Best Places to Kayak Near Mackinac Island, MI
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Mackinac Island, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Mackinac Island
Hessel/Clark Township Marina
Standout kayak fishing on Lake Huron - Hessel Bay
Cedarville Harbor
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
Carp River Road
Open-water sea kayaking access on Lake Huron - Saint Martin Bay
St. Ignace
Michigan · 4.9 mi
Mackinaw City Municipal Marina
Michigan · 7.2 mi
Conkling Heritage Park
Michigan · 7.3 mi
Carp River Road
Michigan · 11.7 mi
Bois Blanc Island
Michigan · 12.3 mi
Lake Paradise
Michigan · 13.7 mi
Hessel/Clark Township Marina
Michigan · 13.8 mi
HIghway 134 Bridge
Michigan · 14.0 mi
Dukes Road
Michigan · 15.3 mi

Bay City Lake
Michigan · 15.4 mi
Wilderness State Park
Michigan · 15.6 mi
Cedarville Harbor
Michigan · 15.8 mi
Cheboygan County Marina
Michigan · 16.0 mi
Munro Lake
Michigan · 16.4 mi
Cheboygan Municipal Marina
Michigan · 16.5 mi

Cheboygan Dam
Michigan · 16.9 mi
Lancaster Lake
Michigan · 17.0 mi
Cheboygan State Park
Michigan · 17.1 mi
Garfield Avenue
Michigan · 17.5 mi

The Forks
Michigan · 18.8 mi
Pier 33
Michigan · 19.5 mi
Douglas Lake
Michigan · 20.3 mi
Mullett Lake Village
Michigan · 20.8 mi
Little Brevoort Lake (South)
Michigan · 21.4 mi
Little Brevoort Lake (North)
Michigan · 21.9 mi
Long Lake
Michigan · 24.2 mi
Aloha State Park
Michigan · 24.7 mi

Cross Village
Michigan · 24.8 mi
Jewell Road
Michigan · 25.4 mi
Burt Lake Maple Bay
Michigan · 25.9 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Mackinac Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Mackinac Island, MI?
Top picks near Mackinac Island include Hessel/Clark Township Marina, Cedarville Harbor, Carp River Road. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, rivers, bays.
What types of paddling can I do near Mackinac Island?
Near Mackinac Island you'll find opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Most locations offer beginner-friendly conditions with public boat ramp access.
Are there free kayak launches near Mackinac Island?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Mackinac Island are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.