McCarty’s Cove is classic Marquette, iconic Marquette. I’m at home at McCarty’s as much as anywhere, only Shiras Park has had more sunrise viewings. I reiterate the same question here, where does Shiras Park end and McCarty’s Cove begin?

On those uninspired mornings, this has always become a fallback location. Since moving closer to the beach in 2020, this composition has been repeated far too many times, though I now have versions in all seasons and all weather conditions.

Given the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, the trees, the beach grass, the rocks, and the curve of the beach, McCarty’s can be a very dynamic location with lots of variety. However, the introvert in often avoids McCarty’s Cove on a clear, warm morning, knowing that I’m likely to be interrupted by someone. It has never been the worry about people walking into the frame (more on this later), but the worry of being pulled out of my meditative and introspective space.

Sunrising at McCarty's Cove? Here are a few pointers.

  • Taking a seat on the lifeguard towers is a crowd favorite, but in the summer, you’ll have to get there early if you want one of these seats
  • Tuck up into the trees and watch the sun rise from behind the lighthouse
  • If you’re an introvert, like myself, proceed with caution. Though there is ample space, it is the most popular sunrise location in Marquette, and some folks are surprisingly chatty at that hour.
  • Be cautious early and late in the year, as the sun will rise from behind the lighthouse
  • Walk to Picnic Rocks and back (about 0.7 miles)

๐Ÿ“ 46ยฐ 32' 36" N, -87ยฐ 23' 47" W