Grand Haven is the best in my opinion.
I would go north of Benton Harbor/ St. Joseph. Saugatuck is an artsy-fartsy town. Neat shops, downtown area. If you are homophobic, pass.
South Haven is nice. Holland is nicer. You can go to Holland State Park. Nice large beach area, lighthouse. jettys and the General Store for ice cream. Plus you have Lake Macatawa where you can rent paddleboards, kayaks, whatever.
Nice restaurants out near the park, OBI ( Ottawa Beach Inn) is nice. Downtown, a couple nice bars with food. Holland Brewing is one. Catch Sunday brunch at DeBoors and ice cream again at Captain Sundaes.
If you just want a drink, check out the Itty Bitty Bar.
You might be able to tell I am biased to Holland. My in-laws live there so I am up there often.
I grew up in Michigan and I would say go straight past all that and land in Traverse City, but that is some extra driving though to me it's worth it.
If you want more info, I'm happy to provide. I love the state I grew up in. There is no other like it. But I don't like the city I grew up in, lol.
You sound like you're more familiar with Holland than some of the locals are. BTW, I live in Holland and can verify everything that gregkl said.
I would stay away from St. Joseph. Big beach, but they have had some trouble in the past with gang activity.
Saugatuck has a whole bunch of little bars, but not a lot of beach. Oval Beach there is popular with the large LGBT community in Saugatuck.
Holland State Park is super nice. Hang out by the channel and just watch boats heading out to the big lake. Or walk to the end of the pier and watch the kids jump in the water. Holland is getting a bunch of new breweries in town, and if you like craft beer, it is a great place to be. New Holland Brewery, Hops on 84, Big Lake Brewing, Saugatuck Brewing. Its all a beautiful place to visit, just kinda sucks to live here (Michigan).
You live there? How about a meet and greet at one of those establishments the next time I come up?
You live there? How about a meet and greet at one of those establishments the next time I come up?
We are from southern indiana looking for a short weekend getaway this summer possibly lake michigan. Are there any good beaches to relax during the day that have some nearby bars for some good nightlife?
Night life?
Saugatuck.