In the little preparation I did for our visit to Michigan prior to leaving, I created a list of potential spots to visit and highlighted their features so that we could enjoy a stress free getaway with a little adventure. We woke up this morning in Holland, Michigan and decided to drive to nearby Pier Cove Beach, just outside of Saugatuck in Ganges Township. While small, it’s the perfect place to spend a couple hours with kids.
We ventured down to Pier Cove Beach around 10 in the morning, in hopes of successfully landing a parking spot. There are just 10 parking spots nearby, with additional parking available a mile down the road. The beach is immediately below with a beautiful stream that flows into the lake. At less than a foot deep, the stream offers a great place for kids to splash and play in the sand.
The lake is just a few feet for 100+ yards, which was incredible with little ones. They loved exploring, finding pieces of sea glass and smooth stones.
A few tips when visiting Pier Cove Beach:
- watch signs for private property
- note that parking may not be available
- there is only a porta-potty, so plan accordingly
- if you’re traveling with kids, bring sand toys
The beach is pristine and quiet, perfect for relaxing. There is 1 picnic table, kindly shaded by trees, but otherwise it’s a sunny spot. Leashed dogs are permitted.
70th Avenue, Ganges Township, Michigan
Needless to say, we’re having an incredible time and are so thankful to have discovered the Michigan coastline!
Dogs are NOT aillowed at all on Pier Cove Beach.
No dogs are allowed at Pier Cove!!
Wow those are beautiful pictures. I’m going to have to check out Pier Cove now that I know about it
I’m trying to decide whether it would be worth going to the Michigan coast for spring break (late March). Would we be able to wade in the water, or will it be too cold to enjoy?
I think it will be too cool to enjoy the water, but nevertheless a fun destination in mid-Spring.
Are you sure dogs are allowed at Pier Cove? Would love this to be true, but the sign at the parking area says no…
The website says yes, I didn’t see a sign and saw several dogs, but if you saw a sign, I would revert to that.
I think they have recently changed the policy. I was there yesterday and talked to some people who say that people are getting ticketed frequently and kicked out for bringing dogs. It’s such a shame that some bad owners ruin it for everyone!
Oh no!
Beware if you head further north….Coast Guard Festival in Grand haven. Cool little town but tons of people right now. Nice parade on Saturday. Saugatuck, South Haven, New Buffalo real nice little towns. Not sure your route from here. I’m in Muskegon..if you need advice, let me know. Have fun! Stay cool!
Thank you SO much for the tip, Barb! We bumped our visit to Grand Haven up based on that and had a beautiful day! I hope to return to visit New Buffalo as well. You are so incredibly kind – I can see why you love Michigan!