10 Reasons to Visit South Haven this Winter

November 7, 2024November 7, 2024 South Haven Blog

South Haven offers more than just a summer escape. As winter blankets the landscape, our charming town along Lake Michigan’s eastern shore transforms into a cozy retreat for families and travelers alike. Discover ten winter activities to make your South Haven stay unforgettable!

1. The South Haven Ice Rink
The South Haven Ice Rink offers a fantastic way for families to stay active all winter long. Nestled in the heart of downtown, it’s central to downtown shops, restaurants, and even the Michigan Theatre, making it the perfect start to an evening out. Parents can cozy up by Dyckman Park’s inviting fireplace, enjoying their favorite adult beverage as part of South Haven’s Social District experience.

2. View the Ice Covered Lighthouse and Lake Michigan Ice Circles
South Haven’s red lighthouse is the most popular summer landmark in town, but she does not disappoint in the winter either. Ice forms an ever-changing shell around the beacon as soon as the temperature drops and waves splash against the pier. Bring your camera and snap a photo of this unique seasonal experience. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing ice circles on Lake Michigan that come and go without warning. If you’re bundled up and looking for a peaceful walk, the pier-to-pier Harbor Walk remains a perennial favorite through all seasons.

3. Get Nostalgic at Rocket Arcade
Play all you want on over 65 retro games from the 70s, 80s, and 90s at Rocket Arcade. Purchase a free play or family pass to get the fun started on a blistery winter day. Snack on fun foods and classic sodas while you embrace your inner child for hours on end, then browse through their unique collection of T-shirts, art, and novelties. Hear more from “Rocket” Ralph in a recent interview here!

4. Gear-Up with Downtown South Haven’s Shops
Local merchants are meticulously stocking their shelves with handpicked items you’re sure to find nowhere else but South Haven! Treat your furry friends to the pampering they deserve at Decadent Dogs, or dazzle your significant other with a shiny accessory at Johnny’s Lakeshore Jewelry. Looking for a unique girls’ outing or date night? Get hands-on at Ruth’s Bath & Body Care where you can build your own terrarium at the succulent bar and indulge your skin with house-made soaps, lotions, and oils. Upgrade your winter apparel to withstand the Lake Michigan chill at Coastal Blue, SoHa Surf Shop, Glik’s, or one of South Haven’s newest storefronts: Coastal Outdoors.

5. Explore Dining Options & Seasonal Specials
Winter in South Haven is a perfect time to discover (or rediscover) the town’s diverse culinary offerings. Looking for a classic burger paired with a local brew? Or perhaps a martini crafted to perfection alongside a chef’s seasonal specialty? South Haven has it all. Indulge in the charm of our hometown diners, savor creative flavors at upscale eateries, or grab a slice from a favorite local pizzeria. This winter, take the time to uncover your new favorite dining gem in South Haven!

Date Night: Taste, The River Bottom, Tello Italian Bistro
Family Style: Clementine’s, Kitchen 527, Three Blondes Brewing
Friend’s Outing: South Haven Brewpub, Black River Tavern, The Lodge

6. Stay the night in South Haven and Dine On Us!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, or just need an excuse to break the monotony, South Haven has the perfect place to call home base as you chart your expedition across town. With amenities like fireplaces, whirlpool bathtubs, breakfasts in bed and other sweet indulgences, the deal gets even sweeter with our Dine On Us promotion! Book a room at a participating property to redeem a complementary $25 digital dining voucher to use at South Haven’s most popular restaurants! Get the details on Dine On Us here.

7. Catch the latest Blockbuster at The Michigan Theatre!
Enjoy first-run films and concessions at value prices at The Michigan Theatre! Located downtown near the Old Harbor Village, the Michigan Theatre is locally-owned and offers a big-screen cinematic experience with prices that make it affordable for the entire family. Local Tip: Mondays you can grab (2) movie tickets for only $8! On Thursdays, you can enjoy a complementary popcorn bucket refill.

8. Tour New and Old Museums
South Haven is rich with culture and opportunities to feed your need for new experiences. The Michigan Maritime Museum is one of the Great Lakes’ premiere destinations to experience freshwater maritime heritage. If the fine arts is more your speed, check out the South Haven Center for the Arts to immerse yourself in one of their rotating exhibitions or classes, and to shop for holiday wares during the annual Mistletoe Market. Explore the rich history of South Haven at the South Haven Historical Association, or listen to engaging talks and performances at the South Haven Scott Club. Families with small children will be thankful for the Mitten Children’s Museum and the outdoor StoryWalk at the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum, not to mention the weekly activities at South Haven Memorial Library.

9. Sled by the Riverfront at Coast Guard Hill
Visit one of South Haven’s best-kept winter secrets. Bring your own sled or borrow one at the sled library on Coast Guard Hill located next to the Great Lakes Research Library at 91 Michigan Avenue. During the winter, the street is closed and barricaded, so you can bundle up and slide down the hill that overlooks Riverfront Park. Coast Guard Hill also serves as the venue for the annual Ice Breaker Festival’s Cardboard Sled Competition.

10. Winter Festivals & Attractions
South Haven’s winter attractions continue to captivate visitors year to year. Click an event below to learn more!

Holiday in the Park | November 29: Kick off the holiday season with us while enjoying a magical evening filled with twinkling lights, ice skating, festive activities, and plenty of holiday cheer – including free family photos with Santa + Mrs. Claus, and their Elves!

Christmas in the Park Light Show at South Haven Jellystone Park | Click to view December Dates: The drive through light show will feature over 60,000 lights festively displayed along a 1/2 mile drive throughout Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort. Enjoy photo-ops, and stop by Mrs. Claus’s Bakery and Santa’s Toy Shoppe!

Drive-Thru Holiday Lightshow at Crane Orchards | Select dates Nov 29 – Dec 29: With a mile of lit winter wonderland decorated with hundreds of hand-crafted props, experience the orchard like never before and enjoy holiday magic from the comfort of your car.

New Year’s Eve Celebration | Dec 31: Get ready to ring in the New Year with South Haven’s most electrifying celebration yet! In addition to our traditional beach ball drop and fireworks, this year’s celebration will feature bigger LED screens lighting up the night sky, more laser lights cutting through the crisp air, and sound systems booming as you dance in the streets. South Haven will come alive in ways you’ve never experienced before—come be part of it!

Ice Breaker Festival | January 31st – February 2nd: This winter celebration brings the heat with stunning ice sculptures, a chili cook-off, cardboard sled races, and the always popular Pub Slide. Roam the streets and take in 30+ blocks of ice carved into incredible works of art.

BONUS: Live Music in South Haven

Several local venues are anchoring South Haven with year-round live entertainment, because dancing is the best way to keep warm! Discover the best local talent with the following live music schedules:

1. Black River Tavern offers live music with no cover every Friday and Saturday night. Touring artists are known to pack the joint and blow the roof off with thunderous sound, and is a popular mainstay for a night out with friends. Acts range from soul, funk, to classic rock ‘n roll.

2. Harbor Light Brewery is a traditional beer hall that features an eclectic mix of performers. Brian McClure’s brings his Celtics & Classics show the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. Brian is a talented fiddle player who incorporates other Celtic instruments into the mix by using a looper. He’s a one-man band who brings the house down every time!

3. The Groovin’ Grove features a diverse lineup of local talent in an intimate cocktail lounge that’s every bit as cozy as it is nostalgic.

Take the time to treat yourself to cozy connections in our welcoming community this winter. Start your exploring by requesting or downloading our visitor’s guide, browse area events, and connect with us on social media to discover more winter attractions!

Top 10 Autumn Adventures in South Haven

September 3, 2024October 1, 2024 South Haven Blog

South Haven has everything you need to add color to your fall escape! With outstanding lodging options, a thriving downtown retail and food scene, and more outdoor recreation opportunities than many towns twice its size, South Haven is the perfect place to experience the harvest season in Southwest Michigan. Find inspiration for your fall itinerary with the list below, and sign up for our weekly newsletter for updates on the latest happenings and things to do!

1. Explore West Michigan Wine County

Take a tour of area wineries in style with Happy Trails Wine Tours & Limo Service, or chart your own fall excursions into West Michigan wine country with our handy maps of The West Michigan Pike and Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. Whether you’re exploring Michigan’s oldest winery in Paw Paw or taking in the fall colors on the patio at Cogdal Vineyards, the area is ripe with opportunities to broaden one’s palate.

2. Wake Up to a Crisp Autumn Morning in the Great Outdoors

Whether you’re seeking cozy cabins nestled in a forest of fiery foliage or an unforgettable glamping weekend complete with spa day, South Haven has the perfect option for your next outdoor retreat. Refresh, unplug, and unwind in nature, explore camping options here!

3. Catch the latest thriller at The Michigan Theatre

Take in the latest flick at The Michigan Theatre in downtown South Haven! Enjoy first-run films with affordable tickets & concession prices at The Michigan Theatre.

Local Tip: Every Monday, all showings are just $4!

4. Explore the Bounty at South Haven Farm Market

Discover autumn’s abundance at the South Haven Farm Market! Located downtown at the Huron Street Pavilion, the freshest produce from local farms is available Saturdays through October 12. Other farm stands include Barden’s Farm Market and Phoenix Farm Market.

5. Go Dutch On Your Next Orchard Outing!

Discover where the world-renowned Red Haven Peach and all other Haven varieties of peaches were born and choose from a wide variety of mouth-watering apples at Dutch Farm Market and Orchard. The bakery and farm market are open 9am – 6pm daily, 7 days a week through October 31.

Local Tip: Apple season in Michigan is from mid-September through mid-October.

6. Have a Pumpkin Martini at Clementine’s

A community staple for over 40 years, Clementine’s is housed in a former bank and filled with nostalgic decor. Make your way to the hand-carved bar where you’ll find folks who stop in each fall for a taste of Clementine’s legendary pumpkin martini! A must try for lovers of all things pumpkin, and available for a limited time.

Local tip: Clementine’s is part of the South Haven Social District. Enjoy your pumpkin martini on a scenic downtown stroll or during events like the South Haven Jazz Fest and New Year’s Eve Celebration!

7. Conquer the Corn Maze at Bumbleberry Acres

Bumbleberry Acres is the perfect place to bring the family for fun on the farm. Not only do they have fresh fruits and vegetables, wagon rides, and a petting zoo, but the corn field transforms into an experience for all to enjoy in the fall. Test your navigation skills while twisting and turning your way out of the cornfield just a few short miles away from the shores of Lake Michigan.

8. Take on the South Haven Pure Michigan Trail Town Challenge

The South Haven Pure Michigan Trail Town Challenge invites adventurers to explore the scenic trails of South Haven, earning points by completing various outdoor activities along the way. Participants can enjoy hiking, biking, and paddling through picturesque landscapes while competing for prizes and the satisfaction of conquering the challenge!

Sign up today, you only have until October 31 to complete the challenge and claim your prize!

9. Trivia at Three Blondes Brewing

Thursday Night Trivia is back at Three Blondes Brewery, offering you the perfect chance to flex your brainpower for bragging rights and prizes! We recommend arriving early—it fills up quickly. Visit anytime for a great sit-down dining experience, or just to pick up a growler of your favorite brew to-go!

10. Take a fall cruise aboard The Lindy Lou

While Friends Good Will shines all summer long as its masts whip in the wind as it sets out for Lake Michigan from the docks of The Michigan Maritime Museum, the Lindy Lou snags the spotlight throughout October with fall color cruises along the Black River.

Bonus: Watch the Fall Sunset Simmer on Lake Michigan!

The day’s activities often take a backseat to the grand finale: sunset. Whether you’re perched along the bluffs or strolling the local beaches, this is the moment when the sky transforms into a stunning canvas of dark reds, bright purples, and everything in between. With over 10 public beaches to choose from, there’s no shortage of spots to witness this nightly spectacle. Make sure you carve out time to catch one of these mesmerizing light shows—it’s a South Haven experience you won’t want to miss.

Discover Spring Hiking in Southwest Michigan!

March 27, 2024 St. Joseph Blog

As winter gradually loosens its grip and nature awakens with renewed vigor, Southwest Michigan beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore its stunning landscapes through invigorating hikes. With the arrival of spring, the region bursts into life. From magnificent Lake Michigan dunes to lush forests, Southwest Michigan promises unforgettable journeys for adventurers of all levels.

Let’s delve into the best hiking locations, sights to see, and essential tips for making the most of your spring hiking experience. Adventure awaits in this charming corner of the Great Lakes State.

FIND ENCHANTING SIGHTS

Spring hiking in Southwest Michigan promises an array of captivating sights. From vibrant wildflowers carpeting the forest floor to migratory birds soaring overhead, every step offers a beautiful encounter with nature. Keep an eye out for trilliums, jack-in-the-pulpits, morel mushrooms, dogwood, and redbud blossoms. Listen for the trills and calls of redwing blackbirds, robins, warblers, seagulls, and spring peeper frogs as they herald the arrival of spring. Visit a railroad garden or hunt for sculptures.

The rhythmic lapping of waves against sandy beaches along the lakeshore provides a soothing soundtrack to accompany your hike. Challenge yourself and your hiking partners to a rigorous climb up giant dunes where you can see the incredible beauty of Lake Michigan for miles. Comb the shore for rocks, fossils, driftwood, and beach glass. Always make time to stay and watch a breathtaking sunset paint the sky in hues of gold and pink, casting a spell of enchantment over the landscape. It’s magical.

EXPLORE 10 SCENIC TRAILS

WARREN DUNES STATE PARK | SAWYER

Located along Lake Michigan’s southeastern shore, Warren Dunes State Park boasts some of the region’s highest dunes, dense woodlands, and panoramic Lake Michigan views. Trails wind through diverse ecosystems, offering insights into the ecological processes shaping the dunes. This state park is also one of Southwest Michigan’s favorite places to bring your leashed dog on marked trails and a designated beach.

WARREN WOODS STATE PARK | THREE OAKS

Warren Woods State Park transforms into a wonderland each spring. It offers the unique opportunity to hike through Michigan’s last virgin beech-maple forest. April and May are the best months to see trilliums blanket the forest floor and to watch for migratory birds nesting in the tall trees. This wooded state park is an ideal spot for wildlife photography.

GRAND MERE STATE PARK | STEVENSVILLE

With its dunes, beaches, and quiet woodlands, Grand Mere State Park is a spring haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Lupines, violets, and wild geraniums cover the landscape. The park is also on an ancient migratory bird route so expect to see raptors, shorebirds, and songbirds as they wing their way north.

HARBOR SHORES TRAILS | BENTON HARBOR

Harbor Shores Nature & Fitness Trail System offers 12 miles of urban hiking fun. The paved trails take you through the Harbor Shores Golf Course, along the Paw Paw River, Ox Creek, and the St. Joseph River, across wetlands, and up the dunes for a mesmerizing view of Lake Michigan and the historic North Pier Lighthouse.

The trail system’s six loops offer food and beverage destinations along the way and easy access to the Benton Harbor Arts District. If you hope to spot wildlife along the trails, the best times are in the early morning and evening.

SARETT NATURE CENTER | BENTON HARBOR

This wonderful nature center has eight miles of trails meandering through its 1000 acres. Hike along the Paw Paw River bluffs for great views of the river valley below. Follow the boardwalks to observation platforms in the floodplain to see spring awakening in the wetlands. Watch for wildlife emerging from their habitats in the wet forests, cattail marshes, shrub carrs, and even a unique alkaline wetland called a fen. Sign up for guided birdwatching hikes to spot some of the over 300 bird species that call this preserve home. See it all without getting your feet wet!

LOVE CREEK COUNTY PARK | BERRIEN CENTER

Love Creek County Park features six miles of hiking trails that take you through a variety of habitats, including a mature beech-maple forest with spectacular spring wildflowers. Watch for white-tailed deer and their fawns, and bring binoculars and a bird guidebook or phone app to identify the numerous birds that flock to this 200-acre natural area.

MADELINE BERTRAND COUNTY PARK | NILES

This picturesque park is on the east bank of the St. Joseph River. Its mile-long loop trail goes through pine and oak forests to a river bluff observation tower. You can also walk playing the 18-hole disc golf course.

GALIEN RIVER COUNTY PARK | NEW BUFFALO

The Galien River County Park gets high ratings from foot and wheelchair hikers. First, choose between hiking on two wheelchair-accessible boardwalks or a non-ADA-approved dirt and gravel trail.

The 300-ft. canopy walkway is a thrill for all ages. The ADA-accessible boardwalk takes you above the treetops to a 60-ft.-high marsh overlook. Or hike a 600-ft.-long boardwalk to a fishing platform where you can catch steelhead, rock bass, largemouth bass, and freshwater drum.

From either boardwalk, you can spot turtles, waterfowl, deer, and other marshland animals. Your best time to see wildlife is early morning and early evening.

The third trail is a 1.4-mile loop through the woods, edged by steep ravines, to the wetlands and river. It is not ADA-accessible.

FERNWOOD BOTANICAL GARDEN AND NATURE PRESERVE | NILES

Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve is one of Southwest Michigan’s most treasured river hikes. It boasts meticulously curated gardens, wildflower-strewn woodlands, a pond, a water mill, a railroad garden, and St. Joseph River views. Spring blooms include daffodils, tulips, fragrant herbs, and wild cherry blossoms. Buzzing bees and flitting butterflies contribute to the ever-changing spring views.

ROSS COASTAL PLAIN MARSH PRESERVE | COVERT

A local favorite, Ross Coastal Plain Marsh Preserve has three of the highest quality coastal plain marshes in Michigan, a rare find in the Great Lakes region. As you explore more than five miles of trails, you are likely to encounter reptiles and amphibians around the coastal plain marshes and small ponds. Watch for elusive mammals such as red fox, coyote, and many of the 100 bird species known to nest in the preserve’s shrubs and trees.

DO THE TRAILS CHALLENGE. WIN REWARDS.

Southwest Michigan has launched a new challenge to get you to lace up your boots and hit our gorgeous trails this spring. Download the Visit Southwest Michigan app to get started and play. Then visit five different trails in Southwest Michigan. Take a selfie by the trailhead and upload it to the app. The first 100 people to complete the challenge will earn prizes. Get all the Trails Challenge details here – then have fun!

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR A MEMORABLE HIKING EXPERIENCE

WHAT TO WEAR AND BRING

Check the weather forecast and dress in layers. Pack essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, a cell phone, a basic first aid kit, a compass or GPS device, and a map from the trailhead or a copy of the Southwest Michigan Trail Guide.

BE AWARE OF TRAIL CONDITIONS

Spring weather can bring unpredictable conditions such as mud, snowmelt, and swollen streams. Check trail conditions beforehand and be prepared for any obstacles you may encounter along the way.

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM TICKS

Springtime is prime tick season, so take precautions to protect yourself from tick bites. They like shady, moist areas. Wear long sleeves and pants and use insect repellent containing DEET.

Stay on paved or well-groomed trails. Avoid contact with high grass, brush, and any ground that is covered with fallen leaves. Perform regular tick checks during and after your hike and remove them promptly if you find any on you, your children, or pets. For more advice, download this helpful guide.

RESPECT NATURE

Stick to designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems. Refrain from disturbing wildlife, especially spring babies. Leave no trace behind and dispose of trash and pet waste responsibly.

RELAX AFTER A DAY OF HIKING

After exploring one or more scenic trails, extend your stay. Discover the region’s arts and craft-beverage scene. Indulge in the culinary delights of local restaurants, savoring farm-to-table cuisine made with local, seasonal produce, delicious fish and meats, and mouthwatering artisanal desserts. Find the latest spring fashions and home decor in quaint downtowns and boutique shops. Take a sweetly scented blossomtime tour through our orchards and vineyards.

Stay over at one of our amenity-filled hotels with affordable spring rates. You will awaken relaxed and rejuvenated for more outdoor adventures tomorrow.

Book Your Stay

Spring Break in Muskegon: Plan for Family Fun

February 16, 2024February 16, 2024 Muskegon Blog

Looking for family-friendly activities during spring break? Look no further than Muskegon County!

Whether you’re seeking indoor or outdoor fun, this Lake Michigan beachtown has something for everyone.

Let’s explore Ten Spring Break Ideas for Families:

Bowling Fun for All Ages

“Strike” it lucky at the bowling alley! Gather the family and head to one of the 6 bowling centers in Muskegon County. From traditional bowling to the unique duckpin bowling at Socibowl by Pigeon Hill, indeed, there’s excitement for all ages.

Hands-On Learning at the Museum

Venture to the Muskegon Museum of History & Science at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Here, children can immerse themselves in hands-on exhibits while learning about local and Michigan history. Don’t forget to snap a photo with Moxie, the life-sized bronze mastodon welcoming visitors at the entrance. Dive deeper into exploration with a visit to the STEM room and the “Coming to the Lakes” exhibit. Grab a guide at the Visitors Center or the Museum and embark on a scavenger hunt. There are 20 “Mini” Moxies hidden throughout downtown Muskegon. Can you find them all?

Movie Magic on Rainy Days

Rainy spring days call for a cozy family movie outing, because after all, spring weather is not always predictable! Explore your options, including multi-screen theaters like Cinema Carousel and NorthStar Cinema, offering a variety of films for all ages. For a nostalgic experience, head to the Getty Drive-In, one of Michigan’s few remaining outdoor theaters, where you can enjoy double features under the stars. Alternatively, experience the splendor of the Frauenthal Center. Being that historic theater hosts monthly Free Family Movies from September to May.

Hockey Excitement at Trinity Health Arena

Feel the excitement as you cheer on the USHL Muskegon Lumberjacks at Trinity Health Arena! With their kid-friendly theme nights, these hockey games promise fun for the whole family. And what better way to bond than over some tasty tacos from Rad Dads before or after the game?

Literary Adventures at the Library

Dive into the world of learning at Muskegon County libraries! With engaging STEM play areas, interactive programs, and story trails, there’s no shortage of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Plus, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the learning gardens – especially sure to inspire curiosity in young minds.

Thrills and Adventures

Seeking adventure? Look no further than Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park, where you can embark on a thrilling Trail Quest, solve riddles, and soar through the air on the dual zipline. Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at archery or tackle the 38-ft outdoor climbing wall.

Spring Strolls Through Muskegon

Slow down and savor the beauty of spring with a leisurely family walk through Muskegon’s parks, trails, and along the pier. Take in the blossoming scenery and keep an eye out for public art displayed along the trails – without a doubt, an outdoor treat for everyone!

Maritime History Exploration

Immerse yourself in maritime history at the USS Silversides Museum. Tour historic naval vessels, including a WW2 submarine and Coast Guard cutter, and gain insight into their roles in history. With each step, you’ll create lasting memories and deepen your appreciation for our maritime heritage.

Be a Butterfly

Strike a pose and spread your wings at the Kelsey Montague mural “What Lifts You” in downtown Muskegon. As part of Kelsey’s ‘Wings Around the World’ series, this mural serves as the perfect backdrop for a memorable family photo – a true testament to the uplifting power of art.

Make a Splash

Don’t forget to pack your swimsuits. Obviously, during your stay the kids will love playing in the pools at our hotels. Especially at Delta Hotels Marriott, Shoreline Inn and Fairfield Inn & Suites.

With all this in mind, remember to book your family getaway at one of Muskegon’s inviting hotels, cozy vacation rentals, charming cottages, or welcoming inns. With convenient locations, and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, you’ll undoubtedly create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Here are Southwest Michigan’s best destinations for fall colors, bird watching, paddling and surfing.

August 1, 2023August 4, 2023 St. Joseph Blog

Lake Michigan’s beaches are beautiful in autumn!

Discover the best fall beach destinations in Southwest Michigan

Summer isn’t the only time to visit Lake Michigan’s beaches in Southwest Michigan. Fall days and lake temperatures are often warm from September until early October. Then from October through November, pull on a sweater, fleece, or jacket and enjoy the wilder Big Lake waves and less-crowded beaches from golden sunrise to star-studded night. For many, fall is their favorite beach season. Come see why.

Fall in Warren Dunes - Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit : Joshua Nowicki — Fall in Warren Dunes – Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit: Joshua Nowicki

Visit nine Lake Michigan beach towns
If you’re planning an autumn getaway, solo retreat, or fall color tour along the lakeshore, add these Lake Michigan beach towns and their beaches to your itinerary.

Stevensville

Grand Mere State Park | 7337 Thornton Drive
Grand Mere boasts sweeping dunes, deep blowouts, a mile-long sandy beach, and hikes beneath canopies of colorful leaves.

Round Barn Winery in Fall | Photo Credit : Joshua Nowicki

St. Joseph

Lions Park Beach | Lions Park Drive
This tranquil beach is a good place to hunt for rocks and beach glass or immerse in the fall beauty on the John and Dede Howard Family Recreational Trail.

Silver Beach County Park | 101 Broad St.

This is one of Southwest Michigan’s most popular year-round beaches with its 2,450 feet of shoreline from the mouth of the St. Joseph River to Park Street. The park gives you access to the South Pier, and you can walk to the beach from downtown St. Joseph.

Tiscornia Beach Park | 80 Ridgeway St.

Great place to watch freighters, sailboats, and surfers in the fall. Best of all, you can park and walk out onto the North Pier to St. Joseph’s historic lighthouses.

Benton Harbor/Coloma

Jean Klock Park | Jean Klock Boulevard, Benton Harbor

This is one of the most beautiful, lesser-used beaches in Southwest Michigan. It is also a trailhead for a 10-mile natural and urban fitness hiking and biking adventure — the trees are autumn showpieces along the way.

Rocky Gap Park | 1100 Rocky Gap Road, Benton Harbor

You will love the panoramic views of Lake Michigan, especially at sunset. This is also a popular rockhounding site due to all the rocks that wash ashore.

Hagar Park | 5440 M-63, Coloma

Enjoy a picnic beneath red and yellow leaves, toss a Frisbee, or send a kite soaring on the beach. Dogs are welcome.

Roadside Park | 6930 Bluestar Highway, Coloma

Small, quiet, dog and kayak-friendly beach in the colorful forested dunes.

New Buffalo

New Buffalo Public Beach & Lakefront Park | 200 Marquette Drive
800 feet of sandy beach near the public boat launch and downtown.

Sawyer/Bridgman

Warren Dunes State Park | 12032 Red Arrow Highway, Sawyer
Three miles of beach frontage, including a separate dog-friendly beach. A top pick for its giant dunes and beautiful fall foliage.

Weko Beach | 5237 Lake St., Bridgman
Nestled among 42 acres of wooded dunes, it has 960 feet of sandy beach with some of the area’s favorite fall foliage and water vistas.

Seven favorite fall things to do at our beaches

There are so many ways to fill several fall days in Southwest Michigan. Here are locals’ and visitors’ top picks from high adventures to total relaxation.

Take a fall color tour

Follow the West Michigan Pike routes in this guide. Along the way, visit our pick-your-own and farm markets to gather just-harvested fruits and vegetables, plus bread, jams, desserts, and more for your fall beach picnic. This is also one of the best times of year to look for colorful rocks, beach glass, and fossils along the water’s edge.

Explore the colors of Fall in Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit : Joshua Nowicki — Explore the colors of Fall in Southwest Michigan. Photo Credit: Joshua Nowicki

Paddle along the shoreline

Most beaches offer easy access to take your canoe, kayak, or SUP from the parking lot to the shoreline. Several also have launch areas on scenic rivers that empty into the big lake. Shoreline paddles give you gorgeous views of fall foliage along the bluffs and across the dunes.

Watch for migratory birds on their Lake Michigan flight path

The migration flight path along Lake Michigan’s shoreline is almost as ancient as the dunes. Fall is a peak time for birdwatching, seeing everything from songbirds and shorebirds to raptors.

Be captivated by Great Lakes freighters and barges

It’s hard not to be drawn to the St. Joseph River and harbor when the big freighters and barges arrive or depart from St. Joseph. Watching these big ships navigate past the railroad swing bridge is especially enthralling. We hope you will also see the big ships at night easing through the channel by spotlight or their lights reflecting in the still harbor waters — it will take your breath away. Fall is the last season to be awed before the gales of November stop the shipping traffic on Lake Michigan until the next spring.

Reel in the big ones from our piers, rivers, and the Big Lake

Pier fishing for feisty salmon, trout, and steelhead is a thrill in Southwest Michigan. You can easily access some of our favorite fishing spots from New Buffalo Public Beach, Silver Beach County Park, Tiscornia Beach, and South Haven’s South Beach.

Go surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving

Many people are surprised to learn that you can surf, snorkel and scuba dive off the coast of Lake Michigan. Calmer days on the Big Lake are best for the latter two watersports, but frequent north and south winds make for surfable waves in the fall. You can often spot surfers from the shore at Lions Park, Silver Beach County Park, and Tiscornia Beach — or go out and ride the waves on your board!

See the best sunsets

It’s a daily ritual to head to any of our beaches to watch the sun sink below Lake Michigan’s horizon in a swath of peach, yellow, lavender, and scarlet colors brightening the evening sky. Even on overcast evenings, you will still find colors and a peaceful ending to your day on our shore.

Fall Sunset Southwest Michigan in Dune Grass | St. Joseph MI Photo Credit: Joshua Nowicki

Stay over at near-the-beach lodgings

Lodgings in Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, and Stevensville are just minutes from our beaches, resort town shopping, dining, fall festivals, and attractions. It’s a great time of year to get the hotel rate and amenities you want, especially on weekdays.

Book your fall getaway