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Lake Michigan is known for its expansive shoreline and cooling waters. During the warmer months, beach days are a staple. Anyone who knows Michigan’s lakes and weather will know that it will vary hour by hour and day by day. Remember to keep that in mind when planning your trip!

 

When is the best time to go swimming in Lake Michigan? Summer is undoubtedly the best time as the air warms up, the sun shines brightly, and the water temperatures reach the mid-70s. For Michigan lakeshore towns like South Haven and Saugatuck/Douglas, Summer is the prime tourist season so be prepared for crowds. We recommend getting to the beach earlier in the day or later in the afternoon/early evening. If lounging in the sand and swimming in the lake isn’t ideal, many lakeshore businesses offer rentals for bikes, boats, kayaks, beach supplies, and more. Check out our Fun in the Sun blog for places offering rentals in Saugatuck and South Haven.

 

While summer is the perfect time for swimming, beach days are still fun during the other seasons. Grab some coffee or food from a local restaurant and have a picnic, take a stroll along the waterfront and take in the scenic views, kick back and relax with a good book while listening to the waves, or play some beach games. During the colder months, bring a camera to capture the beautiful fall color and ice formations. There are lots of things to do in town as well. 

 

Is it okay to go swimming during the other season? It depends on your tolerance to colder water. In the early spring, the water temperature is about 32-45 degrees and increases to about 50-60 degrees in the later spring. The water temperature ranges from 60-70 degrees in early fall and drops to around 50 degrees by late fall. We highly recommend staying out of the water in winter with water temperatures ranging from 32-35 degrees. Should you choose to visit the lake shore during the colder months, dress accordingly. 

 

We want everyone to enjoy their beach day and trip to the lakeshore but it’s important to be safe! In our Beach Safety blog, we discuss beach safety tips so the fun can keep on going. Make sure to give it a read before heading out to the beach. 

Need a place to stay? Book today!

Ready to escape the hustle and bustle of your daily schedule and get in touch with nature? We’ve highlighted some properties that will help you do just that! 

 

Woodlands (sleeps six) is a charming century-old cottage nestled under the trees in Douglas. The beautiful property is filled with majestic Pines and Maples. Inside the home, you’ll find beautiful artwork from the Saugatuck area. The porched-in dining room overlooking the woods or the back deck are perfect spots to kick back and relax with your favorite beverages/snacks. After a day of fun, gather around the fire pit to share stories and make more memories.

 

Fields of Fennville (sleeps six) sits on five acres of peaceful landscaping. The cozy living room inside the home features a gas fireplace, while the kitchen has enough open space for entertaining. The perfect spot inside the home to view wildlife activities is the dining room. Make your trip even more memorable by stargazing on the patio. Beach access is about two miles from the house and the property sits in between Saugatuck and South Haven. Your four legged furry friends are welcome to join in on the fun!

 

Thorndale (sleeps 14) is a beautifully decorated modern home. Sitting on 20 acres of land overlooking Virtue Cider’s neighboring orchard, the home has a private heated pool, hot tub, fire pit, outdoor dining spaces on the deck and screened porch, and hammocks beneath the trees. Inside the home are stylish design elements, smart TVs, an extra large capacity washer and dryer, and more. Besides Virtue Cider being close by, Fenn Valley Vineyards, Pier Cove Park, Oval Beach, and Downtown Saugatuck are all within eight miles of the property. 

 

11 Acre Woods (sleeps 14) sits just outside of Saugatuck/Douglas. The log cabin has soaring ceilings, a wood-burning fireplace, a spacious kitchen, a gas fireplace, and more. During your stay take a walk on the trail through the private forest and take the canoe out on the pond. The patio and covered porch are great places to enjoy a morning cup of coffee and the fire pit will enhance your evenings/nights. Need extra relaxation? The hot tub is calling for you! Wild turkeys, deer, geese, ducks, and cranes can be found roaming around the property. 

 

Hilltop Serenity (sleeps 14) includes 80+ acres, 3 walking trails, a peaceful waterfall, and amazing views. Each trail is different and has different levels of adventure. This beautiful home is ADA handicapped accessible with a ramp and wide doors throughout, including grab bars in the primary bathroom and a power lift recliner. When staying here, you are 6 miles to a casino, 4 miles to Van Auken public boat launch, and the Paw Paw River (perfect for kayaking) is less than 2 miles away. South Haven is about 15 miles from the property. 

 

Ancient Oak Sanctuary (sleeps nine) is the perfect place to disconnect from hectic schedules and reconnect with nature. The fountains, gardens, koi ponds, and walking trails will make you feel like you are in a fairy tale. Behind the house is a studio that has served as an art studio for a famous artist and a recording studio. To really get in touch with nature, explore the woods, historic oaks, meadows, and streams. Wild berries flourish on the property as do wild flowers in the summer and beautiful colors in the fall. After a day of exploring, take a soak in the hot tub.  

 

Walsh Log Cabin (sleeps 16) is perfect for large groups who are looking to enjoy a getaway in an authentic log cabin. The main floor has gorgeous views of the lake and the kitchen is fully equipped for you to feel like a chef. Have a movie night using one of the smart TVs or gather around the fire pit for some s’mores. The large wrap around deck is a great place to relax and sip a beverage. A paddle boat and canoe await you and the end of the dock. The property is located 20 minutes from South Haven and 30 minutes from Saugatuck. 

 

Bird’s Nest (sleeps ten) has an array of birds that surround the lush property and will have you feeling relaxed in no time. The spacious property has a bright main floor with a chef’s kitchen and dining spaces in the dining room and on the upper deck. Enjoy your nights around the fire pit and listen to the sounds of nature. Steps away from the property are a sunset viewing area and the community tennis courts. Beach access is close by as well as downtown South Haven and downtown Douglas.

Warmer days filled with sunshine and fun are here! With the official mark of Spring comes lots of events on the lakeshore. To help with your planning, we’ve compiled a list of some events worth noting in Saugatuck/Douglas and South Haven. Need a place to stay? Book your Spring getaway today!

 

Saugatuck/Douglas

 

DIY Hat Bar at Modales | Mar. 10

Design and create your own custom hat! There will be plenty of materials to customize your hat including hand-dyed ribbons, charms, feathers, and more. Tickets are $82 and include a hat, materials to customize, and a wine flight. 

 

Spring is in the Air – Tea Ceremony | Mar. 14

What better way to celebrate spring’s arrival than a tea ceremony at Respite Cappuccino Court? Enjoy the warm ambiance of spring while tasting a four-course dinner and new teas that will be launching after the ceremony.  Tickets start at $35.

 

Shamrock Pub Crawl | Mar 16

Enjoy a day filled with day drinking, green beer, and shenanigans while supporting a good cause! The day starts at Wick’s Park Bar and Grill between 12:30pm and 2pm. Once you pick up your pub crawl punch card, you’ll be able to go to the other 5 bars throughout downtown. There will be a 50/50 raffle, raffle prizes, and a grand prize available to win. Make sure you pre-register today! All proceeds will benefit the Operation Hope For Allegan Youth.

 

Annual Douglas Easter Parade and Egg Hunt | Mar. 31

Easter fun starts at 1pm on Easter Sunday! The parade kicks off at 8 Center Street in Douglas. There will also be an egg hunt and bonnet contest!

 

Spring Market | Apr. 13 

The sunny season is upon us and the outdoor Spring market is the perfect way to celebrate! Head over to the pavilion at Saugatuck Center for the Arts to shop a wide selection of one-of-a-kind gifts, apparel, baked goods, and more. The best part? Your supporting local vendors! Don’t forget to stop by the SCA bar for a specialty Spring cocktail and check out the food trucks on site for some tasty cuisine.

 

Looking for more events? Click here.

 

South Haven

 

Gnome Scavenger Hunt Extravaganza | Feb. 22 – Apr. 8

Gnomes are taking over South Haven! Can you find them all? Stop by the South Haven Visitor’s Bureau to get your entry form and then take off on a gnome-tastic quest. The Gnomes are hiding in 18 businesses waiting to be found. Once you find them all, drop your completed form off at the Visitor’s Bureau. There will be a drawing for 18 winners to take home a gnome. 

 

Karaoke At The Lodge Mar. 1, Apr. 5th, & May 3

Ready to sing your heart out? Head to The Lodge on the first Friday of the month until May for some karaoke fun! Karaoke starts at 8pm and admission is free. 

 

Scott Club Concert Series: Cooper & Cooper Jazz | Mar. 3

Enjoy a delightful afternoon of jazz standards and original music from the veteran duo of Ken Cooper and Jim Cooper. The concert runs from 3pm-5pm and admission is free. RSVP for a seat at info@scottclub.org.

 

Community Yoga Classes | Feb. 22 – May 30

Join Margie of Bend Yoga for a yoga class every Thursday until May 30th. Classes will include a candlelight vinyasa flow, herbal tea, and aromatherapy. Admission is $15 for each class or you can purchase 4 passes for $45. The class is beginner friendly and fun for all levels! 

 

Looking for more events? Click here.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time visitor, the ski resorts of the Greater Kalamazoo area offer a winter paradise waiting to be explored. It’s time to dust off those skis and snowboards and head to the slope. With each ski resort listed below being an hour and a half or less from the lakeshore, there’s plenty of winter fun to be had!

 

Bittersweet Ski Resort | Otsego, MI

Located about 50 minutes from Saugatuck and 45 minutes from South Haven is Bittersweet Ski Resort. No matter your skill level, there’s something for everyone here. With 20 runs catering to all skill levels, as well as terrain parks for those craving a bit of airtime, Bittersweet offers endless hours of fun. 

 

Timber Ridge Ski Area | Gobles, MI

About an hour from Saugatuck and 45 minutes from South Haven is Timber Ridge Ski Area. With 15 ski runs and a dedicated tubing hill, there’s no shortage of fun to be had here. Beginners can take advantage of ski lessons offered by certified instructors, while more experienced skiers can tackle the challenging terrain. For those who prefer to stay off the slopes, there are scenic snowshoeing trails and cozy warming huts perfect for taking in the beauty of the winter landscape.

 

Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area | Jones, MI

Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area is about 1 ½ hours from Saugatuck and 1 hour from South Haven. With 11 ski runs and 3 terrain parks, there’s no shortage of fun to be had here. The spacious beginner area, is complete with gentle slopes and dedicated ski instructors, while adrenaline junkies can test their skills on the more challenging runs. 

 

Need a place to stay? Book Today!

Nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Saugatuck Michigan, lies a captivating chapter in transportation history. This picturesque lakeshore town, with scenic views and rich heritage, was once intertwined with the intricate Interurban rail lines, shaping its connectivity and cultural fabric.

The Interurban’s roots trace back to the late 19th century. By 1904, the first interurban line connecting Saugatuck to Holland had become a reality. This initial route, powered by electricity generated at a local power plant, opened up new possibilities for residents and tourists. Soon, a network of interurban lines connected Saugatuck to Grand Rapids, Douglas, and Kalamazoo. This advancement made transportation easy for residents to visit the beautiful Michigan lakeshore.

Playing a pivotal role in shaping Saugatuck’s identity, the Interurban promoted economic development by attracting businesses and tourists drawn to the ease of travel and vibrant atmosphere of the town. Additionally, the Interurban was a social hub connecting residents from diverse backgrounds and creating a sense of community.

In the mid-20th century, the rise of cars and buses quickly became competition for the Interurban as ridership started dropping. Due to the decline in ridership and the high maintenance costs, the Interurban system closed in 1968.

Even though the original Interurban lines are not operational, its legacy continues to inspire. In 1980, the Interurban Transit Authority was established. It offers a modern demand-response public transportation service that serves Saugatuck, Douglas, and Saugatuck Township. This contemporary system embraces the spirit of the original Interurban while providing accessible and affordable transportation for the community.

Explore Saugatuck and Douglas or visit Holland effortlessly with the Interurban Transit Authority. Book your ride conveniently 2-4 hours ahead by calling 269-857-1418, hop on, and pay the driver. Fares are $1 per person per way. Reach events, beaches, shops, and restaurants with ease, leaving the car behind. Enjoy year-round service and discover the charm of Saugatuck and Douglas without the parking stress. Plan your trip and book your ride today!

This information booth used to be a former way station or train stop from the 1900s era Interurban.

Images in this blog have been provided by the Interurban Transit Authority.

Don’t forget to book your place to stay!

 

 

While it may be colder on the lakeshore, there’s still plenty of fun to be had! Whether you’re into outdoor activities or prefer cozying up indoors, Saugatuck and South Haven have numerous opportunities for you. Continue reading to discover some of the exciting events happening in January and February.

 

Saugatuck/Douglas 

 

Gather in the Gallery Jan. 25th | 6pm-9pm

Featuring special guest, artist Michael Belmore, this intimate dine-in experience will weave together the wonders of visual art, culinary, and community. Each dinner is carefully curated to reflect the artist’s roots and traditions with a menu featuring 6 courses that are paired with cocktails/mocktails. Tickets are $160 per person.

 

Fourth Fridays in Fennville Jan. 26th and Feb. 23rd | 5pm-7pm

Head to Fennville on the fourth Friday of each month for some community fun! A different community organization hosts the event every month and features a different theme. 

 

Saturday Brunch Jan. 27th | 1pm-4pm

Brunch and hard cider? What a fantastic way to spend your Saturday! Make your way to Virtue Cider in Fennville for a delightful brunch paired with delicious cider.

 

Cake Decorating Feb. 1 | 6pm-8:30pm

Enjoy an evening in downtown Douglas at Respite Cappuccino Court and decorate your own cake! Lisa Schulz will guide you through the evening as you decorate a 6” red velvet cake while enjoying charcuterie appetizers and a Hug in a Mug Special. Tickets are $65 and they’re going fast so make sure to secure your spot today!

 

Euchre Night Feb. 2nd | 5pm-7pm

It’s time to play everyone’s favorite Michigan game! Grab a partner and head over to Waypost Brewing Co. in Fennville for a fun-filled night! It doesn’t matter what skill level you’re at, all are welcome to participate.

 

Sweetheart Artisan Market Feb. 10th | 11am-5pm

It’s Modales’s first market of the year! Grab a loved one and shop the homemade goodies while sipping wine and supporting local artists. 

 

Salt of the Earth Concert Series Feb. 18th | 6pm

Enjoy an evening of dinner, drinks, and live music. The concert will feature Monte Pride, Aaron Wright and Cole Hansen. Tickets are $22 and are available by calling the restaurant at 269.561.7258 or online. 

 

South Haven

 

All Ages Open Mic Night Jan. 24th | 6pm

Head to the First Congregational UCC for an enjoyable evening showcasing local talent. Participants will share their skills in storytelling, poetry, and music. This event is open to the public of all ages.

 

Sporcle Live Trivia at Three Blondes Brewing Jan. 25th & Feb. 1 | 7pm

Assemble your team and challenge your knowledge with trivia! The initial round kicks off at 7pm, followed by the second round at 8pm. Play one round or both – it’s free to participate, and there are prizes up for grabs!

 

Community Yoga Classes Jan 25th, Feb. 1st, Feb. 8th, Feb. 15th, Feb. 29th | 7:30pm-8:30pm

Join Margie from Bend Yoga for beginner yoga classes at The Church of the Epiphany. Classes feature aromatherapy, herbal tea, and a soothing candlelight vinyasa flow. Secure your spot with tickets priced at $15.

 

Monthly Dog Parade Jan. 30th & Feb. 27th | 10:30am

Join Decadent Dogs and bring your friendly canine companion to Laurel Oaks of South Haven for a delightful meet-and-greet with the residents. The residents enjoy the opportunity to interact with our four-legged friends.

 

30th Annual Ice Breaker Festival Feb. 2nd-4th

This festival promises winter fun for all ages! Enjoy a chili cook-off, cardboard sled races, ice skating, disc golf, and more. Be sure not to miss the ice sculptures on display!

 

 

Need a place to stay? Book Today!

Step into the winter wonderland when visiting the lakeshore during the holiday season! From festive markets to sparkling lights, to ringing in 2024 with fireworks, your visit will be full of activities. Keep reading to learn more about some of the events and make sure you book your place to stay!

Saugatuck/Douglas

 

Holiday Artisan Market at Modales Winery December 16th

Immerse yourself in a festive shopping experience at the Holiday Artisan Market at Modales Winery. Browse through the curated selection of handcrafted gifts from local artists, including jewelry, pottery, unique home goods, and more. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and the cozy ambiance of the winery as you find the perfect presents for your loved ones and yourself. 

 

Saugatuck’s 37th Annual Production of “A Christmas Carol” December 8th-17th

Experience the timeless tale of Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol” at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts. This beloved annual production showcases talented local actors and stunning costumes, capturing the essence of this classic holiday story.

 

Jingle and Mingle December 16th

Join Water Street Gallery for fun, holiday mingling, and good food. Hors d’oeuvres and champagne will be served as you browse through the beautiful art pieces. 

 

Yule Festivities December 23rd 

Start the winter solstice with brightness at Waypost Brewing Co. Stay cozy in the candlelit tasting room or head outside for the burning of the Yule log. Waypost’s seasonal brews will help keep you toasty. 

 

New Year’s Eve Fireworks  December 31st

Coral Gables is the place to be on New Year’s Eve! The event features DJ Misfitz, party favors, karaoke, and more. When the clock strikes midnight, fireworks will be set off over Kalamazoo Lake!

 

South Haven 

 

37th Annual South Haven Center for the Arts Mistletoe Market December 8th-January 4th

Immerse yourself in a wonderland of handcrafted gifts created by local artisans, including jewelry, pottery, and more. Enjoy live music, festive food, and a chance to win a beautifully decorated Christmas tree in the silent auction.

 

Holiday Train Display & Christmas Tree Silent Auction December 1st-3rd, 8th-10th, 15th-17th

Step into a miniature world of wonder at the We Care Annual Holiday Train Display & Christmas Tree Silent Auction, at the South Haven Woodhams Ford Lincoln Showroom. Enjoy the intricate train displays and bid on stunningly decorated Christmas trees. Proceeds will support local families in need.

 

Christmas in the Park at Jellystone Park™ December 8th-30th

Head to Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort for a good time during their annual “Christmas in the Park” celebration. Enjoy festive activities including caroling, hayrides, and visits with Santa, while enjoying the twinkling lights and cheerful atmosphere of the park.

 

Crane Orchards Light Show November 29th-December 31st

Step into the magical holiday wonderland at Crane Orchards! The lights display stretches for a mile and features thousands of lights and hand-crafted props. Comfortably enjoy the holiday magic from your warm car. 

 

New Year’s Eve Celebration December 31st

Ring in the new year downtown South Haven! There are many family-friendly events including a zipline, glow party, ice skating, scavenger hunt, food trucks, and more. To officially kick off the new year, the annual beach ball drop and fireworks show will take place in the center of town at midnight!

Driving an electric vehicle to the lakeshore? Before hitting the road, it is important to know where the charging stations are located in Saugatuck/Douglas and South Haven. To help with the planning, we’ve compiled a list of charging station locations. 

 

Saugatuck/Douglas

 

Douglas City Berry Field:

 

Douglas Square 

 

Roan & Black Art Gallery (1):

 

Roan & Black Art Gallery (2):

 

South Haven

 

Huron St Parking Lot East: 

 

Huron St Parking Lot West: 

 

Don’t forget to have a backup charging plan for your trip to and from the lakeshore. Use available apps like PlugShare to map out your mileage in advance. 

 

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