South Manitou Island School House Empire, MI 49630

The South Manitou Island School House is a historic institution located in Empire, Michigan, United States. Situated on South Manitou Island, part of an island chain in Lake Michigan, the school house is surrounded by unique sand dune formations, pebble beaches, and old growth white cedar forests dating back over 500 years. Visitors can explore the island's rich history at the visitor center and museum, hike to various natural landmarks, camp in rustic settings, and visit ghost towns and old coast guard station outbuildings.

Access to South Manitou Island is by private boat or passenger ferry service run by Manitou Island Transit. Reservations are recommended, and visitors are advised to arrive at the Fishtown dock in Leland, MI, 45 minutes prior to departure. Safety tips include bringing a jacket for the boat trip, wearing comfortable hiking boots, and protecting against mosquitoes, flies, and ticks.

There are no food service, stores, or medical centers on the island, so visitors should come prepared. Emergency medical responders primarily come from the mainland, which can take hours to days depending on weather conditions. Rangers and ferry crew will provide information on return trips, and visitors are encouraged to check in with the ranger for any schedule changes. Don't miss the boat back to the mainland!