Looking for something more exciting than a beach day? The lakeshore has plenty of ways to get your heart rate up. Sometimes the group needs a little action to balance out all the lounging.
These are the adventures I would book for a group or a family with energy to burn. Most of them need a reservation, so plan ahead.
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: Where to Kayak and Paddleboard on the Lakeshore
My Favorite Lakeshore Adventures
1) Saugatuck Dune Rides
Saugatuck Dune Rides is a bumpy, sandy ride over the dunes. It is open May through October.
Hold onto your hat. Kids love it, and so do most grown ups.
It is one of those rides that people talk about all the way home. A great pick for a group with mixed ages.
2) Rise and Ride Ranch
Rise and Ride Ranch in Allegan offers trail rides and time with the horses. It is open all year by reservation, which makes it a rare adventure that works in any season.
Book ahead, then plan a slow lunch afterward.
It is a calmer kind of adventure, and a nice change of pace from the water.
3) Adventure Watersports
Adventure Watersports in South Haven has boat and jet ski rentals by reservation. Get out on the water and see the shore from the lake side.
Reserve before you arrive, especially on summer weekends.
If your group has never been on a jet ski, this is a fun way to try it.
READ: Rainy Day Plans on the Lakeshore
4) Holland Water Sports
Holland Water Sports rents jet skis, boats and paddleboards near the state park. It is a good pick if your group wants a mix of speed and calm.
Paddleboards for some, jet skis for others.
Since it is near the state park, you can pair a rental with a beach afternoon.
5) Urban Air Adventure Park
Urban Air Adventure Park in Holland has trampolines, climbing walls and a ropes course for kids with energy to burn. It is indoors, so it doubles as a rainy day plan.
Let them bounce it out and everyone sleeps well that night.
It is a good backup plan to keep in mind for a day when the weather does not cooperate.
Book ahead in summer. These fill up on weekends, and nothing deflates a group faster than showing up to a sold out ride.
Plan one big adventure, then come home to a quiet night at the house. Come stay with us.