Oval Beach
A fine-sand beach on Lake Michigan, framed by wooded dunes, with clear water that is often ranked among the best freshwater beaches in the United States.
Oval Beach lies on the west side of Saugatuck, south of the mouth of the Kalamazoo River. It is backed by tall wooded dunes and faces the endless expanse of Lake Michigan. Its soft white sand and clear water have repeatedly earned it a place on lists of the best beaches in the United States. The beach has lifeguards in summer, changing rooms and snack stands. The sunset over the lake in the evening is the town's most popular view. Parking in summer costs about US$15 and often fills up by midday on weekends. You can also take the chain ferry from the town centre across the river and walk or cycle to the beach. Watch for rip current warning flags when the lake is windy.
Opening hours
About 08:00–22:00 (summer)
Nearby sights
- Mount Baldhead
- Saugatuck Chain Ferry
- Downtown Saugatuck
- Saugatuck Dune Rides
- Felt Mansion
- Saugatuck Dunes State Park
- Holland State Park & Big Red Lighthouse
- Tunnel Park