Oval Beach
Pristine Lake Michigan beach with soft sands, clear waters, and stunning dune views, known for its vibrant sunsets and welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ample parking
Oval Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ample parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Pristine Lake Michigan beach with soft sands, clear waters, and stunning dune views, known for its vibrant sunsets and welcoming atmosphere.
"Oval Beach is worth the hype! It's clear teal waters and soft sands won me over. 10/10 Beach!"
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a $15 daily parking fee. It allows re-entry, so you can enjoy sunset after a day of sun!
⚠️ Swim Smart
No lifeguards on duty. Be cautious of cross-currents and changing lake conditions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Sands and Clear Waters
Main beach area
Experience the soft, clean sand and stunning, clear teal waters of Lake Michigan. Perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.
Sand Dune Views
Along the beach and dunes
Climb the beautiful sand dunes for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Spectacular Sunsets
Western shoreline
Witness unforgettable sunsets over Lake Michigan, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Entry Fees
Swimming Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a $15 daily parking fee. It allows re-entry, so you can enjoy sunset after a day of sun! +1
⚠️ Swim Smart
No lifeguards on duty. Be cautious of cross-currents and changing lake conditions.
🪑 Bring Your Own Seating
Limited facilities mean bringing your own chairs and umbrellas is a good idea.
📸 Sunset Views
The sunsets here are legendary! Stick around after a day of sun for a magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect a $15 daily parking fee. It allows re-entry, so you can enjoy sunset after a day of sun! +1
⚠️ Swim Smart
No lifeguards on duty. Be cautious of cross-currents and changing lake conditions.
🪑 Bring Your Own Seating
Limited facilities mean bringing your own chairs and umbrellas is a good idea.
📸 Sunset Views
The sunsets here are legendary! Stick around after a day of sun for a magical experience.
🚶♀️ Dune Exploration
Climb the dunes for amazing views! Wear comfortable shoes for the sandy terrain.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oval Beach is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, featuring pristine sands and clear Lake Michigan waters, making it a top beach destination. Visitors appreciate the picturesque dunes and breathtaking sunsets. However, some find the $15 entry fee steep given the limited facilities, particularly the restrooms, and the absence of lifeguards requires caution when swimming.
"The beach is picturesque, with a very long and wide view. Be careful about swimming as there are few warnings about cross currents. Very few facilities compared to the $15 entry fee. No lifeguard, no live saving equipment. Only 1 restroom facility in the middle, so you have to walk a long way to get there. Restrooms are not clean either. You need to take your own sitting arrangements to stay near the beach."
Najmul Haque
"Plenty of parking at 1030am on a Tuesday in June and not crowded at all. Definitely got busier as the day went on but plenty of beach space. Gorgeous views, perfect sand and easy shallow entry and never got deep all the way to the bouys. The $15 entry allows you to come and go so we came back for sunset in the evening as well. Only thing that needs to happen is a bathroom upgrade/update which is hopefully planned in the near future."
Amanda Erickson
"Oval Beach is gorgeous! We went on a Tuesday in June. We got a later start than I had hoped, so I was worried about parking and crowds. We arrived at the park between 9:45 and 10 am. Much to my delight, the parking was PLENTIFUL and the beach was not crowded. It did get more crowded as the day went on, but it was totally manageable. The sand was soft and beautiful and not hot in most places. Our main experiences with beaches have been along the Gulf Coast, and this beach was very different in a good way. We did not have to dodge jellyfish or seaweed. The sand was clean and not littered with trash and cigarette butts. It wasn't surrounded by high-rise condos and beach umbrellas. It was beautiful! The water, even in June, was very cold, so not getting to swim was a bummer for my teenagers, but we enjoyed playing in the sand, sitting and watching the waves, and going for a walk over the sand dunes and down the beach. We also watched people flying kites, people in sailboats, and a couple of sailboarders. So much fun to watch! There was a nice playground and concession stand as well as bathrooms with places to change and showers to wash off the sand. We did have to pay for a day pass, but it was well worth the money, even though we only stayed for about 4 hours!"
Jodi Skulley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oval Beach is located in Saugatuck, Michigan. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Many visitors drive from nearby cities like Grand Rapids, which is about a 40-minute drive.
Yes, Oval Beach is a well-known destination in Saugatuck. Follow signs for Saugatuck Dunes State Park, as the beach is part of it.
Public transportation options directly to Oval Beach are limited. It's best to drive or consider ride-sharing services if you're not bringing a car.
The most convenient way is to drive, taking approximately 40 minutes. The route is straightforward and well-signed.
Yes, downtown Saugatuck with its shops and restaurants, as well as Mount Baldhead Park, are nearby and worth exploring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $15 daily parking fee per vehicle, which allows you to come and go as you please. +1
The primary fee is the daily parking pass. No specific discounts are widely advertised, but arriving early on weekdays can offer a less crowded experience.
No, tickets are not required in advance. You pay the parking fee upon arrival. However, parking lots can fill up on busy days.
Oval Beach is generally accessible year-round, but facilities like restrooms and concessions may have seasonal hours. The parking fee applies during peak times.
Information regarding dog-friendliness can vary by season and local regulations. It's advisable to check with Saugatuck Dunes State Park for the most current pet policies.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Facilities include a main restroom building, a concession stand, and a playground. However, some visitors note that restrooms could be updated.
No, there are no lifeguards on duty at Oval Beach. Visitors are advised to swim with caution due to potential cross-currents.
Yes, you can swim, but the water can be quite cold, even in summer. Be mindful of the lack of lifeguards and potential currents.
The sand is described as soft, clean, and beautiful, with some areas not getting too hot even on sunny days.
There is a concession stand available for snacks and drinks. For more dining options, downtown Saugatuck is a short drive away. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The sand dunes offer stunning panoramic views, and the shoreline is perfect for capturing the clear waters and sunsets. 
Golden hour, especially during sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
Capturing the vastness of Lake Michigan, the unique 'singing' sand, and the vibrant sunsets offers unique photographic moments.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for distant sailboats or wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Drone usage is typically regulated within state parks. It's essential to check the Saugatuck Dunes State Park regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful that there are no lifeguards, so constant supervision of children near the water is essential. The $15 parking fee is per vehicle, so carpooling can help manage costs for larger families. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure easier access to parking and facilities.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Travelers
While Oval Beach itself doesn't have designated 'gay sections,' the overall atmosphere of Saugatuck ensures a welcoming experience for LGBTQ+ travelers. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, explore the charming shops, and feel at ease during your visit.
🚗 Day-Trippers
Pack light for a day trip, focusing on essentials like sunscreen, towels, and snacks. Remember that facilities are basic, so bringing your own seating and beach toys is recommended. A day trip allows you to experience the beautiful sands, stunning views, and perhaps even a memorable sunset before heading home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Saugatuck's Art Coast
For those interested in a broader experience, consider visiting Mount Baldhead Park for elevated views or exploring the Kalamazoo River. The proximity of these attractions allows for a well-rounded visit, combining relaxation at the beach with cultural exploration and outdoor activities.
Many visitors find that combining a trip to Oval Beach with a stroll through downtown Saugatuck creates a memorable day trip or short getaway. The Saugatuck Dunes State Park, which encompasses Oval Beach, also offers opportunities for hiking and nature observation. The diverse landscape, from sandy shores to wooded dunes, provides a rich environment for exploration. This makes Oval Beach not just a destination for sunbathing, but a gateway to experiencing the multifaceted appeal of the Saugatuck area.
The Lake Michigan Experience
While the water is beautiful, it's important to note that Lake Michigan can be surprisingly cold, even during the summer months. Visitors, especially those accustomed to warmer gulf waters, might find it too chilly for extended swimming. However, the shallow entry and gentle waves make it suitable for wading and playing near the shore.
The sunsets over Lake Michigan at Oval Beach are a major draw. The unobstructed western horizon provides a canvas for breathtaking displays of color, making an evening visit highly recommended. Many visitors return for sunset after spending the day enjoying the beach, highlighting its enduring appeal.
+1 The unique sound of the sand, sometimes described as 'singing' underfoot, adds another sensory dimension to the Lake Michigan experience. Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
While the beach offers a beautiful natural setting, facilities are somewhat limited. Visitors should be prepared to bring their own beach chairs, umbrellas, and any necessary amenities. The single restroom facility, while functional, may require a walk and could benefit from updates according to some reviews.
Safety is paramount due to the absence of lifeguards. Always supervise children closely and be aware of the lake's conditions, particularly potential cross-currents.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit