Perfect Day in South Haven, Michigan: 7 Must-Do Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Lindsay & Justin
- Apr 22, 2023
- 9 min read
Updated: Aug 9
As meticulous planners who have spent countless hours researching and personally testing every recommendation, we're here to save you valuable planning time for your day in South Haven, Michigan. This charming Lake Michigan coastal gem offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town hospitality that outdoor enthusiasts will love.
South Haven boasts some of the most picturesque beaches along Michigan's western shoreline, with its iconic red lighthouse standing sentinel over crystal clear waters. The town is also home to the region's best blueberry farms, earning it the nickname "Blueberry Capital of the World" and hosting the famous National Blueberry Festival each August.
In this guide, you'll discover a perfectly balanced itinerary for spending a day in South Haven, Michigan - complete with insider tips for avoiding tourist traps, accessing hidden gems, and making the most of your visit without breaking your budget.
Table of Contents: Perfect Day in South Haven Michigan
1. Morning: Outdoor Adventure Options
2. Morning: Treat Yourself to Breakfast
3. Mid-Morning: Explore Downtown South Haven
4. Lunch Options: Waterfront Dining with a View
5. Late Afternoon: Michigan Farm-to-Table Experience
6. Evening: Sunset at South Haven Lighthouse
1. Morning: Outdoor Adventure Options
We recommend kayaking on the Black River for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. The gentle current makes it perfect for beginners, while the scenic route offers beautiful views of waterfront homes and natural landscapes. Rent kayaks from SoHa Kayak Rentals (we have pinned this location in our Michigan Google Map) for about $35 for a 2-hour rental - much more affordable than other rental places in the area. Pro tip: plan to hit the water before 11am to avoid afternoon crowds and wind that picks up later in the day.
Biking the Kal-Haven Trail was a highlight of our day in South Haven. This 33-mile former railroad trail connects South Haven to Kalamazoo, but we just rode the first 10 miles to Grand Junction and back. The crushed limestone path took us through shaded woods, over charming bridges, and past blueberry farms that South Haven is famous for. You can rent bikes from Rock 'n Road Cycle (we have pinned this location in our Michigan Google Map) starting at $35/day, which includes helmets and trail maps. Consider bringing water and snacks as amenities are limited once you're on the trail.
Parking for this trail is free and can be found here in South Haven or here in Kalamazoo. Download a copy of the entire Kal-Haven Trail and Van Buren trail here (including parking, water, and restrooms).
You could also rent bikes and take the Van Buren Trail south to Van Buren State Park (roughly 5 miles one-way). This 5-mile stretch is completely paved and leads to the beautiful beaches of Van Buren State Park, an exciting morning adventure that rewards you with a more secluded beach (bring a bike lock so you can explore the beach more!)
South Haven has some of the best beaches you can find along Lake Michigan with white powdery sand, expansive shorelines, and views of picturesque lighthouses in the backdrop. The most popular beach known as South Beach, can be accessed via a short walk from the downtown shops. South Beach has nearby restrooms, parking, splash pad, and concessions.
We spent a couple hours enjoying North Beach, which was less crowded than South Beach but equally beautiful. The water was crystal clear and perfect for swimming, though we noticed the shoreline drops off quickly about 15 feet out. Beach regulations prohibit alcohol, glass containers, and fires, but allow coolers and pop-up shade tents under 8x8 feet.
Parking costs $10 for the day or $5 after 5pm, but we walked from downtown to avoid the fee. Remember to pack out all trash as South Haven takes beach cleanliness seriously!
Pro Tip: Walk the Black River Harbor Walk from from Ellen Avery Park to the North Pierhead Light. It has breathtaking views of the city's waterways, parks, piers, and charming historic sites.
North Beach also offers a playground, parking, and concessions. Depending on your lodging location and preference, both beaches are a fantastic option in South Haven. North Beach offers a bit more seclusion, as it is a slightly longer walk from downtown activities. Head even farther north to Dyckman Street Beach Access for the least amount of crowds.
2. Morning: Treat Yourself to Breakfast
For breakfast, we discovered The Phoenix Street Cafe, where they serve delicious dishes featuring locally sourced Michigan ingredients. Their blueberry pancakes were absolutely incredible, made with fresh South Haven blueberries that the region is famous for. The coffee was sourced from a local Michigan roaster, and they even offered maple syrup from the northern part of the state. When you plan your South Haven itinerary, we recommend arriving before 9am to avoid the weekend crowds.
If you're watching your budget like we were, Cafe Julia offers fantastic morning fuel options without breaking the bank. We grabbed their homemade muffins and coffee for under $10 each, which kept us satisfied until lunchtime. Their jumbo bagel sandwiches are another affordable option with generous portions that fueled our morning adventures.
3. Mid-Morning: Explore Downtown South Haven
We loved the walkability of South Haven's charming downtown area. The streets are lined with beautiful historic buildings and the entire district has a welcoming atmosphere. We appreciated how compact and pedestrian-friendly it was, making it easy to explore several blocks in a short time without needing to drive.
As we strolled downtown, the historical architecture caught our attention - many buildings date back to the late 1800s when South Haven was a bustling maritime port. The Michigan Maritime Museum offers fascinating exhibits about the town's shipping heritage, and we recommend taking their harbor tour if you have time. The museum's knowledgeable guides shared incredible stories about Lake Michigan's maritime history. In addition, the museum also offers boat tours on a variety of impressive ships and numerous educational events throughout the season
Hours and Admission
The Michigan Maritime Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4pm (last admission at 3pm). Adult admission is $10 (summer) and $12 (winter) with on-the-water boat tours ranging from $20 - $42 per passenger.
4. Lunch Options: Waterfront Dining with a View
When planning your South Haven itinerary, don't miss Three Sisters Brewery, located a short drive outside downtown South Haven. We enjoyed their craft beer flight alongside their delicious tacos or beer cheese mac. Their creativity in the craft brewing process shines through in their Choco L'Orange Nitro Milk Stout and Blueberry Snicklefritz (a chocolate-caramel Porter). If you like pickles, try their Sour - Berliner Weisse, Dill With It!
We were impressed by the commitment to sustainable seafood options throughout South Haven. Captain Lou's (voted top 5 waterfront bars in Michigan) served us incredible perch fish baskets and the Black River Tavern also offered seafood options that were freshly caught in Lake Michigan. These restaurants support local fishing communities while ensuring the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem - something we always look for when traveling.
For an after lunch treat, be sure to stop at Sherman's Dairy Bar - Ice cream so delicious that ice cream lovers line up down the street.
5. Late Afternoon: Michigan Farm-to-Table Experience
🫐 Visit Bumbleberry Acres (we have pinned this location in our Michigan Google Map) for a delightful berry-picking experience. The farm welcomes visitors with picking containers and helpful guidance on finding the ripest fruit. Their blueberries are especially incredible in July. Don't miss their charming farm store where you can purchase homemade jams that make perfect souvenirs or gifts.
🍷 Cogdal Vineyards, just a 10-minute drive from downtown South Haven, offers an excellent Michigan wine tasting experience. Try their family‑run vineyard & tasting room with eclectic small‑batch wines. Note, they close daily by 5pm.
🌱 Support sustainable agriculture by visiting the South Haven Farm Market (Saturdays from 8am-2pm) where you can chat with local farmers about their growing practices. Many proudly display their sustainable and organic certifications. Pick up some fresh vegetables, artisanal cheese, and local honey for an afternoon picnic. The market vendors are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their products. You can also stop at Barden's Farm Market, open daily from 8am-7pm.
6. Evening: Sunset at South Haven Lighthouse
We strolled up the path of the South Haven Lighthouse during our day in South Haven Michigan and were amazed by the up-close views of this iconic red structure. The pier walk took us about 20 minutes round trip, with plenty of spots to stop for photos along the way.
The lighthouse dates back to 1872 and can be reached by following the Black River from downtown shops. We loved watching the waves crash against the pier and seeing boats navigate the channel. The concrete path was well-maintained, but we recommend wearing good walking shoes as it can get slippery when wet. Warning: Use caution when walking out onto the pier and avoid visiting the lighthouse when tides are high. For more exploration, check out the parallel pier on the north side of the Black River leading to the North Pierhead Light—it's popular for both fishing and sightseeing.
We watched the sunset at the hidden gem, Van Buren St. Overlook and Beach Access (we have pinned this location in our Michigan Google Map). This spot was much less crowded than the main beaches but offered equally stunning views of the lighthouse silhouetted against the colorful sky. We brought a small blanket to sit on and spent about an hour watching the sun dip below Lake Michigan's horizon. When planning your South Haven itinerary, try to arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to secure a good viewing spot.
7. Dinner & Nightcap: Ending Your Perfect Day
We enjoyed an amazing dinner at Clementine's in South Haven Michigan, where we enjoying affordable dinner specials under $15. Their fish tacos were outstanding, made with fresh Lake Michigan whitefish caught that morning.
Harbor Light Brewery was our budget-friendly dinner option in South Haven where we enjoyed fantastic craft beers with reasonable prices. Their BYO food policy allowed us to grab a take out pizza from Maria’s Taste of Italy just down the street (you can’t go wrong with the Big Dill Pizza). The casual, laid-back atmosphere was perfect for relaxing after our full day of exploring. We especially loved sipping on their delicious Omerta Honey Porter while listening to some live music.
FAQ: Your South Haven Questions Answered
Q: Is South Haven, MI worth visiting?
A: Absolutely! South Haven offers the perfect blend of outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, a walkable downtown, excellent food and drink options, and stunning Lake Michigan views - all without the crowds of more touristy Michigan coastal towns.
Q: Does South Haven have a downtown area?
A: Yes, South Haven boasts a charming, highly walkable downtown area filled with local shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, all centered around the harbor where the Black River meets Lake Michigan.
Q: What is nicer, Grand Haven or South Haven?
A: Both have their unique appeal. South Haven tends to be less crowded than Grand Haven while still offering beautiful beaches, a charming downtown, and great outdoor activities. South Haven may appeal more to couples seeking a quieter, more intimate experience with the same stunning Lake Michigan views.
Q: Is South Haven walkable?
A: South Haven is extremely walkable, especially around the downtown and beach areas. Most attractions, restaurants, shops, and beaches are within comfortable walking distance of each other, making it perfect for a car-free day trip.
Q: Can you drink on the beach in South Haven, Michigan?
A: No, alcoholic beverages are prohibited on South Haven's public beaches. However, there are plenty of waterfront restaurants and bars where you can enjoy Michigan craft beverages with lake views.
Q: What outdoor activities can couples do in South Haven?
A: Couples can enjoy kayaking the Black River, biking scenic trails, beach picnics, sunset lighthouse viewing, wine tasting at nearby vineyards, and romantic waterfront dining - all offering affordable yet memorable experiences.
Q: Where is the best area to stay in South Haven?
A: When visiting the charming town of South Haven, you have no better choice but to choose an equally charming Bed & Breakfast. Inn at the Park is ideally located several blocks from both the beach and downtown, while also being tucked away alongside a peaceful nature park. The staff at Inn at the Park truly makes you feel as though you are staying in a family-member's home. With detailed personal touches, excellent communication, and an exceptional breakfast for two included in our stay, we will certainly be returning to Inn at the Park!
Exclusive Discounts: Get 10% off you booking at Inn at the Park by using code NBV2023
South Haven offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm that won't break your budget. From kayaking the Black River to watching the sunset at the iconic lighthouse, this Lake Michigan gem delivers authentic experiences without the crowds or high prices of other coastal towns.
While summer showcases South Haven's beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, don't overlook the magic of visiting during different seasons. Fall brings spectacular foliage along the Kal-Haven Trail, winter offers cozy brewery experiences, and spring delights with blossoming orchards and fewer tourists.
As responsible travelers, we encourage you to support local businesses, respect beach regulations, and practice leave-no-trace principles during your visit. South Haven's natural beauty deserves our protection so future generations can enjoy this charming coastal town.
Ready to plan your South Haven adventure? Download our Michigan travel map for more insider tips and budget-friendly recommendations. And don't forget to follow our journey @Noms.Brews.Views on Instagram for more affordable travel inspiration!
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