke that the only reason to keep time on the island is to make sure you get to the popular Daddy Frank's Ice Cream Shop before it closes.

So where will you visit next? Regardless of your decision, if you choose one of these amazing Michigan islands, you will not regret it!