Area Attractions & Activities
Beach & Dune Activities
Little Sable Point Lighthouse
The Little Sable Point Lighthouse is 115 feet high and one of the tallest working lighthouses on Lake Michigan, visible for 19 miles. In continuous operation since 1874, it is a guardian to ships that pass the Silver Lake Sand Dunes at Mears, Michigan.
The lighthouse is now open for tours! Call the State Park for dates and hours of operation. 231-873-3083 Rates are $5 for Adults and $2 for kids. *Kids must be 36″ or taller.
Silver Lake State Park
Silver Lake State Park is home to 3 miles of stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, a modern campground, nearly 2,000 acres of sand dunes, a day-use area on inland Silver Lake and the 500-acre Silver Lake ORV Area – the only sand dune riding opportunity east of the Mississippi River.
Silver Lake ORV Area is very popular, especially on the weekends, and understanding entry, the voucher system and special rules and regulations ahead of time is suggested. Visitors can bring their own ORVs or rent one with permitted local businesses. Mac Wood’s Dune Rides operates an interpretive, 40-minute dune tour.
What parts of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes are designated for pedestrians and vehicles?
The Silver Lake Sand Dunes are divided into three areas: the Pedestrian Area (no vehicles allowed), the ORV Area (no pedestrians allowed), and the area leased by Mac Woods Dune Rides for tours.
When are the Dunes open and what are their hours?
The Dunes are open from April 1 to October 31. Early Season hours (April 1-May 1) are 9:00 am to 8:00 pm daily; Peak Season hours (May 1-September 15) are 9:00 am to 10:00 pm daily; and Late Season hours (September 15-October 31) are 9:00 am to 8:00 pm daily.
Can I bring a motorbike or ATV on the Dunes?
Yes, motorbikes and ATVs are allowed on the Dunes if they have a safety flag and spark arrestor. Goggles and helmets are also required.
What are the requirements for taking my vehicle on the Dunes?
To drive on the Dunes, you must have a valid ORV Permit, ORV Trails Permit, and Recreation Passport; a 4-wheel drive vehicle; tires with a maximum of 15 PSI; and a safety flag.
Can I access Lake Michigan from the Dunes?
Yes, you can park within 50-100 yards of the water in the designated ORV Area and walk to the beach as marked by Silver Lake State Park. Vehicles are not allowed on the water’s edge. Alternatively, you can walk to the lake through the Pedestrian Area of the Dunes.
Mac Woods Dune Rides
Mac Wood’s Dune Rides – Located in Silver Lake, MI (macwoodsdunerides.com)
(231) 873-2817
Since 1930, Mac Wood’s has provided you with a safe, fun-filled 7 mile dune tour ride lasting about 40 minutes. You are hosted by knowledgeable drivers who understand the history and environment of the constantly changing sand mountains. A Mac Wood’s Dune Ride is a thrilling experience! To climb to the summit and see spread in all directions such a vast panorama is breathtaking! Glide down the sweeps into the valleys, drive past sparkling Silver Lake, and see Lake Michigan’s lovely beach! Visitors of all ages enjoy the exciting, scenic rides. We are accessible to the mobility impaired. Come anytime! We only take reservations for charter bus tours and school groups.
Dune Rentals
Sun Buggy Fun Rentals
(517) 271-8585
Silver lake Buggy Rentals
(231) 873-8833
Silverback Offroad Rental
(231) 923-2455
Silver Lake Adventures
(231) 360-2513
Duneland Off Road Center
(231) 873-4047
Sandboard Rentals:
Challenge your surfing skills while going down the famous Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Great to bring along while on a boating trip to the dunes, and a great way to get the kids tired out, while having a blast in the sand. An easy sport for all ages! A must do activity for a fun filled day of memories at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes.
The Sand Box
(231) 873-4828
Wave Club Water Sport Boat Rentals
(231) 873-3700
Get on the Water!
Wave Club Water Sport Boat Rentals
Water Sport Rentals at Silver Lake, Michigan (waveclubwatersports.com)
(231) 873-3700
Open daily 8 am to 8 PM
Located at beautiful Silver Lake Sand Dunes, provides a variety of water sports equipment for rent. You can enjoy a day skimming across the surface of Silver Lake or visit the Sand Dunes to enjoy sand surfing, volleyball, or just a day in the sun!
Equipment for rent includes:
- Ski boats
- Wave runners
- Paddle boards
- Sailboats
- Sandsurfers
- Pontoon boats
- Ski equipment and tubing equipment is also available.
*Instruction is given with all rental units.
Happy Mohawk Canoe Livery
(231) 894-4209
Days of operation in the summer of 2023 are Wednesday thru Sunday.
Canoe, kayak, raft or tube the Nationally Designated Scenic White River. Happy Mohawk Canoe Livery is the only full service provider of watercraft on the White River. We provide transportation for all our watercraft rentals along with paddles and personal flotation devices.
This is the closest canoe rental to the Silver Lake Sand Dunes, just 35 minutes south of Silver Lake.
** Walk-ins are always welcome but we do recommend making reservations, especially for weekend adventures. A reservation helps to assure the availability of your preferred watercraft and allows us to register you quicker during busy periods.
Charles Mears State Park
Charles Mears State Park is located in the quaint village of Pentwater along the Lake Michigan shoreline and offers fine sand and a swimming beach adjacent to the harbor pier.
Stony Lake Channel and Oval Beach
Stony Lake Channel joins Lake Michigan at Benona Township’s Oval Beach 2 miles west of Stony Haven. Relax, sunbathe or picnic on sugar-sand. Al Capone’s summer hideaway greets you as you crest the hill overlooking Lake Michigan. A boat launch for small craft and a new fishing deck accommodate sightseers and avid sportsmen.
Launch under Stony Lake bridge at the west end of the lake, and float from the grassy public swimming beach down the channel to Lake Michigan. This gentle 2 hour ride has some surprises along the way.
Area Golf
The Colonial Golf Course
(231) 873-8333
The Colonial Golf Course located in Hart, MI (colonialgolfhart.com)
Oceana Golf Club located in Shelby, MI
(231) 861-4211
Home – Oceana (oceanagolfclub.com)
Benona Shores Golf Course
(231) 861-2098
Home – Oceana (benonashores.com)
Golden Sands Golf Course
(231) 873-4909
Places to Eat – Golden Sands Golf Course Bucket Bar
Double JJ Resort – Grand View Golf Course
(231) 861-6616
Double JJ Resort – Arthur Hills Thoroughbred Golf Club
(231) 894-3939
West Michigan Golf Courses | Double JJ Resort
| Summer Hours | Weekday rates 9/18 w. cart | Weekend Rates 9/18 w. cart | Holes | Par |
The Colonial | 8 am – 8 pm | $32/$42 | $40/$55 | 27 | 72 |
The Heritage at Colonial | 8 am – 8 pm | $19 | $19 | 9 | 30 |
Oceana | 7 am – 8 pm | 18 | 73 | ||
Benona Shores | 7 am – 8 pm | $20/$32 | $22/$34 | 18 | 60 |
Golden Sands | 8 am – 10 pm | $25 | $25 | 9 | 33 |
Grand View @ JJ | 7 am – 9 pm | $22/$36 | $26/$42 | 18 | 71 |
Arthur Hills Thoroughbred @ JJ | 7 am – 9 pm | $26/$42 | $36/$60 | 18 | 72 |
|
Local Shops & Markets
Claybanks Pottery 7060 South Scenic Drive, New Era, MI
Visit our studio, nestled in the pristine forest along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, to find a family of artists creating hand made, high fire stoneware pottery for both decorative and functional use.
Cherry Point Farm & Market 9600 W. Buchanan Road, Shelby, MI
Cherry Point Farm & Market – Home (cherrypointmarket.net)
Cherry Point Farm is one of the oldest operating farms in Oceana County, Michigan; just a mile from the Lake Michigan shoreline and minutes from the Silver Lake sand dunes. Whether you join us for a fish boil, a walk in the labyrinth and herb garden, a quick stop to pick up your fresh produce for dinner and a cherry strudel or turnovers for breakfast, or just to listen to the chorus of spring peepers at dusk, we hope your visit provides moments of enrichment.
2023 Fish Boil Schedule: June 17, June 23, & June 28, then every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday through Labor Day Weekend.
All boils begin at 6 pm. Reservations are required by phone. Please call 231-861-2029and leave a message with your callback number. Your reservation is not confirmed until you have received a return call from us.
The Artisan Market Village 8660 Water Street, Montague, MI
The Artisan Market Village is a community space housing artisan vendors, food vendors and events.
On The Farm 6894 W. Lake Road Mears, MI
Rustic eclectic shop for all your home, garden and holiday needs.
Macs Meats & Country Roads Bakery 6261 S Oceana Dr Rothbury, MI
Meat Market – Mac’s Meats & Country Roads Bakery (macsmeats.com)
We are much more than just your local “butcher shop.” If beef is “what’s for supper,” then we have something to make every meal special! Visit Mac’s Meats and Country Roads Bakery today for the best meats and the freshest baked goods in town.
Woodland Farm Market and Bakery 5393 West Shelby Road, Shelby, MI
Home Page (woodlandfarmmarketandbakery.com)
Woodland Farm Market is a “must stop” on your way to the Silver Lake Sand Dunes and the surrounding West Michigan areas! We offer homemade goodness to make your stay in West Michigan even more enjoyable. Come in and experience the aroma of our AWARD WINNING PIES, made from scratch and baked in our own ovens. Woodland Farm Market offers many other baked good options including our famous Apple Fritters!
Some of the items we make fresh daily include: Donuts, Muffins, Turnovers, Strudels, Tarts, Cookies, Brownies, Pies, Bear Claws, Breads, and more!
Jazz Blueberry Farm 7223 W. Grant Rd., Shelby Township, MI
Hobby Farm & U-Pick Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries, Pumpkins and cut flowers for bouquets
Merten’s Farmhouse Market 230 E. Polk Rd Hart, MI
Facebook / Merten’s Farmhouse Market llc – Bakery in Hart (business.site)
We are a scratch bakery, taking pride in our cakes, cookies, cupcakes, pastries and much more. Stop by for fresh flowers, farm fresh produce and eggs!
Country Dairy 3476 S 80th Ave, New Era, MI
Come inside for all of our products: milk, cheese, ice cream, meat (fresh and frozen), also local honey, maple syrup, jam, and our own baked goods.
Up North Farm Market 3890 Monroe Rd., Hart, MI
Farmers market – Up North Farm Market | Hart
At Up North you can nd quite the selection of fresh produce from over 20 local farmers, Boar’s Head meats & cheeses, Sanders Meats, Country Dairy products, unique household décor and so much more. The animals at Up North are owned by Mike Blackmer who has a hobby farm at home and is happy to bring some of his favorites for visitors to see.
Rennhack Orchards Market: 3731 W. Polk Road, Hart, MI
We are a family owned farm & market located in Hart, Michigan. We strive to grow a delicious & diverse selection of local fruits & veggies just for you! We offer seasonal produce and other local made delights like jams, honey, maple syrup, breakfast cookies, gift baskets and so much more.
Pentwater – S Hancock St
Come to the charming village of Pentwater, MI to enjoy shopping at the variety of stores in the downtown area. These specialty stores offer convenient parking and personalized service. Shop for clothing, souvenirs, and sports equipment. Take your time and browse through art, collectibles and home decor. Then whet your appetite with a cool drink, dinner, snack, or ice cream.
For the Family
Arrowhill Farm
961 M-20, New Era, MI (616) 322-8611
Homestead Tour with Goats through the Woods
Every morning at 10 am our goat herd is released from their overnight paddock to forage through our wooded dune lands. The farm is surrounded by the county’s recreational public Manistee Forest with hundreds of acres of pure Michigan nature along beautiful sandy hiking trails.
Guests begin the hike at the rendezvous goat barn with the goats. Here is where our goats can be pet and introduced, starting the hour-long easy walking trail hike. During this gentle jaunt through the woods our guests will get to know our friendly goats by being able to hand feed treats, learn what shrubs are the goats’ favorite forage, and have any extra belongings (such as a water bottle) be panniered by our goats.
Although this experience is routinely beginning every morning, sometimes we can flexibly arrange our goat hikes to start any time from 8am till noon.
Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo
Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo | New Era, MI | Home
4180 West M-20 New Era, MI
Explore the adventure farm! Meet exotic animals, eat delicious FOOD, & feel like a kid again with our 46+ attractions
Stony Lake Stables
Stony Lake Stables | Horseback Rides in Western Michigan
4345 South 44th Avenue, New Era, MI (231) 861-4445
Come join us on a horseback ride through the beautiful West Michigan countryside as we enjoy the scenery and learn riding basics. Beginners are welcome!
Our gentle, well-trained horses and experienced wranglers work hard to provide an enjoyable experience for each and every guest. On this horseback ride, travel along beautiful shaded trails and have an opportunity to see whitetail deer and other wildlife.
Children ages 1-2 can ride double in the saddle with an adult, ages 3 and up will be on their own horse or pony.
Horseback Riding at JJ
Horseback Riding – Michigan Ranch Resort and Waterpark | Double JJ
5900 Water Road Rothbury, MI (713) 469-0418
Experience the beauty of nature at its finest during a one-hour casual ride with friends and loved ones. No experience required, ages 5 years and up.
If you or your group are looking for a trail ride customized to your riding style and level of experience then a private ride is what you’re looking for! Call to setup the time, # of riders, experience level, etc.
Enjoy the scenic views on a relaxing guided tour of our 2,000-acre resort.
Hart Hydro Disc Golf Course
3640 W Harrison Rd, Hart, MI
Disc golf is a fun and challenging sport for people of all ages. Like regular golf, the object of disc golf is to play each hole in the fewest number of throws (strokes) possible. The player with the fewest total throws for the 18-hole course is the winner!
The Great Outdoors
Genevieve Casey Nature Sanctuary
Three habitats predominate in this 53-acre sanctuary: a large marsh in the north; groves of pine and cedar in the south; and a low-shrub and lichen barren area that lies in the center.
Explore this 1.9-mile loop trail near Mears, Michigan. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 37 min to complete. This trail is great for birding, hiking, and walking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
The Otto Nature Preserve
3001 16th Ave, Shelby, MI 49455
Otto Nature Preserve — Oceana Conservation District
The Otto Nature Preserve is an 80-acre parcel of land in Benona Township. Visitors are welcome at the Otto Nature Preserve from dawn to dusk to hike the trails and enjoy the natural surroundings. A gravel parking lot is accessible from Scenic Drive; please stay off Apache Drive. The nature preserve is open for recreational, educational and scientific use only.
Pentwater Pathways Cross-Country Ski & Hiking Trail
Pentwater Pathway Trail Map and Guide (getoffthecouch.info)
Pentwater Pathway is located in the Pere Marquette State Forest and is under the care of OCCSA and the Michigan Wildlife Division of the DNR. The Pathways trail system includes four loops totaling 15 miles, with beginner to advanced trails. The trails cover mostly soft rolling hills, are heavily wooded and offer abundant wildlife.
A 300-plus acre cross-country ski trail located in the Pentwater River State Game Area is home to the outdoor adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. The great location view throughout the trails keeps the cross-country skiers, hikers and trail runners coming back year after year. The trails are for foot-traffic only, bicycles and motorized vehicles are prohibited in this area.
William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail
William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail State Park | Michigan Trails | TrailLink
Rolling for 22 paved miles through the farms, orchards, and forests of western Michigan between Hart and Montague.
Starting in Montague next to a campground on White Lake, a 0.2-mile side trip via the connecting Medbery Bike Trail takes you to the world’s largest working weathervane on the corner of Dowling and Water Streets. The 48-foot-tall structure is topped by a replica of the Ella Ellenwood, a 19th-century schooner that carried lumber on Lake Michigan. Another trail, the White Lake Pathway, crosses White Lake into Whitehall, where it meets the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail, which goes south toward Muskegon.
Heading north on the William Field Memorial Hart-Montague Trail, you’ll pass Christmas tree farms, orchards, and the 100-acre Clear Springs Nature Preserve on the way to Rothbury (mile 6.2). Be on the lookout for deer in the fields and orchards, especially in the morning and evening. A 4-mile section between West Fruitvale Road and Rothbury is open for horseback riders.
The village of New Era (mile 10) is near the halfway point of the trail, and during the summer you can stop for homemade ice cream at the trailside dairy bar.
Another 4.3 miles up the trail is the the village of Shelby.
In 5.8 miles, the trail brushes the southern edge of Mears, another food and water stop. The farmland here gives rise to Oceana County’s claim as the Asparagus Capital of the Nation.
Black Lake County Park
Black Lake County Park – Oceana County Michigan
Black Lake County Park is located on 100 acres in Colfax Township in northeastern Oceana County and provides great swimming and fishing opportunities, a boat launch, and hiking trails, as well as a playground for the children
Crystal Valley County Park
Crystal Valley County Park – Oceana County Michigan
Crystal Valley County Park is located on 7.3 acres in Crystal Township in northeast Oceana County. The park offers access to both Crystal Creek and Crystal Pond for fishing, swimming, and kayaking access.
In addition to water features, Crystal Valley County Park provides a softball/soccer field with dugouts and bleachers, a tennis/basketball court, and play areas for children. With the addition of a large covered pavilion with tables, lights and outlets, as well as picnic areas with tables and grills, this rural park is a perfect location for gatherings and events.
Gales Pond County Park
Gales Pond County Park – Oceana County Michigan
Gales Pond County Park is located in Elbridge Township in central Oceana County. At just under 19 acres in size, this beloved park features a 2,500-foot handicap-accessible boardwalk that extends across the pond and links up with the winding nature trail along the wooded back portion of the park. Bald Eagles and other unique bird species can often be observed at Gales Pond which is always teaming with wildlife.
Gales Pond is a favorite haunt for those wishing to get away for an hour or two to enjoy the sight of sandhill cranes, ducks, and other wildlife — plus the fresh scent of the woods that line the marked nature trails. Facilities include a dam, boardwalk, marked trail, picnic tables, and restroom.
In addition to the boardwalk and trails, Gales Pond County Park also includes a picnic area with tables and grills on a hill overlooking the pond. A seasonal porta-john is also available.
Gales Pond is also a short walk away from Doolittle County Park which offers more nature trails and wildlife viewing.
Doolittle County Park
Doolittle County Park – Oceana County Michigan
Doolittle County Park consists of 40 wooded acres in Elbridge Township, centrally located in Oceana County. Enjoyed for its hiking and nature trails, the park is especially striking in the spring and summer months when the ephemeral ponds are teaming with wildlife.
Near the Doolittle County Park entrance and parking area, there is a newly built rustic covered pavilion and large fire ring for picnicking before or after hikes.
Rainy Days
Bamboozled Escape Room
(231) 742-1288
3243 W Lever Rd. Hart, MI
Home | Hart, MI BamBoozled Escape Rooms (bamboozledofhart.com)
Bamboozled is a type of escape room. You have a final objective and must scour the room for clues. You must search top to bottom to figure out what are clues and which objects are not. You will have to think together to solve puzzles/problems/riddles etc. that will ultimately unlock more of those that will lead you to the final objective object for that room. You have exactly an hours time to beat the odds. It is intended to be a challenge and is supposed to be challenging enough that only 20% of people should make it through on time. OUR main objective is to make sure you are not only challenged but, more importantly, having a great time!
“We schedule by appointment only at this time. We will try to accommodate whatever day and time you prefer with enough notice.”
*See website to book and for explanations of the different rooms.
FOE Bowling Club
(231) 873-4801
4555 N Oceana Dr, Hart, MI
Besides bowling, they offer pool tables, air hockey and claw games.
Gold Rush Indoor Waterpark
(231) 894-4444
5900 S Water Rd, Rothbury, MI 49452
Indoor Water Park in Michigan – Gold Rush Waterpark | Double JJ
Double JJ Resort is home to the Gold Rush Indoor Waterpark, 60,000 square feet of pure water park excitement. Soar down Western Michigan’s tallest indoor waterslide or jump on one of our thrill slides, float down the lazy/crazy river, splash in the wave pool, water fort, toddler pool, water basketball, or relax in the hot tubs!
West MI Wineries
The Fox Barn Winery
500 S 18th Ave 231-861-8050
Shelby MI 49455
We have a unique setting within our restored antique barn for you to enjoy. Taste wines at the bar then enjoy your favorite with a ‘Barn Bites’ food board on the outdoor patio. Enjoy the great selection of wine themed items & take your favorite home. Select fresh produce in season & choose from a variety of specialty foods.
Our family is proud to be part of a rich farming community for 5 generations. Through the years we have seen many changes and are excited about the future. The basis of our business is the care of 2000 acres of land that is ¾ planted to fruit with a little asparagus and the remaining is wood lots that are managed by a forester. Our Farm Market was introduced in 2005 & the Winery added in 2008. This has been quite an adventure & we enjoy sharing it with you.
LIVE MUSIC: Fridays @ Fox’s.
7-10pm $5 Cover
First come, first served
Memorial thru Labor Day Weekend
Oceana Winery & Vineyard
4980 S 52nd Ave 231-343-0769 or 231-343-0038
New Era, MI 49446
We passionately craft our wines and cultivate our collection of discriminating grape vines. We offer a vast selection of wines from dry to sweet – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! We Invite You to stop in for a tasting of our fine wines and spend time relaxing and enjoying the panoramic view of beautiful Oceana County and our vineyard.
Monday – Saturday: 12 – 5 pm
closed Sundays
Rooster Ridge Vineyards
Winery | Rooster Ridge Vineyards | New Era
6300 Pike Rd 517-881-9063
New Era, MI 49446
In 2004, Vintner Tim Felt and his wife, Julie, founded Rooster Ridge Vineyard in the countryside of Oceana County, approximately 5 miles from the shores of Lake Michigan. The Felts’ dream has matured into a tasting room, event venue, and working winery that will dazzle you with its park-like setting.
Tasting Room:
Friday, Saturday, & Sunday: 11am – 6pm
Venue Tours
By appointment, flexible times available.
Pleasant Valley Farm and Vineyard
Pleasant Valley Farm and Vineyard – Pleasant Valley Farm and Vineyard
522 North 69th Ave. 616-288-4229
Hart, MI 49420
All of our wines are 100% sourced from our farm. No imported juice, and no imported flavors! We want to bring you the delicious characteristics that come with the unique climate of west-central Michigan. Our offerings range from interpretations of classic European favorites to 21st century offerings that move wine style into the future. Our additional products also include Maple Syrup produced on our property as well as fudge!
Wednesday: 1p-6p
Thursday: 1p-6p
Friday: 1p-7p
Saturday: 1p-7p