De Tour Village, Michigan
Every portion of the U.P. Lake Huron shoreline offers something utterly unique. Some areas are rocky, some are pure sand, and all are pristine and gorgeous. It is plain to see just how crystal clear Lake Huron is up here in De Tour Village.
De Tour Village is known as the "Gateway to the North Channel", This charming little village is nestled on the western shore of the St Mary's River, where this beautiful blue waterway carries every type of boat from rowboats to freighters. Majestic M - 134 leads the way from Hessel to Cedarville, then along to De Tour Village with incredible views of Lake Huron. Dotting the way, are more than a dozen scenic beaches including parks, even freighter viewing areas and a botanical garden. One of these scenic sandy beaches is located very close to Candlelite Cove's turn off. |
De Tour Reef Light
The De Tour Reef Light, located a mile offshore from the original onshore lighthouse, was built in 1931. It is well known to ship captains and pleasure boaters cruising the upper peninsula.
The lighthouse foundation, rests in approximately 23 feet of water. A huge concrete square base supports the reinforced concrete and steel classical revival-style square structure. The white lighthouse with its red roof has a tower extending 63 feet over the deck, so the top towers 83 feet above the water. The De Tour reef light was lit for the very first time on November 10, 1931. For generations the light at De Tour passage has provided a beacon for all vessels seeking the “Gateway to Superior.” Watch the freighters in the distance at Candlelite Cove, plus spot them all lit up at night, gliding by in the open waters of Lake Huron. Head to De Tour Village, and view them from several locations including the 1000 footer below. This photo was taken at the incredibly enjoyable De Tour Village Botanical Gardens. |
R E C O M M E N D A T I O N S
Summer Beaches off M - 134 are stunning
Visit a beach a day!
St. Vital Bay Beach is the lovely sandy nearby Lake Huron beach shown in the above photos. All of these additional beaches are located within just a few miles of Candlelite Cove. Amazing! Dunes Beach: About 4 miles away on M - 134. On Lake Huron - Long sandy beaches and plenty of parking Hot Dog Stand Beach: On Lake Huron - About two miles away to the west, along M - 134 is another sandy beach gem. Albany Beach: Just east of M - 48 along M - 134. On Lake Huron - Walk down the trail to enjoy the lovely views and the solitude. About six miles west of Candlelite Cove. Caribou Lake Beach: On Caribou Lake - Caribou Lake provides boating, fishing, kayaking and swimming in the summer time, and fishing, skating and snowmobiling in the winter. It's a beauty; Outside of De Tour Village about five miles out South Caribou Lake Road. If you have a small boat or jet ski, take North Caribou Lake Road to the public launch. Malette Park: Along the St. Mary's River - Bring the family and all your friends of a day of fun. This inviting spot offers picnic tables, grills, beach, public launch, kayak put-in spots, freighter watching and more. Shula Giddens Park: On the St. Mary's River - Now known as Shula Giddens Park, it's a sweet place to dip your toes into the cool water of the St Mary's, and maybe take a swim out to Frying Pan Island. It is located just outside of De Tour Village along M - 134, attached to the south end of the beautiful Botanical Gardens. State Road Side Park: On Lake Huron - Hidden on the back side of the State Rest Stop you'll find a great little sunning and swimming spot. Plus, the park offers tables, grills, and rest rooms. With ample parking, this spot is a great family gathering area on a beautiful summer day. Located Seven & 1/2 miles of out of town on M-134. State Forest Campground - On Lake Huron - The State Forest Campground offers fabulous beaches along Lake Huron, plus, there are walking and ORV trails linked to the area. A quick six miles out of town, or about two miles away from Candlelite Cove along M-134 to this pretty place. Seymour Bay Beach - On Lake Huron - Yet another quiet little spot to pull off M-134 and dip your toes in the sand. Located on Lake Huron in Seymour Bay very close to Candlelite Cove. |