Best Lake Michigan Beaches Near Saugatuck Beyond Oval Beach
Oval Beach is the most popular beach in Saugatuck, and for good reason. It's been named one of the best beaches in the world, and while we think everyone should visit at least once, there are other stretches of Lake Michigan shoreline that deserve to be explored.
Each beach along this coast has its own personality. Some are easy to reach with pavilions and amenities. Others require a hike or a steep climb down a dune staircase. A few are better for rock hunting than swimming. Knowing the differences helps you find the right beach for the kind of day you're after.
Michigan State Parks
Michigan’s state parks offer some of the most expansive, ecologically diverse shorelines in the region. To access these, you will need a Michigan Recreation Passport or a day pass.
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
6575 138th Ave, Holland
If Oval Beach is where you go to be in the center of it all, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is where you go for solitude. The beach is accessed by a network of trails through coastal forest and open dunes, with the shortest route running about three-quarters of a mile from the parking lot. That walk keeps the crowds thin, even in peak summer.
The 2.5 miles of shoreline here are some of the most unspoiled in the region. There are no concessions, no lifeguards, and limited facilities, so bring everything you need. What you get in return is space, quiet, and the feeling that you've found something most visitors miss. The park trailhead is located right near the historic Felt Mansion, so if there’s no private event or wedding going on, you might be able to tour the estate’s grounds.
Holland State Park
2398 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland
Holland State Park is one of the most visited state parks in Michigan. The beach is expansive, the sand is soft, and the views of the Big Red lighthouse across the channel are the kind of thing that ends up on postcards.
The tradeoff is that everyone knows about it. On summer weekends, the parking lot fills early, and the beach gets crowded. If you go, arrive before 10 a.m. or wait until late afternoon when people start heading home.
Tucked-Away Town & Municipal Parks
Often managed by local townships, these smaller spots offer a neighborhood-locals vibe and are typically free to enjoy.
Douglas Beach
3099 Lakeshore Dr, Douglas
Douglas Beach sits on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, with a staircase leading down to the sand. It's smaller and quieter than Oval Beach, with only about 10 parking spots, which keeps it low-key even when everywhere else is packed.
Locals come here for sunsets more than swimming. The bluff-top picnic area has some of the best views in the area, and you'll often have the beach mostly to yourselves on a weekday evening. On your way to the beach, stop by the Farmhouse Deli to pick up artisanal sandwiches and fresh picnic supplies. There is no parking fee, but because there are only 10 spots, we recommend taking the Interurban Transit, Saugatuck’s low-cost on-demand shuttle service.
Laketown Beach
6710 142nd Ave, Holland
Between Saugatuck and Holland, Laketown Beach sits at the top of a towering dune with views that stop you in your tracks. The problem is getting back up. The stairs from the shoreline have been removed, which means climbing the dune itself on the return trip. It's steep, sandy, and not for everyone.
But if you're up for it, the beach below is often empty, and the view from the top is one of the best on this stretch of coast. We recommend it for the adventurous types who don't mind earning their beach time.
Parking is free, but very limited, so arrive early if possible.
North Beach Park
45 Lakeshore Dr, South Haven
North Beach is one of the larger public beaches in the area, with plenty of room to spread out along the sand. Volleyball courts, concessions, restrooms, and easier parking make it a popular choice for full beach days, especially for visitors who want amenities close by.
Its location near downtown South Haven means it’s easy to pair a beach afternoon with shopping, dinner, or a stop for ice cream from South Pier Creamery before heading back.
South Beach
60 Water St, South Haven
Located on the opposite side of the pier, South Beach is best known for its views of the South Haven Lighthouse and long walkable pier stretching into Lake Michigan. If you visit on a Saturday, we recommend stopping by the South Haven Farm Market in the morning to pick up fresh local fruit or baked goods from Chicken Scratch Farm and Bakery before heading to the pier for a walk.
The beach feels especially busy around sunset, when people gather along the shoreline and lighthouse walkway to watch the light change over the water. Just like North Beach, it’s so close to downtown that you can head straight to waterfront restaurants, shops, or an evening stroll through town.
Picturesque Michigan County Parks
County parks are beautifully maintained, offer excellent amenities, and operate on localized parking systems or daily kiosks independent of state passports.
Tunnel Park
66 N Lakeshore Ave, Holland
Tunnel Park gets its name from the concrete tunnel that cuts through a sand dune to reach the beach. There's something satisfying about walking through it and emerging onto the sand with Lake Michigan spread out in front of you.
The park has a wide sandy beach, picnic areas, grills, and restrooms. A dune stairway leads to an observation deck with panoramic views. It's busier than the smaller beaches closer to Saugatuck, but still more relaxed than Holland State Park.
A required motor vehicle permit is required from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
West Side County Park
2152 Lakeshore Dr, Fennville
About 15 minutes south of Saugatuck, West Side County Park is an 11-acre Allegan County park with 630 feet of sandy beach and the kind of sunset views that make you want to stay until the last bit of color fades.
Two stairways lead down from the bluff, including an ADA-accessible ramp. The beach is good for swimming, but it's also popular with rock collectors. There are picnic tables, covered pavilions, and restrooms up top.
We like this one for couples who want a quieter alternative to the Saugatuck beaches without driving all the way to South Haven. When you pull into the park, there is free parking on both sides.
Secluded Shorelines & Natural Areas
For travelers who prefer the road less traveled, these shorelines offer raw, organic beauty and, as a bonus, free parking.
Pier Cove Beach
2290 Lakeshore Dr, Fennville
Pier Cove is a small, tucked-away beach where Pier Cove Creek flows into Lake Michigan. The creek creates shallow, warmer water, and the beach is known for smooth skipping stones and beach glass.
It’s perfect for an afternoon of exploration, wading in the creek, and seeing what you can find. Access is via a steep staircase from a small roadside parking area. There are no facilities, and parking is free but very limited.
Pilgrim Haven Natural Area
18th Avenue, South Haven
Pilgrim Haven feels quieter and more rugged than many of the beaches along this stretch of Lake Michigan. Located just north of Van Buren State Park, this 27-acre natural area offers wooded trails, bluff views, and a shoreline scattered with smooth stones and driftwood.
The beach itself is less groomed and more natural than places like Oval Beach or Holland State Park, which is exactly why people love it. It’s a good spot for sunset walks, photography, rock hunting, or simply finding a quieter place to sit near the water for a while.
A paved, accessible path leads from the parking lot to the top of the beach, and while the beach isn’t especially large, the setting feels peaceful and tucked away compared to the busier public beaches nearby.
Hotel Saugatuck as Your Base
No matter which beach you choose, a summer day spent along the shores of Lake Michigan is a day well spent.
Retreating to our adults-only boutique hotel in Saugatuck afterward makes it even better. A hydrotherapy tub to soak away the sunscreen, a quiet suite with no one tracking sand down the hallway, and an evening that's entirely yours.
Plan your escape and discover your favorite beaches in Michigan.
