13.83. Grand Haven State Park

Because the Grand Haven State Park is located within the city of Grand Haven most of just refer to it as the beach in Grand haven. Its about 48 acres south of the river on the lakeshore of Lake Michigan with camping, vending area, large bathrooms, concession stand, and of course a very large beach. From here you can easily walk to the city beach, the light house, or down the boardwalk to downtown.

On any sunny day above 75 degrees expect it to be crowded at the beach, any day over 80 expect the park to be jammed packed, and if you factor in an event like Coast Guard Fest or the Kite Fest or a holiday weekend it will be packed early and all day! On those busy days you will need to drive into the state park from the north along the river, they will not let you make the left turn into the park. Also, expect traffic jams if you plan to drive into the park. Many people park at the YMCA, power plant (if open), or in the neighborhoods and make the mile journey by foot along the board walk to the state park.

Rolling Your Fun To The Beach

My recommendation regardless if you drove in for the day from Grand Rapids, staying at a hotel or vacation property is to rent a beach cart from www.LakeshoreBeachCarts.com. They will deliver the cart to you before you leave for the beach. Park downtown, at the YMCA, or in the neighborhoods and walk to the beach. The carts can haul 220 lbs of fun, so you can take your coolers, lawn chairs, bags, toys, etc. without the stress of everyone carrying something and one person with something heavy. With the cart you can easily roll on the board walk to get to the beach fast, roll on the sandy beaches just as easily, and stroll your way home visiting the ice cream shops or restaurants along the way.

Have a great Summer and enjoy the beach!