Top 5 Must-Do Activities on Lake Huron

Lake Huron, one of the Great Lakes, is renowned for its stunning beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant activities. At Sunny Side Cottages, you’re perfectly situated to explore all that this natural gem has to offer. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or just looking to unwind, here are five must-do activities to make your stay unforgettable:

1. Beachcombing and Sunbathing

With over 150 feet of private sandy beachfront, Sunny Side Cottages offers an idyllic spot to relax and enjoy the lake. Spend your mornings strolling along the shore, collecting unique stones or driftwood, or simply soaking up the morning sun. The soft sand and gentle waves make it the perfect place to lay out a blanket, read a book, or just unwind with the sound of the water.

For those who love photography, the lake provides an ever-changing canvas of colors. Sunrise over Lake Huron is particularly spectacular, casting golden hues across the water. Don’t miss this serene start to your day.

2. Water Sports and Fishing

Lake Huron’s clear, calm waters are perfect for water sports. Bring your kayak or paddleboard and explore the shoreline at your own pace. The tranquil environment makes it ideal for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. If swimming is your activity of choice, you’ll find the shallow areas near the shore to be safe and family-friendly.

Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to love, as Lake Huron is home to a variety of fish, including trout, walleye, and bass. Cast a line right from the shore or bring a boat to access deeper waters. Whether you’re fishing for dinner or sport, the lake offers a rewarding experience.

3. Hiking at Harrisville State Park

A short drive from Sunny Side Cottages, Harrisville State Park is a haven for nature lovers. With well-maintained trails that wind through lush forests and along the lakeshore, the park is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, you’ll encounter native plants and wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography.

Pack a picnic and enjoy your meal in one of the park’s designated areas, surrounded by nature. In the fall, the vibrant foliage adds an extra layer of beauty to the experience, making it a must-see for autumn visitors.

4. Explore Oscoda Beach Park

Just a short trip from the cottages, Oscoda Beach Park offers a family-friendly environment with something for everyone. The park features a well-kept boardwalk, playgrounds for kids, and plenty of open space to relax or play. It’s an excellent spot for a day trip, whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the views.

For those looking to explore further, the park is close to local shops and eateries, offering a chance to sample the area’s charm and cuisine.

5. Bonfires and Stargazing

One of the most magical parts of staying at Sunny Side Cottages is the chance to unwind by a bonfire. Gather your family or friends around one of the property’s fire pits, roast marshmallows, and share stories as the sun sets over the lake. As the night deepens, look up to experience some of the best stargazing Michigan has to offer. With minimal light pollution, the night sky over Lake Huron is a dazzling display of constellations, planets, and shooting stars.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, Lake Huron offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories. Make the most of your stay at Sunny Side Cottages by embracing these must-do activities and experiencing the lake to its fullest.

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Manitoulin Island: A Day Trip That’s Big on Adventure (and Yes, It’s the World’s Largest Freshwater Island!)

April 15, 2025

Okay, Michigan vacationers, let’s talk about an island so cool it’s practically a personality trait—Manitoulin Island. If you’re staying at Sunny Side Cottages (aka your new favorite cabin rental in Michigan), then buckle up because this charming, offbeat destination is a scenic hop, skip, and a ferry ride away—and it’s so worth the detour. Wait, what’s Manitoulin Island again? Let’s get one thing straight: Manitoulin Island isn’t just an island. It’s the largest freshwater island in the entire world. That’s right—Lake Huron said, “Go big or go home,” and Manitoulin delivered. This Canadian gem sits just north of the Michigan border, and while it’s in Ontario, it’s easily accessible for U.S. travelers looking to level up their getaway with a little international flair. Passport, please! ✈️🇨🇦 How to Get There from Sunny Side Cottages Sunny Side Cottages is already the perfect hub for a Michigan vacation rental—but why not make your trip even more memorable with a day (or overnight!) trip to Manitoulin? You can drive up the scenic coast to Tobermory, Ontario (about 3.5 hours from the cottage), then board the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry—a floating mini-cruise, if you will. The ferry runs from spring through fall, and it's part of the adventure, offering onboard amenities and jaw-dropping views of Lake Huron. 🚗 Drive to Tobermory 🚢 Hop on the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry 🏝️ Arrive on Manitoulin Island—cue the magic For ferry schedules and bookings, check out: ontarioferries.com So… What’s There to Do? Short answer: A lot . Longer answer: enough to keep the whole crew smiling, whether you're wrangling kids, corralling your BFFs, or sneaking away with your sweetie. Here’s what we recommend: 🥾 Go Chasing Views on the Cup and Saucer Trail Do you want epic Instagram pics? This one’s for you. The Cup and Saucer Trail is one of Ontario’s most famous hikes, with panoramic views, dramatic cliffs, and enough wow-factor to make you forget your legs are tired. 🌿 Visit Bridal Veil Falls Cue the oohs and ahhs. This dreamy waterfall in Kagawong is straight out of a fairy tale—and bonus, there’s a swimming hole at the bottom. Pack your suits! 🛶 Paddle or Fish the Day Away Manitoulin is surrounded by water, so obviously kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are all major players here. Bring your gear or rent locally and enjoy a peaceful day on the lake (or brag-worthy bass if you’ve got the skills). 🧑‍🎨 Get a Taste of Local Culture The island is home to a vibrant Indigenous Anishinaabe community, with art galleries, cultural centers, and experiences that offer a deep, meaningful connection to the land and its history. Visit Ojibwe Cultural Foundation or browse the M’Chigeeng art scene to add a little heart to your trip. 🍦 And Don’t Forget the Ice Cream Yes, we’re serious. Small-town Canada knows how to do sweet treats right, and no day trip is complete without a stop at a local scoop shop. Tips for the Trip Pack snacks and layers. Ferry rides and hiking trails don’t wait for hangry humans or surprise breezes. Charge your phone. Trust us—you’ll want pics of everything. Start early! It’s a full day of fun, especially if you're coming back to your cozy vacation house in Michigan at Sunny Side Cottages. Make Sunny Side Cottages Your Home Base While Manitoulin Island is the star of the day, your stay at Sunny Side Cottages is the main event. After exploring waterfalls and trails, there’s nothing like returning to your lakeside haven to kick back by the firepit, grill up some fresh fish, or just sink into a hammock and exhale. Our resort is the ultimate spot for families, couples, and friend groups looking for vacation house rentals in Michigan that are anything but ordinary. With quirky touches, cozy interiors, and all the charm of the Lake Huron coast, it’s the kind of place where memories practically make themselves. Ready to explore the world’s largest freshwater island—then come home to the best cabin rental Michigan has to offer? Manitoulin Island + Sunny Side Cottages = the vacation combo you didn’t know you needed. Pack your bags, passport, and sense of adventure. We’ll see you on the sand (and maybe the ferry deck too 😉).

Wildlife and Nature: Exploring the Beauty Around Sunny Side Cottages

March 18, 2025

Discover the stunning wildlife and nature near Sunny Side Cottages, a top cabin rental in Michigan. Spot eagles, deer, and more on your perfect getaway!

Why Lake Huron is a Hidden Gem for Vacationers

February 28, 2025

When travelers think of the Great Lakes , destinations like Lake Michigan and Lake Superior often come to mind. But Lake Huron , with its pristine shorelines, maritime history, and outdoor adventure opportunities , remains one of the most underrated gems in the region. Whether you’re looking for secluded beaches, scenic drives, or fascinating historical sites , Lake Huron has something special to offer. Here’s why this lake should be at the top of your travel list. 1. Unspoiled Natural Beauty Lake Huron boasts the longest shoreline of all the Great Lakes , stretching over 3,827 miles . This expansive coastline offers a mix of sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush forests , making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. A must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts is Tawas Point State Park , often called the "Cape Cod of the Midwest." This scenic destination features sweeping sand dunes, hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse perfect for an afternoon adventure. For those who love kayaking and paddleboarding, the clear, shallow waters near Oscoda and Harrisville provide calm, picturesque paddling routes with incredible views of the lake. 2. A Deep Maritime History Lake Huron’s waters hold centuries of maritime history , making it a fascinating destination for history buffs . The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary , located off the coast of Alpena, Michigan, is home to one of the world’s largest collections of shipwrecks . Over 200 well-preserved wrecks rest beneath the surface, making this area a prime destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours . Visitors can explore the eerie remains of sunken steamers and schooners dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries , offering a glimpse into the region’s rich nautical past. Another must-visit historical site is Mackinac Island , where visitors can step back in time with horse-drawn carriages, historic forts, and stunning Victorian architecture . The island, nestled between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, has remained car-free for over a century , preserving its 19th-century charm and tranquil atmosphere . 3. Stunning Beaches Without the Crowds While Lake Michigan and Lake Erie tend to draw large crowds in the summer, Lake Huron’s beaches remain peaceful and uncrowded . For soft sand and clear, shallow waters, Harrisville State Park is a top pick. This family-friendly beach offers picnic areas, walking trails, and breathtaking sunset views . If you’re looking for a more secluded experience, Rockport State Recreation Area is an off-the-beaten-path spot perfect for fossil hunting, kayaking, and exploring rocky coves . With fewer visitors than Michigan’s more famous beaches, it’s a hidden paradise for nature lovers . 4. Outdoor Adventures Year-Round Lake Huron isn’t just a summer destination— it offers adventure in every season : Spring & Summer: Boating, fishing, and hiking along scenic coastal trails. Fishing enthusiasts will find world-class opportunities for walleye, bass, and northern pike . Fall: The shoreline comes alive with brilliant fall foliage , making the Huron Shores Heritage Route one of the most scenic drives in the Midwest. Winter: Ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing transform Lake Huron into a winter playground. The frozen landscape offers breathtaking scenery, and snow-covered trails provide endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. 5. Affordable and Family-Friendly Compared to more commercialized destinations like Traverse City or Mackinac Island , Lake Huron offers an affordable getaway without sacrificing breathtaking scenery or unique experiences. Smaller lakeside towns like Oscoda, Harrisville, and Tawas City provide cozy cabin rentals, locally-owned restaurants, and free nature-based activities , making it the perfect spot for families looking for an affordable vacation with plenty to explore . 6. Unique Island Getaways While Mackinac Island is the most well-known, Lake Huron is home to several lesser-known islands that offer unique escapes: Drummond Island: Known as the "Gem of the Huron," this island features off-roading trails, kayaking routes, and incredible wildlife viewing . Bois Blanc Island: A quiet alternative to Mackinac , this secluded island is perfect for hiking, fishing, and unplugging from modern life . For those seeking an adventurous island experience , these lesser-visited destinations offer a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration . Final Thoughts For travelers looking for stunning scenery, rich history, and outdoor adventure without the crowds and high prices of more tourist-heavy destinations , Lake Huron is an underrated paradise . Whether you’re drawn to its maritime heritage, pristine beaches, or endless outdoor activities , this Great Lake is a hidden gem worth discovering . And if you’re planning your visit, Sunny Side Cottages offers the perfect lakeside escape —conveniently located near Lake Huron’s best beaches, hiking trails, and small-town charm . Book your stay today and start exploring!