If I could describe the perfect summer, it would be near the water, sun is shining and endless cocktails flowing. Especially if that includes be on a yacht or sailboat all at the same time. The weather would be a no humidity, clear 80 degrees while laying on the beach and watching the sunset over the water cozied in a soft sweater. Make your dreams a reality to a summer escape off the coast of Lake Michigan. Here is my travel guide to Saugatuck, Michigan, the quintessential family getaway.

Things to Do

This dreamy vacation spot is on Lake Michigan, there are so many opportunities to get out on the water and relax. Climb aboard a sailboat, kayak the marinas, or cruise the coast in style on your private boat rental. Here is a list of different ways to get your ass on the water:

• Catch waves on Oval Beach

• Go sailing on a luxury yacht with Sail Saugatuck

• Cross the Kalamazoo River on the Chain Ferry

• Patio hop for live music or Wednesday Concerts in the Marina

There are some epic hikes in the area that will warm you up in the morning before hitting the water. A couple of the top spots are Saugatuck Sand Dunes State Park and Mount Baldy. Both hikes are easy to moderate on the hiking paths but know that climbing the dunes does take moderate stamina. You will do a moderate amount of walking on this trip so no worries if you aren’t the hiking type.

You’ll walk a-lot. Patio to patio, along the docks, or through downtown as you window shop the variety of stores. I recommend getting out and about around breakfast time (the breakfast scene here is immaculate) and you’ll beat the crowds of the afternoon. Other things to do during the day in Saugatuck that includes some air conditioning are:

• Souvenir hunt at The Brass Anchor Co.

• Window Shop at Kindel & Co., a chic home essentials merchantile with a vibe

• Find a weed dispensary- I recommend Green Koi

• Grab a glass of cab in Fennville at Michigan Wine Company

• Hunt for treasures at Saugatuck Antique Pavilion

Where to Stay

There are so many places to stay for tourists but it is a highly local area, with loads of families with vacation homes. Check into summer rates way ahead of time (around Christmas time) because dates book up fairly early in advanced. The most luxurious stay is at Lake Shore Resort Saugatuck. It is right on Lake Michigan’s shoreline and they offer spacious rooms, morning yoga, and complimentary bikes to ride into town. If you dig a more retro vibe, check out the restored Pines Motor Lodge.

I think the best way to stay in the area though is in a vacation rental. The locals have taken extraordinary measures to make sure that your stay is luxuruois and relaxed. Click the links to view the listings to the best rentals in the area:

• For families- Little Red Cottage and Guest Home

• For couples- Waterfront Condo

• Walk to the Beach- Shady Pines Cottage or Bellacasa

• Walk to Downtown Saugatuck- Apartment above Bulter’s Pantry

• With a pool- The Blue House

• Pet friendly- Bulter’s Quarters

Eats

The essence of the area is farm to table dinners shared with the ones you love. If you are solo exploring the area, you will be welcomed with open arms, no matter your gender or sexual preference. Plus, if you have a black locals card, you can ship to the front of the line of many local restaurants. Just ask your vacation rental host if they have access or nah.

• The Mermaid

• Waypost Brewing Company

• The Butler

• Ida Red’s

• Wally’s Bar and Grill

• Kilwin’s- vintage dip shop

• Farmhouse Deli- go to sandwiches and healthy options

• The Root Beer Barrel- Walking tacos and Root Beer Floats IN A LARGE BARREL!

• Red Dock- Reggae parties on Sundays

• Outside Coffee Company- try the Honey Lavender Latte or Campfire Cold Brew

Saugatuck Michigan is a total hidden, American gem. This quintessential small town USA captured my family’s coastal grandmother vibe. The slow pace of the downtown lifestyle and the family friendly green space makes this the perfect destination for family getaways or even bachelorette parties. But don’t be those girls who are loud partiers, even though there are so many good places to bar hop. Share this travel guide to Saugatuck, Michigan with your friends and family for your next summer getaway!