Sailing the West Coast of Michigan: A Guide from Benton Harbor to Ludington
The west coast of Michigan along Lake Michigan offers a stunning sailing experience with beautiful harbors, charming small towns, and well-equipped marinas. Whether you're planning a leisurely cruise or an adventurous journey, this guide provides essential information on the harbors, transient docking options, local attractions, and distances between ports from Benton Harbor to Ludington.
1. Benton Harbor / St. Joseph
Chicago to Benton Harbor is approximately 60 nautical miles, making it a convenient first stop for sailors crossing Lake Michigan. West Basin Marina, St. Joseph River Yacht Club, and Pier 1000 Marina all offer transient docking for sailors. The area is home to Silver Beach County Park, the Krasl Art Center, and the historic St. Joseph Lighthouse. The distance to South Haven is approximately 22 nautical miles. West Basin Marina, St. Joseph River Yacht Club, and Pier 1000 Marina all offer transient docking for sailors. The area is home to Silver Beach County Park, the Krasl Art Center, and the historic St. Joseph Lighthouse.
2. South Haven
South Haven is approximately 22 nautical miles north. There you will find the Municipal Marina, Black River Yacht Club, and Oak Harbor Marina provide docking options for visitors. This town is known for the Michigan Maritime Museum, its beautiful North and South Beach, and the scenic Kal-Haven Trail State Park. The journey from South Haven to Saugatuck is about 27 nautical miles
3. Saugatuck / Douglas
Saugatuck welcomes sailors with transient docking at Sergeant Marina, Tower Marina in Douglas, and the Singapore Yacht Club. Visitors can relax at Oval Beach, explore Saugatuck Dunes State Park, explore the beautiful downtown, eat at the many restaurants or browse the many art galleries and boutique shops.
4. Holland
The next leg to Holland is around 15 nautical miles. Holland offers transient docking at Eldean Shipyard, Yacht Basin Marina, and Holland State Park Marina. The city boasts attractions such as the iconic Big Red Lighthouse, Windmill Island Gardens, and Holland State Park. Lake Macatawa offers good inland sailing that is framed by a charming coastal town. Distance from the Big Red Lighthouse to Grand Haven is roughly 20 nautical miles.
5. Grand Haven
Sailors can dock at the Grand Haven Municipal Marina, North Shore Marina, or Grand Isle Marina. The city features Grand Haven State Park, the Grand Haven Musical Fountain Show, and the Lighthouse Pier Walk. Grand Haven is a gem of a city that host the annual Coast Guard Festival each summer. The journey north to Muskegon is approximately 15 nautical miles
6. Muskegon
Transient docking is available at Harbour Towne Marina, Great Lakes Marina, Safe Harbor and Adelaide Point. Popular attractions include the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, Pere Marquette Park Beach, and the Muskegon Museum of Art. Muskegon is going through a rebirth with lots of new options for boaters. Muskegon Lake has some of the best inland sailing around and you will see plenty of new developments popping up along the shore.
7. White Lake (Whitehall & Montague)
White Lake is about 14 nautical miles north of Muskegon. White Lake offers transient docking at White Lake Municipal Marina, Crosswinds Marine Service, and Ellenwood Landing Marina. The area is home to the White River Light Station, Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park, and Montague Farmer’s Market. Explore the twin towns of White Lake and Montague. The journey to Pentwater is approximately 25 nautical miles.
8. Pentwater
Sailors can find transient docking at Snug Harbor Marina, Pentwater Yacht Club, and Charles Mears State Park Marina. Visitors enjoy Mears State Park Beach, the Pentwater Historical Society Museum, and the town’s charming downtown shopping district. Stroll along the boutique-lined streets, grab an ice cream cone from House of Flavors, or catch a sunset over Mears State Park The distance to Ludington is about 11 nautical miles.
9. Ludington
Ludington offers transient docking at Ludington Municipal Marina, Harbor View Marina, and Tamarac Village Marina. Attractions include Ludington State Park, Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and the S.S. Badger Ferry, which provides service to Wisconsin. Ludington State Park, one of Michigan’s top parks, features miles of hiking trails, dunes, and scenic beaches. The SS Badger car ferry, which runs between Ludington and Wisconsin, is a unique experience that history buffs and travelers alike will enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Sailing along Michigan’s west coast offers diverse experiences, from bustling harbor towns to serene beachside getaways. With well-maintained marinas, breathtaking landscapes, and a variety of attractions, this route is perfect for boaters of all kinds. Whether you're stopping for a night or lingering for days, each harbor presents its own unique charm, making this a must-sail journey on the Great Lakes.