Saugatuck gay beach
How the largest gay resort in the Midwest is in Michigan's "Bible belt"
This week Michigan Radio is airing a series called Community Vibe. We’re showcasing one interesting thing about different towns across the state.
Today we’ll visit the neighboring communities of Saugatuck and Douglas. They’re artsy, waterfront resort towns in West Michigan. Although Saugatuck-Douglas sits in what’s known to be the Bible belt of the state, it’s also home to a vacation destination to a large male lover community. Michigan Radio’s Emily Fox reports on how Saugatuck-Douglas became the homosexual resort of the Midwest.
Jonathan Schruer has lived in Saugatuck for 11 years. He lives downtown, which is lined with boutique and artsy mom and pop shops right on the moisture. Schruer and his partner run a Bed and Breakfast here.
In his spare time, Schreur has been working on a project with the Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society to reveal the story of how the lgbtq+ community came to be. As it turns out, same-sex attracted men and women have been coming to Saugatuck-Douglas for a long time.
Credit Saugatuck-Douglas Historical World Collection
If you trail the Kalamazoo River about a mile fro
Sun’s out, bun’s out! There’s no excel way to rejoice the season than by heading to America’s Best Queer Beaches—stunning spots where the LGBTQ+ people has carved out chill corners of paradise just for us. Whether you’re into soaking up rays, making fresh friends under a rainbow umbrella, or chasing that beachside volleyball MVP title, these destinations are your ticket to the sun-soaked gay getaway of your dreams.
Not sure how to connect once you’re at the beach? Easy—be bold! Compliment a fabulous swimsuit. Offer your sunscreen because, darling, no one loves a sunburn. Or join the volleyball match that’s one player short. These beaches aren’t just about soft sand and salty waves; they’re about people, fun, and forging fabulous friendships.
Now, snatch your towel—we’re taking a tour of America’s Best Same-sex attracted Beaches. Check out whichever is closest to you—or create a trip of it and call on them all!!
Maui, Hawaii: Little Beach
Aloha, paradise! Little Beach in Makena State Park is your go-to for tropical vibes and an uninhibited queer scene. This clothing-optional gem comes with clear waters, soft sands, and zero judgments.
While nudity isn’t technically legal in Hawai
LGBTQ+ Friendly Travel Guide to Saugatuck/Douglas, MI
Saugatuck and Douglas, also known as “The Art Coast of Michigan,” are neighboring resort towns separated by a mere 1.3 miles. Affectionately recognizable as “Provincetown of the Midwest,” they share the same inclusive vibe, innate scenery, arts culture, and active queer community. They are must-visits for the gay community for love-related weekend escapes, fun vacations, or to just be yourself. Check out our guide to find the most welcoming places and LGBTQ+ friendly experiences in Saugatuck/Douglas.
How to Get There: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
You know it’s “small town USA” when there are no major airports, instruct stations, or bus terminals in town. Regardless of how you choose to travel, your time spent in Saugatuck/Douglas is worth every moment of the journey.
Planes: The nearest major airport is Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, about a 45-minute drive from Saugatuck/Douglas. From the airport, you can rent a motorcar or use a shuttle service.
Trains: Amtrak provides rail services to nearby cities like Holland, which is only a short trip from Saugatuck. From the train station, you can use local transpo
Gay Beach/Swimming Holes
Oval Beach
Saugatuck, MI
United States
Phone:800 Phone: Fax:
SUMMARY:
While not technically a beach, this series of rolling dunes next to a river lagoon is still quite handsome, snuggled along the eastern shores of large Lake Michigan. The mellow queer twin resort towns and artist's communities of Saugatuck and Douglas, with their down-to-earth queer Midwestern vacationers, are just a compact drive away. However there are rumors that the new owner will be closing public access to the nude beach area. Oval Beach has earned Saugatuck the nickname "Provincetown of the Midwest." Hugging the mostly undeveloped dunes of Lake Michigan's eastern shore, the back dunes area of Oval Beach is ideal for sunbathing in the nude. Beaches like these in Saugatuck are a rare gem: the clean, unspoiled, and pristine beauty of the place takes your breath away. Oval Beach is one of Saugatuck's true treasures. Directions: Oval Beach is located at the end of Oval Beach Road, one mile west of the Saugatuck Ferry landing, across the river from downtown Saugatuck. It's $5 on weekdays and $8 on weekends for parking. Take