Oval Beach

Celebrated around the world for its beautiful sweep of shoreline and backdrop of rolling dunes, this is the main beach in town and the most happening place to soak in the sun. Its impressive pedigree of awards (Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 25 Beaches in the World, National Geographic Traveler’s Top Freshwater Beaches in the USA, and MTV’s Top 5 Beaches in the USA) is proof of its status as a summertime favorite and natural beauty spot. Easy parking, concessions, and a picnic area will keep the whole group happy until the sun goes down.

Parking: $10 per car (collected 8am-9pm, Memorial Day-Labor Day), $50 season pass. Day passes & season passes are purchased at the beach gate. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Beach entry is free Labor Day-Memorial Day.

Getting there:

• Take Perryman Street to the Oval Beach parking lot
• Ride the Chain Ferry (Memorial Day-Labor Day) across the river from downtown Saugatuck ($2 per person, each way), and walk a half mile along Perryman Street to the beach.
• Call the Interurban Bus, 269-857-1418, from anywhere in Saugatuck/Douglas and they will drop you off and pick you up at the beach for $1 a ride, each way. You will not be required to pay the $10 beach parking fee.

Other Info: Bathrooms are open daily 8am-8pm. Portable Toilets are available after 7pm. Concession stand hours vary based on weather, demand, and staffing. There is a strict no dogs, and no alcohol policy. There are no chair or umbrella rentals available at the beach. 

Lost & Found: Call Saugatuck City Hall 269-857-2603, press option 1 for the employee directory, then extension 1 for the city clerk.

Read our blog post about Oval Beach being named One of the Top Beaches in the World! Make it a beach vacation and plan your stay at one of our boutique hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, resorts or vacation rentals! Click Here to explore our lodging directory.