blue water area coastline on a beautiful summer day, with boats in the water.

Blue Water Area: Michigan's Thumbcoast Shoreline

Take the scenic 140-mile Thumbcoast road trip this summer! Starting just north of Detroit, this trip is for those who are all about the journey and discovering new places to love. Spend your days exploring nature, hopping between beaches, and practicing the fine art of relaxing!

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Discover Michigan's Thumbcoast

Nature really takes center stage here, shaping a coastline as diverse as it is beautiful from the southern end, with one of the world’s largest freshwater deltas and marshlands, to the northern stretches, with unique rock formations and forested dunes. The water is incredible, perfect for fishing, swimming, or just slowing down, and we even have a few secret beaches for those looking for quieter spots. Eco-conscious travelers will feel at home with the many preserves on land and underwater. You can also explore Michigan’s largest known collection of early Native American teachings carved in stone at one of five state parks in the area. Our agricultural heritage is strong, too, with agritourism experiences that go beyond farmers’ markets, letting you taste, explore, and connect with the land. 

Generations of families keep coming back year after year because the small communities here are welcoming, feel like home, and are incredibly relaxing. And we’re home to the start of the famous Bayview Mackinac Sailing Race; this year marks the 102nd! Right before the race kicks off, the super-fun Blue Water Fest takes over, making it the perfect celebration of summer along the Thumbcoast.

Nine waterfront resort communities - Port Huron, Port Austin/CasevilleHarbor BeachPort SanilacLexingtonMarysvilleSt. Clair, Marine City, and Clay / Algonac welcome you to Michigan's 140-mile Thumbcoast.

videos of the blue water area
Michigan's Thumbcoast with Under the Radar
Discover The Blue: Michigan's Thumbcoast
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Discover Lexington in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Port Sanilac in Michigan's Thumbcoast
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Michigan's Thumbcoast with Under the Radar
Discover The Blue: Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Algonac, Clay, and Harsens Island in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Marine City in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover St. Clair in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Marysville in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Port Huron in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Lexington in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Port Sanilac in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Harbor Beach in Michigan's Thumbcoast
Discover Port Austin in Michigan's Thumbcoast

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