Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, the Saugatuck-Douglas area combines beach town with small-town, perfect for a family getaway. After a day of climbing dunes, relaxing at the beach or browsing downtown in local shops, families can return to their cottages, lakeside resorts or hidden inns that make the trip feel like home.
These five family-friendly stays offer ample space, amenities parents appreciate, and easy access to everything from downtown attractions to waterfront views.
Wondering what else to do in the region? Explore our guide to Saugatuck-Douglas, along with options for family dining and fun outdoor activities.
1. Beachway Resort
- Address: 106 Perryman St., Saugatuck
- Snapshot: The Beachway Resort is the closest hotel to Lake Michigan’s award-winning Oval Beach, just a short walk or quick ride on the nearby chain ferry. This family-friendly resort offers a variety of options, from standard rooms and suites to apartments with kitchenettes and porches. The outdoor pool is great for families, and there’s plenty of room to relax on expansive decks and balconies furnished with tables, chairs, umbrellas, charcoal grills and deck chairs. With easy access to Saugatuck’s shops, restaurants and waterfront, Beachway makes a convenient home base for a lakeside getaway.
- What makes it family friendly: Big suites with kitchens, an outdoor pool and lots of communal spaces, plus proximity to the beach and ferry.
- Why families rank it high: “Really enjoyed this hotel. Room was clean and comfortable.” — Mich D., Trip Advisor
2. Old Pike Cottages
- Address: 645 Lake St., Saugatuck
- Snapshot: Located along the edge of Lake Kalamazoo, Old Pike Cottages offers a comfortable, family-friendly stay with the space and convenience of a home. Each fully remodeled cottage includes a kitchen area, modern amenities, and a private outdoor patio with a shared heated outdoor pool and a waterfront view. With just a short walk from downtown Saugatuck and the Chain Ferry, it’s a great choice for families who want extra space and easy access to local attractions.
- What makes it family friendly: Their family-sized cottages with kitchens, outdoor seating and a shared pool make it an ideal spot.
- Why families rank it high: “My family wanted to vacation in Saugatuck. After looking at several websites, we landed here. It was perfect! The two-bedroom cottage was ideal for a family of four.” — Lori M., Google Reviews
3. BaySide Inn
- Address: 618 Water St., Saugatuck
- Snapshot: Set on the Saugatuck Harbor, BaySide Inn is a converted 1927 boathouse featuring rooms and suites with private baths, free Wi-Fi and either sun decks or balconies — some with kitchenettes, fireplaces or Jacuzzi tubs. Guests can enjoy a daily homemade buffet-style breakfast, relax on the waterfront deck, or unwind in the common areas with games and snacks. The inn makes it easy for families to explore downtown Saugatuck and enjoy all the local shops, dining, and nature just minutes away.
- What makes it family friendly: Their waterfront location, steps from shops and restaurants, great amenities and family-style suites.
- Why families rank it high: “Absolutely loved our stay! The morning breakfast was delicious and the location could not have been more perfect. So close to all the cute shops and restaurants.” — Abigail Morgan, Google Reviews
4. Secret of Saugatuck Suites
- Address: 500 Campbell Road, Saugatuck
- Snapshot: Tucked between Lake Michigan and Lake Kalamazoo, Secret of Saugatuck Suites offers spacious, family-friendly accommodations in a peaceful, wooded setting. Each suite includes a kitchen, queen beds, a sofa sleeper and a comfortable living area, ideal for longer stays or group getaways. The property features a shared heated outdoor pool, hot tub, gas grills and more, with plenty of room for kids to play. It’s just under a mile to local beaches, the Chain Ferry, and downtown Saugatuck.
- What makes it family friendly: Their scenic setting with a heated pool, roomy suites, and ideal location.
- Why families rank it high: “My family was as delighted as I with the room and all its amenities.” — Cecilia M., Trip Advisor
5. Rosemont Inn
- Address: 83 Lakeshore Drive, Douglas
- Snapshot: Located just a short walk from Lake Michigan, Rosemont Inn is a welcoming spot for families looking to relax and explore the area. This historic inn, built in 1901, offers comfortable rooms, a heated outdoor pool, indoor spa and dry sauna, plus easy access to the beach. With Saugatuck and local shops, parks, and restaurants just a few minutes away, Rosemont Inn makes a convenient and family-friendly home base.
- What makes it family friendly: Multiple cabin units, shared outdoor spaces, direct lake access and all kinds of nature-based recreation.
- Why families rank it high: “Nice amenities placed all around, amazing and carefully set out homemade breakfast in the morning as well. Clean hot tub/sauna and outdoor heated pool and pretty garden. Right across from the beach.” — Jasmine McCauley, Google Reviews
Get ready to dive into Saugatuck-Douglas with our overview guide! Plus, discover some of the best restaurants and waterside outdoor fun for your entire crew.
This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
