Autumn is excellent for exploring the beauty of Michigan’s “west coast,” where charming beach communities, vibrant fall colors, and fewer crowds make for a relaxing and picturesque getaway. The stretch of coastline between South Haven and Muskegon is an ideal setting to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the crisp autumn air. Whether strolling along a quiet beach or venturing into the colorful woods, West Michigan provides countless ways to experience the changing season. Here are five options from your hosts at Unsalted Vacation Rentals!

Hiking Trails for Stunning Fall Views

Exploring hiking trails is one of the best ways to experience the Michigan fall colors. Hoffmaster State Park between Muskegon and Grand Haven features forested dunes and trails leading to panoramic Lake Michigan views. The mix of red, orange, and yellow fall foliage against the blue waters creates a breathtaking sight. South of Holland, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers miles of wooded trails winding through the dunes, where the changing leaves meld beautifully with the shoreline. Finally, Muskegon State Park provides rugged terrain and hilly trails with elevated views.

Take in the Michigan Fall Colors on Scenic Drives

For those who prefer a more leisurely way to see the fall colors, West Michigan’s coastal highways and backroads provide stunning views from the comfort of your car. The drive along Blue Star Highway between South Haven and Holland blends fall foliage and lakeshore vistas. As you head north, another stretch between Grand Haven and Ludington takes you through small towns, forests, and the shoreline. These scenic drives are nice for an autumn day trip, allowing you to enjoy the season’s beauty at your own pace.

Biking Through the Fall Landscape

Cycling through the fall colors is another fantastic way to experience West Michigan. The Lakeshore Trail is a 12-mile path along Muskegon Lake that takes cyclists through parks, forests, and the beach, with vibrant views at every turn. The Kal-Haven Trail is ideal for those seeking a longer ride. This trail connects South Haven to Kalamazoo, passing through forests and farmlands filled with the brilliant hues of fall. With several local bike rental shops nearby, hopping on a bike and exploring the autumn landscape is easy.

Quiet Beach Walks with a Fall Twist

Fall is a peaceful time to enjoy the beaches of West Michigan, where cooler weather and fewer crowds create a serene atmosphere. Oval Beach in Saugatuck is known for its soft sands and dune-backed shoreline, making it ideal for a quiet stroll while admiring the vivid fall colors in the nearby trees. South Beach in South Haven and Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon also provide stunning settings for a relaxing walk along the water. The contrast between the autumn foliage and Lake Michigan creates a beautiful scene.

Boat Cruises for a Unique Perspective

For those seeking a breezy way to see the Michigan fall colors, a boat cruise along Lake Michigan or its inland rivers is where it’s at. The Star of Saugatuck has cruises on the Kalamazoo River with brilliant trees reflecting off the water. Aquastar Cruises provides unique Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan tours, showcasing the stunning shoreline from a different vantage point. These rides are a peaceful way to appreciate the natural beauty of West Michigan, making them an unforgettable part of any fall getaway.

Relax in Your Unsalted Vacation Rental

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit, with the crisp air, Michigan fall colors, and quiet atmosphere setting the stage for a memorable trip. After exploring our slice of West Michigan, there’s nothing better than returning to your cozy vacation home, and Unsalted Vacation Rentals has your spot to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. From peaceful drives to quiet beach walks, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season—and with Unsalted, you’ll have the perfect place to unwind after each day of discovery.

As we’ve discussed, spending time on the water is a Lake Michigan summer tradition for many of our guests. So much so that several visitors have asked about which marinas have boat slip rentals. After all, it’s understandable that boaters would want their watercrafts ready to go without hauling them from their vacation rental to the docks. So, in true Unsalted Vacations fashion, we put together a quick and easy guide to the best Lake Michigan marinas that offer slip rentals near us. 

Your “Boat Slip Rental Near Me” Search is Over!

Although the nearby marinas aren’t technically on Lake Michigan, their locations on the inland waters still offer relatively easy access.

Lake Michigan Marinas in Grand Haven

• North Shore Marina in Spring Lake has over 200 wet slips, boasting easy access to Lake Michigan.
• Grand Haven Marina has 57 slips and operates the boat launch on Harbor Island.
• Keenan Marina has 239 slips between their Grand Haven and Spring Lake locations.

Lake Michigan Marinas in South Haven

• South Haven Municipal Marinas operates four locations known locally as Black River Park, Maritime (for sailboats), Northside, and Southside. 
• Gull Lake Marine offers 48 deep-basin slips for seasonal and transient rental.

Lake Michigan Marinas in Saugatuck / Douglas

• Sergeant Marina offers a limited number of transient slips accommodating boats up to 50 feet within easy walking distance of Saugatuck.
• Singapore Yacht Club has transient slips available when club members are out and about.

Lake Michigan Marinas in Holland

• Ottawa County operates the Ottawa Beach Marina, which is right on the western edge of Lake Macatawa. The marina also offers a free kayak launch and bike rental!
• Eldean Shipyard is one of the oldest active boatyard facilities in the nation and has won numerous awards.

• Yacht Basin Marina, just outside of Holland, has seasonal and transient slips when available.

Lake Michigan Marinas in Muskegon

• Safe Harbor Great Lakes boasts the only “deep port” on Lake Michigan.

• Pointe Marine Association offers onsite service, various slip sizes, and transient slip options.

Grand Haven, Muskegon, and Saugatuck Vacation Rentals

It goes without saying there are a lot of options when it comes to Lake Michigan marinas in our neck of the woods and finding one with slip rentals isn’t always easy. Still, we hope our simple guide can help shed some light on where to go and at least point you in the right direction. As you plan your lakeside getaway, Unsalted Vacations invites you to browse our large collection of vacation rentals, all near the marinas above. For more information, just reach out online or call us at 616-383-5253 and start planning your Lake Michigan summer vacation!

From Hassle to Hands-Off: The Benefits of Hiring a Property Rental Management Company for Your Short Term Rental

The vacation rental industry is experiencing a boom. More and more travelers are opting for short-term rentals vs traditional hotels. Because of this, investing in a vacation rental property can reap significant returns, providing homeowners with extra income and even covering housing costs.

However, managing a successful vacation rental can be time-consuming and challenging. In this blog post, we discuss why partnering with a professional property management company like BVW Unsalted Vacations can save you time, effort, and even money. Partnering with our property management company also ensures high levels of guest satisfaction and full compliance with rental laws. In due course, you will begin the “BVW Difference” 0ustanding amount of work completed each day.

Overview: Short Term Rentals Are Surging in Popularity

Vacation rentals have exploded in popularity over the past decade. In fact, many travelers prefer vacation rentals vs hotels. According to recent research, the vacation rental industry is expected to reach a projected market volume of $21.11 billion by 2028.  Additionally, research predicts 64.10 million vacation rental users by 2028. As you can see, investing in a vacation rental property is a wise decision! For homeowners, listing a property as a vacation rental can provide extra income and help cover housing costs.

Renting out a second home, cabin, beach house or other property through vacation rental platforms offers homeowners some unique advantages. It provides income from a property you already own, but it gives you the flexibility to use it yourself part of the year. Vacation rentals also help homeowners afford and maintain high-end properties in popular destinations that might otherwise be financially out of reach.

As the vacation rental market continues to expand, more homeowners are taking advantage of this opportunity. But managing a successful vacation rental involves important factors. For example: pricing, marketing, managing bookings, maintaining renter relations, and coordinating emergency maintenance repairs – among other things. All of these tasks take considerable time and expertise.

What Are the Challenges of Self-Managing?

Managing a vacation rental property on your own can be extremely time-consuming. In fact, the average vacation rental manager spent over 15 hours per week on administrative tasks alone in 2023.  This is not including the time it takes for hands-on cleaning, scheduling, marketing, accepting reservations, accounting, and maintenance. Handling all bookings, communications, cleaning, and repairs yourself can quickly become a full-time job.

As a homeowner, you likely have a busy personal and professional life outside of your vacation property. Self-managing means sacrificing significant time that could be better spent with family, friends, or furthering your career.

Hiring a professional management company like BVW Unsalted Vacations allows you to hand off the day-to-day rental operations while still earning revenue from your investment property.

Why Choose to Pay a Property Management Company Fees?

With a trusted partner handling operations, homeowners can truly relax and enjoy their vacation property. Homeowners with vacation rental properties often consider self-managing to avoid management fees. However, partnering with a professional management company offers significant benefits that often outweigh the costs. In fact, a management team may prevent homeowners from losing money.

5 Indisputable Advantages Using a Property Management Company vs Self Managing

• Time savings – Management companies handle all bookings, communication with renters, and cleaning coordination.  This frees up homeowners’ time substantially.
• Increased bookings – Companies have marketing expertise to advertise vacancies and optimize listings which leads to higher occupancy rates and revenue. According to iGMS, professional management can raise occupancy by 15-25% over self-managed properties.
• Peace of mind – Reliable systems, as well as local staff provide confidence that the property and renters are being properly cared for.
• Higher guest satisfaction – BVW Unsalted Vacations has the capacity to provide guest services 24 hours a day, seven days a week 365 days a year. Consistently prompt, professional customer service and quality tenant relations means better reviews. And better reviews means more bookings for the homeowner in the future.
• Greater knowledge of local ordinances, rules, and regulations – Since the short term rental regulations consistently change, it’s extremely important to hire a management team with demonstrated competency and ability to adapt. As an individual property owner, it may be difficult for you to keep current with the ever-changing rules and regulations related to rental properties. However, a quality property management company stays abreast of these details to help ensure you are legally compliant.
• Safety concerns – These can be anything from investigating declarations regarding lead and mold to meeting necessary smoke and carbon monoxide alarm criteria to understanding and adhering to housing and building standards.

In other words, it’s the job of a professional management company to ensure that your property perpetually adheres to all federal, state, and local legislation.

What Makes BVW Unsalted Vacations the Best Choice?

Experience & Reputation

With over 11 years of experience in property management since its founding in 2007, BVW Unsalted Vacations is the leading vacation rental management company along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Their short term rentals span as far south as South Haven and as far north as Manistee. Focusing solely on high-quality west Michigan & southwest Michigan vacation properties, BVW offers an exceptional boutique service and support system for homeowners.

BVW Unsalted Vacations has earned outstanding reviews and a reputation as the premier local vacation rental manager. According to one recent review,  “BVW Unsalted Vacations was great to work with. They communicated quickly and clearly on all aspects of reserving and checking in/out of the property.” Another guest recently raved, “The BVW team is incredibly responsive, professional, and committed to making the stay pleasant.”

With a 5 star rating across platforms like VRBO and TripAdvisor, BVW is recognized for providing responsive, hands-on service before, during, and after a guest’s stay.

Verified Guest Reviews for BVW Unsalted Vacations:

• Airbnb average rating of 4.47 stars
• Facebook average rating of 4.8 stars
• Unsalted Vacations official reviews page averages at 4.8 stars
• Google Reviews average of 4.7 stars

Professional, Full Service Management Company

As a specialized local company, homeowners enjoy direct communication and support from BVW’s team. This individualized approach sets BVW apart from larger national rental management companies.
Additionally, as a full service company, BVW handles everything from marketing and reservations to maintenance and upkeep. From check-in to check-out, our hospitality department is there to support you and your guests all along the way. We promise to care for your home as if it were our own, cleaning between renters and noting any incidents of damage.

Unmatched Marketing Strategy

With high-quality photography, drone video and 3D scans, we can feature your property as a top-tier vacation home. Plus, by listing with our premier booking partners, you are ensured more visibility—and more revenue.

24/7 Calendar Access

Your property, your rules. We give you the power to control availability for renters, then decide when you want to create your own vacation memories.

No Cost, No Pressure Consultation

Before a commitment, we provide a free consultation so you can anticipate your property’s performance. During this walk through, we will evaluate your home based on factors such as size, location, and proximity to area attractions.
 

The “BVW Difference” – Offering Homeowners Higher Occupancy Rates & Increased Revenue

Choosing an experienced property management company like BVW Unsalted Vacations provides many benefits for homeowners compared to self-managing. BVW focuses on maximizing rental income through marketing expertise while also providing hassle-free maintenance and top-notch service.

One of the main benefits BVW offers is higher occupancy rates and increased revenue through online advertising, marketing, and targeted social media strategies. In fact, BVW promotes properties on 60+ rental sites to reach the widest possible audience. Strategic pricing and revenue management techniques also help maximize rental income.

As experts in the local market, BVW Unsalted Vacations knows how to attract more renters and increase bookings. Just as notable, the team is well-equipped to manage crises when they inevitably do arise due to disgruntled guests or extreme events such as power outages.

Unlike smaller management companies, BVW Unsalted Vacations works hand-in-hand with parent company,  BVW Property Management’s team to form an unmatched synergy.

The “BVW” difference improves the guest experience, too. In other words, guests are more likely to return year after year. Ultimately, this means more money in your pocket. Here are 6 Amazing Benefits of Staying at a BVW Unsalted Vacations property.

Have Questions? BVW Unsalted Vacations Is Here With You Every Step of the Way

As you can see, the upswing in short-term rentals is a lucrative opportunity for homeowners interested in transforming their properties into a source of income. However, the management and operation demands of a vacation rental property can be challenging and time-consuming.

Engaging the services of a seasoned property management company like BVW Unsalted Vacations, with its vast experience, excellent guest service reputation, professional maintenance department, and in-depth knowledge of rental legislation, can make this venture lucrative and free of stress for the homeowners.

Investing in high-quality vacation properties in Western Michigan has never been more attractive or simple. If you’d like to connect with a member of our team to discuss management of your property, you can submit your inquiry here.

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

From holiday get-togethers to family reunions, hosting a large group of people at your house isn’t always feasible. And considering that many of your guests could live across the state—or states—having a centralized location may be your best bet to ensure everyone can attend. Thankfully, Unsalted Vacations has more than a few Southwest Michigan vacation rentals offering the perfect venue for your next family gathering. 

Choosing the Right Vacation Rental

Having enough space is crucial if you plan to host a significant gathering. And while you could opt to stay at a hotel or a lake resort, having a vacation rental feels a lot more authentic—plus, you and your crew will have all the amenities you need without paying extra. Our vacation rentals in Southwest Michigan will make you feel at home and ensure a relatively easy-to-get-to location due to our proximity to metropolitan areas like Lansing, Detroit, and Chicago. Here are six examples of rentals suitable for your next reunion or holiday celebration.

Park House

In the heart of Saugatuck, Park House is a historic eight-bedroom, nine-bathroom cottage featuring a charming wrap-around porch, a custom patio with an outdoor fireplace, and a fully equipped cook’s kitchen perfect for communal meals. Offering two main-floor bedrooms, each with a private bath—one designed with amenities for physically challenged guests—this retreat ensures convenience and comfort. Upstairs, six additional bedrooms present varied layouts and sizes for ample accommodations. Situated steps away from Kalamazoo River, marinas, local eateries, and downtown Saugatuck, this location promises diverse entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences, creating unforgettable memories for all.

Park Point

Park Point offers five bedrooms in Saugatuck, about a mile from Oval Beach. Recently renovated to prioritize guest comfort, the main floor showcases an open layout with a sunny living room, a farmhouse-style dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen featuring a black stainless refrigerator and granite countertops. Additionally, the main level includes a cozy den and a queen bedroom with an adjacent full bath. Each bedroom features individual heat and A/C controls. Upstairs, sleeping arrangements cater to various preferences: a front-facing king bedroom, a corner bedroom with a queen bed, a bunk room with two sets of twin bunks, and a queen main suite with a sitting area and en suite bathroom. There is also a separate full bath on the same floor.

Eagles Nest

The six-bedroom, five-bath Eagles Nest is your spot if you need ample space! The main floor flaunts dual farmhouse tables with seating for 16, a well-equipped kitchen, and a roomy living area with double sectionals and a TV. The primary bedroom offers a king bed, a daybed with a trundle, and patio access. The lower level is a haven for kids and adults alike, with a family room, bunk room, and game area. Upstairs, find more sleeping spaces and a kids’ playroom. Outdoors, enjoy a flagstone patio, putting green, fire pit, smoker grill, and play castle.

Grand Chateau

Experience an 8,500-square-foot lakeside haven offering stunning Lake Michigan views for up to 16 guests. Grand Chateau boasts 5.5 bathrooms, a chef’s kitchen with new stainless appliances, and a panoramic gathering space. The main floor features a two-story great room, lakeside three-season room, and dual master suites. Upstairs, find lake-facing bedrooms and a kids’ hangout, while the lower level offers a spacious family room and extra sleeping quarters. Situated on 6.5 acres with exclusive beach access, it’s a short drive to Saugatuck/Douglas and downtown Holland.

Bird’s Eye View

The aptly named Bird’s Eye View is a five-bedroom, 3.5-bath retreat perched atop a serene dune offering breathtaking Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan vistas. Split into two units, this spacious rental comfortably hosts up to 16 guests. The lower level, with a private entrance, includes two queen bedrooms, a full bath, a kitchen, and a cozy living area opening to a deck. The upper level boasts communal spaces—a well-equipped kitchen, dining area, living room, and half bath—plus bedrooms on different floors, including a main suite with an attached bath, another queen bedroom, and a top-level space for kids and adults. Don’t miss the idyllic view from the lookout deck, offering panoramic views of the lakes and dunes.

Moondance

If you’re seeking an opulent Lake Michigan getaway, look no further than Moondance. This jaw-dropping residence stands on beautiful Lakeshore Drive, bordering Lake Michigan, just minutes from the lively Saugatuck/Douglas community. No expense was spared in crafting this home. It boasts six bedrooms, including a separate bunk room with a kitchenette. The primary bedroom offers a private deck with a view of Lake Michigan. With a fabulous cook’s kitchen equipped with top-grade appliances and an outdoor fireplace, your stay promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Unwind by the outdoor fireplace or head to The What Not for a cocktail—an adored spot for vacationers and locals! The acclaimed Oval Beach is just a short drive away.

Vacation Rentals and Cabins on Lake Michigan

With a diverse collection of Southwest Michigan vacation rentals, Unsalted Vacations is your go-to source when finding the ideal home base for your next getaway. Whether seeking panoramic views or convenient proximity to local attractions, we’ll gladly provide the key to unlocking a memorable stay on and around Lake Michigan. Check out our  selection today and start planning your ultimate summer family get-together.

Thanks to its transformative nature, autumn can be a beautiful time of year in West Michigan, but it does come with some drawbacks. Most notably, the days are shorter, and the weather doesn’t always do what we want. Thankfully, several excellent indoor options exist for when we’d rather stay inside. You could go shopping in one of the downtowns, go to a movie or play, or check out one of the nearby historical museums. One indoor activity that comes to mind that some may not think of is visiting some of the best small art galleries in Michigan. In this post, Unsalted Vacations will share some intriguing options for art enthusiasts staying with us this fall.

Art Galleries in Saugatuck-Douglas

Many people may not realize it, but Saugatuck is the epicenter of art in West Michigan. And because there is such a concentration of galleries and organizations, we’ll feature a separate section for this incubator of creativity.

• Much like the Holland Area Arts Council, the Saugatuck Center for the Arts is a pivotal reason art galleries thrive in West Michigan. Exhibits, entertainment, and education are at the forefront of the organization, as demonstrated by its extensive galleries, ongoing performances, and enriching programs.
• Water Street Gallery boasts “the Midwest’s most popular display of original art on the “Art Coast” of Michigan. Water Street Gallery focuses on emerging artists from all over, from across town to across the world.
• With strong influences from London, New York City, and Chicago, Button Gallery has an exquisite sculpture garden 2,500-square-foot exhibition space currently featuring 30 distinct artists.
• J Petters Galleries combines wine and art for a unique experience showcasing works from over 140 artists, boutique wine varietals, artisan cheeses, and delectable hand-poured chocolates. Their ongoing events are the talk of the town, and they also have two other exhibits in Holland in Saugatuck.

Lakeside Inspiration | Art Galleries in Michigan

Whether it’s our relatively close proximity to metro areas or the inspirational and iconic Lake Michigan, our side of the Wolverine State has some of the best low-key art galleries in the Midwest. So whether you’re an aficionado or simply want a new cultural experience, you may be pleasantly surprised by what you’ll find in our coastal communities. 

Muskegon Museum of Art

Featuring works from some of the world’s most renowned creatives, The Muskegon Museum of Art has a fine collection featuring the likes of Dale Chihuly, Sonja Blomdahl, and Dominik Labino. With a rotating seasonal collection, MMA has something for everyone. Their studio glass exhibit is one of the crown jewels of the Midwest. 

Gallery Uptown

Gallery Uptown in Grand Haven is among the oldest artist-operated art galleries in Michigan. This gallery has everything from paintings and drawings to mixed media and wearables. Moreover, they feature award-winning artists from the area, giving local talent a chance to shine. Opening receptions for their monthly showings are free and open to the public.

Lake Effect Gallery

Lake Effect Gallery in Holland is a must-stop if you’re in the market for paintings, prints, jewelry, and more. Although most art galleries in Michigan have the option to purchase creations, Lake Effect specializes in sales. From stylish wearables to captivating metalworks, there’s a good chance you’ll find something to take home if you’re looking. Lake Effect Galley also offers professional framing. 

Kruizenga Art Museum

Holland’s Kruizenga Art Museum showcases an impressive variety of art amid a stunning 15,000-square-foot space at Hope College. Primarily used for educational purposes for students, the museum has two galleries and a classroom featuring select works not in the exhibits, with over 1,000 pieces from either donations or purchased by the university; much of their art was imported from Asia and Africa. The Kruizenga Art Museum has recieved noteworthy recognition in the art world, having been discussed in several art publications.

Holland Area Arts Council

Home to three professional galleries, The Holland Area Arts Council  been a West Michigan art scene staple for over 50 years. In addition to their exhibitions, The Holland Area Arts Council features various classes, camps, and workshops for kids and grownups alike. Art lovers will also appreciate their many events. 

Southwest Michigan Vacation Rentals by Unsalted

If you want to experience some of the best art galleries in Michigan, our beach towns have a lot to offer. And if you’re looking for an equally impressive lodging experience, Unsalted Vacation Rentals has you covered. To make your reservations, visit us online or call 616-383-5253 today!