Oval Beach, in Saugatuck, Michigan, is one popular place. 

It has received many accolades:

• One of the Top 25 beaches in the world (Condé Naste Magazine)
• One of the two top freshwater beaches in the USA (National Geographic Traveler Magazine)
• One of the five best beaches in the United States (MTV)

But one of the best accolades that I can share is that it is my VERY favorite beach, anywhere. Yes, you can only swim for a few months each year. But those few months more than make up for the cold winter outings you’ll take (and there is nothing, nothing! like seeing the shores of Lake Michigan as icebergs).

Located on the Sunset Coast of Michigan, on Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is a vacation spot for Chicagoans, Michiganders, and travelers in the know. There is plenty do to (and excellent places to eat) in downtown Saugatuck. Grab a bit to eat at any of the many incredible restaurants, shop the downtown, snag a hot chocolate at Uncommon Grounds, look at art at the James Brandess gallery. But for me, the main attraction is the beach - specifically, Oval Beach. Located just south of downtown, across the river, you’ll follow a winding road past vacation homes and a summer camp. Go too far, and you’ll have to climb the hundreds of steps of Mount Baldy and run down the sand dunes to hit the beach. As you crest the forested, twisty road, you’ll be rewarded with The Lake.

Yes. The Big Lake, as it is sometimes called. We have waves here! 

There is a little gatehouse to collect an entrance fee. Then you can go right (north) or left (south).

Head to the north side, and you’ll find a changing area, showers, restrooms, and a small concession stand. There is plenty of parking, and a gentle slope to the beach. 

Looking north

South of the restrooms is a less-populated beach. There are parking lots on both ends.

On either end of Oval Beach you’ll find soft white sand, beautiful rocks as you enter the lake, about 15 feet of shallow water (depending on the year), and one or two sandbars (also depending on the year). There will be buoys to mark how far out you should go. The bottom of the lake is hardpacked sand, so you have very sturdy footing (necessary on those days when the big waves are out!). Yes, the water can be cold – but it can also warm up so that you can spend hours playing in the water.

Looking south

Be sure to bring your kites, shovels, towels, sunscreen, and a picnic dinner so that you can enjoy Lake Michigan's famous, spectactular sunsets. What a day!

This article was originally published by Wandering Educators on Technorati in 2012, and edited and republished on Wandering Educators in 2024. All content herein courtesy and copyright Wandering Educators.