Laketown Beach
A stunning Lake Michigan beach known for its powdery sand and a challenging, rewarding dune climb offering panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Laketown Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Lake Michigan beach known for its powdery sand and a challenging, rewarding dune climb offering panoramic views.
"The journey back up the dune is super hard and cool to do it...100% will do it again haha."
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Essential for the dune climb! Bring shoes with good grip for the sandy ascent and descent. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring water & snacks
The dune climb can be strenuous. Stay hydrated and fueled for your beach adventure. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Powdery Sand Beach
Laketown Beach
Experience the soft, powdery sand that makes this Lake Michigan shoreline a true gem. Perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
The Great Dune Climb
Laketown Beach
Challenge yourself with the steep sand dune climb for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Ropes are available to aid your ascent.
Spectacular Sunsets
Laketown Beach
Witness unforgettable sunsets over Lake Michigan, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly magical end to a beach day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Dunes
Beach Access & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Essential for the dune climb! Bring shoes with good grip for the sandy ascent and descent. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring water & snacks
The dune climb can be strenuous. Stay hydrated and fueled for your beach adventure. :water_wave:
🌅 Catch the sunset
Many visitors rave about the stunning sunset views over Lake Michigan. Don't miss it! :city_sunset:
⬆️ Rope for the dune
Use the provided ropes to help you climb the steep sand dune. It makes the journey much easier! :climbing_woman:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Essential for the dune climb! Bring shoes with good grip for the sandy ascent and descent. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring water & snacks
The dune climb can be strenuous. Stay hydrated and fueled for your beach adventure. :water_wave:
🌅 Catch the sunset
Many visitors rave about the stunning sunset views over Lake Michigan. Don't miss it! :city_sunset:
⬆️ Rope for the dune
Use the provided ropes to help you climb the steep sand dune. It makes the journey much easier! :climbing_woman:
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking spots can fill up quickly. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Laketown Beach for its beautiful, powdery sand and stunning Lake Michigan views, especially during sunset. However, the challenging sand dune climb back up is a significant point of contention, with many finding it strenuous despite the rewarding vistas. Parking can also be an issue during peak times.
"Totally beautiful beach and powdery sand, but my god, bring the stairs back! Climbing that dune should be illegal! Beach itself is pretty small with private beaches on either side. Waves were too big to enjoy the beach unfortunately. Climbing back up the huge dune did not make it worth it to me, sadly."
Libby Wedesky
"A bit difficult going back up and to the parking lot. I did use the green rope that is tied to the poles at a certain point to help me get back up! Beautiful, private, & great views"
Candy Guthrie-Benson
"It’s a nice small beach which felt private. The kids enjoyed going up the steps. I will say going back up the dune took some effort. Sunset was amazing!"
Raghad Hamdan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Laketown Beach is located in Holland, Michigan. Access typically involves driving to the designated parking area, which is often near the base of the large sand dune. Some visitors mention it's a short drive from downtown Holland.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and on weekends. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
While specific directions can vary, Laketown Beach is generally accessible via local roads in Holland, Michigan. Using a GPS navigation app is advised. It's often mentioned in relation to Holland State Park.
Laketown Beach is adjacent to Holland State Park, and while they are close, they are distinct areas. You can access Laketown Beach directly from its own entrance and parking.
The primary access to the beach involves climbing a large sand dune, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues or who are out of shape. Ropes are provided to assist with the climb.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Some visitors have noted that there can be parking or admission fees associated with Laketown Beach. It's advisable to check current pricing before your visit, as fees can vary.
Beaches in this region are generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific park hours may apply, so it's best to check local listings for Laketown Beach or Holland State Park for the most accurate information.
Typically, beaches like Laketown Beach do not require advance ticket bookings. Entry is usually on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and beach access.
While Laketown Beach is popular, other public beaches along Lake Michigan in the Holland area may offer free access or lower fees. Researching nearby public parks and beaches is recommended.
Payment methods can vary. It's common for beach parking to accept cash or have a pay station. Having small bills or checking for app-based payment options beforehand is a good idea.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
The sand at Laketown Beach is frequently described as powdery and soft, making it a pleasant surface for walking and relaxing. [^Review]
Restroom facilities are typically available at popular beach locations like Laketown Beach, often located near the parking areas. It's advisable to confirm their availability upon arrival.
Besides swimming and sunbathing, visitors enjoy walking along the shore, building sandcastles, and taking in the scenic views. The dune climb is also a popular activity.
Lifeguard presence can vary depending on the season and specific beach regulations. It's always wise to check for posted lifeguard information and swim in designated areas.
Laketown Beach can get quite crowded, especially on summer weekends and holidays. Visiting on weekdays or during the early morning or late afternoon can offer a less crowded experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the sand dune offers incredible panoramic views for photos. The shoreline itself, especially during sunrise or sunset, provides beautiful backdrops.
Absolutely! Many visitors highlight the amazing sunsets over Lake Michigan as a prime reason to visit, making it ideal for photography. [^Review]
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location and park. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding any restrictions on drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and dune views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for sunset shots. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking easier beach access, researching nearby public parks or beaches adjacent to Holland State Park might be a better option. Some areas offer more gradual slopes or direct access without a strenuous climb.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts & Adventurers
For those who love adventure, the dynamic nature of Lake Michigan, with its potentially large waves, can offer opportunities for water sports or simply enjoying the powerful presence of the lake.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
Beyond sunsets, the soft, powdery sand and the clear waters of Lake Michigan offer a beautiful, natural canvas. Whether you're focusing on landscapes, candid shots of beachgoers, or the dramatic waves, the scenery is consistently stunning. [^Review] Remember to bring your wide-angle lens and a tripod for those low-light, long-exposure shots of the sunset.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Dune Climb
Despite the physical exertion, the payoff is immense. Reaching the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding coastline. This vantage point is a major draw for photographers and anyone seeking a spectacular vista. Many reviewers express a desire to do it again, underscoring the unique and memorable nature of the dune climb. [^Review]
Practical Tip: Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for a workout. It's a significant climb, so assess your fitness level before attempting it. The effort is well worth the incredible views and sense of accomplishment. [^Review]
Lake Michigan's Charm
The beach itself boasts powdery, soft sand, providing a comfortable and inviting environment for visitors. While the beach area can feel a bit small, especially with private beaches bordering it, its charm lies in its intimate feel and the dramatic backdrop of the dunes. [^Review] The waves can sometimes be quite large, adding to the dynamic atmosphere of the lakefront. [^Review]
Beyond the immediate beach experience, the surrounding area offers more to explore. Nearby towns like Holland, Michigan, are known for their festive spirit, especially during events like the Tulip Festival.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit