Parks & Recreation
Oval Beach
Saugatuck is one of Michigan's premiere beach towns. 690 Perryman St, Saugatuck, MI 49453.
Top 25 Beaches in the World
Nestled among towering sand dunes
Historic Oval Beach is nestled among towering sand dunes and bordered by the winding Kalamazoo River on its way to Lake Michigan. Activities abound on the two waterways. Saugatuck's Oval Beach has been rated by Conde Naste's Traveler Magazine as one of the 25 best shorelines in the world. MTV has ranked Oval Beach as one of the top five beaches in the country. Oval Beach Park is open year 'round.
During peak summer hours the Oval Beach parking area can reach capacity for short periods of time. The City encourages visitors to plan ahead and be aware of potential delays entering the Beach. Other options visitors may choose to enter the Beach are walking/hiking or biking. However please use caution on the roadway.
Parking (season passes available at City Hall)
2026 Beach Passes are available
$15
Day Pass — sold at beach only
$20
City of Saugatuck tax payers — sold at City Hall only
$75
Season Pass — sold at City Hall and beach
Season
Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend
Oval Beach will be open for the Season: Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, 8:00 am - 10:00 pm.
Purchase your parking pass at Saugatuck City Hall or call with a credit card to have it mailed. Parking space is limited, but there are other great options when the lots are full.
Current conditions
Before you go
Michigan BeachGuard System
Michigan DEQ information on beach water quality sampling results and beach advisories and closures.
BeachGuard
Rules & FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Oval Beach and Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area general rules
- Park is open from 8am through 10pm.
- No dogs allowed from Memorial Day Weekend through September 30th.
- No launching of watercraft on beach.
- No alcoholic beverages.
- No smoking.
- No nudity.
- No fires on beach.
- No personal grilling.
- Stay off dune grass.
- Stay on trails.
Are there lifeguards?
No. The Oval Beach is swim at your own risk.
May I rent the beach for a wedding?
No. Unfortunately wedding ceremonies are not permitted at Oval Beach as they negatively impact beach operations. There are however other better equipped wedding venues in the Saugatuck-Douglas area to accommodate your plans. The city does rent the Gazebo in Coghlin Park for weddings. The Convention and Visitor's Bureau or Saugatuck Douglas Area Business Association may be good resources.
Are Dogs allowed?
No. Dogs are not allowed.
Oval Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in the world
Interurban bus
When Oval Beach Parking is full, don't fret!
Our local Interurban bus is better than Uber! Did you know they will pick you up and drop you off on demand?
- $1 for Adults and Children 12 and over
- $.50 for Senior Citizens 62 and older, Children under 12, or persons with disabilities
Call (269) 857-1418.
Saugatuck Chain Ferry
The ultimate in small town charm
If you're looking for the ultimate in small town charm, take a ride on the Saugatuck Chain Ferry. From there you can walk to Mt. Baldhead Park to climb the 303 stairs to the top of the tallest sand dune in town, then follow the beautiful winding paths to the beach.
If stairs aren't your speed, take a stroll down the John Woollam Trail to the beach. Any way you get there, you're sure to enjoy what is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!
A look back in time
Oval Beach through the years
Saugatuck-Douglas History Center
See more of Oval Beach's history
Visit the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center for more photos.