Coastal Living magazine named it 'America’s Happiest Seaside Town 2017' and certainly there's much to smile about here. There's the old-fashioned storefronts and the busy 1.5 mile boardwalk with its candy colored lighthouse, for starters. See exactly what we mean by booking a FlipKey vacation rental in Grand Haven, today.

 About Grand Haven, Michigan

Where the Grand River meets Lake Michigan sits Grand Haven, the county seat of Michigan's Ottawa County. As you'd imagine, the area is big on boating, fishing and all things maritime.

Originally fished and hunted by the Potawatomi and Ottawa native american tribes, Grand River also proved an important trading route. The latter was the focus of a Madeline La Framboise, a French fur trader and amongst the first European settlers. 

In 1834, the first American laid roots - a minister called William Ferry. A Tannery was set up in 1838 and, in the mid to latter half of the 19th century, it became a logging town. Ships were also built here. There was a piano factory during most of the 20th century.

The city has it's own semi-professional football team, the Lakeshore Cougars, and is a favorite location for beach volleyball thanks to the quality of the sand.

What to do

Check out your cardiovascular function – and the amazing views – by climbing the 1000 stairs at Rosy Mound Natural Area to the top of the 200-foot high sand dune.

Get fit as a family by hiring bikes and embarking on the 20-mile Lakeshore Trail from Grand Haven State Park to Holland State Park. Or, start on the smaller 15 mile cycle round around Spring Lake.

Sample the local distilled grape at the Lemon Creek Winery. A 300-acre family farm which has been around for more than 150 years, it boasts 24 different wines to sample at its Grand Haven tasting venue.

Hire a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle board and go touring around Pigeon Creek, Lake Michigan and the Grand River itself.

Go check out the musical fountains at dusk. The dazzling light displays are synched to match the music – anything from Star Wars to Mozart!

Top Grand Haven travel tips

Get into Grand Haven via a Greyhound bus station or even by boat (it is a port with a marina, after all). The nearest airport is Muskegon County, sitting just nine miles away. Get around the city via tourist trolley if you're visiting during the summer months.

The weather is hottest in July, but the town is no stranger to rain throughout the year, so always bring a rain jacket.

If you're heading for Grand Haven Beach by car, then get there early to ensure you'll get parked. Those spots fill up fast, especially during the summer months.

Grand Haven is quaint, coastal town America. But it's also a busy seaside location with lots of outdoor activities to pack in, from biking to skiing and kayaking. Just make sure you manage to book your family in by checking out the Grand Haven vacation rentals on FlipKey, today.