Stretch out the summer at four Lake Michigan hot spots
Courtesy photo Grand Haven
Sep 15, 2011
It is almost fall, but the leaves have not turned yet or brought with them weather too cold to enjoy Lake Michigan.
Grand Valley State University is nestled right next to some of the best beaches in the state, and in less than an hour you can spend time at:
Kirk Park
27 min. from GVSU’s Allendale Campus
The closest and simplest beach option from Allendale, Kirk Park is gorgeous but slim of amenities. There is ample beach space for a large amount of people, and you can park your car in the shade.
Lunch: Don’t plan on finding too many options for dining out. The best option might be a cooler of beverages, some sandwiches and fresh fruit.
Holland
32 min. from GVSU’s Allendale Campus
It may be a little more of a drive from Allendale’s Campus, but Holland has a large beach and sand dunes, making it easy to get in some exercise while enjoying the scenery.
Lunch: Holland’s downtown area is full of shops and places to grab lunch, so don’t bother carting sandwiches with you. Try the New Holland Brewing Co. at 66 E 8th St. for an under-$10 sandwich and a large selection of craft beers.
Grand Haven
32 min. from GVSU’s Allendale Campus
There is more than enough space for your towel and umbrella in Grand Haven, with both the Grand Haven State Park Beach and the Grand Haven City Beach there. The lighthouse and pier make great scenic photos, and the waves crashing provide a soundtrack to a relaxing beach day.
Lunch: Take advantage of the plentiful options in Grand Haven. One popular caf?©, the Morning Star Caf?© at 711 Washington Ave., offers inventive breakfasts and lunches.
South Haven
58 min. from GVSU’s Allendale Campus
With awe-inspiring views of water, waves and boats, South Haven has become one of the most famous and long-lasting tourist destination beaches in West Michigan. It has North Beach and South Beach each catering to different audiences.
Lunch: Pack a cooler of sandwiches and drinks, but forget the snacks: there are mountains of blueberry products in South Haven begging to be devoured.
