Welcome to Your Fall Coastal Adventure
Autumn brings crisp air, golden leaves, and fewer crowds—making it the perfect time for a road trip from New Buffalo up through Western Michigan’s lakeshore. This route from New Buffalo → St. Joseph → South Haven → Holland → Grand Haven offers beaches, lighthouses, fall color, local food, and boutique towns. Beachwalk Properties is your guide for where to stay, what to eat, and what not to miss.
Route & Must-See Stops Along the Way
Here are great stops you’ll want to build into your itinerary, from New Buffalo north to Grand Haven (roughly 100-110 miles, taking detours for sights).
| Stop | Things to See & Do |
|---|---|
| New Buffalo | Start with breakfast at Redamak’s. Wander the beach. Maybe try Four Winds Casino if you want a bit of entertainment. |
| Harbor Country (Union Pier / Sawyer / Lakeside towns) | Visit Warren Dunes State Park for dune hikes, beach walks, and autumn views. Wine tasting at Round Barn Winery. |
| St. Joseph / Benton Harbor | Silver Beach, Silver Beach Carousel, lighthouse and pier walk. Eat at local favorites in downtown. Explore the Harbor Country food scene. |
| South Haven | Chill at Van Buren State Park. Shop downtown. Try local orchards or cider mills if in season. |
| Holland | Big Red Lighthouse at Holland State Park. Walk along Windmill Island Gardens. Beautiful fall foliage in surrounding parks. |
| Grand Haven | Grand Haven State Park & South Pierhead Light(s), stroll the boardwalk along the channel. Sunset at the beach. Visit local shops & dinner downtown. |
Places to Eat Along the Way
-
Redamak’s (New Buffalo) — classic diner fare, burgers, welcoming vibe. Redamak’s
-
Harbor Country Eateries — cozy farm-to-table spots, wine country restaurants in Union Pier / Baroda area. Harbor Country Eateries
-
Downtown St. Joseph — fresh seafood, casual breweries, lakeside restaurants.
-
South Haven — café stops, pizza, seasonal treats, orchard stands.
-
Holland & Grand Haven — try Lakeshore breweries, waterfront dining, pastries or small local bakeries.
Best Places to Stay with Beachwalk Properties
As you travel, rest up at some Beautiful lodging:
-
In New Buffalo, Beachwalk offers lakefront cabins / cottages close to the beach and downtown.
-
Around Harbor Country, find cozy houses near vineyards or beach towns.
-
In St. Joseph / Benton Harbor, homes within walking distance to Silver Beach or downtown shops.
-
Near South Haven / Holland, Beachwalk properties with views, fireplaces, and fall foliage access.
-
In Grand Haven, stay close to the pier, state park, or the charming downtown scene.
Stay with Beachwalk Properties to enjoy local customer service, comfort, and homes that make you feel like part of the neighborhood.
Things to Do: Outdoor, Culture & Fall Vibes
-
Beach & Lakeshore Walks – especially at Warren Dunes, Silver Beach, Holland State Park, Grand Haven State Park.
-
Lighthouses & Pier Walks – South Pier Lights in Grand Haven; Big Red Lighthouse in Holland.
-
State Parks & Nature Centers – Van Buren State Park, Hoffmaster State Park near Grand Haven (nice trails, dunes).
-
Wine Trails & Farms – Union Pier, Baroda, and vineyards; apple or pumpkin picking in orchards as fall arrives.
-
Shopping & Local Culture – downtown boutiques, art galleries, artisan shops in towns like Holland, South Haven.
-
Seasonal Events – Fall festivals, farmers markets, food fairs along the coast.
Why Travel This Route in Fall
-
Fewer crowds and better rates
-
Gorgeous fall color along rural roads and dunes
-
Sunset views earlier in the evening
-
Many indoor/outdoor options: wineries, cozy cafés, parks
-
Weather crisp but often still pleasant for walks and outdoor dining
Thinking of Buying? Contact a Beachwalk Realtor
Maybe this trip makes you think — “Could I live here part-time or full-time?” If so:
-
Beachwalk’s realtors know the coastal properties in these towns intimately
-
They can help you explore lakeview homes, vacation rentals, or year-round properties along this route
-
Whether it’s your dream weekend home, a house with a view, or investment property — they’ve got you covered