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The Hotel Saugatuck Blog

Oval Beach

There’s a reason Oval Beach has become one of the most celebrated Michigan beaches of all time. Ranked among the Top 25 Beaches in the World by Condé Nast Traveler, named one of the 10 Best Beaches in Michigan by USA Today, and celebrated in MTV’s Top 5 Beaches in the USA, Oval Beach in Saugatuck continues to earn national and international acclaim. Most recently, it was honored as one of the Best Beaches in the U.S. in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards.

Bars and Brews

Raise a glass to adventure. From locally brewed favorites to creative craft cocktails, the Saugatuck area is brimming with flavor, and there’s no better way to enjoy it all than with a beer or cocktail tour. Whether you’re traveling with a group or planning your own tasting route, here’s how to sip your way through Saugatuck safely, stylishly, and deliciously.

Paddleboarding Kalamazoo River

Saugatuck’s quiet rivers, scenic bayous, and easy access to Lake Michigan make it an ideal destination for anyone looking to spend time on the water. If you're planning a paddle trip, this guide highlights some of the best places to kayak and where to find reliable boat rentals in and around town.

Fishing the Great Lakes

Between sand dunes and forested banks, the waters around Saugatuck offer some of the most rewarding fishing in Michigan. From early morning pier casting to guided boat charters that chase deeper water trophies, the Saugatuck area offers options for every skill level and style. Let’s dive into what’s biting, where to go, and how to make the most of your time on the water.

Dunes State Park

Just minutes from downtown, yet a world away from the bustle of shops and streets, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a peaceful escape where you can take a break from the hurry of life and enjoy nature at your own pace. With over 1,000 acres of protected land, this coastal retreat offers some of the most peaceful hiking in Michigan, perfect for those craving fresh air, lake views, and time to reconnect.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just passing through, an afternoon at the dunes is one of the most rewarding things to do in Saugatuck.

June Pride Month

As June rolls in and the days grow long and golden, Saugatuck comes alive with more than just summer energy; it shines with celebration. For decades, our town has been a welcoming place for the LGBTQ+ community, offering an inclusive and creative spirit that’s deeply woven into the culture here. Each June, Pride Week in Saugatuck and Douglas brings people together from across Michigan and beyond to honor love, identity, and community with a joyful lineup of events and experiences.

Girls Weekend in Saugatuck

Every now and then, you just need a weekend away with the friends who make everything feel lighter. The ones who laugh with you until your cheeks hurt and never judge you for ordering dessert before dinner. Planning the perfect girls' weekend means finding a destination where you can explore, unwind, and indulge without a care in the world. Saugatuck sets the stage with art, wine, shopping, and a touch of luxury, all blended into the perfect retreat.

History Museum

Have you ever wondered how Saugatuck became the charming art town it is now? It wasn't always a bustling town lined with shops and galleries. This lakeside retreat has a fascinating history, filled with transformation and resilience. From its early days as home to Native American tribes to a booming lumber town and finally an art and tourism hotspot, Saugatuck has seen it all. Let’s take a journey through its past to see how this picturesque town became the place we know and love today.

Tulips in Holland Michigan

Summer in Saugatuck is a season of celebration, where long, sun-drenched days give way to lively festivals, music-filled evenings, and gatherings that unite the community. Perfect for a weekend getaway or an extended summer stay, here’s a look at some of the best summer events in Michigan that are worth building your trip around:

Michigan Photography Guide

Spring in Saugatuck is a photographer’s dream. As the town shakes off winter’s chill, blooming flowers brighten downtown, fresh greenery blankets the dunes, and the golden light of longer days turns every shot into an Instagram memory.

From historic landmarks to breathtaking landscapes, Saugatuck offers endless inspiration for photographers. Here are the best places to capture the beauty of spring in Saugatuck:

New Holland Saugatuck

Spring break isn’t just for college students packed onto crowded beaches. In Saugatuck, Michigan, spring break takes on a more refined, laid-back, and adventure-filled vibe. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape with your partner or a much-needed getaway with your closest friends, Saugatuck offers the perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence.

Restaurant

When was the last time you truly reconnected? Life has a way of pulling us in a million directions, leaving little room for quiet moments and meaningful conversations. A weekend in Saugatuck is the perfect remedy. With charming streets, luxury accommodations, and a mix of relaxing and adventurous activities, Saugatuck invites you to slow down.

Saugatuck Winter Dining

When the summer crowds fade and the crisp days of winter are upon us, Saugatuck transforms into a quiet, picturesque getaway. While some businesses close their doors for the season, many remain open and eager to offer a warm welcome to those visiting Saugatuck during the winter months.