A Classic Charlevoix Icon

Few Michigan lighthouses are as instantly recognizable—or as lovingly photographed—as the Charlevoix South Pier Light Station. Standing tall at the entrance to Lake Charlevoix and Round Lake, this bright red beacon has welcomed boaters, vacationers, and sunset-watchers for generations. But before the famous red tower claimed center stage on the south pier, Charlevoix’s guiding light had a much earlier beginning.

Let’s walk through the fascinating history of this beloved Lake Michigan landmark.

Early Beginnings on the North Pier (1884)

The first Charlevoix lighthouse didn’t stand on the south pier at all—it began on the north pier in 1884. Its purpose was simple but essential: guide ships safely through the freshly improved Pine River channel. This early structure featured:

  • A 56-foot tower
  • A focal height of 61 feet
  • An adjacent U.S. Life-Saving Service Station built in 1898
  • An oil shed constructed in 1890

For more than six decades, the original lighthouse served its growing harbor community faithfully.

A New Steel Tower and a New Home (1947–1948)

By the 1940s, the original wooden lighthouse had deteriorated beyond repair. In 1947, the decision was made to replace it entirely. A year later, in 1948, the new steel tower was installed—this time on the south pier, where it still stands today.

The lantern and lens were transferred from the old building to the new structure, which shares several design elements with the iconic Alpena Light. At the time, it featured a Daymark red paint scheme—just as many Great Lakes mariners would expect.

Changes in the Harbor and Life-Saving Station (1960s–1980s)

As Charlevoix grew, so did the activity around the Pine River channel. In 1965, the Coast Guard moved out of the original U.S. Life-Saving Service Station due to congestion and relocated to the grounds of the old Lighthouse Supply Station. The historic shingled lifesaving building was demolished shortly after.

Between the 1970s and 1980s, a modern steel-and-concrete pier replaced the older wooden one. Built to withstand Lake Michigan’s notoriously powerful waves, it still protects the harbor today and provides the perfect walkway for lighthouse visitors.

The old skeletal lighthouse tower on the north pier—long inactive—has since been removed.

The Light Itself: A Modern Beacon

The Charlevoix South Pier Light is equipped with a 12-inch Tideland Signal ML-300 acrylic lens, a medium-range modern Great Lakes lens with a reach of 10 nautical miles.

Nearby, the Charlevoix North Pierhead Light (45 19 18 N, 85 15 54 W) operates with a Flashing Green 2.5-second characteristic. Although today’s north tower is only 20 feet tall, the original structure once reached 56 feet with a 61-foot focal plane.

A National Historic Recognition

In 2005, the Charlevoix South Pier Light—also known simply as the Charlevoix Pier Light—was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places (Structure #05000346). Although unmanned, the National Park System considers it a “significant aid to navigation,” and for good reason.

One of the vessels that relies most heavily on its guidance? The beloved Beaver Island ferry, which makes its way through the channel daily during the warmer months.

Color Changes and the Return to Red (1968–2009)

Most people today know the Charlevoix Light for its signature red, but this wasn’t always the case. Over the years, the tower has been painted:

  • Red (its original color)
  • Green
  • White

In 2009, it returned to bright red once again, honoring the classic mariner mnemonic:
“Red Right Returning.”

Ownership and Preservation Today

The lighthouse keeper’s onshore residence was sold, demolished, and eventually turned into Hoffman Park, which today includes a small plaque marking the former building’s location.

In 2008, ownership of the lighthouse officially transferred from the U.S. Coast Guard to the City of Charlevoix and the Charlevoix Historical Society under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act. Their stewardship ensures that this iconic beacon will continue shining for generations.

A Lighthouse That Defines Charlevoix

From its beginnings on the north pier to its cherished status today, the Charlevoix South Pier Light has seen more than a century of change. It has guided vessels big and small, adapted to new technology, survived repeated rebuilds—and become a beloved symbol of life in this Lake Michigan harbor town.

Whether you visit for the sunsets, the harbor activity, or just a peaceful stroll along the pier, the Charlevoix Light is a must-see piece of Northern Michigan history.

Explore our full collection of Northern Michigan lighthouse stories here

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