Make Scenic Canine Memories Along Michigan's Sunrise Coast
- Luie Boone
- 11 minutes ago
- 10 min read
This travel spot is featured in our seventh blog series, Sheps Stay.
Some destinations simply welcome dogs, but Michigan’s Sunrise Coast lets them experience the destination right alongside you. Imagine trading crowded attractions for miles of Lake Huron shoreline, letting your dog splash in the water, explore scenic trails, stretch their legs on a beach, and enjoy the open road as you discover one charming coastal town after another. Here, the journey is just as memorable as the destination—and your dog gets to be part of every mile.
Stretching along the Lake Huron shoreline from Tawas Bay to Mackinaw City, Michigan’s Sunrise Coast is a hidden gem filled with pet-friendly beaches, parks, trails, restaurants, and small towns where dogs are genuinely welcome. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a longer lakeside escape, you'll find plenty of places to explore together while taking in some of the state's most beautiful coastal scenery.
Your adventure begins in Tawas City and East Tawas, often considered the gateway to the Sunrise Coast. Here, you and your pup can start each day with a sunrise walk along Tawas Bay or explore the scenic trails at Tawas Point State Park. The designated dog-friendly beach provides a perfect spot for sandy paws and splashing in the lake, while downtown East Tawas offers charming sidewalks ideal for a leisurely stroll. After a day of exploring, enjoy outdoor dining at local favorites like G's Pizzeria. G's Pizzeria in East Tawas continues to carry on a tradition that began in the 1980s, serving an extensive menu of American and Italian favorites in a warm, inviting setting with dog-friendly patio seating. In addition to their gourmet signature pizza, G's offers delicious dishes such as salads, wings, baked sandwiches, craft burgers, lasagna, jambalaya pasta, and chicken parmesan.
Continuing north, Oscoda is a dream destination for adventurous dogs that love the outdoors. Miles of hiking trails wind through Huron National Forest, while the scenic Au Sable River offers beautiful places to walk and explore. Eagle Run, Eagle Overlook, and the Foote Pond trails provide excellent opportunities to stretch your legs before spending time at Oscoda Beach Park. When hunger strikes, enjoy dining at Sunrise Kava Cafe, a dog-friendly eatery that welcomes pups at umbrella-covered tables on their outdoor patio. While they don't have a dog menu, they do offer pup cups for Fido! For humans, the menu features a wide selection of hot and cold coffee drinks, as well as chai teas, lemonades, hot chocolates and bubble teas. For food, you'll find breakfast burritos, frittatas, lunch sandwiches and a variety of pastries.
The quiet lakeside town of Harrisville offers a slower pace that both people and pets appreciate. Spend the day exploring Harrisville State Park, walking along the Lake Huron shoreline, or wandering through the harbor area before taking a scenic drive along historic US-23. Cool off on a hot summer day with one of Country Cone & Fudge Shoppe's delectable frozen desserts. This pet-friendly ice cream shop serves up delicious ice cream, sundaes, shakes, and malts. Your pup is welcome to join you on the outdoor patio. Be sure to order Fido a pup cup from their partial dog menu!
Further north, Alpena combines small-town charm with plenty of attractions for travelers with dogs. The Alpena Bi-Path offers miles of waterfront walking, while Bay View Park, Island Park, and the Thunder Bay River provide beautiful places to explore together. Many visitors enjoy Nowicki's Sausage Shoppe, a pet-friendly, casual eatery located in a historic Coca-Cola bottling plant. Locals rave over the Festival Brats and Cheesy Potato Brats. Dog loving customers can order a brat and take it outside to one of the Shoppe's picnic tables to chow down alongside Fido.
One of the Sunrise Coast's hidden treasures is Rogers City, where peaceful parks and stunning Lake Huron views create the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Walk the grounds surrounding the historic 40 Mile Point Lighthouse, stroll the marina, or simply enjoy the quiet shoreline together. Cook's Coffee Nook in Rogers City is a locally owned and dog-friendly coffee shop that welcomes Fido. They serve specialty coffee and tea drinks, a variety of lattes with names with local themes, smoothies, breakfast items and fresh baked treats in a cozy, community-focused setting.
As you continue toward the northern end of the Sunrise Coast, Cheboygan offers another wonderful stop for travelers with dogs. Cheboygan State Park features beautiful trails and shoreline, while the North Central State Trail provides miles of walking through northern Michigan's forests. The Cheboygan River Walk and Gordon Turner Park are also excellent places for a leisurely afternoon stroll. Local restaurants like Great Lakes Grill welcome you to their neighborhood bar and grill. Since 1996, they have been serving up nothing but flavor. Fido is invited to relax with you at one of two outdoor tables for dinner. Their menu features appetizers, a variety of fish entrees, pasta, salads, burgers and more.
Your journey concludes in Mackinaw City, where breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge provide a memorable ending to your road trip. Stretch your legs with your pup along the scenic waterfront, explore the grounds of Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, or enjoy the dog-friendly trails at Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Afterward, wander through the downtown area, where many shops welcome well-behaved dogs outside or offer pet-friendly patios. When it's time to eat your four-legged travel companion can join you at an outdoor table for a meal at Dixie Saloon. This restaurant doesn't have a full dog menu, but they do offer treats on request. Their menu includes burgers, sandwiches and more. You can pair your meal with a cold beer from the rotating tap list.
Traveling with your dog along Michigan's Sunrise Coast is refreshingly easy, especially when you come prepared with fresh water, waste bags, a leash, and a towel for sandy paws after beach adventures.
From quiet beaches and scenic forests to welcoming restaurants and comfortable lodging, Michigan's Sunrise Coast offers one of the most relaxing and rewarding road trips for dog lovers.
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone had paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay on Michigan's Sunrise Coast. Check it out below!
Rental Name: LakeHuron Retreat
This rental has 3 bedrooms with 4 beds and 3 full baths.
Photos by AIRBNB.com
It features the following amenities:
Right on Lake Huron with a private sandy beach
Upper and lower decks face the lake
Sun loungers by the water
Gas grill
Fire pit by the beach
Walk-out access to the backyard & beach path
Kayak
Private backyard – Not fully fenced
What would Luie Boone have thought of this rental? He would have woofed:
My humans had planned a vacation for us at a cozy lakefront cottage in East Tawas, Michigan, along Michigan's beautiful Sunrise Coast, and I just know I would have loved every minute of it. The house sat right on Lake Huron with its own private sandy beach, a huge backyard for exploring, two lakefront decks overlooking the water, and a fire pit where we would have ended each day listening to the waves. I would have packed my stuffed fox buddy, Skipper, and I just know he would have been excited to visit a place where real foxes sometimes wandered along the beach and through the yard. I can almost imagine us watching them from the deck—Skipper meeting his wild cousins while I wagged my tail, curious but polite. What a special sight that would have been! But I crossed the Rainbow Bridge before our vacation could begin, and my humans couldn't bring themselves to take the trip without me. I like to think that one day they might go to this special place with Skipper in tow, knowing I'll be there too—in the lake breeze, the gentle waves, and every sunrise along Michigan's Sunrise Coast, always watching over the family I loved.
Paws Venture Here
Luie Boone had sniffed out and dug up these local gems for you to check out while vacationing on Michigan's Sunrise Coast!
Oscoda Canoe Rental
Located on Michigan's beautiful Sunrise Coast, Oscoda Canoe Rental is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful day on the scenic Au Sable River with your dog.
The river's gentle current and calm waters make it an enjoyable outing for paddlers and their four-legged companions.
Dogs can relax in the canoe while taking in the fresh air and beautiful river views.
Before you launch, remember to bring fresh water, a collapsible bowl, waste bags, and a properly fitted dog life jacket to help keep your pup safe and comfortable.
A trip with Oscoda Canoe Rental is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Michigan's Sunrise Coast while sharing an unforgettable adventure with your best friend.
Iargo Springs Staircase
The Iargo Springs Staircase near Oscoda, Michigan, is a fun dog-friendly stop for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors with their four-legged friends.
With roughly 300 wooden steps leading down to the beautiful Iargo Springs, the staircase is an adventure in itself.
Built with help from the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, it has become one of the area's memorable attractions.
Dogs are welcome to explore with their owners, but remember: what goes down must come back up! Those 300 steps are a workout on the way back, so take your time, bring water, and give your pup plenty of breaks.
With beautiful forest scenery, flowing springs, and a staircase full of history, Iargo Springs is a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy a little adventure with your best friend.
Canoer's Memorial Monument
Located in Oscoda, Michigan, Canoer's Memorial Monument is a scenic stop overlooking Cooke Dam Pond along the Au Sable River.
The monument was erected to honor the canoeists who have participated in the annual Au Sable River Canoe Marathon, a race first conceived in 1947 by Harold Brubaker and Frank Davis to promote tourism. The inaugural race featured 46 teams paddling wood-and-canvas canoes, with Allen Carr and Delbert Case of Grayling claiming victory in 21 hours and 40 minutes.
Leashed dogs are welcome to enjoy the outdoor monument area with you while you take in the spectacular panoramic views of Cooke Dam Pond.
During the summer months, the site also provides access to the Highbanks Trail for those wishing to continue their visit.
Be sure to bring water and waste bags for your pup, and clean up after them to help keep this beautiful riverside landmark enjoyable for everyone.
Sturgeon Point Lighthouse
Looking for a peaceful getaway where your dog is just as welcome as you are?
Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, located along the beautiful shores of Lake Huron near Harrisville, Michigan, is the perfect place to spend a relaxing day outdoors.
Built in 1869, the lighthouse is regarded as a historic example of a Cape Cod-style Great Lakes lighthouse, making it a must-see for both history lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
While dogs aren't allowed inside the lighthouse museum, leashed pets are welcome to enjoy the surrounding grounds, grassy picnic areas, and shoreline.
Many visitors love taking a leisurely walk around the property, letting their dogs sniff the lake breeze, explore the rocky beach, and soak in the peaceful scenery.
It's also a fantastic spot for photos, especially at sunrise when the lighthouse stands against the sparkling waters of Lake Huron.
Be sure to bring water, waste bags, and keep your dog on a leash to help preserve this historic site for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you're stopping by during a scenic road trip or planning a relaxing afternoon by the lake, Sturgeon Point Lighthouse is a hidden Michigan gem that offers history, beautiful views, and a memorable outing for both you and your pup.
Tawas Point Dog Beach
Tawas Point Dog Beach is a scenic dog-friendly beach at Tawas Point State Park in East Tawas, Michigan.
Located along Lake Huron and Tawas Bay, it gives dogs and their owners a beautiful place to enjoy the sand, water, and fresh lake air together.
The beach is near the historic Tawas Point Lighthouse, which was first lit in 1876 to help guide ships along Lake Huron. Tawas Point itself is a sandy peninsula known for its beautiful views, wildlife, and migrating birds.
Dogs must stay on a leash no longer than 6 feet and are only allowed in designated pet-friendly areas.
With its sandy shoreline, peaceful water, and nearby history, Tawas Point Dog Beach is a great spot to enjoy a day at the lake with your four-legged friend.
Sinkholes at Rockport State Recreation Area
If your dog loves exploring new places, the sinkholes at Rockport State Recreation Area make for a fun and unusual adventure.
Tucked into the forest, these natural formations give your pup plenty of new sights and smells to investigate.
Rockport has roughly 13 sinkholes, including one nearly 100 feet deep with water and fish.
Exploring the trails and searching for these hidden features can feel like a little treasure hunt with your four-legged friend.
Keep your dog leashed and safely away from the edges, as the ground can be uneven or unstable.
For a curious pup, Rockport’s sinkholes are a fun chance to sniff, explore, and discover something new together!
Besser Natural Area
Besser Natural Area, tucked within Rockport Recreation Area on Michigan’s Sunrise Coast, is a peaceful escape where towering old-growth pines and the shores of Lake Huron create a quiet retreat.
It’s also a wonderful destination for exploring with your dog.
Centuries-old red and white pines, along with cedar, spruce, and birch, shade the easy hiking trails.
Leashed dogs are welcome, making this a great place to enjoy a relaxing walk away from the crowds.
Be sure to bring water, waste bags, bug spray during warmer months, and sturdy shoes.
History is woven into the landscape, and the stone chimney from Camp Kairphree offers a reminder of the area's lumbering past and the former Village of Bell.
The trail eventually reaches a quiet stretch of Lake Huron shoreline where visitors can relax, enjoy the views, watch for birds, or search for unique stones along the rocky beach.
With peaceful forest trails, towering pines, beautiful Lake Huron scenery, and dog-friendly hiking, Besser Natural Area is a hidden gem well worth exploring.
Tawas Bay Pronto Pup
Tawas Bay Pronto Pup is a fun, family-friendly stop on Michigan’s Sunrise Coast where both people and their dogs can enjoy a tasty treat.
Located along the waterfront in East Tawas, this seasonal walk-up restaurant is best known for its famous hand-dipped Pronto Pups, along with favorites like French fries, onion rings, soft drinks, and ice cream and other frozen treats.
Leashed dogs are welcome at the outdoor picnic tables, making it easy to enjoy your meal together while taking in the beautiful views of Tawas Bay.
Your furry friend can even get a special Pronto Pup Cup, giving dogs a treat of their own.
With classic food for humans, special treats for dogs, friendly service, and a beautiful waterfront setting, Tawas Bay Pronto Pup is a great place to stop and enjoy a casual meal with the whole family.
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
Michigan's Sunrise Coast
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that would have put Luie Boone's leash in a twist and he would have woofed:
My humans had planned a vacation along Michigan’s Sunrise Coast, beside the shores of Lake Huron, and I was supposed to take my stuffed fox buddy, Skipper, with me. I worried about the sudden cyclonic storms that could sweep across Lake Huron. The lake had a frightening history, including the Great Lakes Storm of 1913, when hurricane-force winds and enormous waves struck Lake Huron and many ships were lost. Even peaceful waters could change quickly, and I would have stayed close to my humans and Skipper when the skies turned dark. Sadly, I never got to take that final adventure. Now I’m waiting for my humans at the Rainbow Bridge, where the skies are calm, the waters are peaceful, and there are no storms to fear.
Someday, we’ll walk those shores together again!
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