Just 30 minutes south of Saugatuck, South Haven, Michigan is one of the most beloved beach towns along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Known for its vibrant harbor, iconic red lighthouse, and annual National Blueberry Festival, South Haven is the kind of place where summer feels like it lasts forever—and the welcome is always warm.
Downtown South Haven is packed with shops, cafés, breweries, and galleries, all just steps from the riverwalk and beach. Families love the wide, sandy shoreline and waterfront parks, while cyclists and hikers can explore miles of wooded trails along the Kal-Haven Trail State Park, which connects all the way to Kalamazoo. History lovers won’t want to miss the Michigan Maritime Museum, home to vintage ships, sailing charters, and hands-on exhibits.
Whether you’re strolling the pier, paddling the river, or catching live music downtown, South Haven is all about lakeshore living at its best.
Start the day with coffee and a walk along the harbor, where boats bob and the breeze smells like beach and adventure. Spend the morning exploring the shops and galleries of downtown South Haven, or hop on a bike and cruise the scenic Kal-Haven Trail, which winds through woods, orchards, and rural beauty all the way inland.
Looking for sun and sand? South Haven has seven public beaches, each with its own vibe—from family-friendly and bustling to quiet and scenic. Don’t miss the South Pier Lighthouse, one of Michigan’s most iconic photo ops. You can even walk out to the end of the pier at sunset for panoramic views of Lake Michigan that rival anywhere on the coast.
When it’s time to refuel, South Haven’s dining scene brings the flavor—think beach-town casual meets creative coastal. And in the evening, unwind with live music, an outdoor movie in the park, or a pint from a local brewery. With plenty of spots to stay, from historic inns to lakeside rentals, South Haven makes it easy to stretch your Saugatuck stay into a full-on lakeshore adventure.
“We always hit the farmers market in the morning, rent bikes for the Kal-Haven Trail, and cool off at North Beach by mid-afternoon. It’s the perfect South Haven day.”
— Eli R., Saugatuck
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