Whether you want a day trip or a spot to have lunch and stay for a few hours, Grand Rapids and the greater West Michigan area have some of the greatest beaches and “spots of paradise” you can find. You’ll enjoy the blue waters of Lake Michigan, the warm sand, and so much more. So grab your blankets and beach chairs, and pack a lunch because these sites will have you wanting to stay all day long!
1. Grand Haven State Park – Located in Grand Haven, Grand Haven State Park is probably one of the more popular places to visit during a Michigan Summer, and it is highly recommended to be at the top of your list to visit at least once! Whether you like the hustle and bustle of this beach, the stunning channel, the boats galore, or the great food trucks, restaurants, and shopping, this place has it all! If you are looking to relax and find a social scene, this beach is for you.
2. Holland State Park – Located in Holland, Michigan, Holland State Park is a quieter, quaint version of Grand Haven. Holland Beach has a long, beautiful shoreline that is great for walking, site seeing, and enjoying. You can see “Big Red,” the lighthouse, from just about anywhere on the beach and can enjoy a nice long walk on the pier. Holland State Park is just minutes from Downtown Holland, where you can find community, restaurants, and shopping.
3. Millenium Park – You can find Millenium Park, located on the west side of Grand Rapids, in Walker. Millenium Park not only has a wide man-made beach to enjoy, but it also has a pavilion, food, public restrooms, trails to run and enjoy, as well as a play structure for the kiddos, and so much more. Across from Millenium Park, you will also find The Meadows, which is a beautiful grassland with beautiful flowers, and a pavilion you can use for events like graduation open houses and even wedding ceremonies. Look no further than Millenium Park to enjoy it all!
4. Tunnel Park – Also located in Holland, Michigan, is this hidden gem and an enchanting spot called Tunnel Park. You have to walk through a tunnel to enter the beach, so it definitely lives up to its name! This park is magical, with the glistening of the sun hitting the lakeshore, as well as the soft sand beneath your feet. There are hills and dunes for the kiddos to run on, and it also offers picnic areas if you don’t want to eat on the beach shoreline.
5. PJ Hoffmaster Park – The extremely popular PJ Hoffmaster Park, located just about 40 miles outside of Grand Rapids, makes a perfect day trip outside of the city if you leave early enough in the morning. Hoffmaster Park is full of trails for those that want to be adventurous and has sun, sand, and a lakeshore for those who want to relax and get some sun. When you do go, plan to bring your lunch, dinner, and or snacks, as there is no food directly on site. This truly is a beautiful spot for the whole family to enjoy!
Written by Kaleigh Teunessen
