Michigan Beachtown
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Articles with area highlights and travel tips to help you plan your Beachtowns trip.

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Evergreen Lane Farm and Creamery

New Wave Wellness In The Art Coast

A New Wave Wellness vacation can be a great way to prioritize self-care and living a more balanced life. Involving a wide range of physical, mental, and spiritual activities, New Wave Wellness embraces holistic health concepts and alternative practices to promote optimal health. Reset and recharge in the Art Coast with these less conventional activities […]

Fat Tire Entrance

Fat Biking on Silver Lake Sand Dunes

The Silver Lake Sand Dunes are famous for their 450 acre ORV area where people bring their favorite off-road vehicle for a day on the dunes. When the season would change to winter, that same ORV waited until spring for everyone to return. That is until now! From December 15th through March 15th, the ORV […]

Winter Shopping Blog Banner

Fewer Chills, More Thrills with Holiday Shopping in South Haven

It’s never too early to form a shopping game plan— especially when it comes to avoiding long lines, excruciating traffic, and delayed shipping dates. Forego any retail woes and satisfy everyone on your shopping list with these important dates:   Dine On Us November 1, 2022 – May 15, 2023 Participating Lodging Members & Restaurants […]

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Unique Fall Experiences in Holland

Fall colors, pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating all are must-do autumn activities, and the Holland area is a great place to enjoy all of them. (More on that later.) Holland is also theย onlyย place for a variety of other unique fall activities that will make the season extra special this year. Where else can you meet Abraham […]

Makers Trail Flight

St. Joseph: One of Michiganโ€™s Best Places to Visit in the Fall

For fall colors and activities, Michigan tops the charts in the United States. But for the best fall vacation destinations near major Midwest cities such as Chicago, Indianapolis, Detroit and Grand Rapids, Michigan, St. Joseph is Number One! This Lake Michigan beach town loves celebrating sweater-weather days and nights with you! Be wowed by St. […]

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A Fall Guide To Michigan Beachtowns

Fall in West Michigan is one of the most beautiful times of the year. The West Michigan Lakeshore offers a wide range of fall activities, including extraordinary fall color tours through the natural landscape, apple picking, cider tours, hayrides and more. The robust red, orange, and yellow canopy over the fall trails and the historic […]

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Fall in Love with The Grand Haven Area

Fall is a beautiful time of year to visit the Grand Haven area. The cooler temperatures, stunning colors, and festive activities make us a fall destination worth visiting. Read on to see all the things to see and do in Grand Haven and the surrounding areas of Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, West Olive, Coopersville, and Allendale. […]

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Family Fun in the Fall

Thereโ€™s no time like autumn in Saugatuck/Douglas when the trees display a riot of color, the air is a little crisp, and the crowds have thinned out. Itโ€™s the perfect time for families to enjoy an active weekend getaway sure to leave lasting memories.   Places to Stay Theย AmericInnย andย Best Westernย are traditional hotel options, but families […]

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Visit Muskegon Depot to Depot Fall Color Tours

Experience Michiganโ€™s Beautiful Autumn; and a Fun Fall Tradition. Visit Muskegon presents the 18th Annual โ€œDepot to Depot Fall Color Tourโ€ This October we invite you to celebrate the vibrant colors of our woods, dunes and waterโ€ฆand win prizes! Take your car or bike on this self-guided color tour; stretching from theย Muskegon South Pierhead Lightย to […]

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All About Blueberries in South Haven, MI

South Haven is home to the largest concentration of blueberry growers in the world. There are nearly 300 blueberry farmers with roughly 18,500 acres of blueberry farms within a 50-mile radius. The beloved blueberry is celebrated when it’s in season at our farm markets, u-pick farms, and at our National Blueberry Festival. Let’s learn about […]

Sunset of Silver Lake

Fall Fun in Silver Lake

Itโ€™s no secret the Silver Lake area is known for its splendid beauty and brilliant colors in the autumn months. New for 2022! Silverback Offroad and Sunbuggy ORV Rentals will be open everyday until the ORV area closes October 31!ย Silver Lake ORV Rentals With the dunes and lakeshore as a backdrop, the radiance of the […]

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Add These Waterfront Bars to Your South Haven Itinerary

Summertime in South Haven! During the summer, streets are filled with people of all ages, hands are filled with shopping bags, and bellies are full of good food and adult beverages. Nothing draws a crowd like the three, beautiful bars/restaurants that are located right on Black River. The Idler,ย Admiral Jackโ€™s, andย Captain Louโ€™sย are the perfect spots […]

Saugatuck/Douglas CVB

An Art Enthusiastโ€™s Guide To The Art Coast

Saugatuck/Douglas has long inspired artists of all mediums and captivated the art lovers who visit. Home to numerous galleries, studios, exhibitions, and public art installations, art aficionados will find much to appreciate in the Art Coast of Michigan. Exhibitions Theย Saugatuck Center for the Artsย regularly featuring exhibits throughout the year. From June 4-September 10, 2021, seeย Elevating […]

Little Sable Lighthouse

Silver Lake Sand Dunes – Reflections on a Great Season

Reflections on a Great 2021 Dune Season GENERAL NEWS| January 2022 As start the new year, we wanted to take this opportunity to reflect on our past season at the dunes. Although as a region and a nation we faced many of the same challenges as we faced in 2020 this year, we are immensely […]

Saugatuck/Douglas CVB

At The Present Time โ€“ A 2021 Holiday Gift Guide

Support small businesses this year and check off your holiday shopping list with must-haves that donโ€™t come from a mall. A host of specialty boutiques and independently-owned galleries and storefronts line the walkable streets of our downtowns, giving you the opportunity to find distinctive gifts in a more relaxed shopping experience. For theโ€ฆ Arts Lover […]

Saugatuck/Douglas CVB

Turn Up the Heat

Romance isnโ€™t hard to celebrate when youโ€™re spending time in our charming coastal towns. Thereโ€™s something enchanting about the way this area makes people feel. For an unforgettable Valentineโ€™s Day weekend getaway or romantic retreat, we invite you to discover some captivating ways to while away the winter hours together and get the sparks flying. […]

Saugatuck/Douglas CVB

Tantalizing Tastes of Winter

Whether youโ€™re planning a culinary-focused getaway or stopping for a sip. Winter is the best time of year to enjoy the delicious dishes and craft beverages of the region. And the best part? You get to avoid the crowds. Thereโ€™s no better way to warm up after a long wintry day than with a Michigan-made […]

Saugatuck Douglas Winter

Explore Our Winter Wonderland

Recapture the joy and spirit of childhood while sledding under a gentle cascade of snowflakes. Explore our tranquil woods and snow-covered dunes on snowshoe or cross-country skis. With such a variety of outdoor adventures available in Saugatuck/Douglas, youโ€™ll find it easy to create warm winter memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to bundle […]

Sunset Over Lake Michigan

Best Lake Michigan Vacation Spots for Your Summer Getaway

You donโ€™t need to head to the ocean to enjoy a relaxing beachfront summer getaway. The best Lake Michigan vacation spots bring you the beauty and serenity of the beach with no need to board a plane. Thereโ€™s dozens of gorgeous beaches to choose from along Lake Michigan, and weโ€™ve selected a few of the […]

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Social Distancing โ€“ Saugatuck/Douglas Style

We in Saugatuck/Douglas take pride in our community as a one-of-a-kind place for respite, and we want nothing more than for our wonderful visitors and local residents to remain healthy and happy during these challenging times. As our community continues to followย CDC guidelines for social distancing, weโ€™re loving how locals (and visitors, too) are still […]

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Cheers Your Way Across the Beachtowns Craft Beverage Trail

As you travel through the Lake Michigan Beachtowns, don’t miss stopping at the many spots along our Craft Beverage Trail! We have breweries, vineyards, tasting rooms, distilleries, and cider mills. Discover some new favorites and bring them home as souvenirs and gifts! Holland New Holland Brewing was founded in 1997 and today is recognized as […]

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Planning Your Destination Wedding in South Haven, Michigan

Here at the Visitors Bureauย we receive calls, emails, and visits asking about South Havenโ€™s opportunities for weddings and receptions. This being the case, Iโ€™m happy to put together this wedding guide for those who are interested in marrying, having a reception, or simply having engagement photos taken in the South Haven area. Photo credit: Katlyn […]

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Silver Lake Sand Dunes Camping

While snow may be blanketing the Silver Lake Sand Dunes at the moment, summer will be here sooner than you think! Here in Silver Lake, many area campgrounds are already taking reservations, making now the perfect time to reserve your spot.   Why Choose Silver Lake as Your Summer Camping Destination? Never camped at the […]

Michigan Beachtowns Romantic Trip Ideas

Most Romantic Things to Do Along the Michigan Beachtowns

If you are looking to plan a romantic getaway look no farther than the quaint and friendly towns along the Lake Michigan Beachtowns! We offer traditional wine & dine experiences along with some adventure, quiet time for just the two of you, and the most stunning sunsets you will ever see in your lifetime. Go […]

Saugatuck/Douglas Proofs

Valentineโ€™s Weekend in Saugatuck/Douglas

Romance is everywhere in Saugatuck/Douglas year-round, but especially so during Valentineโ€™s Day. Lovebirds have made the Art Coast of Michigan their destination forย honeymoons,ย anniversary tripsย andย romantic getawaysย for years; in fact, weโ€™ve been dubbed one of theย five best mini-moon spots in the state of Michigan! The townโ€™s trendy art galleries, romantic lodging options, acclaimed dining and unique shopping […]

Lake Michigan Lighthouse Frozen

Explore the Lake Michigan Beachtowns in the Winter

While we are the Michigan Beachtowns and we are most famous for our summers, there is still plenty to do and discover in the winter months along Lake Michigan! Silver Lake Sand Dunes + Hart This area is best known for their towering sand dunes that keep watch over Silver Lake and Lake Michigan. The […]

Yelton Web Banner

Planning the Perfect South Haven Vacation: Accommodations are Key

Everyone loves a good vacation: the break from routine that lets us escape into what we long for, whether it be rest and relaxation, adventure, special moments with family and friends or expanding our view of the world. With quiet charm, festive nightlife, stunning scenery and maritime culture, South Haven offers it all. What you […]

Winter Lake Michigan

A Winter Guide To Michigan Beachtowns

Plan your winter vacation in Western Michigan along Lake Michiganโ€™s coast to enjoy beautiful scenery and exhilarating activities. Lake Michigan Beachtowns are full of wonder in winter. Marvel at natural ice sculptures as they form before your eyes along the shoreline, or cozy up inside a charming winery, restaurant, or boutique. Tour colorful Christmas lights […]

Halloween In Muskegon

How to Halloween in Muskegon!

Muskegon offersย SO many unique ways to get your chills and thrills! We love this time of year; and know you will too! The chills and thrills range from historical to hysterical.ย  We have compiled a list of not too frightful fun for the little ones, eerie entertainment for the entire family, and ghostly good-times for […]

08/21/15 - South Haven, MI: Late summer in South Haven. Blueberries, peaches. ยฉ Chris McGuire Photography.

Celebrating the Harvest in South Haven, Michigan

Hot cider, pumpkin patches, apple picking and hayrides are the hot buttons that make us all think of the Fall harvest. The leaves are turning and creating a colorful backdrop, temperatures are cooler giving us the excuse to start bonfires, and whether or not you believe the spirits are among us, we are evoking earlier […]

Lake Michigan College Mendel Center

The Arts Help Make Southwestern Michigan a Top Pick

Recently, Forbes magazine published an article about the 10 best places if you want to retire early in the U.S. In it, southwestern Michigan tied for second place nationally and leads the pack in the Midwest. MagnifyMoney, the source of the ranking, studied 217 metropolitan areas throughout the United States and scored each on cost […]

SH Fishing

World Class Fishing on Lake Michigan

Take a stroll along the Black River in downtown South Haven and youโ€™re likely to encounter the serious fishing boats. If youโ€™re already a fisherman (or fisherwoman), you may know what fishing on the big lake is all about. But if youโ€™re like me, lake fishing invites curiosity and a certain mystique. Iโ€™m not a […]

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Southwest Michiganโ€™s Best in Breakfast, Brunch and Bloody Marys

Vacation may be the only chance you get to make time for breakfast, and when in Southwest Michigan, you will be glad you did. Whether you live for breakfast food or youโ€™d rather drink your breakfast youโ€™ll definitely want to start your day at one of these amazing restaurants: Staymaker at Journeyman Distillery, Three Oaks, […]

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Saugatuck Named One of the 25 Greatest Beach Towns in America

What do you see when you envision the perfect beach? For us, itโ€™s pretty hard to beat Oval โ€“ the largest beach in Saugatuck/Douglas. Although our beaches are a beloved part of our community, our year-round attractions, local character, food scene and charm factor, all distinguished Saugatuck/Douglas from the rest when Thrillist Travel chose the […]

Exploring Public Art in St. Joseph

Exploring Public Art in the Twin Cities

Southwest Michigan is home to the vibrant and artistic Twin Cities of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph. Visiting the waterfronts of Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph River, walking along Lake Boulevard in St. Joseph or exploring the Arts District of Benton Harbor soon reveals that there is a wide range of artists and artworks […]

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Fun at Full Sail Onboard Friends Good Will

The ropes are untied and the boat embarks. You slowly steer through the Black River channel and into the blue sprawl of Lake Michigan, which reflects the diamond chips cast by the sun. Once youโ€™re on the lake, the strengthening air begins to cool: You pull on a sweatshirt. Crew members dressed as 1800s merchant […]

Silver Lake Pizza

Silver Lake Summer Food Tour

No matter what your taste buds are after, Silver Lake offers a wide range of dining options to please every palate. Choose from delicious local flavors, fresh-off-the-grill burgers and dogs, mouthwatering chicken wings and pizza, Mexican fare, and cold sweet treats for those late-night cravings โ€” weโ€™ve got everything! Hereโ€™s a bit more about what […]

Farm Market Blog

Find Your Sensory Feast at the South Haven Farm Market

Farm-to-table produce and meat. Freshly picked berries and nuts. All-natural Amish cheese. Herbs and spices. Artisan woodwork. Whimsical jewelry. Candles and soaps. Leather wraps. Youโ€™re not in the middle of an exotic bazaar โ€“ youโ€™re among the 80 vendors at the South Haven Farm Market at the Huron St. Pavilion, an annual highlight of downtown […]

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Top 5 Autumn Activities in Saugatuck/Douglas

Thereโ€™s lots to do in Saugatuck/Douglas all year round, but fall is an especially special time to visit. From traditional autumn activities like apple picking and color tours to more creative ones like gallery walks and beverage tours โ€“ spending time in Saugatuck/Douglas in the fall is an experience youโ€™re sure to enjoy. 1. Fall […]

Volleyball SilverBeach

Planning a Beach Day in SWMI

Sitting on the beach with your toes in the sand. Itโ€™s an iconic image of summer โ€“ and frankly, no summer feels complete without at least one beach day (at least to me). If youโ€™re looking to spend a day at the beach in Southwest Michigan, consider these tips while planning your trip. Choose your […]

Mac Woods Dune Rides

8 Super Ideas for Summer Fun in Silver Lake

Whether youโ€™ve been planning your trip to Silver Lake for months or have just decided to stop by on a whim, weโ€™ve got the perfect summer-fun ideas for your visit! Summer Amusement at the Dunesโ€ฆ How could we not put the Silver Lake Sand Dunes first on the list? This extraordinary landmark remains the main […]

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Summer Fun in Holland, Michigan

The Beach Arguably the best place to be in Holland, Michigan during the summer months, the sandy shores are a favorite getaway.ย  Stroll the white sandy beaches at Laketown, camp out at Holland State Park and enjoy the sun setting over Lake Michigan before retreating back to your campfire, or, walk through a concrete tunnel […]

White River Light House

Visiting Muskegon, MI on a Budget

Visiting Muskegon, MI on a budget Traveling on a budget can be hard, with transportation and accommodations taking up a chunk of the budget, it can be hard to find interesting places and activities to visit while on a trip. Muskegon, MI, however, plays host to a range of activities that will satisfy all travelers, […]

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Early Industry and Community Beginnings in South Haven, Michigan

South Haven is a vacation destination with a rich history of progress and expansion, making it one of the favorite stops on the West Michigan Pike by adventure-seeking travelers. Industrial innovations and circumstances have shaped the area over time, leading to the charming city we know today. 2019 marks one hundred and fifty years since […]

St. Joseph Beach

Last Days of Summer Checklist

Southwest Michigan is one of the best places to visit during the summer because there are so many ways to relax, play, and get outside. As summer rushes by, you may wonder โ€œwhatโ€™s the best way to enjoy it before itโ€™s gone?โ€ Here are 10 things to add to your โ€œLast Days of Summerโ€ checklist […]

Sunset of Silver Lake

Think Dunes Starting April 1

As winter fades away, we find our sweet reward for surviving another frigid season: the opening of Silver Lake Sand Dunes. While you may recognize four seasons, around here we only know two: Silver Lake Sand Dunes Season and its offseason. On April 1st, the only true fools are the ones not at the Silver […]

Mt. Baldhead Beach

A History of the Mount Baldhead Radar Tower

One of the most iconic sights along the Saugatuck shore is the moonlike sphere of the Mount Baldhead radar tower. This Cold War relic dates back to the 1950s, when the escalating arms race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union had many Americans living in fear of an atomic bomb attack. In 1949, the […]

Silversides Outdoor

Make Muskegon Your Maritime Stop!

Make Muskegon Your Maritime Stop! Known for their abundant history in lumber, manufacturing and shipping, Muskegon is also home to two, very important, World War II maritime vessels. The USS Silversides is a historic Gato class (built for the US Navy launched between 1941โ€“1943) submarine. During her service, she received 12 battle stars and was […]

Windmill Island Gardens

Visit Windmill Island Gardens

Visit Windmill Island Gardens, one of Hollandโ€™s must-see attractions and our very own โ€œtreasure islandโ€! Spend an afternoon wandering through 36 acres of beautifully manicured lawns and gardens filled with over 122,000 tulips during our annual Tulip Time Festival; the tulips are replaced with breathtaking annuals and perennials for the summer months. In a nod […]

Beach glass in waves on shore

Collecting Beach Glass

By Joshua Nowicki Like collecting fossils, stones and driftwood, searching Lake Michiganโ€™s shoreline for beach glass is a relaxing hobby that beachgoers of every age can enjoy. Over the years, when I have been out taking photos along the lake, I would pick up the occasional piece of beach glass bring it home and put […]

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View Big Red Lighthouse

Holland’s beloved and popular “Big Red” lighthouse, which stands proudly at the south side of the Holland Channel, has a long and rich history dating back to the first structure built on that site in 1870. Currently the lighthouse is owned and maintained by a non-profit lighthouse commission and is Michigan’s most photographed lighthouse. For […]

DutchVillageblog

Top 10 Places for Families

Finding the perfect place for family fun isnโ€™t hard to do in Holland, Michigan. Whether you are looking for fun outdoor recreation, traditional Dutch activities, or indoor play, there are plenty of options for fun and adventure! Dutch Village One of Hollandโ€™s favorite attractions, Dutch Village offers an authentic Dutch experience for the whole family. […]

Coney Land with American Flag

The Magic of Ice Cream

โ€˜Come sit with me, both of you,โ€™ she said. โ€˜Weโ€™ll talk of strange ice creams and such things as we seem to have a bent for.โ€ ~ ย Ray Bradbury,ย Dandelion Wine Dandelion Wine is the enchanting American novel of a young, Midwestern boyโ€™s magical summer. Naturally it includes ice creamโ€ฆbecause what is summer without this delicious, […]

Warren Dunes road in fall

Joshโ€™s Fall Favorites

By Joshua Nowicki Summer is definitely the most popular time to visit southwest Michigan, however, I feel that there is even more to enjoy in the fall. Here are some of my fall favorites: Enjoying the Fall Color: Whether on foot, by bike, stand-up paddle board, kayak, or in the car, enjoying the colors of […]

Pizza and beer

Best Pizza Places in Southwest Michigan

By Erika Peterson Looking for the best pizza places in Southwest Michigan? Check out what these local guest bloggers had to say about their favorite pizza places in this corner of the mitten. Some of them may surprise you. Josh Nowicki The Livery & Haymarket Taproom Two of my favorite pizzas in Southwest Michigan are […]

Fish Monger chalkboard sign

The Fish Mongerโ€™s Wife

The winter ice has melted from the lakes of Muskegon County. There will soon be blooming daffodils, robin sightingsโ€ฆand a lot more fishing! Another welcome sign of Spring is the anticipated re-opening of The Fish Mongerโ€™s Wife. The Fish Mongerโ€™s Wife celebrates the tradition of Americaโ€™s First Industry โ€“ Commercial Fishing. Owners Amber Mae and […]

West Michigan Pike Sheild

West Michigan Pike Named State’s Newest Pure Michigan Bywaytm

Muskegon, MI โ€“ State and local officials and tourism organizations will gather Monday, July 25 at 10:00 a.m. at Muskegonโ€™s Heritage Landing to celebrate the designation of the West Michigan Pike as the stateโ€™s newest Pure Michigan Bywayโ„ข. Speakers at the designation event include State Senator Goeff Hansen (34th), MDOT Director Kirk T. Steudle, Travel […]

Michigan Beachtowns Brochure

Start Planning Your Lake Michigan Beach Vacation

Our guide to Michigan Beachtowns makes it easy to plan your trip and find exactly what youโ€™re looking for along the West Michigan shoreline.