Saugatuck is a charming town on the shore of big Lake Michigan, known for its artistic vibe, quaint shops, and scenic views. But one of the main attractions of Saugatuck is its beautiful beaches, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and water in a relaxing and fun way. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly spot, a romantic getaway, or a secluded escape, Saugatuck has a beach for you. Here are some of the best beaches in the town of Saugatuck, Michigan, that you should visit on your next trip.
Oval Beach
Saugatuck’s Oval Beach is one of the most popular, award-winning beaches in Saugatuck, and for good reasons. It has been ranked as one of the top freshwater public beaches in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, one of MTV’s top five beaches in the USA, and one of the top beaches in Michigan by Travel + Leisure. Oval Beach has a wide and sandy shore, clear and calm water, and stunning views of the lake and the wooded dunes. It also has amenities such as restrooms, showers, concessions, picnic areas, and a parking lot. You can access Oval Beach by car, by ferry, or by bus, depending on your preference. The world-renowned Oval Beach is the perfect destination to spend a day with your family, friends, or partner, swimming, sunbathing, playing, or watching the beautiful Lake Michigan sunset.
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
If you are looking for a more natural and adventurous beach experience, visiting Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a great way to experience this. This park covers 1,000 acres of land and has 2.5 miles of the best shorelines along Lake Michigan. The park is home to some of the tallest and most impressive sand dunes in the state, some reaching up to 200 feet high. You can hike, bike, or ski on the trails that wind through the dunes and the forest, or you can explore the shoreline and the water. The park has a rustic and secluded feel, and you can often find a spot where you can enjoy the beach by yourself. The park also has a rich history and culture, as it was once inhabited by Native Americans, lumberjacks, and artists. You can learn more about the park’s heritage at the visitor center or by joining a guided tour.
Laketown Beach
Laketown Beach is another hidden gem in Saugatuck, ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. Laketown Beach is located on the north side of town, and it is not very well-known or advertised. However, those who discover it are rewarded with a beautiful and serene beach, surrounded by trees and dunes. The beach is not very large, but it is enough to accommodate a few visitors who want to relax and unwind. The only catch is that you have to climb a long and steep stairway to get to the beach, which can be challenging for some people. But if you are up for the challenge, you will find that Laketown Beach is worth the effort.
Holland State Park
Holland State Park is a lively and popular beach that attracts many visitors from nearby towns and cities. It is located about 15 miles north of Saugatuck, and it offers a variety of activities and amenities for all ages and interests. You can swim, fish, boat, kayak, or paddleboard on the lake, or you can enjoy the views of the iconic Big Red Lighthouse from the shore. The park also has a campground, a playground, a picnic area, a concession stand, and restrooms. You can access Holland State Park by car or by bike, and you will need a state park permit or a day-use fee to enter. Holland State Park is the perfect place to have some fun and excitement on the beach with your family or friends.
Pier Cove Beach
Pier Cove Beach is a small and secluded beach that offers a glimpse of the history and culture of Saugatuck. It is located on the south side of town, and it is named after the shipping piers that were used in the 1800s for the logging and fruit industry. The beach has a creek that flows into the lake, and it is ideal for wading, splashing, or skipping stones. The beach also has some wooden sculptures and benches that add to its charm and character. You can access Pier Cove Beach by car, and you will find free and easy parking. Pier Cove Beach is the ideal place to enjoy some peace and quiet on the beach and appreciate the natural beauty and heritage of Saugatuck.
West Side County Park
West Side County Park is a scenic and sandy beach that offers a stunning view of the sunset. It is located on the north side of town, and it has 630 feet of shoreline along Lake Michigan. The park has a boardwalk that runs along the beach, and it is a great spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The park also has a playground, picnic tables, a pavilion, and restrooms. You can access West Side County Park by car, and you will find free but limited parking. West Side County Park is one of the best places to have a family gathering, a reunion, or a playdate with the kids.
Douglas Beach
Douglas Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches that is located on the south side of town. It has a picnic area, a restroom, and a quiet beach lined with trees down at the waterline. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Michigan. You can access Douglas Beach by car, and you will find free but limited parking. Douglas Beach is named after the village of Douglas, which was founded in 1851 as a lumber town. Douglas Beach is a perfect spot to enjoy some peace on the beach and appreciate the history and culture of Saugatuck.
Saugatuck is the best beach town in Michigan as it has something for everyone. Whether you want to relax, swim, hike, or picnic, one of the Lake Michigan beaches will match your taste and mood. The next time you visit Saugatuck, make sure to check out these amazing beaches and see for yourself why they are among the best in Michigan. You will not regret it!
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