One of the best things about Grand Rapids is that the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan are only 30 minutes away. In my opinion the best Lake Michigan beach town south of Ludington is Grand Haven. Grand Haven is the quintessential beach town. The state park and pier and channel is probably the main attraction. Their annual Coast Guard Fest is a ton of fun with a carnival and thousands of boaters on the channel. Definitely check coast guard out if ou are here for the first weekend in August.
My idea of a great day in the GH begins wIth the beach, no later than 11am otherwise you will not find parking in the state park and end up walking about a half mile from your parking spot at the YMCA, or surrounding neighborhood. Lunch involves grilling out OR heading up the boardwalk for the classic Pronto Pups (famously delicious fried corn dogs- only $1.50 a dog but bring cash!!) and an ice cream cone at DairyWhip. After lunch it would be down to the pier for a walk and perhaps jumping off the pier...OR I would hit up the shopping scene in town. There are many adorable clothing and knick knack shops.
My two favorite shops are the General Store and Mac Kite Co. The General Store has tons of food and candy...old school candies too, the good stuff. Mac Kite co. has a variety of beach play items and clothing. They have everything from kites to paddle boards and long boards. I have a ton of fun just looking at all their games and toys for rainy day cottage fun. Their clothing and jewelry has a beachy surfer feel.
Grand Haven has a variety of delish restaurants on their strip. The eateries that stand out in my mind include Fricano's Pizza, Porto Bello, Snug Harbor, The Kirby Grill and the classic, but slightly less classy Butch's Beach Burritos.
After dinner check out the pier for gorgeous Lake Michigan sunset. Check out Grand Haven night life for a night cap at the Kirby Grill... rooftop seating is great. I'm sure there are many more great attractions and restaurants in Grand Haven that I have not mentioned but those are just a few highlights :)
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