In search of a Michigan summer road trip that’s as beautiful as it is easygoing? Just under three hours from metro Detroit, the Saugatuck-Douglas area is an artsy, beachy paradise for families.
With Lake Michigan’s shoreline as a backdrop, these neighboring towns offer kid-friendly beaches, historic ferry rides, forested trails and even dune buggy thrills. Check out these six standout outdoor adventures the whole family will love.
Make the most of your trip: Check out our Saugatuck-Douglas area guide, along with some of the best restaurants to visit and hotels to stay at.
1. Oval Beach
- Address: 690 Perryman St., Saugatuck
- Snapshot: This nationally ranked beach offers soft sand, gentle surf and sweeping Lake Michigan views, ideal for sunbathing, swimming and building sandcastles. It’s a go-to destination for family beach days, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun.
- What makes it family friendly: Calm waters, lifeguards (in-season), nearby restrooms and a snack shack.
- Why families rank it high: “This is a really wonderful beach with lots of amenities. There’s lots of sand and it never really felt crowded. No real big waves either, so it is appropriate for all ages.” — Gefilte, Trip Advisor
2. Douglas Beach Park
- Address: 3099 Lakeshore Drive, Douglas
- Snapshot: A quieter beach option tucked along a wooded bluff, this park is perfect for families who prefer a more low-key, nature-filled vibe. Benches and scenic overlooks provide relaxing views while kids can play in the sand below.
- What makes it family friendly: Shaded picnic areas, public restrooms and a short staircase to the shore for families to enjoy.
- Why families rank it high: “Family-friendly beach. Sandy with some rocks… enough to make a rock hunter happy. Quiet area.” — David Bleke, Google Reviews
3. Saugatuck Dune Rides
- Address: 6495 Blue Star Highway, Saugatuck
- Snapshot: Hop aboard a fast-paced, open-air dune buggy for a ride over the area’s scenic sand dunes, paired with fun history lessons along the way. The 40-minute tour offers a mix of entertainment and excitement, with jokes and stories sprinkled in for younger passengers.
- What makes it family friendly: Fun narration, safe for ages 3+ and thrilling without being too intense, as well as free for ages 1-2 years old to sit in an adult’s lap.
- Why families rank it high: “Very cool experience that our entire family enjoyed. Also shared a lot of history about how the dunes were formed and the buried city of Singapore we drove by — and how Saugatuck was founded.” — Corey Trojanowski, Google Reviews
4. Saugatuck Dunes State Park
- Address: 6575 138th Ave., Holland
- Snapshot: This 1,000-acre lakeshore park features four rustic trails (some sandy) that wind through woods and dunes to reach a secluded stretch of Lake Michigan. Trails range from 0.5 to 2.5 miles long, so you can choose your adventure based on your kids’ stamina.
- What makes it family friendly: Great for adventurous kids who love hiking and exploring nature.
- Why families rank it high: “Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a perfect place to get in a hike in the forest as well as a walk along beautiful Lake Michigan, with breathtaking views everywhere.” — JJ, Google Reviews
5. Saugatuck Chain Ferry
- Address: 528 Water St., Saugatuck
- Snapshot: This hand-cranked chain ferry, touted as the last of its kind in the U.S., takes families across the Kalamazoo River in just a few minutes and is a unique historic experience. It connects downtown Saugatuck to Mount Baldhead Park, making it both a fun ride and a handy shortcut.
- What makes it family friendly: Quick, affordable and kids love watching the hand-cranked ferry in action. It’s a fun, hands-on history lesson.
- Why families rank it high: “This is a really convenient way of getting from one side of the Kalamazoo River to the other. It’s only $3 for adults one way, and $1 for children. The two kids that took us across have to crank a wheel that moves the ferry on a chain from one side to the other. It’s awesome to see.” — Chris Parent, Google Reviews
6. Retro Boat Rentals
- Address: 730 Water St., Saugatuck
- Snapshot: Families can captain their own vintage boat, or opt for a “donut boat” with shade, and cruise the calm Kalamazoo River. The restored 1950s boats are electric and easy to steer, offering a relaxing and photo-worthy experience.
- What makes it family-friendly: No boating license required; electric motors make for a quiet, easy ride.
- Why families rank it high: “Our family of 4 had a wonderful time out on Doris (one of five boats) for the evening!” — Zach Martin, Google Reviews
Find even more to do on your trip! This story is part of our series on Saugatuck-Douglas. Check out our guides to 5 top restaurants and 5 best family-friendly hotels, too.
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.
