Kalamazoo, Michigan, offers 12 beaches within a short drive, from the shores of Gull Lake to Ramona Park Beach and the dunes of Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Family-friendly spots include Ramona Park on Long Lake and Markin Glen Park; Oval Beach offers adventure. These waterfront destinations provide swimming, hiking, and sunset views without the crowds of larger Lake Michigan towns.
Oval Beach
Oval Beach in Saugatuck has dunes, clear water, and sunsets. It offers birdwatching, hiking, and swimming. The adjacent Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area provides walks and wildlife observation.
Saugatuck Dunes State Park Beach
Saugatuck Dunes State Park Beach sits along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. It has towering dunes, diverse ecosystems, and scenic trails. Visitors can hike the dunes or spend a day by the water.
Ramona Park Beach
Ramona Park Beach is on Long Lake in Kalamazoo County. It has a sandy shoreline, swimming area, and picnic shelters. The park features a playground, volleyball courts, and a concession stand during summer. Lifeguards are on duty in peak season. The calm waters of Long Lake are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, with rentals available nearby.
Markin Glen Park
Markin Glen Park sits on West Lake in Kalamazoo County. It offers a sandy beach, swimming area, and a grassy lawn for sunbathing. The park includes a disc golf course, hiking trails through wooded areas, and a fishing pier. Picnic tables and grills are scattered along the shoreline. The beach is staffed with lifeguards during summer hours. It has clear water and minimal wave action.
Gull Lake Beach
Gull Lake Beach, part of the Gull Lake Recreation Area in Hickory Corners, features a long sandy beach, a designated swimming zone, and a boat launch. The lake spans 2,050 acres, providing space for water skiing, tubing, and sailing. The beach has restrooms, changing rooms, and a concession stand. A state park motor vehicle permit is required for entry, available for purchase at the gate.
West Side County Park Beach
West Side County Park Beach is on Lake Michigan near South Haven. It offers a wide sandy beach, picnic areas, and a playground. The park has a boat launch and a fishing pier. The beach slopes gently into the water. Restrooms and showers are available. The park is open from dawn to dusk.
Douglas Beach
Douglas Beach is in the town of Douglas. It is a small, quiet beach with soft sand and calm waters, adjacent to the Douglas Harbor. The beach has limited parking. A short walk leads to downtown Douglas shops and cafes.
Pier Cove Beach
Pier Cove Beach sits between Saugatuck and South Haven. A steep wooden staircase leads down to a narrow strip of sand. The beach is sheltered by high bluffs. Swimming is possible but caution is advised due to drop-offs. There are no facilities. The beach is accessed via a county park with limited parking.
Laketown Beach
Laketown Beach, part of Laketown Township Park on Lake Michigan, offers a wide sandy beach, a large parking lot, and modern restrooms. The beach has a designated swimming area with buoys, and lifeguards are on duty during summer weekends. The park includes a playground, volleyball courts, and a picnic shelter with grills. The water is clean and deepens gradually.
Silver Beach
Silver Beach is in St. Joseph, a drive from Kalamazoo. It has powdery sands and clear water. Activities include volleyball, picnicking, and sunset strolls. The Silver Beach Carousel and Whirlpool Compass Fountain are also on site.
Grand Haven State Park Beach
Grand Haven State Park Beach sits along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. It has an expansive sandy shoreline and views of the Grand Haven Pier and Lighthouse. The beach offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
Holland State Park Beach
Holland State Park Beach is near the town of Holland. It has soft sands and clear water. The nearby Big Red Lighthouse provides a backdrop. Visitors can picnic, play beach volleyball, and walk along the pier.
Pere Marquette Park Beach
Pere Marquette Park Beach is in Muskegon. It has an expansive shoreline and gentle waves. The beach offers swimming and beachcombing. Adjacent dunes and greenery provide a backdrop.
Tiscornia Beach
Tiscornia Beach is in St. Joseph. It has sandy shores and gentle waves. The beach offers swimming and picnicking. It provides views of Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse.
North Beach Park
North Beach Park is in Ferrysburg. It offers birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife observation.
Jean Klock Park Beach
Jean Klock Park Beach is in Benton Harbor. It has soft sands, gentle waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. The park has greenery and picnic areas.
Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Silver Lake Sand Dunes is near the town of Mears. It encompasses sand dunes and the waters of Silver Lake. The destination offers dune buggy rides and sandboarding. It provides views from the dunes.
Warren Dunes State Park Beach
Warren Dunes State Park Beach is in Sawyer. It has towering dunes, forests, and shoreline along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The beach offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and vistas from atop the dunes.
FAQs
Q: Are the beaches in Kalamazoo suitable for families?
A: Yes, Kalamazoo has several family-friendly beaches, such as Ramona Park on Long Lake and Markin Glen Park, offering amenities and activities suitable for all ages.
Q: Can I engage in water sports at Kalamazoo's beaches?
A: Absolutely. Many of Kalamazoo's beaches, including Gull Lake and Oval Beach, provide opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and more.
Related travel guides: 30 Must Visit Places In Muskegon.
