North Michigan might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a honeymoon, but it’s ideal if you fancy somewhere different!
North Michigan’s known for its turquoise lakes, sandy shores, small towns and quiet forest trails – which make it ideal for couples who want nature and comfort without the crowds!
Romantic islands, remote waterfalls, glittering cities… North Michigan has it all, and here are some of the best honeymoon destinations across the region.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Stretching for more than 35 miles along Lake Michigan’s coastline, Sleeping Bear Dunes is home to dramatic landscapes and peaceful beaches. Hike the Dune Trail for panoramic lake views, hire kayaks on Glen Lake or take a scenic drive along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive!
The nearby towns of Glen Arbor and Empire have cozy inns, lakeside cabins and farm-to-table restaurants that are perfect for relaxed evenings. It’s ideal for a honeymoon that’ll make you feel like you’re the only two people in the world!
Mackinac Island
Reachable only by ferry, Mackinac Island feels like stepping into another era!
There are zero cars here, just horse-drawn carriages, bicycles and the clip-clop of hooves along the waterfront. You can stay at one of the grand Victorian hotels overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, visit the historic fort and cycle the 8-mile loop around the island.
Don’t leave without trying the island’s famous fudge which is made fresh in the small shops lining Main Street. It’s delicious!
Traverse City
Traverse City is one of the Midwest’s most charming small cities, known for its vineyards and cherry orchards. Could you get any more scenic?
Here, you can spend the day wine tasting, walk along the waterfront promenade or take a sunset cruise on Grand Traverse Bay.
There’s a thriving food scene too – with everything from local breweries to fine-dining restaurants.
Old Mission Peninsula wineries
Just north of Traverse City, the Old Mission Peninsula stretches into Lake Michigan and is lined with boutique wineries overlooking the water.
You can follow a self-guided route along the scenic M-37 and stop for tastings and leisurely lunches at vineyard cafés.
Most wineries are open year-round, with firepits and tasting rooms that stay cozy in winter.
Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail
Across the bay, the Leelanau Peninsula is another must-visit for wine lovers!
The rolling hills and lake views make it one of the most photogenic parts of Northern Michigan.
You’ll find more than 20 wineries here (many family-run) serving Rieslings, rosés and ice wines.
Towns like Suttons Bay and Northport are perfect bases, with small B&Bs and waterfront lodges.
Petoskey and Harbor Springs
These two neighboring towns on Little Traverse Bay are a favorite for romantic getaways.
Petoskey’s historic Gaslight District has boutique shops and cafés, while Harbor Springs has an elegant marina and scenic drives through Tunnel of Trees (M-119).
In winter, nearby Boyne Mountain and Nub’s Nob offer skiing and spa resorts for a snowy honeymoon option.
Torch Lake
Famous for its bright turquoise water, Torch Lake is Michigan’s Caribbean (without the year-round high temperatures!).
Rent a lakeside cabin, go paddleboarding or take a boat to the sandbar that appears in shallow areas during summer.
The lake’s small-town surroundings make it a quiet retreat, ideal for couples who want to slow down and focus on enjoying each other’s company.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Located bang on Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks is one of Michigan’s most striking natural attractions. Colorful cliffs rise from the water, waterfalls tumble through forests, and hidden beaches stretch for miles.
You can hike along the lakeshore, take a guided kayak tour, or join a sunset boat cruise to see the rock formations glow in the evening light. Absolutely idyllic!
Tahquamenon Falls
Further east in the Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi.
The Upper Falls drop nearly 50 feet and are surrounded by thick forest. They’re especially beautiful in autumn, but glorious any time of year!
The nearby Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub makes a good lunch stop, and there are rustic cabins and lodges for an overnight stay.
Making it a honeymoon to remember
- Travel between June and September for warm days and long evenings. Fall is quieter but brings colorful foliage and cooler weather.
- Book accommodation early on Mackinac Island and around Traverse City. Both get busy in summer.
- Rent a car if you’re visiting several destinations. Public transport is limited, and scenic drives are part of the experience.
- Pack for mixed weather. Even in summer, lakeside areas can feel cool in the evenings.
- Stay connected (or don’t!). There’s reliable Wi-Fi in most hotels, so you could catch up on work emails or even play casinos with PayPal if you fancied, but it’s better to switch off and make the most of uninterrupted time together!
Final thoughts
While it’s not as “honeymoon-esque” as the Maldives or the Caribbean, North Michigan has plenty to offer honeymooners. Plan right, and you’ll have a romantic trip to remember!
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