With its sprawling shoreline, iconic lighthouses, and seemingly endless recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder that many of Unsalted Vacations’ guests choose Lake Michigan as a summer getaway destination. There’s something for everyone. From kayaking to jet-skiing, and everything in between. And with an esteemed collection of Lake Michigan boat rentals nearby, exploring is easier than you may think!
To help you navigate your options and find the best boat rentals in West Michigan, we put together a quick boat rental guide that will have you making waves in no time! Also, be sure to check out our feature about the best boat rentals in Holland, Michigan, for those of you staying there.
Lake Michigan Summers | 7 of the Best Boat Rentals Around
Spending time on the water is a summer staple around Lake Michigan. Here, you’ll find easy access to the Midwest’s beloved vacation spots, and we are excited for the fond memories you’ll gain. Here are some of our favorite boat rental options in the region
- Grand Haven Boat Rental provides vehicles for aquatic adventures. Since they specialize in pontoons, they have several to choose from that can seat eight to ten passengers. Their boats have shade canopies and swim ladders. Additionally, the boats’ Bluetooth speakers set the best vacation vibes!
- Freedom Boat Club has three Lake Michigan boat rental locations in Grand Haven, Muskegon, and Whitehall. Perhaps you want a high-speed day of wakeboarding. Or maybe a tranquil float on a kayak. No matter what you desire, they’ll have you covered with their innovative membership program.
- Although Grand Haven Cycle Boat technically isn’t a boat rental service, it’s still worth adding to our guide because of how cool it is! For this unique experience, you’ll hop aboard a custom-built boat equipped with bike seats. While on the boat, you’ll pedal your way to an unforgettable good time!
- Lakeshore Kayak Rental in Spring Lake offers single kayaks, tandem kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards. They also have self-guided trips and transport services.
- If you’re looking for an inland option, Waypoint Boat Rentals in Fruitport is open seven days a week. This company specializes in laid-back pontoon and tritoon rentals on the calm waters of Spring Lake.
- Bluewater Boat Rentals in South Haven has several small craft, pontoons, and speed boasts to rent by the hour, day, or week. You might get a same-day reservations, but booking in advance is highly recommended.
Lake Michigan Boat Rentals with Ultra-Convenient Delivery
- Dive into fun with Living Water Adventures, your go-to source for on-demand jet skis, pontoon boats, flyboarding, kayaks, and paddle board rentals! Best of all, they’ll be delivered right to your lake of choice. Call (616) 340-3960 or use the “Contact Us” form on the homepage of the website to kick start a memorable day on the water with this family-owned mobile service.
- 3rd Coast Rentals boasts a stunning array of pontoons, speed boats, and personal watercraft. You can conveniently book your rental online with their seamless form. In fact, they’ll even deliver it to you! (If you’re within their delivery zone.)
Your Best Lake Michigan Summer Vacation with Unsalted Vacations
Now that you have a foundation to build on while looking for your favorite Lake Michigan boat rentals, you’ll have no issues making waves this summer! And at the end of each exciting day, you can rest up and recharge at your home-away-from-home with BVW Unsalted Vacation Rentals.
To learn more about our extensive collection of Michigan vacation homes, please contact us online with our easy-to-use chat feature or by sending us a message! Our Escape Artists are ready to help you find the perfect vacation home. You can also utilize our handy search feature to narrow options down by local.
Enjoy your Unsalted Vacation. Free of stress, free of salt!
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By now, it’s no secret that the Lake Michigan summer offers a wealth of opportunities for friends and family to forge cherished memories while enjoying fantastic weather. Grand Haven, Michigan, is an excellent place to start your adventure, as it is just an hour’s drive from some of the best summer activities in the area. Today, we’ll explore ten options you’ll have while staying with Unsalted Vacation Rentals.
Grand Haven City Beach
Grand Haven City Beach is one of the most popular beaches to enjoy on a Lake Michigan summer day, and for a good reason—its expansive shores and azure wavy waters make it the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or play in the sand, there is much to appreciate about Grand Haven City Beach.
Enjoy a Picnic in the Park
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to combine a Lake Michigan summer day and a scenic lunch, a picnic in one of the many parks in the area is the perfect solution. For example, Duncan Woods and Hemlock Crossing are two popular options that offer picturesque landscapes and peaceful surroundings. Pack a basket of your favorite foods, bring a blanket, and settle in for a leisurely afternoon with your crew.
Go Fishing
Lake Michigan is an angler’s paradise, with many fish species to catch, including salmon, trout, and walleye. Plenty of fishing charters and boat rentals are available in the area, making it easy to explore the lake and find the perfect fishing spot. In addition to Lake Michigan, the area around Grand Haven also offers several rivers and smaller lakes to try your luck!
Take a Lake Michigan Cruise
There’s nothing quite like watching the sunset over Lake Michigan in summer, and one of the best ways to experience it is on a cruise. Star of Saugatuck and Aquastar Lake Cruises are two popular options that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding area. Check out the Grand Haven Area travel page for more information.
Explore the Lighthouses
Lake Michigan has many historic lighthouses along its coastline, and the Grand Haven area is no exception. The Grand Haven Lighthouse, the South Haven Lighthouse, and the Muskegon Lighthouse are just a few examples of the many iconic cylindrical structures you can explore in the area. Take a tour, learn about the history, and enjoy the captivating vistas from the top.
Visit a Farmers’ Market
West Michigan summers are known for their delicious farm-fresh produce, and visiting a local farmers market is a great way to experience it. Pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables for your picnic, or prepare a delicious home-cooked meal at your vacation rental with local ingredients. Many nearby farmers markets also carry artisan crafts, baked goods, and dairy products.
Go on a Bike Ride
Biking is popular in the area, with miles of bike paths and scenic routes along the lakeshore and beyond. Rent a bike or bring your own and explore the area on two wheels. The Grand Haven State Park and the Muskegon State Park are just a couple of the many places you can ride around while immersing yourself in some of West Michigan’s beautiful summer surroundings.
Visit the Nearby State Parks
West Michigan’s state parks offer stunning views of the lake and opportunities to explore its coastal ecology. Holland State Park is a prominent spot with accessible boat launches and breathtaking sunsets. Hoffmaster State Park offers picturesque views, including the Dune Trail Overlook, which provides a panoramic perspective of the lake. Muskegon State Park features 12 miles of hiking trails and a track chair for wheelchair users. At the same time, Van Buren State Park is an excellent location for picnics, swimming, and fishing, with access to a 14-mile trail connecting South Haven to Hartford for cyclists.
Relax at Your Lake Michigan Summer Vacation Rental
The reason guests choose to stay with us for their precious Lake Michigan summer getaway is because our vacation rentals provide comfort and convenience, all under one roof. From exploring the state parks to discovering the various beach communities, having a place to call home at the end of each exciting day is crucial. Whether you need a lakeside condo or a spacious cottage-style house, Unsalted Vacation Rentals has you covered.
Check out our collection of Lake Michigan vacation homes and start planning your summer getaway today!
One of the many compelling aspects of a summer vacation is the adventurous outdoor activities. As one of the “Great Lake State’s” primary warm-weather pastimes, hiking in Michigan is the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature’s bounty. And our neck of the woods has many fantastic hiking trails! So in the spirit of looking forward to summer, the Unsalted Vacation Rentals team compiled a list of our top four in the area—let’s explore some of the best hiking trails in West Michigan!
Manistee River Trail
The Manistee River Trail is a nearly 9-mile-long loop providing stunning views of the Manistee River and lush green forest. The pathway is marked, well-maintained, and suitable for hikers of all levels, making it an excellent option for families. What’s more, nature lovers will appreciate the scenic corridor crossing several wetlands, two bridges over the creeks, and a few observation points along the way. There is also a waterfall near the northern portion of the trail, and it is a nice place to rest and take pictures.
Lost Lake Trail
Muskegon State Park has several hiking paths, including the Lost Lake Trail, a 4.5-mile-long loop with idyllic vistas overlooking Lake Michigan. This relatively easy route is popular for birders because of its prime avian habitat. There are also several picnic areas and swimming beaches for fun in the sun!
Riley Trails Park
Riley Trails Park is a beautiful nature preserve located close to Holland. This county park offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its scenic hiking opportunities and diverse wildlife. The park’s trail system is well-maintained and includes various difficulty levels, making it accessible to beginner to advanced hikers. Along the way, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the forest, wetlands, and meadows that comprise the park’s ecosystem. Additionally, the park offers various amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and a playground, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, Riley Trails Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of western Michigan.
Van Buren State Park Spur Trail
Van Buren State Park Spur Trail is a picturesque trail near Grand Haven that offers captivating views of Lake Michigan. The trail winds through the Van Buren State Park and features a mix of paved and unpaved sections that lead to the beach. Along the way, hikers can enjoy a diverse assortment of landscapes, including lush forests, sandy dunes, and tranquil wetlands. There is also a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and other small animals.
Your Source for West Michigan Beach Vacation Rentals
It doesn’t take long to realize why hiking in Michigan is among the best places in the Midwest! As many travelers find different ways to reconnect with nature, finding a reputable place to stay can sometimes be a hurdle. Still, when you book with Unsalted Vacation Rentals, you’ll not only have easy access to everything that makes the great outdoors so enjoyable you’ll have well-appointed accommodations to make your getaway nothing short of remarkable.
Visit us online today or call 602-383-5253 and learn more about our West Michigan vacation rental collection!
Teeming with scenic shorelines, iconic woodlands, and stunning sand dunes, the Michigan state parks are excellent places for those seeking adventure. And on our side of the “Great Lakes State,” the state parks are numerous. Discovery is undoubtedly one of the pillars of a successful vacation, and West Michigan poses an inviting opportunity for exploration. And just in time to shake off the winter blues, Unsalted Vacation Rentals is pleased to offer a comprehensive collection of rental homes for you to find the perfect base camp for an exciting getaway.
Before you hit the open road, be sure to get yourself a Michigan State Park Recreation Passport either online or at one of the many park locations. Not only will the passport grant you parking access to all the Michigan state parks, but the proceeds will help manage some of our most treasured assets.
Holland State Park
As one of Michigan’s more popular parks, Holland State Park is worthy of your Lake Michigan bucket list. In the summer, you may find yourself fishing and boating off the shore, thanks to one of the accessible boat launches. Locals will tell you that this precious public space has one of the best sunsets in the Upper Midwest. It’s no secret that Holland State Park is a beautiful spot, so make sure you arrive early during peak season!
Hoffmaster State Park
As the home of the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center, Hoffmaster State Park is a fantastic place for those who want to learn more about Lake Michigan’s coastal ecology. And if you’re looking for picturesque views, the Dune Trail Overlook promises to provide breathtaking photo opportunities giving you a panoramic perspective of Lake Michigan. Don’t worry; there are several benches along the way! There are also 10 miles of other scenic trails.
Muskegon State Park
Easily one of West Michigan’s unique public areas, Muskegon State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. The park features approximately 12 miles of maintained hiking trails and has a track chair allowing those who use wheelchairs to go off the beaten path. There are also about three miles of shoreline, making a perfect spot for picnics, swimming, and fishing.
Van Buren State Park
With grills, picnic tables, and a lovely swimming beach, Van Buren State Park offers a quintessential cookout spot. Moreover, guests can access the Van Burn State Park Spur Trail—a four-mile pavement trail leading to South Haven. Cyclists can go further thanks to the 14-mile trail connecting South Haven to Hartford.
Lake Michigan Summer Vacation Rentals
Now that spring and summer are just around the corner, visiting the Michigan state parks is something to put on your vacation to-do list. But before you create your itinerary, you’ll want to find a place to call home. So if you wish to stay near Muskegon, Holland, Manistee, or Grand Haven, Unsalted Vacation Rentals has an expansive assortment of vacation homes that will make exploration easy. To learn more or book your stay, visit us online or call 833-734-0090!
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With the sounds of waves crashing and seagulls squawking in the distance, it’s easy to imagine you’re standing near the ocean while gazing upon the shores of Lake Michigan. From Mackinaw City to New Buffalo, West Michigan boasts some of the best beaches in the state. And whether you’re looking for a quintessential family vacation or a romantic getaway for two, Unsalted Vacation Rentals invites you to experience some of the Great Lake State’s most treasured assets.
Finding the Best Beaches in West Michigan
Determining what makes an excellent beach is undoubtedly a matter of opinion. Still, the best beaches in West Michigan all have a few things in common; gold-colored sands, idyllic blue water, and seemingly endless recreational opportunities. To help familiarize you with some of the foremost spots, we list five nearby locations that will get you started below.
- P.J. Hoffmaster State Park Beach near Muskegon offers a three-mile shoreline, stunning dune formations, and miles of hiking trails.
- Grand Haven State Park and City Beach are two distinct beaches in Grand Haven that are close to each other. Situated on the inlet of the Grand River, the Grand Haven State Park Beach has many noteworthy features like a playground, a beachcombing area, and a fishing pier. Meanwhile, the city beach has a dog-walking section and an overlook platform perfect for photography.
- Holland State Park Beach has several amenities, from concessions to a sizeable ADA-accessible playground. You may also enjoy the Black River boardwalk and views from Mt. Pisgah.
- Oval Beach near Saugatuck was once ranked in National Geographic Traveler’s top freshwater beaches in the U.S. Visitors and locals alike can attest to its summer beauty.
- Pere Marquette Park in Muskegon showcases a beautiful beach, playgrounds, picnic areas, fishing, and views of the South Breakwater and Muskegon South Pierhead lighthouses. This public beach is ideal for families looking for a range of activities.
Unsalted Lake Michigan Beach Vacation Rentals
From family getaways to romantic retreats, the best beaches in West Michigan have played host to innumerable guests. The shortlist above can help scratch the surface as you find your favorite beach spots and Lake Michigan communities. In the meantime, it’s never too early to start planning your West Michigan vacation. We have a wide selection of homes awaiting your arrival. Please visit us online today to find out more or browse our collection!