Welcome to the Art Coast of Michigan!
The Saugatuck-Douglas area is known for its amazing artists, artisans, restaurants, shops, sand dunes, and hiking trails. What else could you ask for? With a population of only 2,348 (according to the 2020 Census totals for Saugatuck and Douglas), it’s no surprise that the summer population grows to nearly three times that and the area receives a slew of visitors annually. (See Covid-19 Travel Updates here.) And for those of us that are lucky enough to live here, let’s just say, we are blessed!
Why we love Saugatuck-Douglas
Spend any amount of time here, and you will fall in love with the pristine beaches and iconic sand dunes that are ample in this area. My all-time favorite “hammocking” spot is in Saugatuck by the Ox-Bow Art School, overlooking Oval Beach, Mt. Baldhead, and the channel. (See Tallmadge Woods Loop.)
Hiking the Art Coast of MI
Back up to Mt. Baldhead for a moment (lovingly nicknamed Mount Baldy). Anyone that is able should definitely make the trek up the 302 stairs to the top of the dune overlooking Lake Michigan, the Kalamazoo River, downtown Saugatuck, and Kalamazoo Lake simultaneously. (Fun fact: this was my husband’s and my second date and proposal spot!)
Other hiking spots to check out are:
Saugatuck State Park (SO many winding trails, this is my favorite hiking spot in the area. Enjoy with your State Park vehicle pass or purchase a daily pass for $10.)
Tallmadge Woods Loop (north of Mount Baldhead Park, by Ox-Bow)
Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area (access via Oval Beach or Mount Baldhead parking on Park Street)
Wade Memorial Nature Sanctuary Trail (To get there, take Old Allegan Rd to 62nd street.)
River Bluff Park (just east of I-196)
Stroll and Shop Downtown Saugatuck
After you’ve worked off some calories by hiking up (and down) Mt. Baldy, take the chain link ferry across the river to downtown Saugatuck where you’ll find no end of amazing eats and treats – including shopping. (Did someone say shopping? Uhh, yes please!)
Some of my favorite shops in Saugatuck and Douglas include:
Amazwi Contemporary Art
The Book Nook
Brackett & Co. (cute gifts and home designs)
The Brass Anchor Co.
Endora Bohemian (new, unique items seemingly daily!)
It Is What It Is
J. Petter Galleries (fine wine & fine art… music too!)
Kim Neuens Design & Interiors
Sea Bags (high quality – very cool beach bags made from old sails)
Spice & Tea Merchants
Unique and Fresh Restaurants
Here are my recommended “must-try” restaurants:
The Barge
The Butler (Good food in a cozy atmosphere)
Clearbrook (Dinner only. 10/10 Food and service)
Christo’s Roadhouse (Quality food at a great price)
Everyday People Cafe (The BEST burger I’ve ever had. I’m not joking.)
Farmhouse Deli (Everyone loves this place, including me. You’ll see why once you stop in. Fresh ingredients, and the menu changes frequently!)
Pennyroyal Cafe (their breakfast is to-die for)
Respite Cappuccino Court (wide variety of coffee drinks, shakes, and food!)
Spectator’s Sports Bar and Grill (A+ French Dip)
Saugatuck Brewing Co. – My hands-down favorite Saugatuck Brewery. It’s a classic, and happens to be the creator of the second-ever beer I liked (Neapolitan Stout, if you’re wondering)
And don’t forget Fennville, MI…
Just a short drive away in Fennville you will find a community of year-round residents, a couple of very unique restaurants, and many renowned wineries and breweries.
Some of my favorite Fennville restaurants, wineries, and breweries:
Root Cafe (has some Indian and other unique dishes)
El Jaripeo (Who doesn’t need a Margarita to-go sometimes?)
The Blue Goose
Crane’s Orchard, Winery, and Restaurant
Fenn Valley Winery (Local is best!)
Waypost Brewery (Farm-inspired brews!)
Modales Winery
Virtue Cider
Michigan Wine Company (started/opened up during Covid, despite all odds)
Local Events
Do you vacation in Saugatuck? Are you a local resident wanting to know about upcoming events? Either way, follow us on Facebook where we post a Weekend Events list every Friday. Or, never miss a thing and sign up here to receive fun, local events directly to your inbox each week.
In the meantime, as far as fun events go, check out the Saugatuck Dune Rides (in the summer) or new as of summer 2021 Saugatuck Mini Golf! And if you ever run out of things to do in the Saugatuck-Douglas-Fennville area, you’re in luck! We’re just a hop, skip, and a jump away from South Haven and Holland.
Moving to Saugatuck/Douglas/Fennville?
Thinking of moving to the Saugatuck area full-time? Looking to own a second home or investment property? Greenridge-Shores lives & breathes coastal real estate, and I’m happy to help your house hunt!
Start your home search below! You may also want to check out our buyer resources page!
Saugatuck Area Homes <$200k
Saugatuck Area Homes $200k-$300k
Saugatuck Area Homes $300k-$500k
Saugatuck Area Homes $500k-$700k
Saugatuck Area Homes $700k-$1 million
Saugatuck Area Homes $1 million +
Saugatuck Area Residents: Helpful Links
Not finding what you’re looking for?
Send me a message with a little bit about what you’re looking for in a home and in what area, and I’d be happy to send you listings that meet your criteria!
💙Emily
