A beach in West Michigan has been voted number one, along with two other beaches in the Top 10, for best beach statewide in the 2026 edition of the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards.
An expert panel nominated their must-visit beaches in the state, with readers voting for their favorite. Winners were announced May 27. According to the results, three of the state’s best beaches are within 35 minutes of Holland: South Beach in South Haven (1), Saugatuck’s Oval Beach (6), and Grand Haven’s City Beach (9).
South Beach (South Haven)
South Beach sits along the southern shoreline of Lake Michigan and “has everything you’d need for a day of fun in the sun,” according to a review from USA Today 10 Best. The beach has an award-winning shoreline with downtown walkability, access to beachside amenities, and, of course, plenty of sand.
Oval Beach (Saugatuck)
Saugatuck’s Oval Beach, part of the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area, is a popular summer destination with surrounding sand dunes, hiking trails, a concession stand and restrooms.
Oval Beach ranked No. 4 in 2018, No. 7 in 2024 and No. 8 in 2025.
Grand Haven City Beach (Grand Haven)
Overlooking the shores of Lake Michigan, Grand Haven City Beach features a lively boardwalk, an iconic lighthouse and a vibrant waterfront scene. The beach was a runner-up in 2024 and placed No. 9 in 2025.
What are the best beaches in Michigan, according to readers?
Jalen Williams from The Detroit Free Press contributed to this report
— Contact reporter Mitchell Boatman at mboatman@hollandsentinel.com.
This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: USA TODAY: Three beaches near Holland are among best in Michigan
Reporting by Mitchell Boatman, Holland Sentinel / The Holland Sentinel
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Mitchell Boatman, Holland Sentinel | USA TODAY Network
