Embracing the Sun & Sand: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Southwest Michigan Beaches for Your Vacation

Embark on a sun-soaked journey as we present to you our handpicked selection of Lake Michigan Beaches in Southwest Michigan. To enhance your coastal getaway, we’ve also included valuable links to each beach’s website and recommendations for nearby rental homes that you might find charming.

Where to Find Pretty Beaches in South West Michigan: Overview

In a hurry? No worries! Explore effortlessly: Simply click below to navigate directly to your beach of choice.

Where to Find the Best Beaches Near the Saugatuck Douglas Area
Lake Michigan Beaches in Fennville
South Haven’s Top Beaches for Your Next Summer Vacation
Where to Stay: Discover the Best Short Term Rentals Nearby

Lake Michigan Beaches in Saugatuck & Douglas

The West Michigan Pike byway brings you to many of the most beautiful beaches and exciting locations on Lake Michigan’s shore. Saugatuck/ Douglas lays midway along the West Michigan Pike, making it the perfect place to rest as you make your trip.

Saugatuck Dunes State Park

Stretching along 2.5 miles of Lake Michigan’s sandy shores, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is one of the best beaches in Saugatuck because it presents a a unique blend of dunes, a diverse forest ecosystem and extensive trails. It also incorporates the 300-acre Patty Birkholz Natural Area, an ecologically significant site. Furthermore, with the combination of sandy paths, woodsy trails, and dunes, this is one of the most pretty beaches in Michigan.

The park offers four distinctive hiking trails running over diverse terrain, ultimately leading to the picturesque Lake Michigan. In a hurry? Make sure to choose the shortest path, just .75 miles through wooded paths.

Located near the edge of the park are the Felt Estate and the Shore Acres Township Park, hosting an array of additional recreational activities. Amenities at these facilities include a 2-mile mountain bike course, a disc golf course and an assortment of other outdoor opportunities, creating a more rounded experience for visitors to the area.

Oval Beach

Oval Beach is a must-visit destination. In fact, it was rated among the 25 best shorelines in the world at MyMichiganBeach.com. This popular beach is known for its clear waters and beautiful sandy shores. Access is a bit unique. First you’ll want to take the hand-pulled chain ferry across the Kalamazoo River from Saugatuck, climb 282 steps to Mount Baldhead, and descend onto the grassy coastal sands – adventure awaits at Oval Beach!

Douglas Beach

In contrast to bustling Oval Beach, Douglas Beach offers just 10 parking spots. There is a convenient bathroom and picnic table area atop the hill. Many locals visit the beach at night to watch the sunsets. You can find directions here.

Laketown Beach in Holland

While the Saugatuck Douglas area is well-known for its beaches and dunes, Laketown Beach is another spot that’s worth a visit! With its clear waters and sandy shores, it offers a tranquil setting to unwind and soak up the sun on a warm summer day. Just be ready to climb several flights of stairs! This popular summer destination is located on the far south side of Holland, so it’s very close to Saugatuck.

Lake Michigan Beaches in Fennville, Michigan

Fennville, Michigan is a tranquil township stretching across miles of lush, verdant countryside, a stone’s throw from the vibrant communities of Douglas and Saugatuck. It’s perfect for a quick getaway if you’re traveling from Chicago. Home to the enchanting Fenn Valley Vineyards, Crane’s U-Pick, and delightful corn maze, Fennville also boasts scrumptious eateries and our cozy vacation rentals. Escape the everyday bustle with a short drive to this peaceful haven, and enjoy one of the two beaches described below!

Pier Cove Park Beach

Another lovely beach option is Pier Cove Park Beach in Fennville. If you’re hopping for a quiet, less crowded experience, then Pier Cove Park is a great option. Since it’s less crowded, it’s great for families with children.

The sparse nature of the park truly brings imagination alive. Discover a warm creek perfect for tiny toes. Unearth smooth skipping stones. Find the natural logs ideal for excavation adventures. Why not bring a picnic? You’ll want to savor an entire day here!

West Side County Park

In contrast to Pier Cove Park, West Side County Park offers more amenities for large groups. For example, there are restrooms and even playgrounds for the kids. Additionally, furnished picnic areas and pavilions offer some protection against the elements. Notably, this beach does feature an ADA-accessible ramp.

Beaches in South Haven, Michigan

South Haven’s coastal charm includes seven public beaches, and each one differs from the other. Some are overflowing with tourists, while the others are able to maintain an equilibrium of quiet.

South Beach

Located just south of the pier and lighthouse, is South Haven’s  South Beach. Notably, each of the remaining South Haven beaches are situated  on the opposite site of the pier.  A big, bright, iconic lighthouse marks the South Beach as its own unique state park.

North Beach

In contrast, the North Beach‘s distinctive feature is its beach volleyball courts.  Both North and South Beaches support wheelchair access and are ADA compliant.

Packard Park

Another beach in South Haven, Packard Park,  offers additional advantages for beachgoers. These include grills, a deck overlooking Lake Michigan, and picnic tables. Lush green trees offer shade over a large grassy area.  It’s important to note that Packard Park charges a $10 fee per trip to the beach. (But if you’re lucky enough to find a spot on North Shore drive and can parallel park, you can avoid the fee.)

Woodman Beach

Another option is Woodman Beach, which is located at 97 North Shore Drive in South Haven, nestled between North Beach and Dyckman Beach. According the web page, there is a %7 parking fee – cash only.

Dyckman Beach

Open to the public, Dyckman Beach is yet another Lake Michigan access point. Visitors are welcome to carry in their own boats, as long as they don’t mind a 50 yard trek. An exciting feature here is the boardwalk, which directs Lake Michigan enthusiasts to 300 feet of sandy beach area.

Oak Street Beach

Oak Street Beach is another busy South Haven beach because it’s close to many hotels and lodging options on the north side of the pier.

Newcome Beach

Last but not least, Newcome Beach, a peaceful strip of sandy public beach enveloped by private property, is a great choice. Due to its tiny size and general reputation, it’s a fabulous option for beach-goers wishing to spend time engrossed in a book, meditating, or watching the sunrise. There are no special amenities or even restroom facilities at this tiny gem of a sugar sand strip. But because of this, it offers a unique, quiet experience.

 

Where to Stay in Southwest Michigan:
Locally Managed Vacation Rentals Near the Best Beaches

Whether you are seeking adventure or serenity, these captivating Southwest Michigan beach towns guarantees an ideal beach experience for everyone. Your perfect beach escape is just a hop, skip, and a step away.

View the interior of this cozy cabin rental, Kingfisher Cove Cabin 27, here.

BVW Unsalted Vacations is proud to offer a wide selection of vacation rentals near Michigan’s best beaches. In fact, you’ll find multiple options when you visit our vacation rental search page. Check out a few of our highlighted selections below.

-If you’re looking for a place to stay in Saugatuck, then consider our brand new listing, Kingfisher Cove Cabin 27. Nestled in wooded Kingfisher Cove near the picturesque town of Saugatuck, this charming log cabin offers a perfect blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort. With three bedrooms and two baths, this cozy retreat invites you to experience the tranquility of nature without compromising on convenience. You can make a reservation here.

-Another option for small groups is Firefly Retreat in Fennville.  This cozy two-bedroom rental cottage is within walking distance of Hutchins Lake, a spring-fed lake mere minutes from Lake Michigan. Hutchins Lake is an inland, peaceful lake, and it’s perfect for swimming, fishing and boating. This 650 square ft. cottage has everything you need for a relaxing and serene retreat on one main floor. Additionally, it offers a sunny screened porch and outdoor fire pit. Book your stay here.

–Skipping Stones Cottage is located in another beautiful southwest Michigan town – Douglas. Since it’s mere minutes from Oval Beach, it’s the perfect home base for a family beach vacation. This three-bedroom rental house sits on a private wooded lot. After a day at the beach, relax around the fire pit and relax on the roomy deck. This home features three bedrooms, and it sleeps up to eight guests. Book your stay here.

 

Let Us Help You Plan an Escape Near the Best Beaches in Southwest Michigan

Now that we’ve explored the best beaches in Southwest Michigan, the vacation planning can commence! Due to our wide-ranging selection of Southwest Michigan vacation homes, BVW Unsalted Vacations is your trusted partner in finding the best vacation rental in Michigan for you. Additionally, years of experience ensure that you have the support you need to ensure that your visit in and around Lake Michigan is truly unforgettable. Browse our listings now to begin orchestrating your unforgettable family summer gathering. If you have any questions, please feel free to chat with an agent via the chat box in the corner of the screen.

Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Pinterest, YouTube, and Twitter for great things to do in Michigan!

Experience the Colorful Charm of West Michigan at the 95th Annual Holland Tulip Festival

In Michigan, we’re still bundling up against winter weather. Because of that, we’re eagerly looking forward to the warm embrace of spring. If you’re looking for good ideas for Spring Getawaysin Michigan then consider immersing yourself in Holland’s annual Tulip Time Festival! A performance by ABBA will kick off this enchanting celebration on May 4th, and the festivities will continue through May 12th.

Below, you’ll get a sneak preview of what’s to come during the 95th annual tulip time in Holland, Michigan. We’ve also included plenty of links to official tulip time resources to help you as you plan your Spring getaway in Holland’s beautiful fields of tulips!

Holland Michigan Tulip Festival 2024: FAQs

Before delving into the magic of Tulip Time, let’s cover some FAQs

When is the Tulip Festival in Michigan?

The Michigan Tulip Festival runs from May 4-12, 2024.

Where is the best place to stay?

You can book directly through us. Simply jump down to the list of Michigan vacation rentals at the end of the article, and find the best fit for you! You can book online through our website.

Is parking available?

Although parking is limited downtown in the epicenter of the festival, you can often rent spaces in church parking lots. Consider visiting Downtown Holland’s parking page for a detailed (and printable!) map of public parking lots.

Where are the best places to eat and drink?

Great question! Our Michigan travel blog includes an updated list of ten amazing restaurants in Holland. It also features a list of the best Holland breweries in 2024.

Do you have wine aficionados in your group? If so, then consider browsing our list of 7 Southwest Michigan Wineries.

You’ll find a selection of vineyards, wineries, and even a cider house in or near Holland. Tanglewood Winery is located on Holland’s North side, and Hudsonville Winery is just a 15-minute drive from Holland. However, the remaining vineyards are a bit further south. The benefit of driving to visit Michigan’s famous fruit belt is the opportunity to view even more charming towns along the coast of Lake Michigan.

Where are the shows, and when can I purchase tickets?

According to the official Tulip Time website, the majority of festival events occur within a 4-mile radius from downtown Holland.

Although no purchase is required to stroll along Window on the Waterfront or Centennial Park, you’ll need tickets for select events.

Please visit the Tulip Time Shows and Events Page for a daily schedule. In order to check prices, simply click on the image for details about cost, location, etc. Of course, viewing the Klompen dutch dancers is free, and it costs nothing to watch the unique and mesmerizing parades!

Is this a dog-friendly festival?

Dogs are welcome in downtown Holland! However, the festival prohibits pets at ticketed events.

 

Holland Tulip Festival 2024: Overview of Events & Attractions

Below, you’ll find an overview of the best places to spot tulips in full bloom,  as well as historical Dutch-themed attractions and recommendations for authentic Dutch cuisine. Get ready to step into a world where tradition blooms as brightly as the flowers!

Where to Find the Tulips in Holland, Mi: A Promise of Spring’s Stunning Canvas

As we trudged through the heights of winter, the promise of Spring seemed like a distant dream. Yet, getting lost in the envisioned beauty of more than five million tulips is sure to warm your spirits. Imagine the city parks, public attractions, and meandering along downtown Holland on streets adorned with vibrant Tulip blossoms.

These sites await you at the Veldheer Tulip Garden with over 800 tulip varieties. You’ll also find gorgeous tulips at Window on the Waterfront,and Centennial Park, but the blooms wind along six miles of downtown curbside plantings in and near downtown Holland.

You can find a complete list of hot spots for Holland’s tulips here.

Learn Something New: Catch a Glimpse of Holland’s Dutch Heritage Through Various Events & Exhibits

The Holland Michigan Tulip Festival offers far more than flowers. In fact, its rich Dutch heritage echoes through various traditional dance shows, parades,  klompen (Dutch shoes) exhibits, historic walking tours, and more. You’ll find a comprehensive list of events here.

1. Nelis’ Dutch Village

You’ll want to make sure to visit Nelis’ Dutch Village – in fact, this is a great kid-friendly Tulip Time activity. Holland.org describes it best: “Step back into the Netherlands of over 100 years ago, on a day when a festival came to town. Within this happy village, your family has many entertainment choices including Dutch Dancing, wooden shoe carving, rides, games, friendly farm animals, photo ops, food, drink and shopping. From kids to grandparents, the memories are endless.” This family-friendly theme park offers indoor and outdoor attractions and rides, unique gift shops, learning opportunities, and more.

Dutch Village: The perfect family-friendly activity to add to your Summer 2024 Bucket List!

 

2. Windmill Island Gardens

The most beloved, authentic attraction for visitors and locals alike is Windmill Island Gardens. During late April and early May, just in time for the Tulip Time Festival, thousands of tulips adorn the park.

Visitors eager to explore Holland’s rich Dutch heritage will find traces of it scattered throughout the town. Yet, Windmill Island Gardens stands out as a prime destination for those wishing to delve deeper into the local Dutch history and culture.

In the 1950s and 60s, a visionary group of City Fathers understood the significance of preserving this heritage while also creating a space for both community members and tourists to come together. Their efforts led to the acquisition of the DeZwaan Windmill. Interestingly, this is the last working windmill permitted to leave the Netherlands, and it now serves as the centerpiece of our park. Since it’s still operational, visitors can attend guided tours through the five floors leading to the top of the windmill.

Additionally, the park offers so many more family-friendly attractions:

• Serene walking trails enveloped in natural beauty and alive with diverse bird species native to the Macatawa River delta.
• Like the windmill, the park features an organ imported from Amsterdam.
• Kids love the antique carousel, and everyone enjoys the unique gift shop
• Authentic replicas of Dutch architectural marvels such as a wayside inn, fisherman’s houses, an orphanage, and a working mailbox,
• The ‘Little Netherlands’ exhibition, depicting life in the low countries in the 1840s around the time Holland was established,
• The ‘Tulip Grove,’ uniquely carved from ancient oak trees to prevent them from being reduced to wood chips

If you plan to enjoy this stunning and authentic park, plan your visit here.

Windmill Island Gardens in Holland features a historic windmill from the Netherlands.

 

Fresh Produce & Delectable Dutch Treats

Even in the cold grasp of winter, we can almost taste the upcoming food,  The Holland Farmer’s Market will be ready to welcome you for a gastronomical retreat with local produce and delectable Dutch specialties. DeBoer Bakery and Dutch Delite Bakery offer authentic Dutch baked goods.

Tulip Time Festival Parades

Spring also comes to life with the festival’s mesmerizing parades – ‘People’s Parade’, ‘Children’s Parade’, and the grand ‘Music Parade.’  You can watch a video of a previous Kinder Parade.

 

Where to Stay for Holland Tulip Festival 2024:
Explore Our Collection of Furnished Rentals Nearby

 

When the Holland Tulip festival begins, you’ll surely look forward to resting at the end of each fun-filled day. Holland offers varied accommodations, ranging from quaint bed & breakfasts to grand hotels. Each cater to every traveler’s preference and style, promising excellent respite. You can also check our Unsalted Vacations website for bookable rental homes. We offer lodging for the Holland Tulip festival in the city of Holland, as well as nearby West Olive.

Holland Vacation Rentals

• Come Sail Away is perfect for families, and it also offers gorgeous views of Lake Macatawa.
• Deja Blue one-of-a-kind Lake Michigan cottage perched in the Macatawa Hills.
• Marina View is another unique vacation rental home for families. This four-level home sleeps thirteen guests in its four spacious bedrooms.
• Like the vacation rentals above, Soak Up the Sun is a fully furnished lakefront home with gorgeous views in Macatawa Hills.
• Another great place to stay during the 2024 Holland Tulip Festival is Rest Easy.

 

Vacation Rentals in West Olive (Near Local Tulip Fest Action)

 

West Olive is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Holland’s hub of tulip time attractions. Because it’s so close, many guests may prefer lodging in one of our West Olive homes.

• Blu Sky Retreat offers five acres of peaceful privacy. In other words, you can immerse yourself in the crowds of Tulip Time and then retreat to a quiet home base to rest and recharge each night.
• Another West Olive vacation home rental option is Drift Away.
• Dune Crest, another new lakefront listing in West Olive, is nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan.
• Like Dune Crest, Sheldon Shores is a gorgeous new furnished rental offering unbeatable Lake Michigan access and views.
• Shoreline Terrace is another perfect place to stay during the Holland Tulip Time, featuring private beach access and almost two acres of wooded privacy.
• Yet another fabulous, family-friendly short term rental on Lake Michigan is Sandy Shores Lookout.
• Guests may also enjoy Tin Tin II, a lakefront home offering space for up to 16 guests!
• If you’re looking for a pet-friendly vacation rental home, then Trillium Ridge is a fabulous home base.

 

Holland, Michigan’s Tulip Festival: Official 2024 Resources

For complete festival details, including parade specifics and safety guidelines, make sure to refer to the official Tulip Time website. We also recommend following the Tulip Time Festival’s updates on Facebook and Instagram.

The sublime tulips and the joyous tulip time celebrations are certainly something to look forward to in anticipation! Spring of 2024 and the vibrant Michigan Tulip Festival are just around the corner, so now is the time to find a place to stay in or near Holland.

Your Michigan Spring Getaway will offer vibrant, joyful celebrations at the tulip fest, while BVW Unsalted Vacations is here to offer the comfort and convenience of your own private vacation rental. All properties are locally managed. We provide a starter kit of paper products, toiletries, hospitality-grade linens and much more.

Want to chat with a live representative? Click the blue chat icon on the lower right corner of the screen for assistance, or text the team at 616-383-5253. You can also reach our Escape Artists via email at hello@unsaltedvacations.com.

 

Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Pinterest, YouTube, and Twitter for regular updates on available vacation rentals in Michigan!

 

 

 

The Ultimate Guide to a Breathtakingly Beautiful M22 Michigan Highway Adventure

Winding along northern Michigan’s coastline, the M22 Michigan highway offer’s a scenic drive, showcasing the countless picturesque views and adventures just bound to occur on this coastal adventure. In fact, you’ll pass over 21 points of interest and 11 quaint communities. Each and every one offers vineyards, eateries and lookout attractions galore. Furthermore, the four major seasons of the year highlight the unique beauty offered by Highway M22. In fact, travel during autumn, it’s a legitimate color tour! In fact, this stretch was once voted America’s Number One Best Scenic Autumn Drive!

 

Overview: M22’s Scenic Route Along Lake Michigan & FAQs

Perhaps you’ve always been aware of the M22 Highway. But if you’re a newbie, it helps to have more information about route m22 before embarking on the classic M-22 drive with no prior instructions. First we’ll cover a few quick FAQs, and then we’ll begin the route planning and share our favorite spots along the way!

1 Where is M22 in Michigan?

The M22 scenic drive starts in Manistee and meanders along charming Lake Michigan towns for a whopping 116 miles until it “ends” in Traverse City.  Since the M-22 Michigan highway takes a U-turn, it’ll take you right back to Manistee. Furthermore, Traverse City connects easily to freeways leading the way back to southwest Michigan towns. In other words, you could plan a longer M 22 Michigan Vacation even if you live in Holland, Grand Haven, or even Saugatuck or South Haven.

2. Are there good places to stay along M22 in Michigan?

Without a doubt, there are plenty of hotels and motels along the M22 Michigan Highway. In fact, you’ll find some recommendations in the second half of this article. When you’re beginning in Manistee, we have several great vacation rentals for you.

3. Can you give me an M22 Michigan route map?

Of course! It’s easy to use this Google-approved Highway M-22 map. Additionally, the Manistee Tourism website offers a recommended route map. On the front page of their website, simply scroll down and click “Download a Printable Version.” They also have a ready-made map shown as an image on that first page. As an added bonus, this lovely tribute page to the M-22 Drive showcases a wide variety of photos taken by visitors. These photos capture the breathtaking beauty of the small M-22 towns, and they also span a variety of seasons.

4. What should I bring along for an M22 Road Trip?

First, make sure to print the Google M22 Route Map and print it as a backup. You’ll also want comfy hiking clothes, sun glasses, binoculars, a bathing suit, and adequate cash for the unique and varied shops. In other words, be ready for lots of climbing and hiking! Check out our list of helpful packing tips for more ideas.

5. When is the M-22 Color Tour?

Luckily, the M22 scenic drive is scenic all four seasons of the year. In fact, there are even igloos available in the winter in some villages. However, you’ll need to wait till the leaves start changing in Autumn. This will alert you to an opportunity to experience the color tour.

6. Where are the M22 Stores?

You’ll find an M22 store in Glen Arbor and Traverse City.

7. How long does it take to drive M22?

To be exact, the M-22 Michigan highway is 116 miles. Theoretically, you could compute the time based on how speedy you are behind the wheel. According to Lazy Trips,  you can drive the entire length of M22 in Michigan in just under three hours. That is, if you’re starting in Manistee and returning from Traverse City.

And according to Lazy Trips, it will take seven hours for you to drive route m22 if you begin in Detroit.

 

BVW Unsalted Vacations’ M22 Michigan Highway Coastal Adventure

The M22 Michigan route is bursting with things to do, new foods to try, gorgeous michigan sky views to behold, and much more. But we’ve condensed the overwhelming volume of options into a concise list. You could definitely use the items below to plan the perfect “day trip” in Michigan, but one day is cutting it close. You might feel rushed! Instead, we suggest planning a weekend getaway. And if you’re traveling from southwest Michigan towns like Saugatuck or Holland, why not plan a week-long getaway?

Luckily, Manistee is a charming town to visit all year round. So, you can always begin with a couple days in one of our furnished rentals before beginning the drive.

Without further ado, it’s time to hit the trail!

Manistee to Onekama

Onekama is the first village on the M22 route after Manistee. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Onekama Village park. with its amenable picnic area, sandy beach, playground, and boat launch. With the allure of swimming, you may never want to leave!

One notable tourist attraction, “Old Facefall,” looks like a random pipe sticking up from the ground. But it’s actually an artesian spring with delightfully pure water.

From Onekama to Arcadia

After leaving Onekama, route M22 will nudge you along to the sleepy village of Arcadia. The natural beauty along the waterfront is perfect for a gentle, nature-filled walk.

It will be obvious when you’ve arrived at the Arcadia Dunes and Inspiration Point.  The Arcadia Overlook aka “Inspiration Point” is one of the highest lookouts over majestic Lake Michigan waters. Please note that he 120-step climb to the overlook is physically demanding. In fact, your ears will likely pop!

However, trust us when we say the view is truly worth it. And there will be plenty of seating and even grills for food prep when you reach the summit. Make sure to bring binoculars to this one-of-a-kind Lake Michigan overlook! During clear skies, you might catch a glimpse of the North Pier Lighthouse or the Manistee Harbor. Stunning vistas of the Arcadia and Onekama piers are typically visible no matter the weather.

Instead of rushing through the experience, try to truly revel in the pure beauty of Michigan. By taking time for yourself, you’re practicing a valuable form of self care. Simple steps like these are all part of the wellness travel movement, and these are small ways to improve your well-being without paying a cent.

Frankfort

After a leisurely mini-vacay at Inspiration Point, it’ll be time to get back on highway M22. Frankfort’s vibrant downtown with charming eateries will welcome you!  L’Chayim Delicatessen is a popular place for picnic provisions, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches. For a quick pick me up, Perks of Frankfort offer coffee, sweets, and gifts from local artisans. If it’s warm enough, you can visit Crystal Lake Beach for a refreshing plunge.

Frankfort is also home to the famous, and truly enchanting, Point Betsie Lighthouse.

Point Betsie Lighthouse

Due to Pointe Betsie Lighthouse’s rich cultural significance, visting this attraction could easily take an entire day! Since 1858, it has been a fully functional lighthouse, guiding mariners when needed.

But Point Betsie is so much more than just a lighthouse: daily tours are open to the public, the lighthouse associates are involved in community outreach, and there’s a fun gift shop on site. The daily tours are extremely affordable, making this a great family-friendly activity.

But that’s not all – the Point Betsie beach is world-class and open to the public.  In fact, tourists can even spend the night at the lighthouse! This is a fabulous way to learn more about life as a lighthouse keeper.

Point Bestsie sits between the awe-inspiring beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes’ Lake Michigan shoreline and Frankfort. As you can see, any M 22 Michigan ‘Day Trip’ could easily become a week-long adventure!

Since 1858, Frankfort’s Point Betsie Lighthouse has been fully functional.

Sleeping Bear Dunes

After Frankfort, Sleeping Bear Dunes awaits you. Make sure to admire the sandy scenic bluffs that soar well above Lake Michigan. You’ll also want to explore the intricate system of over a hundred hiking trails along the lakeshore. Again, give yourself time to appreciate the pure Michigan beauty! Slow down and marvel in the beautiful inland lakes, unique plants and animals, and amazing views of Lake Michigan.

If you want to extend your highway M 22 trip even further, you can even camp for a night at Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Glen Arbor: Shopping, Eating, and Drinking

The M22 Michigan Highway will eventually lead you to Glen Arbor.  In addition to boutique shopping and local eateries, Glen Arbor is home to the M22 store. Of course you’ll want to pick up some swag while you’re there!

Here are four more must-visit places in Glen Arbor:

•  The District vineyard offers an exclusive M22 Wine Experience. Sip on locally-sourced wine on the outdoor patio during warmer months. But don’t let the winter scare you away! An igloo is available on site during the Fall and Winter months.
• Find your midday snack at Joe’s Friendly Tavern or the Shipwreck Cafe. Both offer an excellent array of highly rated burgers and sandwiches.
• Looking for something sweet? Hit up Cherry Republic. This notable Michigan destination lets you shop 200+ cherry products or savor lunch and homemade pie selections. And you guessed it, all are cherry-inspired!

From Glen Arbor to Empire

The next stops on your M-22 drive are Empire and Leland. One of the best places to stay on M22 is the Empire Lakeshore Inn.  This nicely-appointed hotel is very close to Sleeping Bear Dunes. This Again, there are plenty of things to do and see in each town.

Consider the following highlights:

• Wander the Empire Bluff Trail, a hike that towers above Caribbean-esque waters.
• You can also rent a canoe and cool off at nearby Platte River.
• Nearby, Pierce Scenic Stocking Drive takes you on a seven-and-a-half mile cruise around the region’s most popular trailheads and dunes, with unbeatable views of South Manitou Island. Try to take advantage of the observation deck and catch a view of Glen Lake, if you can!
• The Verterra Winery in Leland offers a selection of Michigan wines to taste.

Located near the Empire Bluff Trail, this M22 scenic bluff is stunningly beautiful!

 

Leland: Route M22’s One-of-a-Kind Fishing Village

Nest, you’ll head up the Leelanau Peninsula and arrive in Fishtown, USA aka Leland. Today, the weather-worn docks are filled with shanties, quirky shops, and excellent galleries. Without a doubt, you could spend days enjoying Leland. But consider the following highlights:

• The Reelin Leland Fishing Charters will bring you out into the sparkling water of Lake Michigan and even allow you to “choose your own adventure.” This offers flexibility and honors everyone’s unique budget.
• Leland also offers its very own Van’s Beach.
• With lodging available at The Riverside Inn, why not spend the night?
• Then, you’ll have ample time to explore Clay Cliff’s Natural Area –  not to mention the various stores and cheese shops.
• Score a fresh catch (and tomorrow’s dinner) from Carlson’s Market, a sixth-generation family business built on fishery tradition.

 

M-22 Michigan’s Final Destination: Traverse City

 

Route 22 Michigan takes a U-turn after its final stop in Traverse City.  However, staying in Traverse City is definitely worth an extra day or two!

In the following list, hopefully at least one or two options stand out for your M-22 Michigan Vacation:

• Perhaps you can time your Michigan getaway for Traverse City’s famous cherry festival in July. No matter the time of year, this vibrant city offers a large collection of wooded trails and pristine beaches.
• The city is also a hub for vineyards and wineries. In fact, our handy list of can’t-miss vineyards and wineries in the area might be useful for you.
• Additionally, tourists can arrange to visit local lighthouses!
• Afterward, veer back south to Suttons Bay and the region’s thriving metropolis, Traverse City. You can end the day with a meal at one of the many award-winning eateries like Wren or Hearth & Vine Restaurant.
• For a European flair and made-from-scratch specialties, be sure to stop at Martha’s Leelanau Table.
• In Traverse City, trendy nightlife abounds and nightcap options are endless. Check out Little Fleet for delicious food trucks and a hopping bar scene.
• In the mood for craft beer? 7 Monks Taproom or The Filling Station Microbrewery serve up some great local brews.
• And of course, we won’t fail to mention the abundance of acclaimed wineries along the Leelanau Wine Trail.

And, last but not least, make sure to visit the M22 Clothing Store’s Traverse City location.

 

Coming Back Home: Places to Stay After Your M22 Michigan Highway Drive & Coastal Vacation

 

As you can see, picturesque M22 Highway offers countless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and exploration. From the charming town of Manistee to the vibrant feel in Traverse City, every stop along the way provides delightful attractions, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

BVW Unsalted Vacations will be waiting with open arms if you need a place to stay on your return home. If you’re interested in spending a weekend in Manistee during the first leg of your journey, make sure to chekc out our guide to 11 Beaches in Manistee, Mi [Updated 2024]. Especially if you have a long drive leading you back to Holland, Saugatuck, South Haven, or wherever you call home. We offer vacation rentals in Manistee, Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Muskegon, and many other local cities. Simply visit the Unsalted Vacations website and use our handy search bar to reserve lodging.

Now that your lodging is covered, all you have to do is pick a day—and drive. You could make it a quick M22 Michigan day trip. But you could also plan a weekend getaway. In fact, it would be a very romantic getaway for two.

 

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