Michigan Beachtown
Blog Posts

Southwest Michigan is bursting with ideas about what to do this summer. It was tough narrowing this bucket list to 73! Here are some traditional and quirky ways to fill your days and nights. But don’t stop with just these. Spend the next few months at our region’s most popular events, hiking our trails, taking […]

Throughout the summer season the Silver Lake & Hart area invites you to gather and enjoy live entertainment featuring local talent from around our region. Whether you are sipping wine at Fox Barn or visiting the Hart Commons, you are never too far from a live music venue during the warm summer months. Be sure […]

Dune Season Has Officially Begun! As the streets fill with people, local businesses reopen their doors, and the impressive Silver Lake Sand Dunes get ready for another thrilling season of dune riding. Simply put, it’s time for some fun in the sun in this beautiful lakeside town. The Silver Lake Sand Dunes, with their rolling […]

You don’t need to book a flight to the Caribbean to have your wedding on a sandy white beach or travel clear across the country to find a dreamy destination where people will accept you for the wonderful person you are. Saugatuck/Douglas is a hidden gem of inclusivity, tucked along the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. […]

When you step inside the Laffing Glass, a Saugatuck shop owned by Leslie Fitzell, it’s like crossing the threshold into Oz. A vibrant garden of glass flowers and dragonflies greets you, as does Leslie herself, ready with a smile and an endearing sense of humor. Her sunny spirit is even evident on the exterior of […]

Stunning lakeshore views, exhilarating outdoor experiences, a thriving arts scene, and a renowned culinary and craft beverage scene—it’s no wonder why so many visitors flock to the Art Coast of Michigan each summer. If you’re visiting for the first time, it can be overwhelming when deciding on how to spend your time here. Save yourself […]

Looking for a fun-filled summer vacation? Muskegon, Michigan is a must-visit destination for anyone! This beach-town is a hidden gem in West Michigan. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, relaxation on sandy beaches, or a taste of local culture, Muskegon has it all. Beautiful beaches, stretch for miles along the shores of Lake Michigan. Whether […]

If you’ve ever tried geocaching—using GPS coordinates to hunt for secret containers hidden all over the world—you might want to try the pastime’s analog cousin, letterboxing. Letterboxes are concealed all over the Art Coast. You only need a compass, curiosity, and a little determination to track down these hidden gems while visiting the Saugatuck/Douglas area. […]

Looking for a family-friendly vacation spot in a safe, inclusive environment? Look no further than the Art Coast of Michigan. With stunning outdoor scenery and fun activities for every age, Saugatuck/Douglas provides a warm welcome to all families looking for their ultimate escape. A long-standing history of inclusivity, a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and a plethora of kid-friendly […]

We know how addictive hobbies can be (ever tried pickleball, anyone?). Whether you’re visiting Saugatuck/Douglas for a workcation or traveling for pleasure, you don’t have to miss out on your favorite pastime while you’re here. To help, we’ve compiled a sport-by-sport breakdown of all the places you can go to stay active doing the hobby […]

With exhilarating outdoor experiences, a lively craft beverage scene, and so many more activities to explore, there’s no shortage of ways to make Father’s Day memorable. Here are our top 5 ways to celebrate Dad in Saugatuck/Douglas this year and every year. Ravines Golf Club Saugatuck Dunes State Park Lakeshore Drive 1. Hit the Links […]

After the snow melts and flowers start to bloom, there’s no better time to shake off the winter blues and embark on a fun-filled day of adventure in the Silver Lake, Mears, and Hart areas. Located in Oceana County, these charming communities offer a variety of outdoor activities and unique local businesses to explore. Get […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 the only place for a variety of other unique fall activities that will make the season extra special this year. Where else can you meet Abraham […]

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. […]

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 […]

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. […]

There’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. It’s the perfect time for families to enjoy an active weekend getaway sure to leave lasting memories.   Places to Stay The AmericInn and Best Western are traditional hotel options, but families […]

Experience Michigan’s Beautiful Autumn; and a Fun Fall Tradition. Visit Muskegon presents the 18th Annual “Depot to Depot Fall Color Tour” This October we invite you to celebrate the vibrant colors of our woods, dunes and water…and win prizes! Take your car or bike on this self-guided color tour; stretching from the Muskegon South Pierhead Light to […]

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 […]

It’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! Silver Lake ORV Rentals With the dunes and lakeshore as a backdrop, the radiance of the […]

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, Admiral Jack’s, and Captain Lou’s are the perfect spots […]

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 The Saugatuck Center for the Arts regularly featuring exhibits throughout the year. From June 4-September 10, 2021, see Elevating […]

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 […]

Support small businesses this year and check off your holiday shopping list with must-haves that don’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 the… Arts Lover […]

Romance isn’t hard to celebrate when you’re spending time in our charming coastal towns. There’s something enchanting about the way this area makes people feel. For an unforgettable Valentine’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. […]

Whether you’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. There’s no better way to warm up after a long wintry day than with a Michigan-made […]

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, you’ll find it easy to create warm winter memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to bundle […]

You don’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. There’s dozens of gorgeous beaches to choose from along Lake Michigan, and we’ve selected a few of the […]

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 follow CDC guidelines for social distancing, we’re loving how locals (and visitors, too) are still […]

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 […]

Here at the Visitors Bureau we receive calls, emails, and visits asking about South Haven’s opportunities for weddings and receptions. This being the case, I’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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Romance is everywhere in Saugatuck/Douglas year-round, but especially so during Valentine’s Day. Lovebirds have made the Art Coast of Michigan their destination for honeymoons, anniversary trips and romantic getaways for years; in fact, we’ve been dubbed one of the five best mini-moon spots in the state of Michigan! The town’s trendy art galleries, romantic lodging options, acclaimed dining and unique shopping […]

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 […]

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 […]

Plan your winter vacation in Western Michigan along Lake Michigan’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 […]

Muskegon offers 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.  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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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

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 you’d rather drink your breakfast you’ll definitely want to start your day at one of these amazing restaurants: Staymaker at Journeyman Distillery, Three Oaks, […]

What do you see when you envision the perfect beach? For us, it’s pretty hard to beat Oval – 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 […]

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 […]

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 you’re on the lake, the strengthening air begins to cool: You pull on a sweatshirt. Crew members dressed as 1800s merchant […]

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 — we’ve got everything! Here’s a bit more about what […]

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. You’re not in the middle of an exotic bazaar – you’re among the 80 vendors at the South Haven Farm Market at the Huron St. Pavilion, an annual highlight of downtown […]

There’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 – spending time in Saugatuck/Douglas in the fall is an experience you’re sure to enjoy. 1. Fall […]

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

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

The Beach Arguably the best place to be in Holland, Michigan during the summer months, the sandy shores are a favorite getaway.  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 […]

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, […]

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 […]

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 “what’s the best way to enjoy it before it’s gone?” Here are 10 things to add to your “Last Days of Summer” checklist […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 1941–1943) submarine. During her service, she received 12 battle stars and was […]

Visit Windmill Island Gardens, one of Holland’s must-see attractions and our very own “treasure island”! 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 […]

By Joshua Nowicki Like collecting fossils, stones and driftwood, searching Lake Michigan’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 […]

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 […]

Finding the perfect place for family fun isn’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 Holland’s favorite attractions, Dutch Village offers an authentic Dutch experience for the whole family. […]

‘Come sit with me, both of you,’ she said. ‘We’ll talk of strange ice creams and such things as we seem to have a bent for.” ~  Ray Bradbury, Dandelion Wine Dandelion Wine is the enchanting American novel of a young, Midwestern boy’s magical summer. Naturally it includes ice cream…because what is summer without this delicious, […]

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 […]

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 […]

The winter ice has melted from the lakes of Muskegon County. There will soon be blooming daffodils, robin sightings…and a lot more fishing! Another welcome sign of Spring is the anticipated re-opening of The Fish Monger’s Wife. The Fish Monger’s Wife celebrates the tradition of America’s First Industry – Commercial Fishing. Owners Amber Mae and […]

Muskegon, MI – State and local officials and tourism organizations will gather Monday, July 25 at 10:00 a.m. at Muskegon’s Heritage Landing to celebrate the designation of the West Michigan Pike as the state’s newest Pure Michigan Byway™. Speakers at the designation event include State Senator Goeff Hansen (34th), MDOT Director Kirk T. Steudle, Travel […]