We manage homes up and down the West Michigan shoreline, and the first question guests ask is which town to pick.
They are all within an hour of each other, but each one has its own personality. Here is the short version, with my honest take on who each town is for.
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 Weekend in Holland
Which Lakeshore Town Is Right for You
1) Holland: A Real Downtown and Dutch Roots
Pick Holland if you want to walk to dinner. 8th Street is lined with restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques, and Holland State Park and the Big Red lighthouse are a short drive away.
It is the easiest town for a mixed group. Grandparents, little kids and everyone in between can find something to do.
If you are not sure where to start, Holland is the safe pick. Our Holland area guide has the full list of what to do.
2) Saugatuck: Galleries, Dunes and Oval Beach
Pick Saugatuck for a weekend away. It is small and walkable, with art galleries, a river full of boats and one of the prettiest beaches on the lake.
Fennville's farms and wineries are just up the road, which makes it easy to fill a couple of days.
It is a great choice for couples and friend groups who want to walk to dinner and spend their days wandering. Check our Saugatuck area guide for more.
3) South Haven: Beaches and a Harbor Town
Pick South Haven for beach days. Two big public beaches sit on either side of the red lighthouse, and downtown is full of ice cream and patios.
It is blueberry country, too, so summer trips come with a side of picking.
Families love it here. Our South Haven area guide has more on what to do.
READ: A Weekend in Grand Junction
4) Grand Haven: The Boardwalk and the Big Pier
Pick Grand Haven if you want a classic beach town. The boardwalk runs from downtown to the pier.
West Olive, just south, has quiet beaches and county parks for the days you want less of a scene.
It is a good fit for families and anyone who loves a classic summer scene. See the Grand Haven area guide for more.
5) Grand Junction: Quiet Lakes and Farm Country
Pick Grand Junction to slow all the way down. It is inland, with small lakes and woods.
South Haven's beaches are about 20 minutes away when you want them, so you are not giving up Lake Michigan.
It is a great fit for anyone who wants a quieter, slower trip. Our Grand Junction area guide has the details.
Still not sure? Send us a note through any listing and tell us who is coming. We are happy to point you to the right house.
Whichever town you choose, we would love to host you. Come stay with us.