A Gorgeous City On The Shores Of Lake Michigan Is Perfect For A Scenic Getaway

If you're thinking of your next beach vacation destination, Hawaii or Florida (home to the best-ranked beach in America) is likely at the top of your list. Before you finalize your plan, don't look past Grand Haven on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The small city has plenty to see and do, no matter what season you visit, and is full of top-ranked sandy freshwater beaches to sink your toes into as well as sunsets blasting a kaleidoscope of color across the western horizon. 

Grand Haven began as a small trading post built by John Jacob Astor's American Fur Company in the 1820s, with the first residents, Reverend William Ferry and his family, moving to Grand Haven in 1834. Soon after, the town grew as the lumber industry took off and became known as a health resort destination. It was also famous for its peaches in the late 19th century. Around the area today, you'll find a handful of U-pick orchards bearing all types of fruit, including berries, cherries, apples, and pumpkins — all when in season. The city also has a long-standing affinity for the U.S. Coast Guard, honoring those who have served with an annual 10-day festival in July and August. In 1998, Congress officially designated Grand Haven as the first "U.S. Coast Guard City" in the United States.

Grand Haven is less than an hour drive west of Grand Rapids, a Midwest charmer with Chicago vibes. You'll find plenty of flights to Grand Rapids' airport, Gerald Ford International Airport, from all over the country. Muskegon County Airport (MKG) is 15 minutes away from Grand Haven and is a regional alternative, though you'll have to change planes at Chicago O'Hare.

Whether you're gearing up for a game of volleyball, curling up with a book, or going for a swim with the kids, you'll find a beach that's totally shark-free to suit your style in Grand Haven. Tucked between Mulligan's Hollow, the Grand River, and Lake Michigan, Grand Haven State Park is one of the top-rated beaches in the state and meets City Beach, owned by the city of Grand Haven. At both beaches, you'll find public restrooms and places to swim, though the state park is better equipped for spending the day. There's a full playground for the kids and beach volleyball nets. Out-of-state vehicles parking at the state park beach are required to purchase an entry permit for $11, though pedestrians and cyclists can enter for free. 

On the other hand, City Beach has free parking with limited spaces. While you'll find picnic tables at the state park, food and concessions are limited to seasonal food trucks. If you're looking for a meal with beautiful beachside views, Noto's at the Bil-Mar will fit the bill and is conveniently located just off of City Beach. Though the cocktails and view receive praise, several customers have noted issues with food and service.

If you're looking for a popular family-friendly beach for a day of fun in the sun, head to nearby North Beach, where you'll find an outdoor setup ready for a barbecue and beach volleyball on sugary soft sand. Parking is $8 online per vehicle during the summer, but is free in other seasons. Be sure to stop by a local supermarket to grab your favorite snack and beverage before you go, as you'll only find a few vending machines near the beach.

Grand Haven's 1.5-mile-long boardwalk isn't as long as the iconic longest boardwalk in the world. However, it links many of the city's most iconic sights and offers stunning views every step of the way. Starting on the edge of downtown along North Harbor Drive you'll pass the city's Musical Fountain, which has been dazzling visitors and locals on summer weekends with free laser water shows since 1962. During these months, the skies above the boardwalk light up with fireworks on the Fourth of July and during the Coast Guard Festival, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors. The 2025 event featured a week of concerts from tribute bands playing decades of hits. Tour a ship or watch the parade ships traverse the Grand River, saluted by water cannons. As you get closer to the beach, you'll likely spot the city's iconic and photogenic lighthouses built in 1839; don't miss going around sunset for a magical photo opportunity.

On the north bank of the Grand River just outside of downtown, you'll find Ottawa Sands Park, where the woods, sand dunes, and wetlands surround an 80-acre lake. Within the park, you'll find a 1.6-mile loop trail and river access; however, swimming and watercraft are not allowed on the lake. To soak it all in for the evening, book a fully-furnished yurt or treehouse at the Idema Explorers Camp near the river.

Being a summer destination, Grand Haven accommodation can be expensive, with hotels averaging over $200 per night in the peak summer months. Weekends are typically more expensive. You'll find plenty of comfy hotels and inns between downtown and the city's beaches, though don't forget to check rooms in nearby Muskegon, where you may find better prices in summer.