South Haven is a harbor town with two great beaches and a downtown full of places to eat.
Here is how I would spend a weekend there, one easy stop at a time. It works in summer, but it is just as good in the off season.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: A Day on South Haven's Black River
My South Haven Weekend Plan
1) Six Chicks Scratch Kitchen
Start with breakfast. It is a good way to fuel up before a day of walking around town. If you are traveling with a group, it is an easy place to get everyone fed and happy before the day starts. Bring your appetite.
2) Michigan Maritime Museum
Great Lakes history right on the Black River.
It is a good morning stop, and it gives you a real sense of why this town is here.
The maritime museum is great for kids and adults. It is a good stop if the weather turns, and it gives you a reason to walk along the river. Give yourself an hour or so, then walk toward the harbor.
3) South Beach
Walk out toward the lighthouse.
This is the classic South Haven view. If the waves are up, enjoy the pier from the sand.
South Beach is a classic Lake Michigan beach. In summer, plan to stay a while. In the off season, it is a beautiful place for a walk and a few photos. Bring a towel in summer and a warm hat in the off season.
READ: 3 Red Lighthouses You Have to See on the Lakeshore
4) Clementine's
Lunch or dinner downtown.
It is an easy stop right on Phoenix Street, close to the shops.
Clementine's is a South Haven classic. It works for a casual lunch or an easy dinner, and the downtown shops are right outside the door. On a nice day, take your time over lunch before heading back out.
5) Sherman's of South Haven
Ice cream, in season.
Check that it is open for your dates. If it is, this is how I would end the day.
Sherman's is a South Haven tradition. On a warm night, an ice cream cone is the best way to end a beach day. Pick your flavor and take it to go for a walk downtown.
South Haven is easy to love. The beach, the harbor and downtown are all close together, so you spend less time in the car and more time outside. Walk the beach, see the river, and do not skip the ice cream if it is open. A weekend here does not need much more than that. It is the kind of town where the best plan is a loose one, with plenty of time to wander between stops.
South Haven Cottage and South Haven Hilltop Farm House are both close to downtown. Pick the one that fits your group and come stay with us.
More favorites in my South Haven area guide.