Let’s take a look at what the city has in store—from hidden gems and relaxing waterfront spots to lively, festive events.
Start off the holiday with a leisurely morning walk through the charming downtown district. The streets will likely be busy with energetic patrons as shops open their doors, and cafes serve up fresh coffee and pastries. So, you’ll want to know exactly where to go before you head to the beach!
This locally owned breakfast and lunch cafe is a worthwhile stop. Grab one of their blueberry soda or strawberry lemonade slushies, various flavors of mimosas, or strawberry salads. Don’t forget to order one of their famous, delectable blueberry donuts for on-the-go. No matter what you walk out the door with, it is a guaranteed refreshment! Take a peek at their Instagram for the latest additions to their menu.
Or, maybe you’re a hardcore coffee lover. Your time would be well spent at Foxtail Coffee, one of the newer members to downtown. Here you can customize your cold brew order, hot coffee, iced coffee, or cappuccino. (And if you’re not a coffee fan… try out their iced tea shakers!) If you want even more, take a look at the special gelato flavors on their menu.
Downtown Holland offers a patriotic discount—wear your red, white, or blue colors and receive a complimentary 20% on one item purchased at participating shops and restaurants.
When looking for a spot to settle your umbrella and folding chair, it’s important to find the perfect beach to match your plans. Take a glance at these local beaches and what they have to offer:
For the social, lively beachgoer (ideal for families)
If you want to follow the crowd, head to Holland State Park. This is one of a few days out of the year when the beach is absolutely packed, so make sure you arrive early enough to find a parking spot. If you don't, you may have to park outside the gates and walk or bike in. You’ll likely have beach “neighbors” here, with available spots filling up quickly. This beach is ideal for families, as it has various amenities to entertain—volleyball pits, a playground, ice cream shack, picnic tables, and campsites. Take a walk down the lakeshore and visit the infamous “Big Red” lighthouse or wait until dusk to view the fireworks hosted near Lake Macatawa.
For the scenic, lively beachgoer (ideal for families)
Snuggled between Holland and Saugatuck, Laketown Beach offers a panoramic view of Lake Michigan. To get there, you’ll have to embark on a little descent—a long, wooden staircase atop the dunes is the only way to reach the water. This beach is much less commercialized as compared to Holland State Park. Bring a beach blanket and your camera for the golden-hour glow. It’s important to notice there are no on-site concessions—pack your cooler accordingly. So kick up your feet, lean back in your beach chair, and pick up a good read. This beach is for those wanting a quieter experience without sacrificing the patriotic, maritime vibes.
For the traditional, yet adventurous beachgoer (ideal for families)
Only a short drive from downtown, Tunnel Park acquired its name from the actual tunnel carved through the sand dune that leads you right onto the scenic beach stretch. This beach offers more than just a sandy spot to relax. As you enter the beach, you’ll encounter a playground, picnic tables, and sand volleyball courts. Tunnel Park is especially popular with locals as it is somewhat “off the beaten path,” and you must drive through the lakeside neighborhoods to get there. The grassy dunes and quiet environment is just the spot if you’re looking for an alternative to Holland State Park (which you can actually view from the park as it is along the same stretch of lakeshore).
For the postcard-perfect, classic-summer-vibe beachgoer (the tourist beach)
A bit further south in Saugatuck, Oval Beach is actually a nationally-recognized gem—frequently landing on America’s best beaches lists. Its wide shores, soft sand, and calm waters make it a dream for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking in the view. It’s a maritime classic. The rolling dunes hug the shoreline, and nearby trails add a touch of exploration. If you’re looking for the best mix of natural beauty and comfort, then this location is worth the short drive.
For the nature lovers and four-legged friends (the canine beach)
Just north of Holland, Kirk Park offers a beautiful blend of sandy lakeshore and wooded hiking trails. What sets this beach apart is its dog-friendly policy—your pup can roam off-leash during designated hours. Towering dunes provide scenic overlooks of Lake Michigan, while shaded picnic areas and forested paths create a quieter, more peaceful retreat—compared to the area’s busier beaches. If you’re looking to couple your beach day with a nature walk, a game of fetch, or a sunset picnic away from the crowds, this beach has the perfect balance.
Looking for even more Fourth of July fun beyond the beach and fireworks? Holland has several festive options to round out your holiday:
Visit the neighboring city of Zeeland to kick off your holiday festivities with their small-town parade full of marching bands, vintage cars, tractors, community floats, and candy for the kiddos.
Take a peek at Saugatuck's patriotic celebration featuring armed forces, marching bands, floats, classic cars, and candy tosses. Afterwards, head to Coughlin Park for the “afterparty” festivities—a pie-eating contest is something you’ll be devastated to miss!
Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and enjoy a live outdoor concert by the Holland American Legion Band. The performance includes patriotic tunes like “Stars and Stripes Forever,” “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and other favorites to get the crowd on its feet. It’s a relaxing, family-friendly prelude to the night’s fireworks showcase.
As the sun starts to set, the energy across Holland becomes vibrant. Grab dinner downtown at one of the lakeside restaurants (think Boatwerks or Reservoir), and decide on your ideal fireworks-viewing spot. There are a few options:
If you’re looking to stay in Holland, the city’s annual fireworks show is launched from the north side of Lake Macatawa near the state park, and can be seen from nearly any lakeside location, including neighboring beaches.
If you’re able to do a quick, fifteen-minute drive, join Saugatuck for their firework display over Kalamazoo Lake. There are many spots to view this show—from Coghlin Park, The Old Boat House, and even at lakeside dining locations such as The BARge and The Butler.
Hot tip: Be sure to bring a blanket, bug spray, and a flashlight for the walk back to your car. Most firework shows begin around 10:15pm, or dusk, so spots fill up well before the sun goes down.
Photo credits: Sourced from each city’s official website.
Sierra Ozolins is a West Michigan native, currently a student at Hope College. As an athlete, she is passionate about fitness—from running to weightlifting. With a interest for politics and lifestyle, she is intrigued how local culture, community, and everyday events shape the world around her—often with an iced coffee in hand and her dog by her side.
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