Rising from the remote shores of St. Martin Island in northern Lake Michigan, this striking lighthouse was built in 1905 to guide vessels through the treacherous straits between Lakes Michigan and Huron. The hexagonal concrete tower — a distinctive departure from the region’s typical brick designs — stands as one of Michigan’s most isolated and least accessible lights. Still an active navigational aid, the lighthouse is not open to the public, and the island itself is only reachable by private boat. Photographers find the best light during summer’s golden hours, when the tower glows against dramatic lake skies. Nearby, the Straits of Mackinac offer Mackinac Island, historic Fort Mackinac, and excellent kayaking.

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