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Photo Courtesy of Visit South Haven
South Haven is home to some of the best beaches on Lake Michigan, a freshwater giant that feels as vast as the ocean but without the salt. The Great Lakes are a natural wonder — offering crystal-clear water, soft sandy shorelines, and endless horizons.
With 10 public beaches, South Haven has a stretch of shoreline for every kind of beachgoer. For those looking for adventure, Van Buren State Park features towering dunes with breathtaking lake views and a long, sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. If a more secluded atmosphere is the goal, Woodman Beach and Newcome Beach offer quiet, hidden retreats where the only sounds are the waves and the occasional seagull overhead.
South Beach is a lively hub of activity, ideal for families with its splash pad, soft sand, and front-row view of the iconic Big Red Lighthouse. Just across the river, North Beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and swimming. For those who enjoy exploring, Pilgrim Haven Natural Area and Deerlick Creek Park are great for rock hunting, especially after a storm, when the shoreline reveals hidden fossils and colorful stones shaped by the lake over time.
Beyond the beaches, South Haven is a charming, walkable town with the perfect mix of small-town charm and lakeside escape. Quaint shops, local restaurants, and scenic harbor views make it easy to explore on foot. After a day at the beach, strolling through town for an ice cream cone or dinner by the water is part of what makes South Haven so special.
One of the best things about South Haven’s beaches is their accessibility. Parking and public access points make it easy to enjoy a beach day without the hassle. Packard Park combines green spaces with sandy shoreline, making it great for picnics and cookouts. Dyckman Beach offers a scenic, walkable stretch of sand, while Oak Street Beach is a peaceful spot for catching the sunrise or unwinding at sunset.
The beauty of Lake Michigan is that it offers an oceanlike experience without the drawbacks of salt water. The water is fresh and refreshing, the sand is soft, and the sunsets are some of the most stunning in the world. Whether it’s an active day of swimming and volleyball or a quiet evening watching the waves, South Haven’s beaches are the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasure of a perfect beach day.
Visit South Haven
Explore South Haven’s top beaches on Lake Michigan, from lively South Beach to secluded retreats like Woodman Beach. Enjoy soft sand, clear water, and stunning sunsets in this charming lakeside town.
