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 best Lake Michigan vacation spots for every interest. Whether you’re looking for sand, sun and waves, a rustic camping adventure, a winery tour, or something in between, you can find your summer getaway on the lakeshore.
The Best Lake Michigan Vacation Spots for Your Summer Getaway
Silver Lake/Hart: Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Michigan’s Silver Lake Sand Dunes are a truly unique, must-see location, and one of the most extraordinary Lake Michigan vacation spots. Nestled amongst Michigan’s forests near the top of the lower peninsula is a natural wonder with breathtaking views; sprawling acres of towering sand dunes between Silver Lake and Lake Michigan. With part of Silver Lake State Park reserved for off-road vehicles and another reserved for hiking, you can satisfy your thirst for adventure as well as exploration.
Perfect for:
- Beach trips
- Camping
- Hiking
- New experiences
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Saugatuck/Douglas: Oval Beach
Saugatuck/Douglas is one of the best Lake Michigan vacation spots to spend a day on the beach. Pristine Oval Beach has been named one of the most beautiful beaches in the nation by travel magazines and TV shows, making it an avid beach-goer’s must-see Lake Michigan vacation spot. Visit one of Saugatuck’s or Douglas’s cafes and pack yourself a picnic, or visit the beachside concession stand for a pick-me-up. With campgrounds, hotels and B&Bs, there’s no shortage of accommodations, as well as a collection of restaurants, wineries, cideries and breweries to thrill your taste buds.
Perfect for:
- Beach trips
- Winery or brewery tours
- Parties or special events
- Shopping
- Beautiful sights
St. Joseph: Maker’s Trail
Located further south, St. Joseph is a fantastic Lake Michigan vacation spot for visitors from Illinois, Indiana or Wisconsin. With thousands of acres of dunes, lakefront camping, hiking trails and pristine parkland, St. Joseph offers numerous ways to enjoy Michigan’s natural landscape. The dozens of breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries along the Maker’s Trail also make it a prime location for parties and tours. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor escape on the beach or an indoor getaway enjoying delicious food and drinks, St. Joseph has it.
Perfect for:
- Beach trips
- Camping
- Parties and special events
- Winery or brewery tours
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South Haven: Nature Preserve
It’s easy to find your own secluded spot on the beach at South Haven. With a dozen parks, acres of forest and miles of sandy beaches and hiking trails, South Haven is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures. Take a stroll through South Haven to get lunch or dinner and head over to one of the nearby, accessible beaches with your friends and family for a relaxing day. If you prefer a more remote getaway, visit the Casco Township Nature Preserve or Pilgrim Haven Natural Area. You’ll also find a collection of restaurants, wineries, breweries, hotels, B&Bs, museums and historic sites in South Haven for indoor fun as well.
Perfect for:
- Beach trips
- Camping
- Winery or brewery tours
- Hiking
Grand Haven: Grand Haven State Park
If you are looking for a picturesque place for your beach towel and umbrella Grand Haven is the ideal Lake Michigan vacation spot. Stake out your section of sunny beach at Grand Haven State Park and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of sunbathing, swimming, picnicking, or strolling along the beach. With 48 acres of sandy Lake Michigan shore, it’s easy to find a nice quiet spot. Get a scenic picture with the historic lighthouse and pier in the background and take the boardwalk back to town to visit the shops, breweries, wineries, and restaurants.
- Beach trips
- Outdoor adventures
- Hiking
- Winery or brewery tours
Muskegon: Outdoor Adventures
Muskegon is known as an excellent Lake Michigan vacation spot for families and outdoor types – boaters, cyclists, hikers and runners. If you have an extended vacation planned, Muskegon offers a wide range of activities to keep everyone in your family or group entertained. Michigan’s Adventure amusement and water park is a thrill for families and a great way to spend the afternoon together, or take a stroll through town and visit the brand new restaurants, breweries and shops with your friends. History comes alive at Muskegon’s historic sites and museums, or spend the day outdoors at Muskegon’s expansive beaches or on miles of recreational and mountain biking trails.
Perfect for:
- Theme park trips
- Beach trips
- Outdoor adventures
- Family vacations and parties
Holland: Beaches and So Much More
Whether seeking relaxation or renewal, Holland is the destination for you. Stretch out on a pristine white sandy beach or climb a towering dune. Savor an afternoon aperitif in a sidewalk café or power shop though our historic downtown. Photograph a stunning sunset or bike a path through our 150 miles of paved trails. Come to Holland and see where your passion takes you.
Perfect for:
- Beach Adventures
- Hiking & Biking
- Fishing & Boating
- Unique Dining & Shopping
- Exploring Dutch Heritage (including an authentic Dutch windmill)
Everyone’s ideal Lake Michigan Vacation spot is a little different, with different activities, sights, and adventures. Whatever you’re looking for and no matter what type of vacation you’re planning—a family vacation, romantic retreat, party with friends—you’ll make wonderful memories at Michigan’s beach towns.
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