Macatawa - all beaches

This place is fantastic for relaxing with friends and family on sandy beaches! Just keep in mind that you'll need a recreational passport or ticket to enter. Michigan residents have the option to get a pass with their local vehicle registration number. If you don't have that, you can easily get a day pass at the entry kiosk for about $10. Just be aware that on holidays, the entry can get crowded with long lines for vehicles. It took us about 30 minutes to enter on Memorial Day weekend, so plan accordingly. It's a good idea to bring food, snacks, water, and seating mats with you since there's only one store with limited options. Restrooms are closed for the season, so you'll have to use the makeshift ones provided. If you have kids, bring strollers because there are concrete paths in the sand that allow you to stroll them around almost to the end of the beach. There are plenty of trees around, providing sheltered spots with great views of the red lighthouse and lake. We also saw several rented boats sailing around, which added to the scenery. Overall, with proper planning, this place is an amazing destination for a sunny day!

This beach is my absolute favorite. It is incredibly easy to reach, and while I could complain about the lack of stones since I enjoy collecting rocks, it is still a fantastic beach for swimming and also has a lovely park nearby. The beach and park together make it so convenient to spend an entire day there. The $8 parking fee is definitely worth it. What sets this beach apart is its unique character, as it offers more than just sand.

There is parking available on the street. The beach is not very large, but it is sufficient for a pleasant swim. It is not a long walk to reach the beach, although there is some uphill terrain to navigate. Around 250 stairs need to be climbed. There are no restrooms or places to change, so it's important to come prepared. It could be a good spot to roll a watermelon down a hill.