You’ll feel like you’ve taken a journey to heaven on earth when you visit Grand Haven, with its sun-kissed beaches, clean waterways, and beautiful scenery.
Thousands of sun-seeking vacationers flock there every year because of its convenient location near the mouth of the Grand River.
Going to a natural area like a beach, lake, or hiking trail might help you relax and clear your mind.
The Coast Guard City’s downtown is always bustling and full of surprises.
When it comes to vacation spots, Grand Haven could be exactly what you’re looking for.
Discover the top things to do in Grand Haven, MI, by reading the guide I produced just for you.
It’s time to strike out on your own and find sanctuary in this beautiful seaside metropolis.
Visit the Grand Haven Lighthouse and see it for yourself
This sturdy building dates back to 1839. Both ends of the beautiful south pier are illuminated by the twin lights that make up the Grand Haven Lighthouse. A crimson paint job and a lighted catwalk join the two. This catwalk continues all the way to the boardwalk.
The inner light is cylindrical, while the outer light is square and better at penetrating mist. These lighthouses receive more visitors than any others in the state. They are not accessible to the general public, so all you can do is view them from a distance and take advantage of the great photo opportunities they provide.
Grand Haven, Michigan’s State Park
The Grand Haven State Park on the shores of Lake Michigan is a popular destination for outdoor activities. It sits near the mouth of the Grand River on the southern side of the port in Grand Haven, Michigan. All of the park is made out of beach sand. There are 174 campsites available, along with a rental house, a fishing pier, a picnic area, and a playground for the kids. There are stunning vistas of Grand Haven’s Inner Light and South Pierhead Entrance Light. The state deeded the park the twenty-two acres nearest to the pier in 1920, when the beach was originally 35 acres. Locals refer to the area as “The Oval.” In the warmer months, parkgoers flock to the beach and bathing areas.
You Should Go to the Beach Today
Don’t be fooled by Grand Haven’s modest size. Numerous public beaches and access to Lake Michigan may be found in this resort community. Grand Haven State Park is where you want to be if you want to swim, people-watch, camp out on the beach, take pictures of a bright red lighthouse, and walk the pier. Within striking distance to the south is Grand Haven City Beach, which welcomes dogs in certain places and provides an accessible beach boardwalk for people with disabilities. North Beach Park in Grand Haven is a great option for families looking for a more tranquil waterside experience, since it provides access to the water, as well as a network of scenic hiking paths through wooded terrain and an off-leash dog beach.
Have a Picnic in the Park
We can only enjoy summer for so long. So, why not take advantage of the weather and have dinner outside? Stop by the legendary Pronto Pups for lunch; since 1947, this modest beach stand has been dishing out delicious corn dogs. Butch’s Beach Burritos is a nearby Mexican restaurant known for its traditional fare such burritos, tacos, and salsa prepared in-house. The Kirby House in the heart of the city is home to three unique dining options. Indulge in some wood-fired pizza and a cocktail at K2, the restaurant’s rooftop patio with a view of the boardwalk and Lake Michigan. The Kirby Grill serves salads, burgers, and sandwiches in a more relaxed setting, while the Grill Room, a more formal take on the classic chop house, awaits guests downstairs.