Top 10 Unique Elopement Locations in Michigan’s Thumb Region

If you’re planning an intimate elopement in Michigan, the Thumb region offers some truly breathtaking and unique locations. From serene beaches to hidden forests, this area is packed with picturesque spots perfect for saying “I do”. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic outdoor ceremony or a cozy lakeside celebration, these ten locations are sure to inspire your perfect day.

The Thumb Region is one of our favorite places in Michigan and it isn’t too far a drive from home! There are so many scenic areas in the Thumb and our favorite part…it’s less popular and less busy throughout the year.

Here is a top ten list of unique elopement locations in the Thumb!

1. Port Crescent State Park – Port Austin, Michigan
   • Known for its stunning views of Lake Huron, Port Crescent State Park offers sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and serene woodlands. Couples can exchange vows on the shoreline with the lake as a backdrop or under a canopy of trees in one of the park’s secluded areas.
2. Turnip Rock (via kayak) – Port Austin, Michigan
   • For adventurous couples, Turnip Rock in Lake Huron is an unforgettable elopement destination. Accessible only by kayak and boat, this iconic rock formation surrounded by crystal-clear waters creates a one-of-a-kind setting for an intimate ceremony. This kind of trip is not for everyone and should not be taken lightly, but if you are an experienced kayaker, this is the perfect secluded location to say your “I do’s”. There are opportunities to rent kayaks or bring your own!
3. Caseville Beach – Caseville, Michigan
   • Caseville Beach is perfect for a laid-back, beachy elopement. Its soft sands, calm waters, and beautiful sunsets provide a romantic and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, it’s a great spot for stunning golden-hour photos. Downtown Caseville, is a cute little town with opportunities to spend the weekend with each other.
4. Huron County Nature Center – Port Austin, Michigan
   • If you love nature and privacy, the Huron County Nature Center is an excellent choice. This hidden gem features peaceful wooded trails, wildflower meadows, and quiet clearings that are ideal for intimate ceremonies.
5. Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse – Port Austin, Michigan
   • For a historic and coastal vibe, consider the Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse. This charming landmark offers breathtaking views of Lake Huron, making it a stunning backdrop for photos and ceremonies. I also believe that lighthouses are such an iconic vision of the state of Michigan and are a great way to incorporate something like this into your elopement.
6. Downtown Port Austin
   • Port Austin’s charming downtown area offers a blend of rustic and modern vibes, perfect for couples looking for a small-town elopement experience. With its colorful storefronts, cozy cafes, and proximity to the waterfront, it provides plenty of unique photo opportunities. You can even include the iconic Port Austin Farmers Market during market season for an extra touch of local charm.
7. Sleeper State Park – Caseville, Michigan
   • This versatile park offers sandy beaches, scenic woodlands, and peaceful trails. It’s perfect for couples looking to incorporate both water and forest elements into their elopement. If you want to make a weekend out of it, grab a campsite (We highly recommend the Tentr campsites right on the beach) and enjoy sitting under the stars on the beach at night. It is one of the top locations for stars gazing in our opinion that isn’t super far from home.
8. Grindstone City
   • Grinstone City and the Quarry is an off-the-beaten-path location that offers a rugged, industrial charm. With its unique stone formations and secluded vibe, it’s a fantastic choice for couples looking for something unconventional. Cute small town vibes and some great ice cream as well!
9. Port Austin Farmers Market – Port Austin, Michigan
   • For a quirky and community-focused elopement, the Port Austin Farmers Market is a fun choice. This spot offers a charming, small-town ambiance and is especially vibrant during market season.
10. Wildflower Fields in the Central Thumb
    • For a whimsical and romantic vibe, consider one of the wildflower fields in the central region of the Thumb. These blooming landscapes provide a dreamy backdrop for photos and ceremonies, especially in late spring and early summer. The best bet is to contact private farms with wildflower fields to ask permission to use their fields.

Thorough research of a unique elopement location in the Thumb can really result in some true hidden gems and can in turn result in a beautiful elopement for you!

A Few Things To Keep in Mind While Planning Your Thumb Region Elopement

• Many places are seasonal: If you drive up into the Thumb in the winter time (especially close to the coast), you will find many places and businesses closed for the season. The best time to visit and elope in the Thumb is during the summer. However, there can be absolutely gorgeous scenes all times of the year.
• Also, make sure to do your research while planning thoroughly research specific locations and contact the appropriate people in order to hold your elopement there. Some locations may require a fee to hold your elopement and/or require a photo permit.
• Make sure your photographer and other vendors know the area. The Thumb is a very rural area and one can easily get lost or you could be missing out on some real gems if a vendor isn’t familiar with the region.
• When you are traveling into more remote and nature areas, make sure you follow Leave No Trace guidelines and respect the wild. Also carrying safety gear and a first aid kit is so important. Be prepared for anything.

Final Thoughts

Now, I may be bias, but the Thumb region of Michigan is such a beautiful place on Earth and doesn’t get enough credit. With only a couple hour drive from major cities, it has all of the beautiful touches Michigan has to offer. Beaches, lakes, forest, and small town charm. It has it all! I hope this list has given you a kick start in finding unique elopement locations in the Thumb of Michigan.

Why do I love the Thumb region? I am a Michigan elopement photographer, along with my husband, and we don’t live and work too far from the area. We help couples plan and photograph and video their elopement days. To learn more about us, click here!