Pavilion and bench overlooking the lake.
1 / 14

Coghlin Park and Marina

4.6
·189 reviews·Saugatuck, United States

A tranquil waterfront park and marina in Saugatuck, perfect for picnics, relaxing strolls, and enjoying scenic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Well-lit and safe for strolls

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Pavilion and bench overlooking the lake.

Coghlin Park and Marina

Best Time

Evenings

Well-lit and safe for strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil waterfront park and marina in Saugatuck, perfect for picnics, relaxing strolls, and enjoying scenic views.

4.6
(189 reviews)

"You'd be hard-pressed to find a more relaxing place, especially if you like water!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot

Bring a blanket and enjoy a relaxing picnic on the grass with lovely water views. :picnic_table:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks

Leash up your pup for a safe and enjoyable walk along the water, especially in the evening. :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterfront Serenity

Waterfront Serenity

Relax by the water, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the peaceful marina views. Perfect for unwinding.

Artistic Ambiance

Artistic Ambiance

Discover a cool art statue adding a unique touch to the grassy expanse. A great spot for photos and contemplation.

Gazebo Gathering Spot

Gazebo Gathering Spot

A charming gazebo provides a lovely setting for picnics or community events, offering shelter and scenic views.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Lakeside Charm

Coghlin Park and Marina offers a serene escape with beautiful waterfront views. It's ideal for relaxed strolls, picnics, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of Saugatuck. Consider visiting during community events for a lively experience.

Evening Strolls & Safety

The park is well-lit and feels safe for evening walks, even with pets. Enjoy the illuminated pavilion and the picturesque surroundings as you explore the marina and downtown Saugatuck.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Well-lit and safe for strolls
Crowd
Low
When
During Community Events
Why
Lively atmosphere and local culture
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📌 Saugatuck, Michigan #saugatuck #michigan #saugatuckmi #BookTok #beachread #lakemichigan #emilyhenry #emilyhenrybooks #booktokfyp #thegreatlakes
@janelleprisner
49.2K likes • 289.6K views

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot

Bring a blanket and enjoy a relaxing picnic on the grass with lovely water views. :picnic_table:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks

Leash up your pup for a safe and enjoyable walk along the water, especially in the evening. :dog:

Day at the Beach in Saugatuck, MI. Oval Beach is worth the hype! It’s clear teal waters and soft sands won me over. 10/10 Beach! #beachvibes #lakemichigan #ovalbeach #michiganbeach #summervibes #travel
@holland_holly
32.4K likes • 609K views
#cubbylesbianadventures #saugatuck #michigan #wlwcouple #gaytiktok #subaru #Pride
@chubbylesbianadventures
15.1K likes • 231K views

📸 Scenic Evening Views

The park is beautifully lit at night, offering a picturesque setting for evening strolls. :camerawithflash:

🎣 Marina Fishing

Enjoy some fishing by the marina; it's a friendly spot for anglers and their companions. :fishingpoleand_fish:

Replying to @marie.olivia04 crying you guys are just as excited about Saugatuck as me 🫶🏻 here’s everything I recommend to do there. Comment anything I’m missing and I’ll include it in a Saugatuck blog post 💖🏳️‍🌈 #saugatuck #saugatuckmi #saugatuckmichigan #lgbttravel #lesbiantravel #gaytravel
@explorewithchase
10.7K likes • 166.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot

Bring a blanket and enjoy a relaxing picnic on the grass with lovely water views. :picnic_table:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks

Leash up your pup for a safe and enjoyable walk along the water, especially in the evening. :dog:

📸 Scenic Evening Views

The park is beautifully lit at night, offering a picturesque setting for evening strolls. :camerawithflash:

🎣 Marina Fishing

Enjoy some fishing by the marina; it's a friendly spot for anglers and their companions. :fishingpoleand_fish:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(189 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Coghlin Park and Marina for its serene waterfront setting, making it ideal for relaxing picnics and peaceful strolls. The park is noted for being well-lit and safe for evening walks, with a friendly atmosphere for dog owners and a welcoming vibe for the LGBTQ+ community.

"Great little park by the water. Good for picnics and community events. It's a grass field with a gazebo and cool art statue. Perfect for laying down and reading on a blanket."

William Case

"I parked here for my evening walk downtown, with my dog. It's very pretty at night and well lit along the water. I felt safe and enjoyed seeing the pavilion lit up, very inviting."

Shannon Stanhope

"You'd be hard pressed to find a more relaxing place- especially if you like water! There's plenty of space and available benches."

K 4ta

What People Like

Peaceful waterfront views
Well-lit for evenings
Dog-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Coghlin Park and Marina is conveniently located near downtown Saugatuck, making it easily accessible by foot or a short drive. Many visitors park here for their downtown walks. Reddit

Yes, parking is available at the marina, which is a common starting point for exploring downtown Saugatuck. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from downtown Saugatuck, and many visitors enjoy strolling through the marina area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Coghlin Park and Marina is a public park and generally free to enter. Enjoy the open space and waterfront access without any admission cost. Reddit

As a public park, Coghlin Park and Marina is typically accessible during daylight hours and into the evening. It's well-lit for nighttime enjoyment. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy picnics on the grass, relax by the water, take leisurely walks, fish from the marina, and admire the art statue and gazebo. It's a great spot for quiet relaxation. Reddit+1

Yes, it's a family-friendly spot, perfect for picnics and letting kids enjoy the open grassy areas. The peaceful atmosphere is great for all ages. Reddit

Dogs are welcome at Coghlin Park and Marina, making it a great place for a walk with your pet. Remember to keep them on a leash. Reddit

The park features a 'cool art statue' that adds a unique visual element to the landscape, making it a point of interest for visitors. Reddit

The park is well-lit along the water and feels safe for evening strolls, with visitors appreciating the illuminated pavilion. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no specific dining facilities within the park itself, but it's an ideal spot for a picnic. You can easily grab food from nearby downtown Saugatuck restaurants before heading over. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy picking up food from downtown Saugatuck's eateries to enjoy at the park. Consider local delis or cafes for picnic-friendly options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Evenings offer beautiful lighting with the well-lit pavilion, creating a picturesque scene. Sunrise and sunset can also provide lovely views over the water. Reddit

The marina itself, the art statue, the gazebo, and the waterfront views are all excellent subjects for photography. The illuminated pavilion at night is particularly striking. Reddit+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Coghlin Park and Marina is a wonderful, low-key spot for families. The open grassy areas are perfect for kids to run around safely, and the waterfront provides a calming backdrop for a family picnic. It’s a great place to decompress and enjoy some fresh air without the hustle and bustle of more crowded attractions. Reddit

Bring a blanket and some snacks, and let the little ones explore the park. The presence of a gazebo offers a nice spot for shade or a break, and the nearby marina can be interesting for kids to observe. It’s a simple, enjoyable outing that offers a peaceful contrast to other Saugatuck activities. Reddit

🐶 Pet Owners

For those traveling with their furry companions, Coghlin Park and Marina is a fantastic choice. It's a dog-friendly environment where you can enjoy leisurely walks along the water. The park provides ample space for your dog to stretch their legs, and the peaceful atmosphere ensures a relaxing experience for both of you. Reddit

Remember to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other visitors. The well-lit paths make evening strolls with your pet safe and enjoyable. It’s a great way to include your dog in your Saugatuck adventures. Reddit+1

🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ+ Visitors

Saugatuck is known for being a welcoming and inclusive destination, and Coghlin Park and Marina contributes to that atmosphere. Visitors have noted feeling safe and comfortable walking hand-in-hand through the marina area without fear. Reddit

The park offers a peaceful setting to enjoy the waterfront and the charming town. It's a place where you can relax and feel at ease, reflecting the broader inclusive spirit of Saugatuck. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Marina and Waterfront

Coghlin Park and Marina is a gem for anyone who appreciates waterfront tranquility. The marina itself offers a picturesque view of docked boats, creating a classic lakeside charm. Visitors often find it a perfect spot to simply sit, relax, and watch the water. The presence of benches scattered throughout the park ensures you can find a comfortable spot to enjoy the scenery. Reddit

Many visitors use the marina as a starting point for their explorations of Saugatuck. The proximity to downtown means you can easily combine a peaceful park visit with shopping and dining. The gentle lapping of waves and the open sky contribute to a truly relaxing atmosphere, making it a favored location for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Reddit

For those who enjoy fishing, the marina provides a friendly and accessible location. It's a place where you can cast a line and enjoy the simple pleasure of being by the water, often with the company of fellow anglers or even a well-behaved pet. Reddit

Art and Community at the Park

Beyond its natural beauty, Coghlin Park and Marina boasts a unique artistic element: a 'cool art statue' that adds character to the green space. This sculpture provides a focal point and a touch of creativity, making the park more engaging for visitors. It’s a great spot for a quick photo or simply to appreciate local art. Reddit

The park also features a gazebo, which serves as a charming gathering spot. This structure is ideal for small picnics, quiet contemplation, or as a picturesque backdrop for community events. Its presence enhances the park's versatility, offering a sheltered area that can be enjoyed in various weather conditions. Reddit

Reviews highlight the park's role in community life, mentioning its use for events and as a welcoming space for all. The combination of natural beauty, artistic touches, and community spirit makes Coghlin Park and Marina a well-rounded destination for relaxation and enjoyment. Reddit

You may also like