Ultimate Guide to Sunset Views in Southwest Michigan

Southwest Michigan offers some of the most breathtaking sunset views in the Midwest. Whether you’re enjoying a weekend getaway with your loved ones, a dinner with friends, or simply soaking up the beauty of the evening sky, our region provides an array of stunning spots to watch the sunset. Here are our top recommendations.

Where to Watch Sunsets on Land

Warren Dunes State Park | Sawyer

Warren Dunes State Park is a must-visit for sunset enthusiasts. Along the Lake Michigan shoreline, the park offers incredible views from Tower Hill, a 260-foot-high dune. The climb is worth the effort, as the panoramic sunset views over Lake Michigan are nothing short of spectacular. If you want to avoid the crowds, Warren Dunes’ three miles of shoreline will give you plenty of personal space to spread out and relax. On clear evenings, you might see the Chicago skyline in the distance, adding a unique touch to your sunset experience.

Galien River County Park | New Buffalo

The Galien River County Park, north of New Buffalo, is open daily from dawn to dusk in the spring, summer and fall. The park’s 300-foot canopy walkway leads to the 60-foot-high Marsh Overlook Tower and the 600-foot-long Marsh Boardwalk with a river viewing and fishing platform. As the sun sets, it bathes the trees and water below in a warm, golden light. This is one of the best times of the day to see wildlife. 

Weko Beach | Bridgman

Weko Beach is extra special because a volunteer plays "Taps" at sunset from Memorial Day to Labor Day, adding a poignant and reflective note to the day's end. Throughout the year, you will watch with speechless awe as the sun dips below the horizon, splashing scarlet, gold, lavender, and pink across the sky. This is another great location to enjoy seeing Chicago’s skyline in the distance. 

Tiscornia Park & Silver Beach County Park | St. Joseph

Tiscornia Park and Silver Beach County Park are iconic sunset locations, especially for lighthouse lovers. At Tiscornia Park, the St. Joseph North Pier Inner and Outer Lighthouses become silhouettes against the fiery evening sky. Walk to the lighthouses when Lake Michigan is calm for clear views of the horizon and sunsets. But when the waves crash over the pier, watch in breathless awe from the shore.

Silver Beach offers similar sunset views from the water’s edge or at the end of the South Pier. This pier gives you an across-the-river perspective of the North Pier lighthouses. When the lighthouses and catwalk lights come on after sunset, they are extra beautiful. 

Lake Bluff Park & Lookout Park | St. Joseph

Lake Bluff Park and Lookout Park are excellent watch spots all year round. Their elevated views of the lake, make them ideal for seeing the sun disappear in a blaze of gemstone colors. 

Before joining dozens of people along Lake Bluff Park, get an ice cream cone or steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate from downtown to enjoy during the sky show. Don’t be surprised if everyone claps at the finale. From December to mid-February, the bluff lights up with wintry displays and arches after sunset, making it a magical place for an evening stroll.

Lookout Park offers the option of seeing the evening’s spectacle from your parked vehicle or standing along the bluff. Pack a pre-sunset picnic to enjoy at the tables. 

Sunset View Restaurants 

Nothing pairs better with a beautiful sunset than a delicious meal. Southwest Michigan offers a variety of restaurants with gorgeous sunset views and outdoor dining options. Grande Mere Inn in Stevensville is a favorite, with its hilltop location overlooking Grand Mere State Park dunes and Lake Michigan. 

The Lakehouse, The Buck, RyeBelles, Schu’s Grill & Bar, and Bistro on the Boulevard in St. Joseph all offer indoor and outdoor seating with views of the Lake Michigan sunset, creating a romantic and relaxing ambiance. For a more casual setting, Silver Beach Pizza serves the most popular pizza in the region with a side of sunset views. If you are 21+ years old, ask for a premier viewing table on the deck. Read more about our outdoor dining options in “Southwest Michigan’s Best Outdoor Dining” blog.

Makers Trail Sunsets

Experience the serene beauty of Southwest Michigan's sunsets along the Makers Trail. Enjoy a relaxing evening by an outdoor fire at River Saint Joe Brewery, where you can sip craft beer as the sun sets over the farm. At Contessa Wine Cellars, the terrace offers an idyllic spot to unwind with a glass of wine as the sun sets beyond the vineyards. 

Filkins Vineyards and Dablon Winery & Vineyards provide equally impressive sunset views, perfect for a quiet evening with friends. At Ghost Isle Br​​ewery, the Galien River wetlands present a tranquil and natural backdrop to your sunset experience. Finally, Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant lets you create one of the loveliest date nights. Watch a vineyard sunset with a bottle of their finest vintages accompanying a memorable meal. 

Sunset Cruises and Views On the Water

Watching the sunset from the water offers a unique and serene experience. You may use your watercraft equipped with running lights to take in the sunset on Lake Michigan or enjoy a sunset cruise on Boat Lakeside. Or enjoy the thrill of sailing on one of two replica ships as the sun sets. Book your place on the Tall Ship MJ, a replica of a historic schooner, or the replica 1810 top sail sloop, the Friends Good Will at the Michigan Maritime Museum.

More Places to Take Photos & Videos

No matter where you choose to watch the sunset in Southwest Michigan, bring your camera or smartphone to help you remember your visit. The vibrant colors of the sky, the silhouette of lighthouses, and the reflection of the sun on the water provide endless opportunities for treasured photos and videos. Read our “Best places to take pictures in Southwest Michigan” blog to discover more photography locations. 

Stay Beyond Sunset

There are many reasons to stay overnight in Southwest Michigan — including watching another sunset tomorrow evening. No two are ever alike!  Book your stay to get the dates, locations, and amenities you want. Then plan your getaway with things that you are passionate about doing while the sun is up.