A red tower anchors the end of South Haven’s south pier, framed by the repeating arches of its elevated catwalk. On a gray day, reflections in the wet pavement add another view of this Lake Michigan landmark.
Quick Facts
| Location | South pier at the mouth of the Black River, South Haven, Michigan |
|---|---|
| Waterway | Lake Michigan |
| Station established | 1872 |
| Current tower | 1903 |
| Tower height | 35 feet |
| Design | Red cylindrical steel tower with an elevated catwalk |
| Status | Active aid to navigation |
| Ownership | Historical Association of South Haven |
| Access | Exterior viewing from the pier and shoreline, subject to conditions and closures |
History & Description
A light first marked South Haven’s harbor entrance in 1872. The present steel tower replaced the earlier wooden structure in 1903, helping vessels find the Black River where it meets Lake Michigan.
In 1913 the lighthouse was moved farther out along the pier. The elevated catwalk remains a defining part of the station: its narrow walkway once gave keepers a route above the pier surface during harsh weather.
The compact red tower is a smaller relative of Muskegon’s South Pierhead Light. Its cylindrical walls, dark lantern, and adjoining catwalk create a silhouette that is recognizable from either beach.
Ownership transferred to the Historical Association of South Haven in 2012. The light continues to serve navigation while the association cares for this enduring harbor landmark.
Visitor Information
- Finding the light
- Approach the south pier from the South Beach waterfront in South Haven. The lighthouse stands at the outer end, on the south side of the Black River entrance.
- Access
- Plan for exterior views. Follow posted pier closures and local parking rules, and check Visit South Haven’s lighthouse information before your trip.
- Lake conditions
- Keep ashore when waves wash over the pier or ice makes footing unsafe. The elevated catwalk is a historic structure rather than a public walking route. Respect barriers and give anglers and other visitors room.
- Photography
- Use the catwalk as a leading line from the pier approach, or step back along the beach for a wider profile. Wet pavement can reflect the tower and steel supports. Choose shore-based viewpoints whenever pier conditions are uncertain.
Photo Gallery
Eleven photographs of the lighthouse, catwalk, and Lake Michigan shoreline. Select a photograph to view it larger.
By the Beacon · Etsy shop
Bring South Haven Home
A vintage-style poster celebrating South Haven’s red lighthouse, elevated catwalk, and reflections beside Lake Michigan.
Shop the Poster on Etsy →Visit the Etsy listing for sizes, materials, pricing, and available options.