Summer on the lakeshore means ice cream almost every night. I am not going to pretend otherwise. After a beach day, it is the easiest family tradition there is.
Here are my favorite stops, from Holland to Saugatuck, South Haven and Grand Haven. Most are seasonal, so they are part of what makes a summer trip feel like summer.
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 Summer Night on Grand Haven's Boardwalk
My Favorite Lakeshore Ice Cream Stops
1) Captain Sundae
Captain Sundae in Holland is the pirate ship ice cream stand, and it has been scooping since 1980. Kids lose their minds over the ship.
It is seasonal, so it is a sure sign summer has started when it opens.
It is right on Douglas Ave in Holland, so it is easy to swing by on the way back from the beach.
2) General Store at Ottawa Beach
The General Store at Ottawa Beach has hand scooped cones a short walk from the state park beach. I would grab one on the walk back to the car after a beach day.
It is a perfect end to an afternoon at Holland State Park.
It is an easy walk from the sand, so you can grab a cone without moving the car.
3) Dairy Dayz
Dairy Dayz in Saugatuck is the classic soft serve stand. Nothing fancy, and that is exactly why it works.
Swing by after a dune ride or a day at Oval Beach.
It is a fun one to pair with a day in Saugatuck when you want something simple and sweet.
4) Sherman's of South Haven
Sherman's of South Haven is the ice cream stand everyone stops at. Expect a line on a hot night.
The line moves, and it is part of the fun.
If you are staying in South Haven, this is the one I would start with.
READ: The Lakeshore With Kids: Stops They Will Ask to Repeat
5) South Pier Creamery and Market
South Pier Creamery and Market is downtown South Haven's spot for ice cream and market treats. Easy to fit in while you walk around town.
If Sherman's line is long, this is your backup.
Treats from the market make a nice little snack to take back to the house, too.
6) Pump House Frozen Yogurt Bar
Pump House Frozen Yogurt Bar is right on the boardwalk in Grand Haven. You build your own, which means everyone gets exactly what they want.
Walk the boardwalk with a cup and stay for the evening.
It is a good one to pair with a night at the Musical Fountain.
Every one of our homes is a short drive from at least one of these. So go ahead and make ice cream a nightly tradition.
Come stay with us this summer and start working through the list.