Summer days are here again, and there aren’t many places we’d rather be than Silver Lake Sand Dunes, Michigan!
Sun, beach, sand (lots of sand) … What more could you ask for!
Take a moment to peruse our top picks for summer activities you won’t want to miss this year to put on your summer bucket list!
1. Visit the Hart Tin Man Sculpture
The Hart Tin Man is an original 24-ft sculpture created by 5-time Artprize artist, Bill Secunda. Representing the Tin Man from “The Wizard of Oz”, this sculpture is associated with labor and care, needing a heart (which he found in Hart, MI). He symbolizes the care and effort our farmers put into their work and land, emphasizing the emotional and physical investment in agriculture. Visit this sculpture in Downtown Hart.
2. Swim in Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is clean, breathtaking, salt-free, not full of sharks, and has the perfect amount of waves.
Is it the ideal body of water? Probably.
Should you go swimming in it? Definitely!
Our area coastline features several public beaches that are great for swimming or just stretching out on a warm beach towel in the sun.
3. Explore Little Sable Point Lighthouse
Add some history to your trip, and make Silver Lake State Park part of your beach list. This stretch of sand features a great place to play in the sand and enjoy the waves — plus Little Sable Point Lighthouse, a historic area landmark.
Tours of the lighthouse allow you to climb to the top of the tower and see out along the coastline for miles. You can tour Little Sable Point Lighthouse:
Mondays: 11am – 4pm
Tuesday – Sunday: 10am – 5pm
(May 20th – September 7th, 2026)
4. Hit the Wineries in Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Visit all three of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes wineries for a perfect blend of local flavor and laid‑back vibes! Annabelle Acres Vineyard & Winery, Pleasant Valley Farm & Vineyard, and Fox Barn Winery. Each spot crafts its wines in-house, offering a wide variety of unique flavors to try. Stop by on the weekend to enjoy live music, gather your group, and turn it into a fun, unforgettable night out.
5. Take a thrilling dune ride
There’s nothing quite like riding the Silver Lake Sand Dunes especially for the first time. That feeling of cresting a dune and seeing the spectacular horizon of Lake Michigan before you is like nothing else.
Whether you’re a seasoned dune-rider or a newbie, there are plenty of ways to experience the dunes:
- Bring your dune-ready ORV from home
- Rent an ORV right here in Silver Lake
- Take a toured ride on Mac Wood’s Dune Rides
Head to our dunes page to learn more about the dunes, ORV rentals, and tours.
6. Play a round of golf on a scenic Silver Lake course
Golf enthusiasts rejoice! The Silver Lake area features several local golf courses for a perfect day out on the green.
Get a group together, set your tee time, and head out for a relaxing golfing experience with wonderful views. Whether you’re new to the sport or looking for advanced play, golfing in Silver Lake is an excellent way to improve your game, reduce stress, and enjoy nature.
7. Go Sandboarding on the Sand Dunes
Ever tried sandboarding down the towering slopes of Silver Lake Sand Dunes? Now’s your chance! Rent a board from Silver Lake Adventures or The Silver Lake Sand Box and experience one of the most unique thrills the dunes have to offer. Start small as you get the hang of it, then work your way up to the tallest hills for an unforgettable ride.
8. Conquer The Test Hill at Whippy Dip
Head over to Whippy Dip and take on the legendary Test Hill ice cream sundae! Served on a frisbee, this over-the-top treat features two scoops each of vanilla and chocolate, plus a pile of twist ice cream on top of an Oreo-filled base. It’s loaded with fresh strawberries, hot fudge, warm caramel, cherries, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of nuts. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, this is one sundae you absolutely have to try!
Book the Perfect Silver Lake Sand Dunes Vacation
If you’re like us, your summer calendar is filling up fast. Don’t let it all go by without reserving your trip to Silver Lake!
Silver Lake Sand Dunes lodging comes in all shapes and sizes — from tent sites and RV hookups, to cabins and resorts. When choosing where to eat, select from a range of family-friendly and casual dining spots, pubs, wineries, ice cream shops, and more!
This year, make your summer unforgettable with a trip to the Silver Lake Sand Dunes!