Tunnel Park
A unique Lake Michigan park featuring a tunnel through a sand dune, a beautiful beach, playground, and stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Tunnel Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Lake Michigan park featuring a tunnel through a sand dune, a beautiful beach, playground, and stunning sunset views.
"This place felt like the best kept secret of Holland!"
🚗 Parking Fees
Daily vehicle permits required May-Sept. Pay via phone; ensure your phone is charged!
🥾 Dune Climb Challenge
For an adventure, climb the 68 steps or the sand dune itself to reach the beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Dune Tunnel
Entrance to the beach
Walk through a unique tunnel carved into a sand dune, leading directly to the shores of Lake Michigan.
Magical Lake Michigan Sunsets
Beach and overlook
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Lake Michigan, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly unforgettable sight.
Scenic Overlook & Pollinator Garden
Top of the dune
Enjoy panoramic views of the lake from a well-maintained overlook with benches and a charming pollinator garden.
Family-Friendly Playground
Near the parking lot
A fantastic playground area perfect for kids to burn off energy before or after beach time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Tunnel Access & Beach Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Daily vehicle permits required May-Sept. Pay via phone; ensure your phone is charged!
🥾 Dune Climb Challenge
For an adventure, climb the 68 steps or the sand dune itself to reach the beach.
☀️ Beach Day Essentials
Bring blankets, chairs, and water for a comfortable day enjoying the sandy beach.
📸 Sunset Views
The sunsets here are truly magical; don't miss them!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Daily vehicle permits required May-Sept. Pay via phone; ensure your phone is charged!
🥾 Dune Climb Challenge
For an adventure, climb the 68 steps or the sand dune itself to reach the beach.
☀️ Beach Day Essentials
Bring blankets, chairs, and water for a comfortable day enjoying the sandy beach.
📸 Sunset Views
The sunsets here are truly magical; don't miss them!
❄️ Year-Round Access
Open to pedestrians year-round, offering a unique winter wonderland experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Tunnel Park's unique sand dune tunnel, beautiful sandy beach, and breathtaking sunsets, often calling it a 'best kept secret.' It's praised for being less crowded than other local beaches and offering great amenities like a playground and clean restrooms. Some find the dune climb challenging, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"After waiting in line for the Holland State Park we found this beach on the map and it was considerably less busy. It was less expensive to park only $8. Perfectly sandy beach with no rocks and crystal clear water. They have changing rooms and a clean bathroom. Next time we are in the Holland area we will definitely stop by tunnel Park again."
Steven Ostrowski
"It's one of our favorite spors in Holland. It doesn't get super crowded and oh boyyyyy...the sunset there is magical. You can go through the stairs or climb the sand dune. There is a playground, a big beautiful park and lots of place to park your car...it is like $8 to park and its for the whole day"
Yllka Gaxhaj
"Came here with my wife last weekend. She had found out about this place about two months ago and wanted to take me here 😊 I'm glad she did because this is a really cool park! The tunnel taking you to the beach is cool, and its very well maintained, there's not sand everywhere like we were expecting. There's also a beautiful overlook with benches and picnic tables with a little pollination garden. And lastly, they have an awesome playground! This is why I love Holland, this is just one of the many amazing places here!"
Zachary Frieben
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tunnel Park is located in Holland, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors find it via GPS using 'Tunnel Park, Holland, MI'.
Yes, Tunnel Park is situated near other popular Ottawa County parks like Rosy Mound and Olive Shores, offering opportunities for a multi-park visit.
There is a dedicated parking lot at Tunnel Park. A daily vehicle permit is required during the peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day).
Information on public transport to Tunnel Park is limited. Driving is the most common and convenient method for visitors.
Absolutely! Tunnel Park is an excellent destination for a day trip, offering beach access, a playground, and scenic views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a parking fee required during the peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day). Outside of this period, pedestrian access is free.
The parking fee is typically around $8 for the entire day during the peak season.
Parking fees can usually be paid via your mobile phone. Ensure your phone is charged before you go.
Tunnel Park is open to pedestrians year-round. The parking permit system is in effect during the summer months.
While specific discount information isn't widely available, the daily parking fee is generally considered reasonable for a full day of access.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most unique feature is the tunnel that goes through a sand dune, providing access to a beautiful Lake Michigan beach.
You can swim, sunbathe, play on the sandy beach, enjoy the playground, and take in the scenic views from the overlook.
Yes, the beach is described as perfectly sandy with clear water, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Yes, Tunnel Park offers clean restrooms and changing rooms for visitors.
Compared to some other popular beaches, Tunnel Park is often noted as being considerably less busy, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The sand dune tunnel, the panoramic lake views from the overlook, and especially the sunsets are prime spots for photography.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting. Sunsets are particularly spectacular.
Yes, you can see the iconic red lighthouse very clearly from Tunnel Park.
Information on drone usage is not readily available. It's best to check local regulations or park signage before flying a drone.
Tunnel Park is ideal for landscape, sunset, and family photography, capturing the natural beauty of Lake Michigan and the unique dune formations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The tunnel access to the beach is also an exciting feature for kids, adding an element of adventure to their day. While climbing the dunes can be challenging, the main beach area is easily accessible and enjoyable for all ages. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, though a soda machine is available in the restrooms.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food, drinks, and beach gear will save you money on-site. The park provides natural beauty and recreational opportunities without the need for expensive attractions, making it an affordable option for a memorable day out.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the interplay of light and shadow on the dunes, the vastness of the lake, and the iconic red lighthouse in the distance. The park provides diverse subjects, from natural landscapes to family moments, all bathed in beautiful natural light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Sand Dunes
Visitors often remark on the well-maintained nature of the park, even with the sandy environment. While walking on the dunes can be challenging, especially on the return trip, the experience is considered well worth the effort. The visual of the dune meeting the vast expanse of Lake Michigan is a striking natural contrast.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear if you plan to climb the dunes. The soft sand can be tricky, but the panoramic views from the top are a significant draw. It's a great spot to appreciate the power and beauty of these natural landforms.
Beach Day Bliss at Tunnel Park
Compared to more crowded nearby parks, Tunnel Park often provides a more tranquil beach experience. This makes it a favorite for those seeking a less congested spot to unwind. Bringing your own blankets, chairs, and water is recommended to maximize comfort and enjoyment throughout the day.
Amenities like clean restrooms and changing rooms add to the convenience, ensuring a pleasant visit. Whether you're swimming, playing in the sand, or just soaking up the sun, the beach at Tunnel Park offers a quintessential Lake Michigan experience.
Photography Hotspots and Sunset Magic
However, the undisputed star of the show is the sunset. Many visitors and creators highlight the magical sunsets as a must-see, with the sky erupting in a symphony of colors over the lake. This makes late afternoons and evenings prime time for capturing breathtaking images.
Don't forget to capture the red lighthouse visible from the park, adding another classic element to your photos. The combination of natural beauty, unique geological features, and spectacular light makes Tunnel Park a highly photogenic destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit