Want a romantic getaway for two, couples weekend, family vacation, multi-family vacay, family retreat, you name it and there’s a dwelling near a beach that probably also has some sweet amenities. Check out our South Haven on Lake Michigan for your rental.
Here’s a quick tour of our South Haven Rental
2. Endless activities for families
There’s the obvious one, swimming! The lake is amazing, one day there’s huge waves to jump and the next it’s so calm, quiet, and peaceful, perfect for paddle boarding or kayaking.
There’s also fishing, canoeing, tubing….dune rides, horseback riding, you name it and chances are South Haven or a place in close proximity offers it!
3. Location, location, location!!!
Did I mention we were close to EVERYTHING?! It felt nice not having to get in the car each time we wanted to eat at a restaurant, go shopping, grab coffee, get ice cream, eat pizza on the beach etc.
4. Perfect Sunsets
Like clockwork, when 9PM rolled around everyone came out of their rentals and strolled down to the beach to behold one of the most beautiful sunsets ever, literally, every sunset we saw seemed for vibrant, more beautiful, and magnificent than the last.
When vacationing with other families take turns making meals, or better yet, take turns going on an adventure each evening! Have each family choose a country’s cuisine to share and assign them their day ahead of time so they can plan the decorations, food, and music ahead of time. This year we traveled to Japan, Italy, the Polynesian Islands, America, & Mexico! We even had an apron ceremony at the end of each meal.
Have Rainy Day Activities/Activities to keep Kiddos Busy Throughout the Week
Rain in the forecast? Just need to keep the kiddos busy while you repack the beach bag, do laundry, and/or want enjoy that second cup of coffee on the porch? Bring a bin full of arts and crafts, get it out at the beginning of the week and assign different “kits” and crafts to each kiddo letting them know they have until the end of the week to complete their projects for the Art Show. Then of course you need to take a half hour and have an Art Show that last day. Include refreshments and toast the magnificent artist and the epic week y’all had!!
SO what are you waiting for, book your next getaway as a couple, family vacay, retreat now! Is your school district starting school online…have laptop, have mask, will travel! Have you and your family vacationed in South Haven? I’d love to hear about your experience. Or perhaps you have a question about the post, South Haven, or taking a Family retreat?
We’ll confess: we LOVE Saugatuck. It’s a friendly town, and the beautiful setting seems to keep everyone in a perpetually good mood. Saugatuck, MI is one of those places you have to see for yourself: make a quick turn off the scenic Blue Star Highway and suddenly you’re in the middle of one of the most charming spots in Michigan.
If you’re seeking the perfect vacation spot that combines beautiful beaches, art galleries and the best beach towns in the country; or a romantic getaway, complete with leisurely al fresco dining and sampling some of southwest Michigan’s finest wineries, cideries and craft breweries, you’re here.
Try Saugatuck and Douglas MI, tucked away in quiet Allegan County in southwest Michigan and plan your trip now.
Visit Saugatuck and Douglas
For decades, visitors from Michigan, Chicago and beyond have traveled to this tiny spot; a perfect spot for family vacations or a weekend getaway cozily tucked away off the Blue Star Hwy and surrounded by sandy dunes and blue waterways. Sandwiched between some of Lake Michigan most popular tourist spots: St. Joseph and Grand Haven, Saugatuck more than holds its own when it comes to beautiful beaches.
This must-visit spot is home to so many unique features, from world-renowned beaches to a top-rated arts community to acclaimed restaurants and wineries, that it’s hard to know here to begin identifying them all. This is midwest living – and vacationing- at its best.
SAUGATUCK AND DOUGLAS: TWIN CITIES
We’ll start by telling you that Saugatuck and Douglas, “twin’’ cities separated from each other by the Kalamazoo River, are some of Michigan’s most popular destinations for travelers, with good reason. It’s inviting spot: along with never-ending Lake Michigan beaches, there’s charming and artsy downtowns lined with unique shops, restaurants, cafes and galleries.
Both comfortable and high-end accommodations abound, offering visitors an opportunity to explore this beautiful area set on the shores of Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River. It’s also home to some of the prettiest natural beaches, including world-renowned Oval Beach, acclaimed as one of the best beaches in the world by Conde Nast Traveler.
About Saugatuck and Douglas
Saugatuck and Douglas just may be the best little beachtowns in the country, and they take that role seriously, attracting visitors from across the globe. Both downtown historic districts are quaint and charming, a mix of respected art galleries, fine dining and shops.
Douglas is located on the banks of the Kalamazoo River, a stunning natural setting with opportunities for kayaker and paddleboarders. Saugatuck, in the sandy dunes along the Lake Michigan coast, is equally charming and offers never-ending outdoor adventures including hiking, biking, beaching, dune buggy-riding and much more.
From dining al fresco and enjoying a craft beverage on Butler Street (the main street in Saugatuck city) to going back in time at the Saugatuck Douglas historical museum to simply relaxing on a bench in Coghlin Park and watching the boats in Saugatuck harbor, there really is something for everyone in Saugatuck and Douglas.
Saugatuck is known for…
Home to stunning Oval Beach, with an impressive pedigree of awards from such noted media outlets as Condé Nast Traveler, who named it one of the “Top 25 Beaches in the World” and National Geographic Traveler, who dubbed it a “Top Freshwater Beach in the US”… truly one of the prettiest beaches in the state
Named one of the “Top Five Art Towns in America,” this vibrant arts community supports and appreciates the arts by bringing revolving exhibits, live concerts, and showings of independent films to both Saugatuck and nearby Douglas Michigan
The quaint, historic downtown shopping district featuring shops, galleries, restaurants and boutiques that swells with visitors during the summer and fall months
The towering freshwater coastal dunes of Saugatuck State Park, with a sweeping Lake Michigan shoreline and sandy dunes over 200 feet tall
The Saugatuck Chain Ferry, the only remaining chain-driven ferry in the country.
SAUGATUCK, MI WEATHER
Saugatuck, MI weather is typical Michigan: cold and snowy in the winter and delightfully warm in the summer. Expect temperatures to range from 70 F to 80 F during the day from June-September. During the summer months, mornings and evenings may be cooler; typically lower 70 – 60 F.
LAKE MICHIGAN SUNSETS
The flaming sun sinking into Lake Michigan on clear evening from a Saugatuck beach is a beautiful sight, and Saugatuck’s wide-open beaches are a perfect spot to watch the show. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the dunes, watching the brilliant sunset send orange and yellow light beams across Lake Michigan is truly memory-making. Grab a towel or blanket and head for the beach in the early evenings and enjoy. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the dunes, watching the brilliant sunset send orange and yellow light beams across Lake Michigan is truly memory-making. Grab a towel or blanket and head for the beach in the early evenings and enjoy.
Saugatuck Beaches and Parks
Saugatuck’s amazing Lake Michigan coastline includes many parks and public beaches, some secluded and others brimming with activity.
ADA and Wheelchair-Accessible Beaches in Saugatuck, MI
Beautiful Oval Beach has a wooden walkway at the north end of the beach that extends to the shoreline, and restroom facilities are ADA-accessible as well. With its low bluffs that lead down to a wide, soft beach stretch into a crystal clear Lake Michigan, Oval Beach lends a subtle feeling of privacy- even on a crowded day.
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Saugatuck, MI
None of the beaches in Saugatuck allow dogs, however, some nearby beaches in South Haven and Grand Haven do allow dogs. The closest dog-friendly beaches to Saugatuck are located in South Haven and include:
Deerlick Creek BeachLEASHED DOGS ALLOWED ON BEACH (269) 637-3305
Hagar Shores Roadside Park LEASHED DOGS ALLOWED ON BEACH 616-925-6301
Downtown Saugatuck Shopping
Historic downtown Saugatuck Michigan, with its myriad upscale boutiques offering everything from the latest in pet wear to high performance sporting goods, centers around Butler St. It offers a fun resort feel, complete with fudge and ice cream shops, charming eateries and coffee shops, and spots for sampling local wines and craft beer, Michigan summertime staples. Lovely Village Square Park, also downtown is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the sights.
New in 2021 is the Saugatuck Social District along the riverfront shopping district from early April through the end of May. The new social district allows visitors to enjoy food, drink, and safe socialization outdoors during the pandemic in an effort to boost traffic to businesses and restaurants. There are 20 eligible restaurants, bars, and breweries within the boundaries of the downtown social district.
The nearby town of Douglas is an upscale art enclave with gourmet restaurants and galleries, with art shows and not-to-be missed performances by local and national artists.
Saugatuck, MI Restaurants
Both spots are a haven for foodies: you’ll find a mix of top-rated farm-to-table restaurants; cafes offering the latest small plates and everything from fine dining to home cooked meals…all delicious.
Saugatuck is part of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. The fertile coastal lands of southwest Michigan equal excellent growing conditions for grapes and other fruits and vegetables, and the wines produced in this area are among some of the best in Michigan.
OX-BOX SCHOOL OF ARTThere’s a reason this area is called the “art coast of Michigan,” and a lot of it has to do with the Ox-Bow School of Art, an artists colony founded in 1908 and still thriving. An extension of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, they offer for-credit classes as well as fellowships and residencies for practicing artists of all media. Ox-Bow is a vital part of the art coast, bringing workshops and performances to the area throughout the year.
MOUNT BALDHEAD Visit Mt. Baldhead Park and climb the stairs to take in the scenic views of Saugatuck and the Kalamazoo River. Part hill and part sand dune, Mt. Baldhead is worth the climb.
TAKE A COOKING CLASS As a foodie haven, the restaurants in the Saugatuck and Douglas area take their commitment to good food one one step further: some offer coking classes to help patrons learn how to prepare their favorites dishes. You can also visit Lulu Cadieux, a lifestyle boutique and cooking school.
EXPLORE THE SAUGATUCK DUNES With more than 2.5 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, the Saugatuck Dunes State Park encompasses 1,000 acres of freshwater dunes, some reaching 200 feet. Saugatuck Dune Rides are practically a rite of passage for anyone on a Saugatuck vacation. If you get enjoy your ride, you can also check out Silver Lake Sand Dunes, a couple of hours north.
VISIT THE SAUGATUCK DOUGLAS HISTORY CENTERLocated at the foot of Mt. Baldhead, this tiny museum is one of the most visited in Michigan, bringing thousands of visitors annually to see exhibits celebrating the rich history of the west Michigan area.
RIDE THE SAUGATUCK CHAIN FERRY OVER KALAMAZOO LAKE This fun, must be seen-to-be-believed ferry has been transporting visitors across Kalamazoo Lake since 1838. For almost 200 years, this historic ferry has been bringing visitors into the city of Saugatuck atop a hand-propelled ferry. Boat rentals are also available in area so you can explore the area from the water.
Where to Stay in Saugatuck and Douglas
If you’re looking for hotels in Saugatuck, you can check out our beautiful Cozy Studio Condo with short walk to Downtown Saugatuck with amazing water views.
LAKE MICHIGAN BEACH VACATION RENTALS
Studio, 1 Bath, sleeps 4, 320 sq. ft. Water view, .5 mile walk to Downtown, outdoor furniture. close to biking and hiking trails
Welcome to 842 Lake St., Unit 11, in Saugatuck! Available April to November. Totally remodeled
This condo is perfect for a cozy couples weekend, or a family of 4. outdoor seating with water view of the Kalamazoo river.
If you are familiar with Saugatuck, you know that parking is at a premium. You are in luck; this condo comes with 2 parking spots on the premises!
We think you will really enjoy staying at our vacation rental. Located in the historic district. Saugatuck and Douglas are both within walking distance. Oval Beach. (2 miles) – take in an amazing sunset, 1 mile to Mt. Baldhead! Spend the day at the local breweries and wineries or explore the scenic bike routes and hiking trails featuring epic views of beautiful Lake Michigan in the Saugatuck Dunes State Park! 10 minutes to Holland, 20 Minutes to South Haven. We’ve got it all! We invite you to spend a long weekend or a week at our little getaway in Saugatuck, Michigan!
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We will do all we can to make your stay at our place comfortable.
Home to some of Michigan’s oldest resorts and bed & breakfasts, South Haven is where summer fun begins. Experience beach town history, maritime heritage, wineries and numerous art galleries. South Haven Visitors Bureau explains why it’s easy to make this West Michigan gem your new summer tradition.
Imagine a place where you can embrace the small town charm with more than 70 upscale shops, cafes, restaurants and boutiques. Enjoy the warm summer sun on one of seven beaches. Feel the gentle breezes as you leisurely walk the pier of the often-photographed historic lighthouse. Experience the Great Lakes’ rich heritage in the Maritime District. Sail Lake Michigan on a tall ship or cruise the harbor on an old-fashioned water taxi. Travel Blue Star Highway where artisans, galleries and antiques converge on a 16-mile stretch of scenic roadway, and celebrate the bountiful harvest at plentiful year-round farmers markets and wineries.
Though we don’t think it will take much convincing, here are five reasons to make South Haven your next summertime getaway.
1. Seven Public Beaches – One for each day of the week
South Haven is known for beautiful, sandy beaches that stretch for miles. Our visitors love to experience a different beach each day of week. Choose from family-friendly beaches with playground equipment or secluded beaches perfect for that perfect romantic sunset, or if you’re up for some water play you’ll love that you can rental paddleboards, kayaks, jet skis, sailboats, and fishing boats.
Sunset in South Haven @YMBBastepaway
2. Beautiful Scenery – Wooded bike trails, dunes for hiking, scenic drives, and a Covered Bridge
No matter where you go, whether it’s a stroll downtown eating an ice cream cone or biking the 34 mile Kal-Haven Bike Trail or a leisurely paddle down the Black River; the natural scenic beauty will take your breath away.
3. Shopping in Downtown South Haven – The river runs through it
The greatest part about shopping in South Haven is the family-owned, one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques you’ll discover. From resort wear to cottage decor stores to fudge, ice cream and everything in between; South Haven’s downtown is alive with activity – year ‘round! The best part is that it is only a stone’s throw from Lake Michigan beaches, and several stores are located in Old Harbor Village, right on the river.
4. Wine Lovers and Foodies love Van Buren County
If you love dining, wine tasting and tours, there are fabulous restaurants and a dozen wineries in the area. Sample at St. Julian Winery in Paw Paw, a scenic 35 minute drive from South Haven, and you’ll experience the history and flavor of Michigan as an emerging wine capital! St. Julian Winery is Michigan’s Oldest, Largest and Most Awarded Winery.
Blueberry pancakes blueberry festival South Haven
5. South Haven is walkable and convenient
Enjoy a mile walk on South Haven’s exclusive HarborWalk which extends from the Lighthouse on the South Pier around the harbor to the North Pier. Along the way, take in South Haven’s Historic Markers to see the many ways maritime history is woven into the story of South Haven.
Whether you’re coming to visit for a day or a week; you’ll go home with treasured memories from South Haven and Van Buren County that will last a lifetime!
