Destinations Directory

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Muskegon Beach Hotels

Shoreline Inn & Conference Center an Ascend Hotel Collection Member
$210+ per night High-speed Internet Swimming pool Non-Smoking Rooms Microwave View Deals

Best Beaches in Muskegon

1. Oval Beach

Sudden Fame

It's almost as if the whole world discovered Oval Beach all at once. In the last few years alone, Saugatuck has been recognized as a top Midwestern vacation spot by an impressive list of publications, such as Chicago Magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, USA Today and Budget Travel, to name a few. Part of its appeal is that, despite its nascent popularity, it still retains a pure, unspoiled feel, devoid of rowdy vibes often found at other summer vacation destinations.

A Midwest Gem

Oval Beach sits just beyond a large patch of grassy sand dunes and hilly forests. Daring souls can reach the beach by way of a somewhat strenuous park trail, though there's plenty of paid parking if you're coming by car instead. Once you reach the beach, you'll see what all the fuss is about. The water on the shore is clear and the lake stretches out for as far as you can see. Who says the best beaches are near the ocean?

For a day of recreation, rent paddle boards, jet skis or pontoon boats, or just go for a swim in the refreshingly cool lake water. Set up a picnic on the soft sand, or head to the concession stand for a bite to eat. Consider making a trip just a ways north to Saugatuck Dunes State Park, which boasts 14 miles of hiking trails, dunes and its own quiet, secluded beachfront and picnic area.

Across the Kalamazoo River

When dinnertime rolls around, head to the village-like downtown area, filled with historic homes, local restaurants, bakeries, cafes and bohemian art galleries. Make the trek to town more adventurous and catch the chain ferry across the Kalamazoo River, where you'll disembark near scenic Water Street.

Oval Beach at a glance

City: Saugatuck

Country or State: Michigan

Access: By car, by ferry, on foot

Best time to visit: Summer - best weather

High Season: June to August

Low Season: September to August

Facilities:

  • Many shops, eateries, and restaurants in downtown Saugatuck
  • Bikes, water sports equipment for rental
  • Public restrooms

Beach Type:

  • Light brown sand
  • Freshwater

Beach Type:

  • Saugatuck Venetian Festival

Weather in Muskegon °F°CAverage monthly temperatures

Jan
 6 days
Feb
 7 days
Mar
 20 days
Apr
 14 days
May
 17 days
Jun
 18 days
Jul
 23 days
Aug
 20 days
Sep
 19 days
Oct
 7 days
Nov
 3 days
Dec
 4 days
Sunny or mostly sunny days
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