The Dunes Guide To Local Summer Fun
Yes, you could spend your entire weekend poolside at The Dunes (and we wouldn’t blame you). But if you’re in the mood to explore a little between cocktails and cabaret shows, there’s a whole fabulous world of activities waiting just beyond our rainbow-lined resort.
Published July 1, 2025 • By The Dunes Resort
Here’s your Dunes-approved guide to making the most of your summer getaway in Saugatuck/Douglas.
Bring Your Beach Game
You must make at least one pilgrimage to Oval Beach—it’s iconic, it’s gorgeous, and it’s a solid place to show off those new swim trunks. Craving something more off-the-beaten-path? Trek over to Saugatuck Dunes State Park and earn your beach time with a hike through rolling trails that lead to 2.5 miles of peaceful, secluded shoreline. Whether you’re laying out, taking a dip, or just recharging for the night ahead, Lake Michigan brings the magic every time.
Sip Happens
Call it a beverage tasting tour or adult field-tripping—either way, there’s no shortage of spots to raise your glass. Pop over to Michigan Wine Co., Crane’s Winery, Fenn Valley Vineyards & Winery, or Modales Wines for a Southwest Michigan wine-tasting experience. Charter a private tour through the LGBTQ-owned Coastal Tours for worry-free transportation between wineries.
Iconic Must-Dos
You can’t say you’ve truly done Saugatuck until you’ve barreled up and down the dunes in a 40-minute open-air adventure with the Saugatuck Dune Rides. It’s part thrill ride, part local lore, and all fabulous fun. And if you’re craving something a little more breezy and scenic, hop aboard the Star of Saugatuck, a 51-ton authentic paddlewheel boat, for a classic cruise along the Kalamazoo River and into Lake Michigan. Up for a challenge? Tackle the 302 steps up Mt. Baldhead, a giant sand dune that offers incredible panoramic views of Saugatuck, Douglas, and Lake Michigan. Pro Tip: There’s no shame in stopping halfway for a selfie and a dramatic sigh.
Big Art Energy
Around here, self-expression isn’t just welcome—it’s on full display. The Saugatuck/Douglas gallery scene is bursting with bold color, big personality, and creative energy that feels… familiar. Discover for yourself why this area is known as the Art Coast® of Michigan with a stop in the many galleries and artist studios in the area. Bonus points for visiting the LGBTQ-owned Amazwi Contemporary Art, Cellar Door Trades, The Laffing Glass, and Saugatuck Art Traders.
Sway To A Different Beat
Sure, we’ve got cabaret singers and drag queens, but sometimes you’re in the mood for a different kind of live performance—like one that doesn’t end in a death drop. Luckily, the local scene is full of free outdoor concerts all summer long. Music in the Park brings a fun vibe to downtown Saugatuck every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. from June 18 through September 3. Over in Douglas, Beats on Beery lights up Beery Field on select Thursdays—June 26, July 31, and August 28—starting at 6:00 p.m. And just a short drive away, Fennville’s Memorial Park hosts the Fennville City Music Hall concert series every Thursday at 6:30 p.m., kicking off July 3 and running through August 28.