The Ultimate Family-Friendly Beach Vacation: Guide to Activities and Stays in the Grand Haven Area
Whether relaxing on the beach, exploring the dunes, shopping downtown, or visiting parks and museums, the Grand Haven area offers a variety of opportunities for family fun through both indoor and outdoor experiences. This charming beach town and surrounding communities feature accommodations for families of all sizes and budgets. Here’s a family-friendly guide to make your stay in the Grand Haven area unforgettable.
Outdoor Kid-Friendly Activities
Photo by Bob Peskorse
Beaches
The Grand Haven area’s stunning beaches are perfect for family fun. Grand Haven State Park is ideal for various activities, including famous pier walks, as well as opportunities for swimming, beach volleyball, and sunset watching. Rosy Mound Natural Area features scenic dunes along the beach and offers excellent hiking experiences. Traveling with your pet? Kirk Park is a dog-friendly spot you will want to check out.
North Shore Beach is another popular spot for families, offering a quieter atmosphere with beautiful views and fewer crowds, making it great for a peaceful day by the water. Nearby, Lakeside Beach in Spring Lake features calm waters of an inland lake ideal for swimming and picnicking, with convenient access and family-friendly amenities.
Photo by Bob Peskorse
Grand Haven Lighthouse and Pier
Stroll the boardwalk and pier to visit the two historic red lighthouses and enjoy breathtaking Lake Michigan views. This historical landmark is not one to miss, especially when enjoying a famous Lake Michigan sunset.
Photo By: Grand Haven Visitors Bureau
Grand Haven and Spring Lake Splash Pad
In Grand Haven, this fun spot is located near Chinook Pier, with a solar-powered, motion-activated splash pad that offers a refreshing way for kids to cool off during the warmer months. Nearby in Spring Lake, Tanglefoot Park features another splash pad, providing even more opportunities for water play. This activity is a great alternative water activity if the family’s itinerary for the day doesn’t include the beach.
Photo credit: Harbor Transit
Trolleys
Each summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day, enjoy trolley rides around the Grand Haven area daily from 2PM to 10 PM. The Buccaneer Loop explores the sights and charm of Grand Haven, while the Laker Loop journeys through the scenic areas of Spring Lake and Ferrysburg. With stops at local attractions, it’s a fun and easy way for the whole family to explore Grand Haven.
Photo credit: Grand Haven Visitors Bureau
Imagination Station
This 10,000-square-foot playground at Mulligan’s Hollow is a community-built play structure open year-round and completely barrier-free, making it a perfect place for all kids to enjoy.
Photo Credit: Reenders Blueberry Farm
Reenders Blueberry Farms
Family-owned since 1956, Reenders Blueberry Farms offers 800-acres of blueberry plants with 12 delicious varieties. Enjoy U-pick fun or grab fresh berries and other local goodies from their on-site store.
Rainy Day Activities![]()
Photo credit: Caleb Maser
Start your rainy day adventure at the Tri-Cities Historical Museum, where local history comes to life through fascinating exhibits, and kids will love the new interactive play and discovery area. Nearby, the Midwest Miniatures Museum offers a unique experience with hundreds of detailed miniature displays that will wow kids and adults. For a cozy afternoon, head to Loutit District Library, where you’ll find engaging programs for all ages and plenty of quiet corners to read.
If you’re in the mood for fun and games, Grand Fun Arcade offers mini bowling, arcade favorites, and tasty snacks like giant pretzels and pizza night on Fridays. Test your teamwork skills at the Grand Haven Room Escape, where families can solve puzzles together and beat the clock. Catch the latest family flick at GQT Movies Grand Haven 9, a great way to relax indoors with popcorn in hand. Lastly, don’t forget to stroll through the downtown, where shops, cafes, and waterfront views offer the perfect outing when the weather isn’t beach-friendly.
Kid-Friendly Events
Photo credit: Music on the Grand
The Grand Haven area is full of kid-friendly events, making it the ideal beach town vacation for families. During the summer, the city provides fun activities like free live music at the Lynn Sherwood Waterfront Stadium on Wednesdays and Fridays. Families can also enjoy the annual Sand Sculpture Contest, an event the community looks forward to! The Coast Guard Festival is a can’t-miss week-long event, featuring carnival games and rides, a special kids’ parade, and fun entertainment for children and adults. With so many family-friendly events, there’s always something happening to keep the kids (and parents) happy and entertained. Keep up to date with Grand Haven area events here.
Best Places to Stay for Families
Vacation Rentals and Cottages
Photo credit: Evolve Vacation Rentals- Modern Lake Michigan Home
Lake Michigan/Jaqua Vacation Rentals,Unsalted Vacations, and Evolve Vacation Rentals offer a variety of cozy, fully-equipped vacation homes throughout the area—ideal for families who want to settle in for the week and enjoy all the comforts of cottage living. With locations near the beach, parks, and downtown, these rentals let you enjoy Grand Haven like a local, all summer long.
For a true home-away-from-home experience, Grand Haven’s vacation rentals deliver both space and style. Captains Cottage, Harbor House Inn, Haven on 3rd, and Serendipity Resort and Suites offer unique, family-friendly options close to downtown and the beach. These rentals provide full kitchens, private living spaces, and that unbeatable “walk-to-everything” location.
Bed & Breakfasts and Inns
Photo credit: Looking Glass Beachfront Inn
If your ideal summer getaway includes a relaxed atmosphere and unique character, consider staying at one of Grand Haven’s inviting inns and bed and breakfasts. Boyden House B&B and Washington Street Inn combine historic elegance with warm hospitality, offering a peaceful retreat just a short walk or bike ride from the waterfront. They’re perfect for families looking to slow down and savor a relaxing coastal vibe.
Nothing says “summer vacation” like staying steps from the shore. Looking Glass Beachfront Inn offers stunning lake views and direct access to the beach, perfect for morning walks, sunset views, and spontaneous dips in Lake Michigan. It’s a favorite for families and couples alike who want the beach right outside their door.
Glamping Experiences
Photo credit: Idema Explorers Camp
Nestled in the 345-acre Ottawa County Park, Idema Explorers Camp offers a unique overnight experience, featuring three treehouses, five yurts, and ten tent pad sites for a memorable stay in nature. Families can enjoy the park’s wooded and paved hiking trails, as well as water activities with access to a kayak launch.
Hotels
Photo credit: Holiday Inn Grand Haven
Grand Haven’s hotels and inns are a perfect match for families seeking familiar comfort and convenience. Holiday Inn Spring Lake, Baymont Inn & Suites, Best Western Beacon Inn, Sleep Inn & Suites, and Rodeway Inn Coopersville & Grand Haven offer affordable, comfortable stays with modern amenities. These are great for families looking for a hassle-free base camp close to the sand, shops, and summer fun.
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