Michigan family travel

☀️Saugatuck, Michigan With Kids: Beaches, Dunes, Boat Rides & Family-Friendly Things to Do

/ jennifersheeman / Leave a comment
Family standing on the sand dunes in Saugatuck Michigan with Lake Michigan in the background
Saugatuck is one of those Michigan beach towns that gives you sand, water, adventure, and easy family fun all in one stop.

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Saugatuck, Michigan is a great Lake Michigan beach town for families who want a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxed vacation time. Between the Saugatuck Dune Rides, beach time, boat rides, downtown stops, and sandy dune views, this is one of those Midwest destinations that feels easy to enjoy with kids.

It does not have to be a complicated trip. You can spend part of the day exploring the dunes, cool off near the lake, grab food downtown, and still leave room for those simple family moments that usually end up being the best part anyway.

Planning a Saugatuck Family Getaway?

Compare family-friendly hotels, beach stays, and vacation rentals near Saugatuck, Holland, and Lake Michigan.

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Is Saugatuck Worth Visiting With Kids?

Yes. Saugatuck is absolutely worth visiting with kids, especially if your family likes beaches, sand dunes, boat rides, cute downtown areas, and easy outdoor activities. It feels like a relaxed Lake Michigan getaway without needing a packed itinerary.

Best Things to Do in Saugatuck With Kids

1. Take the Saugatuck Dune Rides

The Saugatuck Dune Rides were one of the most memorable parts of our visit. The ride gives families a fun way to see the dunes without having to hike the entire area on foot. It is bumpy, sandy, scenic, and just adventurous enough for kids to think it is exciting.

Kids standing by the Saugatuck Dune Rides sign before a family dune ride in Michigan
The Saugatuck Dune Rides are a fun way to experience the sand dunes with kids.

You may notice face masks in a few of our older photos from this trip. This visit took place during the COVID-era travel period when masks were still required or strongly encouraged in certain attractions and public spaces. Thankfully, that is no longer the case now, but the memories were still just as fun.

Family Tip:
Book ahead if you are visiting during a busy summer weekend. Dune rides are popular and can fill up quickly.

2. Explore the Sand Dunes

The dunes are what make this part of Michigan feel extra special. Kids can climb, dig, run, and burn off energy while parents get those wide-open sand and sky views. It is one of those places where you do not need much planned because the landscape itself becomes the activity.

Saugatuck Michigan sand dunes with rolling hills, beach grass, and blue sky
The dunes around Saugatuck make this Michigan beach town feel adventurous and different.

🌾 Why Families Love the Saugatuck Dune Rides

The Saugatuck Dune Rides ended up being one of the highlights of our entire Michigan trip. The ride takes you through massive rolling sand dunes, wooded trails, and scenic Lake Michigan overlooks while mixing local history, humor, and a little bit of adventure along the way. Kids absolutely love it.

You will bounce through the dunes in open-air vehicles while learning fun stories about the area and seeing views you would never normally reach on your own.

View Saugatuck Dune Ride Information

Hiking Through Saugatuck Dunes State Park to the Beach 🌲🥾

One thing to know before visiting Saugatuck Dunes State Park is that getting to the beach can be part of the adventure. The wooded trails at Saugatuck Dunes State Park eventually lead toward the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline near Oval Beach, making the hike feel like part of the experience instead of just the walk to the beach.

For our family, the hike made the beach feel even more rewarding. The kids had fun exploring the trails, climbing through the sand, and spotting little openings through the trees before finally reaching the water. It felt less like a regular beach walk and more like a mini family adventure through the dunes.

Family hiking through a wooded trail on the way to Oval Beach in Saugatuck Michigan
The hike to the beach near Saugatuck gave us shady trails, sandy paths, and that first peek of Lake Michigan.
Kids hiking through wooded trails carrying beach gear at Saugatuck Dunes State Park in Michigan
Getting to the beach felt like part of the adventure, especially with kids, towels, snacks, and all the beach-day cargo.
Family Tip:
Pack light if you plan to hike to the beach. Bring water, sunscreen, snacks, and only the beach gear you truly want to carry. Sand, hills, and overpacked bags are not exactly a dream team.

3. Spend Time at the Beach

A trip to Oval Beach in Saugatuck with kids should absolutely include beach time. The Lake Michigan shoreline gives families room to play, relax, swim, and enjoy a slower day. Pack sunscreen, towels, snacks, and patience, because sand will somehow follow everyone back into the car like it paid for gas.

Lake Michigan beach view near Saugatuck with sand dunes and families enjoying the water
Beach time is one of the easiest ways to slow down and enjoy Saugatuck with kids.

4. Rent a Donut Boat or Retro Boat in Saugatuck

One of our favorite Saugatuck memories was renting a donut boat and getting out on the water as a family. We rented through Retro Boat Rentals, which is located at The Old Boat House on Water Street. They offer donut boats, retro boats, Duffy boats, and pontoon rentals, so there are a few different options depending on your group size and what kind of boat day you want.

The donut boat ended up being one of our favorite family activities in Saugatuck because everyone could sit together around the table, relax under the umbrella, and slowly cruise the water together.

Family riding a donut boat on the water in Saugatuck Michigan
Renting a donut boat in Saugatuck was one of our favorite family activities from the trip.

A helpful thing to know: outside alcohol and coolers are not allowed, but Retro Boat Rentals provides coolers and ice. You can purchase drinks from The Old Boat House before your rental, including beer, wine, hard ciders, seltzers, canned cocktails, soft drinks, and some snacks. You can bring your own snacks, but not your own cooler.

Family Tip:
Leave extra time for parking and getting checked in. Summer weekends in Saugatuck can get busy, and boat rentals are the kind of thing you do not want to be sprinting toward with kids, towels, and sunscreen flying everywhere.

5. Walk Around Downtown Saugatuck and Eat at The Mitten Brewing Company

Downtown Saugatuck is cute, walkable, and easy to enjoy with kids. You can wander into shops, grab ice cream, look around the waterfront area, and find plenty of places to eat without needing a complicated plan.

We also loved eating at The Mitten Brewing Company. It was casual, family-friendly, and exactly the kind of easy restaurant stop we needed after a day of sand, sun, and water. Places like this are always a win for us because everyone can find something they’ll eat, and nobody has to pretend they’re fancy after dragging half the beach back in their shoes.

Kids standing outside The Mitten Brewing Company in downtown Saugatuck Michigan
The Mitten Brewing Company was a great casual family-friendly restaurant stop in downtown Saugatuck.

Where to Stay Near Saugatuck With Kids

For families, I would look at hotels or rentals near Saugatuck, Douglas, or Holland depending on your budget and plans. Holland can sometimes give you more hotel options while still keeping you close to Saugatuck and other Lake Michigan beach stops.

Compare Family-Friendly Hotels Near Saugatuck

Check hotel options near Saugatuck, Douglas, Holland, and Lake Michigan beaches.

Compare Hotels Near Saugatuck

What to Pack for Saugatuck With Kids

Saugatuck is a beach-and-dunes kind of trip, so you will want to pack for sand, sun, water, and kids who will somehow be starving immediately after eating.

  • Sunscreen
  • Beach towels
  • Water bottles
  • Snacks
  • Sand toys
  • Comfortable sandals or water shoes
  • Change of clothes
  • Small cooler
  • Light sweatshirt or jacket
  • Phone pouch or waterproof bag for boat rides
Beach Day & Road Trip Essentials

These are the kinds of items we use again and again for Lake Michigan beach trips, boat rides, and family road trips.

View Family Beach Essentials

Final Thoughts on Visiting Saugatuck With Kids

Saugatuck is a great Michigan family destination because it gives you a little bit of everything: dunes, beach time, boat rides, downtown charm, and enough adventure to keep kids interested without making the trip feel exhausting.

If you are building a Lake Michigan family road trip, Saugatuck is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.

It is the kind of place where kids come home sandy, tired, happy, and already asking when they can go back.

More Michigan Family Travel Guides

Planning more Michigan adventures? Start with my full Michigan family travel guide and check back soon for more detailed destination posts.

🚲 Mackinac Island with Kids: Ferry Tips, Biking the Island & Family-Friendly Things to Do

/ jennifersheeman / Leave a comment

Horse-drawn carriages, island bike rides, fudge shops, ferry adventures, and one of the most unique family destinations in the Midwest.

Arch Rock on Mackinac Island overlooking turquoise Lake Huron water
Arch Rock is one of the most beautiful stops on Mackinac Island and a must-see during a family bike ride around the island.

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Mackinac Island was one of our favorite stops during our Michigan family trip. Between the ferry ride, biking the island, lake views, fudge shops, rocky shoreline stops, and no cars anywhere, it felt like stepping into a completely different pace of life.

We stayed in St. Ignace, took the Star Line Good Fortune Pirate Ship ferry one way to Mackinac Island with our own bikes, biked the full 8.2-mile loop around the island, stopped at Arch Rock, explored downtown, grabbed fudge and ice cream, and made some of our favorite Michigan memories along the shoreline.

Quick Trip Snapshot:
Best for: families, biking, lake views, ferry rides, fudge, easy outdoor adventure
Kid favorites: Good Fortune Pirate Ship ferry, biking the island, ice cream bus, rocky shoreline stops
Best home base: Mackinac Island for the full experience or St. Ignace for easier parking and often better prices

Is Mackinac Island Worth Visiting with Kids?

Yes, absolutely. Mackinac Island is one of those places that feels special without needing a packed schedule. Kids get ferry rides, bikes, horses, fudge, rocks, beaches, and lake views. Parents get scenery, fresh air, and a day that feels different from a normal vacation stop.

It is touristy, but in a charming, nostalgic, summer-vacation kind of way. And because there are no cars on the island, biking and walking around felt like part of the experience instead of just transportation.

Getting Around Mackinac Island:
Cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island. Most visitors explore by bike, walking, or horse-drawn carriage, which is part of what makes the island feel so unique and relaxing.
Family biking along the rocky shoreline on Mackinac Island with Lake Huron views
Biking around Mackinac Island was easily one of our favorite family activities.

Where We Stayed: St. Ignace as a Family Base

We stayed in St. Ignace at Kewadin Casino Hotel, which ended up working really well for our family. It was kid-friendly, had a nice indoor pool, and gave us easy access to the ferry docks for Mackinac Island.

Staying directly on Mackinac Island would be magical, but it can also be much more expensive. St. Ignace gave us a more practical family base with easier parking, ferry access, and access to other Upper Peninsula stops.

Kids swimming in the indoor pool at Kewadin Casino Hotel in St Ignace Michigan
The hotel pool was a nice bonus after long Michigan sightseeing days.

Where to Stay Near Mackinac Island

If you want the full island experience, compare Mackinac Island hotels. If you want easier parking and usually lower prices, St. Ignace can be a great family-friendly base.

Compare Mackinac Island Hotels

Compare St. Ignace Hotels

Crossing the Mackinac Bridge

Crossing the Mackinac Bridge felt like the official start of our northern Michigan adventure. Watching the water stretch out on both sides of the bridge somehow made the trip feel even bigger and more exciting for the kids.

Driving across the Mackinac Bridge during a northern Michigan family road trip
Crossing the Mackinac Bridge made this part of the trip feel like a true Michigan adventure.

Taking the Ferry to Mackinac Island

Taking the ferry is part of the fun of visiting Mackinac Island. We rode the Star Line Good Fortune Pirate Ship ferry one way to the island, and the kids loved it. Between the pirate crew, water views, and Mackinac Bridge in the background, it felt like the adventure started before we even got to the island.

We brought our own bikes with us on the ferry, which worked really well for our family since we planned to bike the full loop around the island. We took the regular Star Line ferry back after our island day.

Pirate Ship Ferry to Mackinac Island 🏴‍☠️

One of the biggest hits of the trip with our kids was taking a pirate-themed ferry to Mackinac Island during our visit. Between the themed crew, playful pirate details, water views, and excitement of heading toward the island, it made the ferry ride feel like part of the adventure instead of just transportation.

While that specific themed ferry may no longer operate, families can still take ferries to Mackinac Island through companies like Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Arnold Transit Company from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City.

Kids standing in front of the Good Fortune Pirate Ship ferry near Mackinac Island
The Good Fortune Pirate Ship ferry made the ride to Mackinac Island feel like part of the adventure.
Kids pretending to fire a cannon on the Good Fortune Pirate Ship ferry to Mackinac Island
The cannon was a big hit with the kids.
Kids posing with a pirate crew member on the Good Fortune Pirate Ship ferry near Mackinac Island
The pirate crew made the ferry ride extra fun.
Child standing next to a pirate skeleton decoration on the Good Fortune Pirate Ship ferry
There were playful pirate details all over the ship.

Compare Mackinac Island Ferry Options

Families visiting Mackinac Island can choose between ferry departures from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City through Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Arnold Transit Company.

Note: The themed pirate ferry we rode during our visit may no longer operate, but several Mackinac Island ferry options still run regularly from St. Ignace and Mackinaw City.

Biking Around Mackinac Island with Kids

Biking around Mackinac Island was our favorite part of the day. The full loop around the island is about 8.2 miles, mostly flat, and incredibly scenic. We loved that the route followed the shoreline for so much of the ride, giving us beautiful views of Lake Huron almost the entire time.

There were plenty of places to stop along the way, which helped make the ride feel manageable with kids. We stopped for photos, rocks, water views, snacks, and little shoreline breaks whenever we needed them.

Young girl wearing a bright green helmet riding her bike along the rocky shoreline trail at Mackinac Island on a sunny summer day.
The island bike loop is scenic, mostly flat, and one of the best family-friendly activities on Mackinac Island.

One of the things we loved most about biking Mackinac Island was how often we found unexpected little stops along the way. Between shoreline views, wooded trails, and random photo-worthy spots, the ride never felt repetitive.

Two young girls posing on a curved tree along a wooded biking trail on Mackinac Island during a family summer trip.
Some of the best Mackinac Island memories happened during the unexpected little stops along the bike trail.

What to Know About Biking the Island

  • The full island loop is about 8.2 miles.
  • The route is mostly flat and very scenic.
  • You can bring your own bikes or rent bikes on the island.
  • Helmets are a good idea, especially for kids.
  • Bring water, snacks, and a small backpack.
  • Plan time for lots of stops along the shoreline.

Shop Our Family Bike Day Gear

Arch Rock on Mackinac Island

Arch Rock is one of the most famous stops on Mackinac Island, and it absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary. The view of the turquoise Lake Huron water below is gorgeous, and it makes a perfect stop during a bike ride around the island.

This is one of those places where Michigan somehow looks more tropical than expected. The water color really surprised us.

Arch Rock natural limestone formation on Mackinac Island above turquoise Lake Huron
Arch Rock is one of the most iconic photo stops on Mackinac Island.

Fort Mackinac, Fort Holmes & Scenic Stops

We also stopped around the fort areas, including Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes. Even if you do not do every historic tour or paid attraction, the views around the island are worth slowing down for.

We also stopped near the Grand Hotel to take photos from the outside. It is such an iconic Mackinac Island landmark, and even just seeing it from the outside added to the old-fashioned island charm.

Family visiting the Grand Hotel area on Mackinac Island during a Michigan family trip
We stopped near the Grand Hotel to take photos and enjoy one of Mackinac Island’s most iconic views.

Downtown Mackinac Island: Fudge, Ice Cream & Shops

Downtown Mackinac Island is busy, but it is also part of the fun. We stopped for fudge at Original Murdick’s Fudge, walked through shops, grabbed ice cream, and enjoyed the classic Mackinac Island vacation atmosphere.

One of our favorite kid stops was the Mackinac Double Decker Ice Cream bus. It was cute, easy, and exactly the kind of little travel memory kids remember.

Kids standing near the Mackinac Double Decker Ice Cream bus on Mackinac Island
The Mackinac Double Decker Ice Cream bus was a fun treat stop after biking around the island.

Food & Treat Stops We Tried

  • Original Murdick’s Fudge
  • Mackinac Island Bar & Patio Grill
  • Mackinac Double Decker Ice Cream
  • Audie’s, during our St. Ignace / Mackinac area trip
  • Salty Mac Brewing Company

Simple Shoreline Moments We Still Talk About

Some of our favorite memories from Mackinac Island were not the major attractions. Toward the end of our bike ride, the kids started playing pretend baseball along the Lake Huron shoreline by hitting rocks into the water with sticks.

It was such a simple, funny kid moment, but it ended up being one of those memories we still talk about. After a long bike ride, we relaxed by the water while the kids played, and it felt like the perfect slow ending to a full island day.

Kids playing along the rocky Lake Huron shoreline on Mackinac Island during a family bike ride
Some of our favorite Mackinac Island memories came from the unplanned shoreline stops.

Castle Rock in St. Ignace

We also stopped at Castle Rock, a classic roadside attraction near St. Ignace. It was one of those quirky stops that ended up being more fun than expected. We checked out the Castle Rock Curio Store, and the kids found colorful hats that made for some funny photos.

Castle Rock also gives you a big view over the surrounding area, so it is a nice quick stop if you are already staying in St. Ignace or driving through the Upper Peninsula.

Castle Rock overlook near St. Ignace Michigan viewed from the roadside
Castle Rock is a quick and fun roadside stop with panoramic views near St. Ignace.

Is Mackinac Island Better as a Day Trip or Overnight Stay?

You can absolutely visit Mackinac Island as a day trip, especially if you stay in St. Ignace or Mackinaw City. That is what worked well for our family. We had enough time to ferry over, bike the island, stop at Arch Rock, get treats, explore downtown, and head back.

If your budget allows, staying overnight on Mackinac Island would give you a slower experience and more time to enjoy the island after the day-trippers leave. But for families trying to keep costs reasonable, staying off island can still be a great option.

What to Bring for Mackinac Island with Kids

A Mackinac Island day can include ferry rides, biking, walking, rocky shorelines, snacks, shopping, and changing lake weather. I would pack light but smart.

  • Bike helmets
  • Reusable water bottles
  • Small backpack
  • Sunscreen
  • Light sweatshirt or jacket for the ferry
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Snacks for kids
  • Phone charger or portable battery

Shop Our Mackinac Island Day Trip Essentials

Final Thoughts: Would We Visit Mackinac Island Again?

Yes. Mackinac Island was one of our favorite Michigan family experiences. It had the perfect mix of ferry rides, biking, lake views, treats, history, and simple kid moments that made the day feel memorable without being overly complicated.

If your family likes biking, being outdoors, lake views, ferry rides, and classic summer vacation charm, Mackinac Island is absolutely worth adding to a Michigan family road trip.

Family of five posing on the boardwalk leading to a white lighthouse at Mackinac Island with blue water and sunny skies in the background.
Mackinac Island ended up being one of those places that somehow feels both adventurous and peaceful at the exact same time.

Mackinac Island FAQ

Is Mackinac Island worth visiting with kids?

Absolutely. Mackinac Island ended up being one of our favorite family stops because it felt completely different from anywhere else we visited in Michigan. Kids can bike the island, explore the shoreline, climb rocks, watch horses and carriages, eat fudge, and enjoy the slower pace without cars everywhere.

How many days do you need on Mackinac Island?

You can visit Mackinac Island as a day trip, especially if you stay in St. Ignace or Mackinaw City. That worked well for our family. If your budget allows, staying overnight gives you more time to enjoy the island after the day-trippers leave.

Can you bring your own bikes to Mackinac Island?

Yes. We brought our own bikes on the ferry instead of renting them on the island. This worked really well for our family because we planned to bike the full loop around Mackinac Island and make plenty of stops along the shoreline.

Which ferry should you take to Mackinac Island?

Families can compare ferry options from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City. The two main ferry companies are Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Arnold Transit Company. Schedules, parking, bike policies, and pricing can vary by season, so it is worth checking both before your trip.

Do you need a car on Mackinac Island?

No. Cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island, which is part of what makes it feel so unique. Most visitors get around by walking, biking, or using horse-drawn carriages.

What is the best thing to do on Mackinac Island with kids?

For our family, biking around the island was the highlight. We also loved stopping at Arch Rock, exploring the rocky shoreline, grabbing fudge and ice cream downtown, and finding simple places for the kids to play along the water.

Is Mackinac Island walkable?

Downtown Mackinac Island is very walkable, especially near the shops, restaurants, ferry docks, and waterfront. If you want to see more of the island, biking is the easiest and most fun option for families.

When is the best time to visit Mackinac Island?

Summer is the most popular time to visit Mackinac Island because the weather is warm and most attractions are open. Early fall can also be beautiful with cooler weather, fewer crowds, and a slower island feel.

More Michigan Family Travel Guides

Planning more Michigan adventures? These are some of our favorite family-friendly spots across the state, with more detailed guides coming soon.

Explore Our Michigan Family Travel Guide

Coming soon: Sleeping Bear Dunes, Traverse City, Upper Peninsula stops, and more Mackinac-area favorites.