Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront is a St. Ignace hotel on the Upper Peninsula side of the Straits, set on the shore of Lake Huron with views toward Mackinac Island and the bridge. St. Ignace is the second mainland gateway to the island, and its ferry docks are a short distance from the waterfront hotels. Staying here is a good choice for travelers coming from the north or crossing the bridge, or for anyone who wants a quieter alternative to Mackinaw City. The hotel offers standard and larger rooms, and lakefront properties of this kind commonly include a pool, breakfast and parking, though details vary by season and should be checked. Many rooms face the water, and sunrise views over the lake are a pleasant bonus. St. Ignace itself has a small downtown with restaurants, shops and a historic mission park, and Castle Rock is a short drive north. Compared with Mackinaw City, St. Ignace feels slightly more local and less crowded, with a relaxed pace and a working-harbor atmosphere.
Why stay on the Upper Peninsula side? One reason is geography: if your trip includes the Upper Peninsula, such as Tahquamenon Falls, Sault Ste. Marie or Pictured Rocks, St. Ignace is the natural gateway. Another is value and atmosphere, with lakefront views at prices that are often below island lodging. And if your plan includes the Mackinac Bridge, you will cross it anyway, giving you the chance to see it from the water's edge each evening.
Water-view rooms are worth requesting. Watching the ferries cross, the sun rise and the bridge light up is part of the appeal, and some rooms have balconies. Pools and breakfast rooms in lakefront hotels can be busy in July and August, so go early or late. Confirm parking, especially if you plan to leave your car while visiting the island, since many ferry companies also offer lots with their own fees.
Seasonal considerations matter. Summer is the peak season with high rates, but spring and autumn are quieter and cheaper, with ferries operating on reduced schedules. Winter brings snow, ice and limited services. Weather can shape plans at any time of year, so check forecasts before you drive.
Who should book it
Road-trippers, families and couples who want lakefront views and easy ferry access. Who might look elsewhere: guests who want to be on the island or in the center of Mackinaw City's shops. A practical plan is to use St. Ignace as your base for two or three nights, taking a ferry day trip to Mackinac Island, visiting Castle Rock and the waterfront and then driving north into the Upper Peninsula for the rest of your journey.
Why stay here
- ✓Lakefront setting in St. Ignace
- ✓Views toward Mackinac Island and the bridge
- ✓Guest parking
- ✓Typically includes breakfast
- ✓Pool options in many lakefront properties
- ✓Short trip to island ferry docks
- ✓Near Castle Rock and downtown
- ✓Gateway to the Upper Peninsula
Good questions
Is it close to the ferries?+
Yes. St. Ignace ferry docks are a short distance from the waterfront hotels.
Does it have lake views?+
Many rooms face the lake; ask for a water-view room.
Why choose St. Ignace?+
It is a quieter mainland base and a gateway to the Upper Peninsula.
