Our Story

The Dunes

LGBTQIA+ FRIENDLY SINCE 1981

Back in 1981, we were known as The Douglas Dunes, which was a place where everyone could be themselves, regardless of their gender or sexuality.

Guests loved the welcoming atmosphere so much that they’d come to visit and wind up moving into the neighborhood. Throughout the years, we’ve worked hard to keep that spirit alive.

THREE FRIENDS AND SOME MARGARITAS

Danny Esterline and Greg Trzybinski started visiting The Douglas Dunes in 1981 and eventually met their would-be business partner, Mike Jones, in 1996. It was here that they kicked it off and enjoyed the original hotel, restaurant, and lobby bar with summer-only outside dancing. They loved The Dunes and what it did for the community. The resort was the premiere LGBTQIA+ oasis in West Michigan. Skip forward to 1998, when the three friends had just finished moving and were treating themselves to pizza and margaritas. Halfway through their meal, they had an amazing idea. They were going to buy a gay bar. After some more deliberation, the three decided to buy their favorite hangout, The Douglas Dunes, and continue to fill it with love so it could blossom into what it is today.

Book

“Maybe you shouldn’t eat pizza, drink margaritas and try to plan your life, but you just never know what’s going to happen.”

THE DUNES’ TRANSFORMATION

“People from all walks of life come here to find themselves, lose themselves, but most importantly, to be themselves.”

Since purchasing the Dunes in 1999, Danny, Greg, and Mike have all worked hard to turn it into the largest LGBTQIA+ resort in the Midwest and one of the largest in the country. Here, you’ll find an inviting environment for all, where we encourage you to be yourself. We attract top talent from across the country. Our events, venues, and rooms are all designed for you to make amazing memories.

Stop by and see old friends or branch out to meet a few new ones. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it at the Dunes.