Here are 10 unique attractions in the Blue Water Area for summer of fun

Your summer getaway might be closer to home than you think. 

Katie Stepp, marketing manager for the Blue Water Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the Blue Water Area boasts a unique blend of beaches, parks and small towns that have a variety of things to do for everyone, from couples to young families and families with older children. 

"It's got this unique shoreline and these small towns that are all super charming and it's not far from the major cities, so you're getting that up north feel without having to drive all the way up north...To me, it's that perfect destination, especially in the summertime," she said.

And each community offers something different so that visitors and residents can spend a day, a weekend or a week finding fun things to do, Stepp said. 

Here are 10 attractions for visitors and residents to see for a summer of fun. 

4 Mile scenic turnout park and beach

M-25, Forester Township

About: This hidden beach is at the bottom of a staircase that goes through the woods at the north end of the Michigan Department of Transportation turnout. 

Seventh Street bridge kayak launch

East of Seventh Street Bridge in Zebra Bar and Bowl-a-Dome parking lot, 522 Quay St., Port Huron

About: One of nine Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible launches in St. Clair County, the Seventh Street kayak launch offers paddling on the Black River with access to the St. Clair River. Located in the heart of downtown Port Huron, the launch provides easy access to bars, restaurants and shops when you're done paddling, said David Struck, Planning Director/Deputy County Administrator for the St. Clair County Metropolitan Planning Commission.

40th Street Thompson Pond Park and kayak and canoe launch

2499 40th St., Port Huron Township

About: The 65-acre pond has floating docks that make it a popular fishing spot for families and beginner anglers. No gas motors are permitted. The pond is also a popular spot for ice fishing in the winter. The park features bathrooms and pavilion picnic areas. 

"40th Street Pond in Port Huron Township is where you can catch fish super easily," Stepp said. "It's a huge confidence boost to newer anglers and small kids."

Burtchville Township Park

Harris Road, Lakeport

About: The 15-acre park includes a swimming beach, rollerblade area, tennis courts, basketball courts, a skate park, a pavilion and a 1/4-mile walking path. The park also has easy access to Lake Huron, especially for kayaks and other paddle sports, Stepp said. 

CityFloats and Fair Weather Grill

405 Water St., Port Huron

About: Residents and visitors can have a unique dining experience by sipping cocktails or munching on food on CityFloats' moored barge on the Black River. True to its name, CityFloats and the Fair Weather Grill are open when the temperature is above about 60 degrees and there are sunny skies. The dining area offers summer cocktails, beer, wine and seltzers, as well as a food menu including burgers, brats and other grilled items. There is occasional live music and a dock for boaters. 

"It’ a great summer destination to go and grab a few drinks and some great food," said Nicole Kelly, marketing manager for CityFlatsHotel. "It’s overall just a fun, inviting atmosphere."

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, noon-8 p.m. Sundays, open June through mid- to late-September

For info: (810) 432-0010 and cityflatshotel.com/location/port-huron/

Lakeshore Smokehouse

7269 Lakeshore Road, Lakeport

About: The smokehouse has seven themed areas on seven acres, including a waterfall koi pond, a bocce and corn hole area, a cantina area with seating for about 65 guests, a little Amish cabin seating area, a fairy garden and the ice cream cabin with seating for about 35 people. Menu items include traditional barbecue items, such as pulled pork, beef brisket and ribs, and new favorites, such as smoked chicken, Cuban sandwiches, stacked ham and cheese sandwiches and grilled cheese with candy bacon. 

"When I think about what I want our customers to experience, it's the best, most hospitable, kindest experience possible," owner Vicki Torello said.

Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Friday through Sunday

Info: (810) 385-5580 and facebook.com/lakeshoresmokehouse.lakeport

North River Road Park and kayak launch

3055 North River Road, Fort Gratiot

About: This ADA-accessible kayak launch onto the Black River allow paddlers to go either direction on the river, and is close to the Black River Canal if paddlers wish to go to Lakeside Beach, Struck said. The park features two doubles tennis courts, baseball/softball fields, basketball courts, playground equipment and a picnic area. There is also 400 feet of access to the Black River for fishing. 

Pearl Beach Fishing Pier

Behind Johnnie Lega's Restaurant and Tavern, 9724 Pearl Beach Blvd., Clay Township

About: Located at the end of Pearl Beach Boulevard on the North Channel, the fishing pier is open to fish or watch boats go by. 

Pine River Stables

1200 Stein Road, St. Clair

About: The family-owned farm offers hour-trail rides through its 100-acre wooded property. Stable manager Dan Boden said staff take many first-time riders on the trail, as well as more experienced riders. Pony rides for children under 8 are available. Smore's evening trail rides, which include an hour ride and time spent around the campfire, are also available by reservation. Reservations are preferred, but not required. 

“It’s just a nice guided trail ride through the woods," Boden said. "There is a creek that runs through the property so it makes it very picturesque."

Hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday, open May through November

Info: (586) 894-2756 and pineriverstables.net/

Timber Creek Petting Farm

6572 Burns Line Road, Lexington

About: Timber Creek Petting Farm has more than 20 species of animals for visitors to visit and feed. Owner Christina Kinde said the farm has domestic animals as well as exotic animals, including antelope, large tortoises, fox, alligator, kangaroo and ostrich. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for children 12 and younger, seniors and military members; and free for children younger than 2. Group visits are available by appointment. 

Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, open May through October

Info: (810) 712-6446 and timbercreekpettingfarm.com/

Contact Laura Fitzgerald at (810) 941-7072 or at lfitzgeral@gannett.com.