The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Saugatuck, Michigan
Curated by Forest Inn Bed & Breakfast
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is one of Michigan’s most charming small towns — where towering dunes meet creative energy, and each season brings its own magic. From sandy beaches and scenic trails to art galleries and wineries, this lakeside haven offers endless ways to unwind, explore, and reconnect.
At Forest Inn Bed & Breakfast, we’ve helped guests discover the best of Saugatuck for decades. This is our local insider’s ultimate guide of things to do in Saugatuck — a hand-picked collection of the most enjoyable, family-friendly, accessible, and memorable things to do, all within easy reach of your room.
Saugatuck at a Glance
Saugatuck’s appeal lies in its balance — part beach escape, part artist village, and part foodie destination. You can climb sand dunes in the morning, browse downtown galleries in the afternoon, and catch a fiery Lake Michigan sunset by evening. The town’s walkable layout, welcoming community, and ever-changing art scene make it ideal for both first-time visitors and returning regulars.
Things to Do in Saugatuck: Top 5 Must-Do Experiences
1. Oval Beach
Consistently ranked among America’s best beaches by Condé Nast Traveler, MTV, and other national publications, Oval Beach perfectly captures Saugatuck’s coastal charm. Its wide crescent of sugar-soft sand and rolling dunes make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or a peaceful shoreline stroll. Adventurous visitors can follow one of the short trails off the north end of the beach or climb the dunes toward Mt. Baldhead, recognizable by its white dome at the top.
The beach is clean, spacious, and well maintained, with a concession stand for snacks and gear, and restrooms for convenience. A wooden boardwalk and accessible ramps ensure everyone — from families with strollers to guests using mobility devices — can easily enjoy the lake views.
Parking costs $15 per car, but it is free after 9pm during the summer season; and parking is also free from Labor Day to Memorial Day. Access is free for pedestrians and cyclists, making it easy to stop by for an impromptu swim or picnic. Whether you visit for a few hours or an entire day, don’t miss the sunset — the glowing horizon over Lake Michigan is one of Saugatuck’s most unforgettable sights.
Why it’s essential: Oval Beach captures the essence of Saugatuck — laid-back, beautiful, and endlessly photogenic. Watching the sun melt into Lake Michigan here is a rite of passage for visitors and locals alike.
Forest Inn Tip: Arrive early for parking and cooler temps, or return at dusk with a blanket for one of the Midwest’s best sunset shows.
2. Mt. Baldhead Park
Saugatuck’s most iconic climb starts with 303 wooden steps rising straight into the trees. At the summit, a lookout deck offers sweeping views of Lake Michigan, the harbor, and the charming rooftops of downtown.
The hike itself is short but invigorating — and surprisingly quiet in the morning when dew still clings to the forest. On the other side of the hill, trails lead directly down to Oval Beach, making this an excellent combo outing.
Why it’s essential: Mt. Baldhead is a two-in-one adventure — a rewarding workout and a postcard-perfect view. Photographers, couples, and early risers all agree: sunrise and sunset from the summit are unforgettable.
Forest Inn Tip: Take the historic Chain Ferry across the river from downtown Saugatuck to reach the trailhead — it’s charming, cheap, and part of the fun.
3. Saugatuck Dune Rides
A blend of thrill ride, nature tour, and comedy show, the Saugatuck Dune Rides are a true local legend. Since 1954, these open-air dune buggies have carried generations of visitors across windswept sand hills while expert drivers weave in history, geology, and humor.
The 40-minute ride covers rolling dunes, forested patches, and panoramic lookouts — all within a protected dune preserve. You’ll learn about the “ghost town” of Singapore, spot Lake Michigan glimpses, and feel the rush of wind as the dune car crests each ridge.
Why it’s essential: No single activity captures Saugatuck’s personality quite like this — adventurous, funny, and rooted in local lore. It’s a must for first-time visitors and family travelers alike.
Forest Inn Tip: Book early on summer weekends — this is one of the most popular attractions in town.
4. Retro Boat Rentals / Star of Saugatuck Cruise
The best way to experience Saugatuck’s charm is from the water. Two unforgettable options:
- Retro Boat Rentals lets you pilot a restored 1950s electric runabout — bright colors, chrome detailing, and zero engine noise. Glide through the harbor, play your own music, and sip a coffee or cocktail while cruising (4 mph top speed) like it’s 1957.
Put a few drinks (they sell them) in a cooler (they’ll give you one with ice) and putt up & down the channel in your own electric powered (noiseless) really cool boat… each with its own name. A great means of seeing Saugatuck/Douglas from a water point of view. Also enjoy lunch, dinner, and cocktails at The Old Boat House. More info at retroboatrentals.com.
- Star of Saugatuck offers a relaxing paddlewheel riverboat cruise complete with narration, drinks, and sunset departures. The views of the dunes and cottages from the water are breathtaking.
Why it’s essential: These cruises show off Saugatuck’s laid-back side — where boating culture, nostalgia, and natural beauty blend perfectly. Whether you’re on a romantic evening or family outing, this is pure lakeside joy.
Forest Inn Tip: The sunset cruise costs a little more, but it’s pretty great. That cruise fills fast — reserve at least a few days ahead, especially on weekends. Snacks and beverages sold on board (cash only). Hit up saugatuckboatcruises.com for schedule and details.
5. Saugatuck Dunes State Park
A hidden gem for nature lovers, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers over 1,000 acres of rolling forest and dune ecosystems. Four main trails range from easy walks to more challenging loops, with the Yellow Trail leading directly to a secluded beach — often quiet even in midsummer.
The park’s mix of pine forest, open sand, and dramatic dune overlooks makes it ideal for hiking, picnicking, or simply breathing in fresh lake air. Wildlife watchers often spot deer, owls, and migrating songbirds.
Why it’s essential: This is Saugatuck’s wild side — raw, quiet, and rejuvenating. It’s where you’ll find solitude and some of the area’s most photogenic natural scenery.
Forest Inn Tip: Bring water and sturdy shoes — the walk to the beach takes about 20–25 minutes through the woods, but the reward is absolute tranquility. Parking Cost: $11 for non-Michigan Recreation passholders.
On the Water
Water defines Saugatuck’s rhythm. From lazy river bends to the wide horizon of Lake Michigan, there’s always a way to get your feet wet — or just sit back and watch the boats drift by. Whether you crave a beach day, a sunset cruise, or a quiet paddle through the backwaters, the lakeshore is never far.
Beaches
Oval Beach
Regularly ranked among America’s best beaches, Oval Beach is the heart of Saugatuck summers. Wide stretches of clean sand, clear water, and gentle dunes make it perfect for swimming and strolling. You’ll find lifeguards (in season), restrooms, picnic areas, and a paved boardwalk that makes it accessible for strollers and mobility devices. Parking is paid, and fills quickly on weekends — arrive before 10 a.m. for the best spots.
Forest Inn Tip: Sunset here is spectacular. Bring a blanket and watch the sky fade over the lake.
Douglas Beach
Just a 3-minute stroll from Forest Inn, Douglas Beach Park is a smaller, quieter alternative — popular with locals. It offers a more intimate setting with shaded picnic areas, a small stairway down to the sand, and fewer crowds. Ideal for families or couples seeking peace and quiet.
Laketown Beach
If you prefer a hidden gem, Laketown Beach sits between Saugatuck and Holland. Reached by a staircase winding through dunes, it’s a favorite for photographers and adventurous beachgoers. The panoramic views from the top make the climb worthwhile.
Cruises & Rentals
Star of Saugatuck Paddlewheel Boat
Hop aboard the Star of Saugatuck for a narrated tour or sunset cruise along the Kalamazoo River and out to Lake Michigan (weather permitting). The two-level paddlewheel boat features indoor and outdoor decks, refreshments, and restrooms. Advance reservations are highly recommended for sunset sailings.
Retro Boat Rentals
Experience Saugatuck’s nautical nostalgia with Retro Boat Rentals. Glide through the harbor in restored 1950s electric boats or playful donut-shaped pontoons. No boating license required, and the boats are electric — meaning quiet, eco-friendly rides. Bring your own snacks and playlist for the perfect harbor cruise.
Kayak, Canoe & Paddleboard Rentals
For a serene escape, rent a kayak or paddleboard from Big Lake Outfitters or In The Elements. Paddle the calm backwaters behind Wicks Park or along the Kalamazoo River toward Douglas. The scenery shifts from forest to open marshland, with frequent heron and swan sightings.
Charter Fishing
For an unforgettable day on Lake Michigan, Best Chance Charters in Saugatuck offers one of the top-rated charter fishing experiences in the Midwest. Operated by the Engel family with over 40 years of expertise, their fleet of three Coast Guard-licensed boats—Best Chance Too, Best Chance, and Best Chance Jr.—provides world-class salmon and trout fishing adventures as well as scenic cruises along the Kalamazoo River.
Forest Inn Tip: Pack a picnic and your camera — water views are everywhere. Guests often spend a full day rotating between beach lounging, a harbor lunch, and a sunset cruise.
Sand, Trails & Scenic Views
For a small town, Saugatuck packs in some of the most rewarding trails and dune hikes in Michigan — from steep climbs with panoramic views to gentle lakeside strolls. These adventures let you feel the landscape’s quiet beauty up close.
The go-to resource for all things hiking is radarhill.club, named after the famous Mount Baldhead radar tower. Click on the Trails link at the top of that page for a complete list of nearby hikes — each with maps, directions, and detailed descriptions.
Mt. Baldhead Park
This sand dune is a local landmark, accessible by climbing 303 wooden steps through a forest canopy. The Mt. Baldhead Trailhead starts across the river from downtown. At the top, a wooden deck overlooks the harbor and Lake Michigan beyond — one of the most photographed vistas in the region.
On the west side, a sandy trail descends through the woods to Oval Beach, making this a perfect loop for morning hikes.
- Trail Map: Mt. Baldhead Trail via AllTrails
- Length: ~0.5 mile round-trip (plus descent to the beach)
- Difficulty: Moderate; stairs can be steep but sturdy
Forest Inn Favorite: Head up just after sunrise with your morning coffee. You’ll hear only birds and lake breezes — and you’ll have the overlook to yourself.
Owner’s Tip: Many locals use the Mount Baldhead steps as their daily workout — 303 steps with a few landings for rest. Continue down the sandy trail to Oval Beach for free beach access and a post-hike ice cream at the concession stand. Just remember, you’ll have to climb back up on the return trip!
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
With 1,000+ acres of forest and dunes, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is ideal for anyone craving peace and open space. Drive 6 miles from Forest Inn and park at the trailhead lot. There’s a state park entrance fee (free for Michigan residents with a recreation pass).
The park has four main trails:
- Yellow Trail: 0.75 miles each way — shortest route to the beach
- Blue Trail: 2.5 miles — forest loop with lake overlooks
- Red Trail: 2.5 miles — moderate terrain and dune views
- Beach Trail: Connects to the old Felt Estate property
- Trail Map: DNR Saugatuck Dunes Map PDF
All trails meander through beech-maple forest and open dunes, ending at a wide, uncrowded beach — often with fewer than a dozen people even on summer weekends.
Forest Inn Tip: Visit on weekdays or early mornings for a nearly private beach experience.
Owner’s Note: “Regardless of the season, the scenery is stunning. You can do all 13 miles of trails or just a short loop — every route offers peaceful dune and lake views.”
Crow’s Nest Trail
Just two miles from Forest Inn, the Crow’s Nest Trail offers a scenic one-hour loop close to home.
Make a left out of the driveway, then another left on Park Street (first stop sign). Continue on the narrowing road, until you reach the entrance to Ox-Bow School of Art, where you’ll find a small parking area and the trailhead.
The path follows dune ridges to a high point with a breathtaking vista of Lake Michigan and the Saugatuck channel, then loops back along the ridge above the water.
- Length: ~2.6 mile loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Free (limited)
- Trail map: via Alltrails
Forest Inn Tip: Perfect for an evening stroll or golden-hour photography — the views are some of the area’s most underrated.
Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area
Just north of Oval Beach lies the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area, a peaceful 173-acre preserve featuring dune grasses, wildflowers, and wetlands. The boardwalk loop offers gentle walking, birdwatching, and access to stunning harbor views. The trail connects directly to Oval Beach, making it an easy add-on before or after swimming.
- Trail Map: Harbor Natural Area Map via AllTrails
- Accessibility: Mostly flat, with boardwalk segments suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Forest Inn Tip: Bring binoculars! Egrets, sandpipers, and migratory birds are frequent visitors in spring and fall.
Scenic Strolls from the Inn
Even without driving, a walk from Forest Inn to Lake Michigan or along Lakeshore Drive is its own reward. You’ll pass historic homes, shady dunes, and sweeping shoreline views. Many of the cottages have been in families for generations, adding to the area’s timeless charm.
Owner’s Note: “Whichever direction you wander from here, you’ll witness the unique natural beauty of the area — and you’ll experience it in ways not possible in a car.”
Suggested Trail Itinerary
Morning: Climb Mt. Baldhead → descend to Oval Beach for a swim
Lunch: Eat at The Southerner or The Butler downtown
Afternoon: Stroll through the Harbor Natural Area
Evening: Return via Chain Ferry at sunset
This combination gives guests the full Saugatuck landscape experience — dune, forest, lake, and river — all in one day without ever moving your car.
Download the trail map here.
Classic Saugatuck Experiences
Some experiences are more than attractions — they’re Saugatuck traditions that define the town’s character and keep visitors coming back year after year.
Saugatuck Dune Rides
Operating since 1954, Saugatuck Dune Rides is part thrill ride, part storytelling performance. The open-air dune buggies race over shifting sand hills while guides weave tales of the lost town of Singapore, wildlife in the dunes, and Saugatuck’s early settlers. The ride lasts about 40 minutes and combines adventure, history, and humor — ideal for families or first-timers who want to feel the dunes before hiking them.
The Chain Ferry
For a true taste of Saugatuck’s character, combine a hike through the dunes with a ride on the historic Chain Ferry. Start by exploring one of the forested trails winding through the rolling sand dunes — each offers a peaceful walk beneath shady pines and oaks, with moments where the trees part to reveal sweeping views of Lake Michigan and its golden shoreline.
When you’re ready to cross the river, step back in time aboard the Saugatuck Chain Ferry, one of the last hand-cranked ferries still operating in the United States. In service since 1838, this charming vessel links downtown Saugatuck with Mt. Baldhead Park, letting riders enjoy the rhythmic clank of the chain and friendly chatter as it glides across the Kalamazoo River. It’s a simple but unforgettable experience — a favorite for families, photographers, and anyone who loves a bit of nostalgia with their adventure.
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The Felt Mansion
Built in 1928 by inventor Dorr E. Felt, the Felt Mansion is one of West Michigan’s architectural jewels. The restored estate hosts guided tours, history programs, art exhibits, and summer concerts on the lawn. Guests often combine it with a walk through the adjacent Saugatuck Dunes State Park for a full day of beauty and history.
Farmers & Artisan Markets
Every Saturday from May to September, downtown Saugatuck and neighboring Douglas fill with local growers, bakers, and artists. You’ll find fresh flowers, handcrafted soaps, local honey, and produce straight from Fennville farms. It’s also a great place to grab breakfast pastries and chat with locals.
Local Secret: After your dune ride, stop at the Root Beer Barrel, a restored 1950s roadside stand on Blue Star Highway serving old-fashioned root beer floats — a sweet finish to your dune adventure.
Family & Kid-Friendly Fun
Saugatuck is a playground for curious kids and parents who want to unplug and reconnect.
Playgrounds & Parks
- Village Square Park – In the heart of downtown with a large playground, shady trees, and picnic tables — perfect for a quick break between shops and ice-cream stops.
- Schultz Park – On the riverfront in Douglas, featuring open sports fields, a disc-golf course, and a fenced dog area.
- Beery Field – Steps from Douglas’s main street; wide green space for Frisbee or tag, with nearby cafés for treats afterward.
Kid Activities
Families can enjoy mini-golf at Alley’s Classic Lanes, explore interactive letterboxing trails in local parks, or visit nearby petting farms like Crane Orchard for seasonal fruit-picking and hayrides. The Saugatuck Center for the Arts also hosts children’s theater workshops and kid-friendly matinees in summer.
Forest Inn Bikes
When you stay at Forest Inn, we offer up free bikes for our guests to use. This is a great way to get to/from downtown Douglas & Saugatuck, or to take a leisurely ride along the coast.
Events for Families
Mark your calendar for the July 4th Parade (complete with candy tosses), Halloween in the Park, and Douglas Art on Center Festival, which features hands-on art booths for kids.
Forest Inn Tip: We’re within a short drive of all three major playgrounds — perfect for a spontaneous outing between beach time and dinner.
Arts, Culture & Shopping
Saugatuck’s creative spirit is what sets it apart from other lakeshore towns. Known as the Art Coast of Michigan, it’s been an artist haven for over 100 years.
Saugatuck Center for the Arts
A hub for local culture, SCA offers year-round gallery shows, concerts, art workshops, and the popular summer “Mountain Film on Tour.” The building itself — a renovated pie-factory — embodies the town’s mix of history and innovation.
Galleries
Wander through Amazwi Contemporary Art for international works, James Brandess Studio for iconic Lake Michigan landscapes, and Water Street Gallery for regional artists. Many galleries host open-house nights with wine and live music.
Shopping
Stroll Butler and Water Streets for boutique finds, from handmade jewelry to gourmet olive oils. Don’t miss Landsharks for casual outdoor wear and The Tannery for artisan leather goods.
Hidden Gem: On summer Saturdays, pop-up antique and vintage markets appear in downtown Douglas and near Beery Field — ideal for treasure hunters and collectors.
Food & Drink Highlights
Saugatuck’s dining scene celebrates the region’s fresh produce and creative chefs.
Local Favorites
- The Southerner – Lakeside views and Southern comfort classics like fried chicken and biscuits.
- Grow Café + Bistro – Modern brunch spot known for seasonal ingredients and vegetarian options.
- Everyday People Cafe – Upscale yet cozy, blending farm-to-table cuisine with artisan cocktails.
Check out our Saugatuck and Douglas Restaurant Guide for more dining details!
Breweries & Wineries
Sample craft beers at Saugatuck Brewing Company or take a short drive to Fenn Valley Vineyards for wine tastings and vineyard picnics. Modales Winery is also a Forest Inn favorite due to its idyllic setting, great vibes, nice wine selection, and frequent live music.
For more details check out our Saugatuck breweries and wineries guide.
Coffee & Treats
Start your morning at Uncommon Coffee Roasters, a beloved local institution with ethically sourced blends, or drive to Crane’s Pie Pantry for their legendary pie flight and cider.
Wellness & Relaxation
When the dunes and beaches have filled your days, Saugatuck offers countless ways to unwind.
Spas & Massage
Pamper yourself at Bella Vita Spa & Suites for facials and massages, or visit Waterfront Day Spa for lake-view treatments and couples’ sessions.
Yoga & Meditation
Join community yoga at Oval Beach during sunrise or take a drop-in class at Satya Yoga. Private instructors also offer beachside or in-room sessions for guests.
Forest Bathing & Nature Retreats
Walk the shaded trails at Saugatuck Dunes State Park or the Harbor Natural Area to experience true mindfulness in nature — the quiet rustle of dune grass and scent of pine are a natural reset.
Forest Inn Invitation: Sip your morning coffee on our porch, lounge by the secluded swimming pool, read by the fire in cooler months, or nap to the rhythm of lake breezes.
Pet-Friendly Adventures
Bring your four-legged friend along — Saugatuck welcomes dogs almost everywhere.
Dog Beaches
Douglas Beach allows leashed pets during off-peak hours (before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m.).
Dog Parks
Schultz Park in Douglas has a designated off-leash area with water stations and shaded benches.
Pet-Friendly Patios
Enjoy lunch at Wicks Park Bar & Grille, which offers dog-friendly outdoor tables by the river.
Accessibility & Inclusion
Saugatuck is small but impressively accommodating for visitors with mobility or sensory needs.
- Oval Beach: Accessible parking, boardwalk to the sand, and ADA-compliant restrooms.
- Dining & Lodging: Most downtown restaurants and galleries are single-level or ramp-accessible.
- Boat & Ferry Access: Both the Star of Saugatuck and the Chain Ferry provide ramp boarding assistance.
- Local Resources: Check Saugatuck Accessibility Guide for current details.
Forest Inn Tip: Let us know your accessibility needs before arrival — we’re happy to recommend restaurants, trails, and activities with smooth access paths and facilities.
Hidden Local Experiences
Beyond the postcard spots lies the Saugatuck locals know best.
Late-Night Spots
Catch live music and casual bites at Wally’s Bar & Grill, or dance the night away at Coral Gables.
Offbeat Finds
Our personal favorite - Red Dock Cafe! The ultimate summertime Saugatuck experience. Cold beer, rum punch, music, great food, surrounded by water. A short walk down the dock, and suddenly you’re in Key West. Hours 11-8:30pm daily, weather permitting. Google Maps will get you there. Walk, ride a bike, or drive 3 minutes from Forest Inn. Check out their website.
Another funky find is the Root Beer Barrel. This gem serves frothy nostalgia, while small pop-up antique fairs, vinyl shops, and thrift boutiques reward explorers who wander side streets.
Events Locals Love
The Holiday Light Parade, Douglas Craft Fair, and winter Gallery Stroll keep the off-season lively and creative.
Innkeeper’s Pick: The small vintage market behind Beery Field on Sunday mornings is a hidden gem — most tourists never find it.
For those that like to memorialize their trip with photos or on social media, Saugatuck has some truly breathtaking photo opportunities. Make your trip picture-perfect with these favorite photo spots:
| Location | Best Time | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|---|
| Mt. Baldhead Overlook | Sunrise | Soft light, panoramic harbor views |
| Oval Beach | Sunset | Iconic dune silhouettes |
| Chain Ferry Dock | Golden hour | Retro charm |
| Water Street Murals | Midday | Vibrant colors, few crowds |
| Harbor Boardwalk | Blue hour | Reflections on calm water |
**Share your moments with #ForestInnSaugatuck — we love to feature guest photos!
Seasonal Playbooks
From season to season, the top local activities shift. At a glance, here are the top things-to-do in Saugatuck by season.
- Summer: Long beach days, harbor cruises, dune rides, and outdoor concerts under the stars.
- Fall: Crisp air, color-splashed dunes, winery tours, and the Fennville Harvest Fest.
- Winter: Quiet galleries, cozy firesides, and snow-dusted walks on empty beaches.
- Spring: Tulip Time in nearby Holland, bird-watching in the dunes, and peaceful pre-season charm.
Day Trips & Offbeat Excursions
If you have extra time, venture a little farther.
Holland, Michigan (~20 minutes from Saugatuck)
Why go: A charming and photogenic stop that blends heritage, nature and small-town shopping. At the heart is the historic Dutch windmill Windmill Island Gardens (named De Zwaan), the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the U.S. transferred from the Netherlands.
Highlights & details:
- 36 acres of gardens, canals and exhibits built around the windmill.
- Over 100,000 tulips bloom in spring, followed by vibrant annuals and perennials in summer.
- Seasonal hours: open mid-April through early October.
- Accessibility: The grounds are mostly wheelchair/stroller friendly; upper floors of the windmill are not accessible.
- Combine the windmill visit with shopping on Holland’s Main Street or a lakeside stroll at Holland State Park.
Forest Inn tip: Visit right around opening time for fewer crowds, especially during tulip season, and grab a coffee in downtown Holland after.
Fennville, Michigan (~15 minutes)
Why go: A relaxed rural escape with orchards, U-pick fruit, pies, wine/cider and seasonal fun — ideal for families or slower-paced visitors.
Highlights & details:
- At Crane Orchards you’ll find U-Pick fruit (cherries, peaches, apples) on a sixth-generation farm. Learn more about Crane Orchards.
- Corn maze, hayrides and pumpkin patch in fall.
- The adjoining Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery serves pies, cider, and vineyard tastings.
- Best in begin-season (cherries/peaches) or fall (apples/corn maze). Check U-Pick hours ahead.
Forest Inn tip: Pack a cooler if you pick fruit, stop at the Pie Pantry for a pie flight on your way home, and combine with a late-afternoon wine tasting before heading back.
South Haven, Michigan (~30 minutes)
Why go: A classic lakeside town with historic charm, a prominent pier & lighthouse, and maritime history — a scenic half-day or full-day option.
Highlights & details:
- The iconic lighthouse on the south pier is a go-to photo spot.
- The Michigan Maritime Museum provides interactive exhibits, tall-ship sails and maritime heritage.
- Leave in the morning, stroll the Harbor Walk or pier, visit the museum (260 Dyckman Ave) then lunch downtown.
- Check for parking at the pier (fee applies) and plan for beach or harbor time if you stay longer.
Forest Inn tip: Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water, then relax in South Haven with an ice cream or sail-boat view before heading back.
Quirky Stops: Allegan, Michigan, Bike Trails & Vintage Finds
Why go: For guests who want something a little off-beat — rural charm, nature trails, vintage shopping, and cycling opportunities away from the main tourist flow.
Highlights & details:
- The Allegan State Game Area offers a network of mountain-bike and hiking trails (74 trails totalling 231 km) in a wooded, scenic setting.
- The region has vintage shops, antiques and small-town charm — perfect for “treasure hunting.”
Use trail maps (e.g., TrailLink Allegan Trails ) to pick your route.
Forest Inn tip: Pack your bike if you ride — otherwise bring walking shoes and a reusable bag for vintage finds. Plan 2–3 hours here so you’re back to the Inn for dinner.
Practicalities
- Parking: Free downtown lots and paid Oval Beach parking.
- Shuttles: Interurban buses run regularly to beaches and attractions.
- Tickets & Fees: Bring cash for the Chain Ferry; many cruises take cards.
- Weather Tips: Mornings are cool; afternoons are warm by the lake.
- Packing List: Beach gear, layers, sunscreen, reusable bottles, bug spray.
Interactive & Social
We love connecting with guests even after checkout!
- Tag your photos with #ForestInnSaugatuck.
- Ask our innkeepers for a custom itinerary based on your interests.
- Follow us on social media for local event updates – Facebook and Instagram
FAQs
How many steps are there on the Mt. Baldhead Park climb?
The main staircase up Mt. Baldhead consists of 303 wooden steps leading to the observation deck atop the dune.
Tip: There are rest platforms partway up, so it’s manageable even if you take your time.
When does the Saugatuck Chain Ferry operate?
The Chain Ferry runs Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather and captain availability permitting. It generally operates daily in the warmer months and pauses for storms, strong winds or heavy current.
Are dogs allowed on the beaches?
Yes — in certain designated areas and during off-peak hours. For example, some nearby beaches permit leashed dogs before morning crowds or after certain hours. However, on the official city beach at Oval Beach, dogs are not allowed during the main season.
Tip: If traveling with a pet, check each beach’s rules ahead of time and aim for early or late visits.
Which trail is the shortest route to the beach in Saugatuck Dunes State Park?
The Yellow Trail in Saugatuck Dunes State Park is the shortest walk to the lake shore — approximately 0.6 to 0.75 miles one-way. It’s ideal for a quick hike-to-beach option.
Tip: Bring water and wear shoes that can handle sand plus patches of trail.
What’s the best time for sunset photos in Saugatuck?
For summer months (June-July), plan to be positioned at photo spots like Oval Beach or Mt. Baldhead around 8:00–9:00 p.m. to catch the golden hour and afterglow.
Tip: Arrive 15-20 minutes early, bring a blanket or low-chair, and enjoy the view as the sun dips into Lake Michigan.
Book Your Adventure
Whether your idea of a perfect adventure includes peaceful solitude; exploring the trails, dunes, water, and beaches of spectacular Lake Michigan; fine dining, live music, world-class art, craft beer, renowned vineyards, or all of the above...
Forest Inn is an extraordinary setting for you to make memories and take full advantage of all that Michigan’s Art Coast offers. We look forward to welcoming you!