Western Michigan is home to some of the best beaches in the state. Featuring vast expanses of singing sand,”lots of swimming, and beautiful sunsets, these beaches attract visitors from all around. While there are dozens of beaches that dot the shoreline, there are a few that come out clearly on top.
1. Grand Haven State Park
Located just outside of downtown Grand Haven, the state park is unquestionably one of the most popular in the state, and for good reason. The beach is huge, features several miles of hiking trails through the surrounding woods, and is located easy walking distance to beautiful downtown Grand Haven. While the beach does have a concession stand, the restaurants downtown offer much better food.
The obvious downside to this great beach is the crowds. On weekends, and sometimes even during the week, visitors to the beach will find its parking lot filled to capacity. Beach space for sunbathing is usually at a premium. However, if you’re willing to fight the crowds, Grand Haven is a wonder place to visit.
The cost of entry by vehicle to the park for the 2007 season is $6 per day for Michigan residents and $8 per day for non-residents. Rates for a season pass are $24 and $29. These permits are good at any Michigan state park.
2. Holland State Park
If Grand Haven is home to the most popular beach in the state, Holland is a very close second. Just like Grand Haven, the beach is very large. Behind the beach is a large sand dune, dubbed “Mt. Pisky” by locals, as well as a few miles of trails accessible from the north end of the beach. The beach has about the same amount of shore-front as Grand Haven, but extends further in from shore. This gives it a lot more sandy area for sunbathing, kite flying, and bocce ball. The beach has a good sized concession stand with bathrooms and showers.
The Holland beach has the same crowd problem as Grand Haven does. On top of that, the beach’s biggest flaw has been said to be its isolation. Other than a small “General Store” a quarter mile down the road, there is nothing but houses for miles. Unlike Grand Haven, there’s no running to grab a bite in Holland.
Cost of entry is the same as Grand Haven State Park.
3. The Cove
The Cove is an area of beach located just inside the Saugatuck channel. It is accessible only by boat. Slow on week days but packed on weekends, The Cove is just what it sounds like: a small cove surrounded by sandy beach. Saturday and Sunday afternoons find The Cove packed with boats anchored inside it. The Cove is a great place to anchor or beach your boat, cook out on the beach, and socialize with other boaters. There are no bathrooms or other facilities.
Honorable Mentions
Oval Beach
Oval Beach is located in Saugatuck, Michigan. It is smaller and less crowded than the state parks. It’s a short walk and ferry ride away from downtown Saugatuck, which known for its very gay-friendly night life.
Tunnel Park
Tunnel Park, also in Holland, features a small beach, a large sand dune to climb and run down, volley ball areas, and lots of picnic area. Its namesake tunnel runs underneath the dune, connecting the beach to the rest of the park while avoiding the hundreds of stairs. There are bathrooms and a few vending machines.
