A Weekend Getaway in Caseville, Michigan: Beaches, Bites, and Bay Views

Looking for a laid-back escape on Michigan’s thumb coast? Caseville is your spot. Located on the shores of Saginaw Bay, this cheerful beach town delivers sunny days, casual charm, and just the right amount of quirk. With a wide sandy beach, iconic local eateries, and the famously funky Cheeseburger Festival, Caseville makes a great weekend getaway for families, couples, and groups looking to unwind without sacrificing fun.

📍 Where is Caseville?

Caseville is in Michigan’s “Thumb” region — about 2.5 hours from Detroit and 3 from Lansing. This small town hugs the eastern edge of Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay, offering calm, shallow waters perfect for wading and water play.

🏡 Where to Stay in Caseville

There are plenty of great places to stay in and around Caseville. If you want to be close to the beach and downtown, consider the Rainbow Motel, a simple and convenient spot with six cabin-style rooms. For something more homey and peaceful, Fox’s Lodge at Oak Pointe Bed & Breakfast offers cozy accommodations just outside town.

If you're after a lakefront view, Bella Vista Inn & Sunset Bay Resort provides suites and cabins with direct access to the water. Crews’ Lakeside Resort is another excellent option along Port Austin Road, with easy bay access and charming cottage vibes. For those who prefer being right in the middle of it all, Charter House Inn puts you within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the beach.

Afternoon: Beach Time at Caseville County Park

Once you’re checked in, head straight to Caseville County Park. The beach here is wide, clean, and ideal for swimming, lounging, or just soaking up the sun. The bay’s shallow waters stay warm well into the summer months, making it perfect for floating and splashing.

There’s also a pier to walk, and plenty of space to spread out your beach blanket. Grab an ice cream from the nearby Wooded Island Sports Grill & Mini Golf, or try a round of mini golf while you're there.

Dinner: Casual Local Favorites

Start your culinary tour with a burger or perch basket at Lefty’s Diner, a no-frills local joint known for good food and friendly service. Or, if you're looking for a laid-back brewery with live music and a dog-friendly patio, head to Thumb Brewery for craft beers and elevated pub fare.

🛍️ Day 2: Explore Downtown and Get Out on the Water

Morning: Coffee & Local Shops

Start your morning at Main Street Coffee House, where you can grab a fresh espresso or a blended drink along with a homemade pastry. Then take a stroll downtown to explore local shops.

Pop into the Caseville Historical Museum to learn more about the town’s maritime roots and quirky history—including its love for cheeseburgers and flip-flops.

Afternoon: Boating, Kayaking, or Hiking

Spend the afternoon out on the water with a rental from Port Austin Water Sports Rental. You can choose from pontoons, kayaks, and paddleboards—perfect for exploring Saginaw Bay at your own pace.

Prefer dry land? Drive just a few minutes out of town to Albert E. Sleeper State Park, where you can hike peaceful wooded trails, picnic in shaded groves, and enjoy a different angle of the shoreline.

Dinner: Sunset Dining on the Bay

Cap off your evening with dinner at Bay Watch on the Beach, a waterfront restaurant with a relaxed vibe and unbeatable views of the bay. The menu features fish tacos, burgers, and other beachy comfort food—perfect for a sunset meal.

🍔 Day 3: One Last Bite (Or Cheeseburger)

Breakfast: Sweet or Savory?

For your final morning in Caseville, grab breakfast at Lefty’s Diner if you didn’t the first night, or swing by Beachy's Bake & Brew for a cinnamon roll and coffee to go.

Morning: Festival Fun or a Nature Fix

If you're lucky enough to be visiting in mid-August, don’t miss the world-famous Cheeseburger in Caseville Festival. This Jimmy Buffett-inspired celebration features parades, live music, burger competitions, and a full-blown Key West-style takeover of downtown. It’s fun, funky, and unforgettable.

Not in town for the festival? No worries—this is still the perfect time to enjoy a peaceful walk along the pier or revisit the trails at Sleeper State Park before heading home.

🧳 Planning Your Trip to Caseville

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June–August): Perfect for beach days, boating, and festival energy.
• Fall (September–October): Fewer crowds and beautiful lakefront colors.
• Spring: Great for quiet getaways and birding at the nearby Huron County Nature Center.

What to Pack

• Swimsuits and water shoes
• Beach towels and chairs
• Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen
• Reusable water bottles and snacks
• A cheeseburger costume (if you're feeling festive)

Why Visit Caseville?

Caseville is the kind of place where summer feels endless and shoes are optional. It’s equal parts quirky and relaxing, where you can spend the morning kayaking on Saginaw Bay, the afternoon browsing local shops, and the evening watching the sunset with a drink in hand. Whether you're here for the festival or just for the views, this beach town on the Thumb Coast knows how to serve up a good time.

‍