14 Reasons to Visit South Haven this Summer
South Haven is located in southwest Michigan on the west shores of Lake Michigan.
Here you’ll find activities for all ages, whether you’re looking to relax, have an adventure, or simply unplug. Check out these reasons to choose South Haven for your next summer vacation!
1. Sugar Sand & Rocky Beaches
The number one reason why people visit South Haven in the summer is to spend time on the city’s beautiful beaches. Along the Great Lakes you will find different terrains on the shores, from rocks to dunes to soft and silky sand. South Haven’s public beaches (there are seven!) are full of groomed, sugary sand that is perfect for relaxing, building sand castles and enjoying the sunshine.
2. Walkability
You can park anywhere in town and walk from the downtown shopping area to the beach with relative ease. Getting to and from locations is simple in South Haven, and there are several hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals within walking distance to all the excitement of the downtown and beach access. This makes it easy to rent a scooter, a bicycle or a golf cart and have fun around town! It’s easy here!
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Walkability-CMMaguire.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=435802af56947524a90f19a3a446f6ad 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Walkability-CMMaguire.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=4904e315173248e3ad50bce0fd6d81d9 400w)
3. Variety Of Accommodations
There is a huge variety of places to stay in the city and township. Two locally-owned hotels are located directly downtown, The Caboose Inn sits along the Black River near the draw bridge, while four chain hotels lie just a mile down from the main strip on Phoenix Street. You’ll also find several bed and breakfasts, an abundant amount of vacation rental homes, unique inns and camping cabins.
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Variety-of-Accomodations-No-Credit.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=29cbecb42b3c8749cf4ba5dbe2141edc 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Variety-of-Accomodations-No-Credit.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=18371fa81b3271962323a0beb8ffae9b 400w)
4. Exciting Adventures
Kids will love splashing around at the Friends Good Will Splash Pad, located near South Beach (pictured on the right). The Splash Pad is an enchanting and safe place to allow small children to frolic. Also, located just 4 miles from downtown, Arvesta Sport Complex contains two wibbit play areas, a cable park for skiing, wakeboarding and kneeboarding (no experience required), waterslides, a drink bar and more!
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Exciting-Adventures-No-Credit.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=3b705439fe0edf2fe977eaa0cea1deff 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Exciting-Adventures-No-Credit.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=67ea8dd944a57ce54512ac341fd2defb 400w)
5. On-Water Experiences
There are so many different options to suit your taste for adventure, relaxation and fun:
• SoHa Surf Shop sets up camp at North and South Beaches with kayak and paddle board rentals, and at Black River Park where you can explore the river.
• The Michigan Maritime Museum hosts a fleet of historic and replica boats, including tall ship Friends Good Will, an experience you can’t miss out on!
• The Sunsetter is docked at the South Marina and is a relaxing cruise that offers views of the lakeshore.
• Elsie J, a renovated 1945 Tugboat, takes day trips and sunset cruises.
Try one, or try all!
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/On-the-Water-Experiences-No-Credit.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=d192adaa8892344ec32e874151584cd1 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/On-the-Water-Experiences-No-Credit.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=d68fe3dee5a81417ba8cb96444d9f674 400w)
6. Pure Michigan Trail Town
In 2019, South Haven was one of the first four communities to be designated as a Pure Michigan Trail Town. Rent a bicycle from Rock n' Road Cycle and hop on the Kal-Haven and Van Buren Trails for a scenic ride, or a casual stroll. Rent a kayak at Black River Park and paddle up river on the Bangor/South Haven Heritage Water Trail. Visit one of the township's four nature preserves and hike along dunes, wooded paths and even search for beach glass. There are so many ways to enjoy South Haven's trails, and each trail has its own unique aspects.
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Pure-MI-Trail-Town-No-Credit.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=d706b404c738a9316be811c7c3095f48 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Pure-MI-Trail-Town-No-Credit.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=c1aac0923c8a64eaa4c140a67c578279 400w)
7. Waterfront Bars
If you’re looking for a fun atmosphere to grab a bite or have a drink, look no further than Captain Lou’s, Admiral Jack’s and the Idler Riverboat. All three are situated around South Haven’s harbor and you can very easily walk to and from each bar. Live music is a frequent occurrence on the weekends in the summertime.
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Waterfront-Bars-Radiant-Landscapes-Photography.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=8be12d9b70e272efd0ca55203266ec90 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Waterfront-Bars-Radiant-Landscapes-Photography.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=2fbc4a4a1936cc145a6829926883662d 400w)
8. Handcrafted Haven
Three breweries, one craft beer tasting room, three wine tasting rooms, a winery and a cidery all exist within the South Haven zip code. You can find even more if you venture further afield in all directions. There are so many flavors to try! Click here for the complete list.
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Handcrafted-Haven.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=e9213c5ad766a0c9d0d0ce4c9f4022d3 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Handcrafted-Haven.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=d1501e07b3c19fe7bf0063d3be824086 400w)
9. Michigan's Fruit Belt
Fresh produce is a staple at South Haven's downtown farm market, which runs every Saturday from mid-May to mid-October and every Wednesday from June-August. There are several surrounding farms offering u-pick strawberries, raspberries, peaches and (of course) blueberries. Summer fruit is a must-have, and in South Haven there is PLENTY to go around!
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Michigans-Fruit-Belt.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=34fe5e1e4962a9e20ef1ff83a8112669 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Michigans-Fruit-Belt.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=c64a331bb16a9278ef0b511a6b44b2e1 400w)
10. Locally-Owned And Quaint Downtown
South Haven's downtown is full of locally-owned shops and restaurants. You'll find a variety of stores, from t-shirt shops to jewelry, women's clothing, home decor, candy, toys, books and so much more. Make it an adventure with in-store experiences like 42N Naturals' fragrance and terrarium bar, and Kalamazoo Candle Company's candlemaking workshop!
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Locally-Owned-And-Quaint-Downtown.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=d2d9990b31a76087688230acce7dd640 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Locally-Owned-And-Quaint-Downtown.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=46c7db65215be94bd5eac17e723c76f6 400w)
11. Diverse Food Scene
Whether it’s a burger and beer or a martini and chef’s plate, you’ll be able to satisfy your craving at one of the many South Haven restaurants. There are classic American diners, upscale destinations, pizza joints and ethnic options. On the water, the beach, in town, or in the country, there’s a place to eat in nearly every corner of South Haven. With vineyards and craft breweries to tour as well, you can try something new every day. Eat your way through South Haven’s restaurants and maybe you’ll even find your new favorite food spot.
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Diverse-Food-Scene.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=f536269cc7b6649f93e5f15409ac8446 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Diverse-Food-Scene.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=6c32e94e847847be8c11480c36aea07b 400w)
12. Sherman Dairy Bar's Old Fashioned Ice Cream
Sherman’s has been a local favorite for 63 years and for good reason! Their old-fashioned ice cream is made one batch at a time with rich flavors. You’ll find classic flavors along with fun and unique choices, and of course the midwestern favorite, blue moon!
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Sherman-Dairy-Bars-Old-Fashioned-Ice-Cream.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=4dbf42b47c62adc8739b9abfaf231e40 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Sherman-Dairy-Bars-Old-Fashioned-Ice-Cream.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=03515e4bae0d65345783aa5d288abb49 400w)
13. Historic Movie Theatre With Throwback Prices
Rain or shine, a movie at the historic downtown Michigan Theatre is a fun way to spend your time. The prices have not changed since the 90’s so you can see a matinee for only $4, and an evening show for $5.50. You can’t beat that!
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Historic-Movie-Theatre-With-Throwback-Prices.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=4d02b271b5346f06006be5991aabb70f 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Historic-Movie-Theatre-With-Throwback-Prices.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=dfb84342ff47f30ab5699ed8c4cceca6 400w)
14. Sunsets Over Lake Michigan
Cozy up in the sand, gather in front of the lighthouse, or find a spot among the bluffs. Sunsets are a magical sight and they are a great way to wind down from the day. If there is anything we highly recommend, it's witnessing a stunning, colorful sunset. That’s a South Haven specialty! Click here for our 2023 Sunset Schedule.
![](https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Sunsets-Over-Lake-Michigan.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=f3ee7981d1763143586bfd05ec0992f2 320w, https://southhaven.imgix.net/images/Sunsets-Over-Lake-Michigan.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=2ee2c2c655d4148c2af6547d6aab9944 400w)