Oval Beach: A Romantic Escape on One of the Best Michigan Beaches
There’s a reason Oval Beach has become one of the most celebrated Michigan beaches of all time. Ranked among the Top 25 Beaches in the World by Condé Nast Traveler, named one of the 10 Best Beaches in Michigan by USA Today, and celebrated in MTV’s Top 5 Beaches in the USA, Oval Beach in Saugatuck continues to earn national and international acclaim. Most recently, it was honored as one of the Best Beaches in the U.S. in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards. With its wide, soft shoreline, scenic dunes, and unforgettable Lake Michigan sunsets, it’s easy to see why this beloved spot draws visitors year after year.
Getting There Without the Hassle
Located at the intersection of Perryman Street and Oval Drive, Oval Beach is open year-round. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, parking is $15 per car (collected from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.) or $75 for a season pass.
If you’d prefer to skip the parking hassle altogether, there are a couple of charming alternatives. Hop aboard the beloved Saugatuck Chain Ferry, a local favorite that glides you across the Kalamazoo River from downtown Saugatuck for just $3 each way. Once across, you can walk to the beach about .9 miles away. Along the way, adventurous guests can take a detour up Mt. Baldhead’s iconic 303 stairs, leading to panoramic dune-top views and a winding trail down to the shoreline. Not in the mood for a climb? Stroll the peaceful John Woollam Trail, which offers a more leisurely path to the beach.
Another easy option is to call the Saugatuck Interurban Transit at 269-857-1418. For just $1 each way (exact change required), they’ll pick you up and drop you off right at the beach, and they’ll even come directly to our Saugatuck Hotel. Just be sure to make your reservation 2–4 hours in advance, if possible, to ensure a smooth pickup.
When to Visit
Mornings and weekdays are perfect for those who prefer a quieter beach vibe, while evenings are ideal for watching the sun melt into Lake Michigan.
Things to Do at Oval Beach
Swimming & Sunbathing
With its wide, sandy shore and gentle waves, Oval Beach is made for classic lakefront relaxation. Stake out your spot with a beach blanket or lounger, and let the sunshine do the rest. The clear, refreshing water is ideal for a cooling dip on a warm summer day, whether you’re diving in or wading at the shoreline. It’s the kind of unhurried joy that turns a beach day into a memory.
Scenic Strolls & Beach Walks
The shoreline at Oval Beach is perfect for long, leisurely strolls, especially in the early morning or golden hour, when the beach feels more intimate and the light softens.
Dune Exploration & Hiking Trails
Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area, located adjacent to Oval Beach, offers over 170 acres of protected land, with scenic trails that wind through native dune grasses, wetlands, and shaded woods. Keep an eye out for shorebirds, wildflowers, and lake views peeking through the trees.
For something more exhilarating, hop on a Saugatuck Dune Ride for a one-of-a-kind guided tour through Michigan’s towering coastal dunes. These thrilling open-air dune schooners take you up and over sandy peaks at high speeds, offering a fun mix of local history, nature education, and heart-pounding fun.
Picnicking with Local Flavor
A beach day at Oval isn’t complete without something delicious to enjoy between swims. With our Lake Day package, you’ll be fully equipped for a relaxing afternoon with plush towels, sun care essentials, a stylish beach bag, and a cooler for your favorite snacks and drinks. We’ll even provide beach chairs for you to borrow so you can stretch out in comfort and enjoy your picnic spread.
A small concession stand at Oval Beach offers snacks and drinks, but for something more substantial, take a quick detour before you make your way to the beach at The Farmhouse Deli & Pantry. This local favorite offers gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and cold-pressed juice blends, which are especially refreshing if yesterday’s activities included a few stops from our Saugatuck Bars & Brews Guide.
Stick Around for the Sunset
As the day winds down, stay for the main event: a Lake Michigan sunset. Evenings at Oval Beach are truly spectacular, with the sky lit in layers of orange, pink, and deep violet. Whether you're sharing a meal or simply the moment, it's a breathtaking and intimate way to end your day by the water.
Oval Beach: The Perfect Complement to Your Stay
Romantic, relaxing, and wildly scenic, Oval Beach is more than just a day at the lake. It’s a signature Saugatuck experience. Book your summer escape, and let us help you plan the perfect beach day.
