Beaches & Parks
Wildwood is located exceptionally close to the area’s best beaches, parks and trails. All are amazing spots, perfect for tossing out a blanket or towel and making an afternoon of it. www.saugatuck.com/beaches.asp
Oval Beach
Perryman Street at Oval Beach Drive, Saugatuck
Ranked one of the top 25 beaches in the world by Conde' Nast Traveler, the very best (and largest) beach in the area is about a 10 minute drive. Ample (paid) parking is to be found (except on busy summer holidays unless you get there early) and the sand is so soft is actually squeaks. Amenities include a concession stand, restrooms, showers, playground, picnic tables, grills and three large parking areas.
Douglas Beach
Lakeshore Drive at West Center St, Douglas
Closer, smaller but still lovely, Douglas Beach is only 7 minutes away by car. It has an "off the beaten path" beach feel, but because of its neighborhood location, parking can be a bit iffy on busier days.
West Side County Park
2152 Lakeshore Dr, Fennville, MI 49408
West Side Park consists of 630 feet of beautiful beach on Lake Michigan. Picnic areas include plenty of picnic tables, two covered pavilions, two modern restroom buildings, a fenced playground and open field recreation area. Our favorite due to proximity and seclusion.
Saugatuck Dunes State Park
6575 138th Avenue, Holland (269) 637-2788
Lovely state park with trails that truly display the beauty of the western Michigan coast including magnificent dunes.
Kal-Haven Trail State Park
Kal-Haven Trail Sesquicentennial State Park, South Haven, MI 49090
South from Wildwood about 15 minutes’ drive, this 33 mile former railroad bed trail inks the city of South Haven to the city of Kalamazoo. The trail crosses over bridges, passes through small towns and by points of historical interest. Great for hiking, biking, cross county skiing and snow-mobiling.
South Haven Light & South Beach
355 Hubbard Street, South Haven MI 49090
Further into South Haven (about 20 minutes’ drive), and in operation since 1872 is the South Haven south pier lighthouse. One of four remaining Lake Michigan lighthouses in Michigan, this brilliant red photo -opportunity sits adjacent to South Beach, a large, inviting beach. It’s proximity to Wildwood is a perfect half-day trip. Stop by, check out the town and then make an afternoon at the beach. The lighthouse, however, is especially dramatic against grey autumn and winter skies.
