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Explore at Saugatuck Dunes State Park on Lake Michigan

Escape to the Lake Michigan Shores!

A beautiful summer afternoon at Saugatuck Dunes State Park

Saugatuck, Michigan, located on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, is home to incredible attractions like Saugatuck Dunes State Park.  With plenty of things to do and a relaxing vibe, this coastal town is the ultimate summer escape!

Saugatuck Douglas, located on what is commonly called the "Art Coast" of Lake Michigan, is a town rich with culture, character, & natural beauty. Among the best things to do in this area, of course, are to play on the sugar sand beaches this area is known for. There are 6 pristine beaches in the area, including that at the stunning Saugatuck Dunes State Park. 

When it's time to relax and unwind, turn to the stunning Hotel Saugatuck, the only Select Registry Bed and Breakfast in the area. Choosing to stay Select this summer ensures you'll enjoy an unforgettable getaway filled with welcoming hospitality, comfortable accommodations, and plenty of amenities.

beautiful path leading to the beach at Saugatuck Dunes State Park

A Day at Saugatuck Dunes State Park

Saugatuck Dunes State Park is located just outside of downtown Saugatuck, along a secluded section of Lake Michigan's storyline. In total, this park encompasses 2.5 miles of shoreline and more than 1,000 pristine acres of land to explore. Some of the dunes here are more than 200 feet tall, and there are access trails down to the beach. 

Other than relaxing on the beach, which is accessed via sandy trails (0.6 miles is the shortest trail), there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time at Saugatuck Dunes State Park.  Here are a few of our favorites: 

  1. There are 13 miles of hiking trails in Saugatuck Dunes State Park, which take you along the beach and through the forested shoreline.  The trails range from 2.5 miles to 5.5 miles in length.
  2. Visit the 300-acre Patty Birkholz Natural Area, which is a protected area of Saugatuck Dunes State Park that features a coastal dune system and three endangered plant species.
  3. The untouched nature at Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers the perfect spot for summer birdwatching. 
  4. Get out on the water!  Lake Michigan is beautiful, and getting out on the water is one of the best ways to enjoy a day at the park. 

A recreation passport for Michigan State Parks is needed in order to visit Saugatuck Dunes State Park. You can purchase a day pass for just $9. 

The beautiful downtown of Saugatuck, Michigan, located near Saugatuck Dunes State Park

More Things to do in Saugatuck, MI

Though we can hardly argue with a day at Saugatuck Dunes State Park or any of the other great beaches in the area, there are so many more things to do in Saugatuck this summer. We've put together a few of our favorite ideas to help you make the most out of your next vacation to this incredible lakeside town!

  1. Visit Oval Beach, which has been recognized by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the top 25 beaches in the world.
  2. Visit the Saugatuck Center for the Arts.
  3. Climb to the top of Mount Baldhead, where you'll enjoy a beautiful overlook of Oval Beach and the surrounding areas.  There are 282 stairs to reach the top.
  4. Explore the artsy spirit of Saugatuck at the art galleries around town. 
  5. Visit the breweries and wineries in the Saugatuck area. 
  6. Head out for an adventure and ride the sand dunes in the Saugatuck area. 
  7. Get out on the water!  Whether you prefer to paddle the quiet waters of the Kalamazoo River or take a sail on Lake Michigan, there's plenty of ways to enjoy the water while here. You can also take a river cruise, which is offered by Star of Saugatuck.
  8. Go shopping along Butler Street in downtown Saugatuck, relishing in the small-town charm of this coastal town.
  9. Take the 5-minute ride on the Saugatuck Chain Ferry, which claims to be the only chain ferry left operating in the country. 
  10. Enjoy farm-to-fork experiences at local restaurants in Saugatuck.

Above all else, take the time to breathe in the fresh air and soak up the summer sun in Saugatuck. It's the perfect place to relax, unwind, and leave behind your stress while enjoying this historic town, which is reminiscent of vintage, small-town America. We hope to see you at our Select Registry member property soon!

Saugutuck, MI Bed and Breakfast

The Hotel Saugatuck

The Hotel Saugatuck, one of Michigan's Historical Landmarks, invites you to leave behind your tensions and stressful schedules, and join us for the ultimate romantic getaway on Michigan's Art Coast. Located at the gateway of Saugatuck's Historic District, reminiscent of vintage, small-town America, we are just a short walk to downtown Saugatuck and Douglas, where you will find many unique shops, art galleries, and fine dining establishments.

Our redesigned luxury 18-room bed & breakfast offers the ultimate in guest service, modern comfort, and amenities unlike any property in the area, along with gourmet breakfast and tempting desserts delivered to your room. All 18 suites feature a king bed, fireplace, and hydrotherapy tub.

Whether you come to enjoy the year-round activities and exciting events, or just relax in an environment where there are no demands while taking in the breathtaking views of  Kalamazoo Lake, the Hotel Saugatuck promises an unforgettable experience.

Learn More

Best Places to Stay in Saugatuck

The Hotel Saugatuck at dusk
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The Hotel Saugatuck

Saugatuck, MI

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