Beach Towns: Huron Is A Boat-Lover's Paradise

If you have your sights set on sailing away, this small town an hour west of Cleveland is a prime launching point.

The Huron Boat Basin Marina and the 1,000-seat outdoor amphitheater is a focal point for boisterous on-land events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, movies, fireworks and the annual River Fest July 12-14, which includes the crowning of a river queen, a parade, food trucks and musical performances.



But there’s other marinas nearby to get you on the water, such as the 176-slip Mariner Village Marina at Sawmill Creek Resort where you can rent Jet Skis, kayaks and paddleboards and participate in charter fishing.

Head north of town for a cocktail or craft brew at the Old Fish House before hitting the mile-long fishing pier that extends along the mouth of the Huron River out to the Huron Harbor Lighthouse.



Or journey across the river to Nickel Plate Beach, where you’ll find volleyball courts and pingpong tables on the sand, locals lounging on the breakwall with fishing poles in hand and a shack where you can rent paddleboards, kayaks and beach gear.



But, if seclusion is more your style, head to the 472-acre Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve, which offers a mile-long walking trail and provides a habitat for nearly 300 bird species.

The nearby Firefly Beach Resort also has you covered with colorful cottage rentals, a tiki hut-style bar and a private beach. cityofhuron.org