Vacation rentals in South Haven

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Popular amenities for South Haven vacation rentals

Stay near South Haven's top sights

South Beach46 locals recommend
Meijer40 locals recommend
Clementines71 locals recommend
Kids' Corner36 locals recommend
Michigan Maritime Museum30 locals recommend
Walmart Supercenter17 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in South Haven

  • Total rentals

    620 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $40 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    12K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    530 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    140 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    170 properties have a pool

Your guide to South Haven

All About South Haven

A beach town and working harbor for more than a century, South Haven is one of the most agreeable getaways on the Lake Michigan lakeshore. The most famous of its stretches of soft sands is South Beach, where visitors swim in sight of its famous red lighthouse. You can tour the Michigan Maritime Museum’s exhibits, or make a reservation to sail out onto the lake on its tall ship. Inland, the bike and hiking trails stretch for miles, and they’re as popular in autumn as they are in the snowy winters and the flower-filled spring (Holland, Michigan’s annual Tulip Time Festival is just 30 miles away, after all). Active travelers can also spend a day away from the water at the raceways, horse stables, and golf courses. Or do what most people who escape to South Haven do: simply slow down.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in South Haven

Summer is definitely the ideal time to visit the Lake Michigan shore. The temperature varies from the 70s through the low 90s Fahrenheit from June through August, but the lake tempers the heat. As you may expect from a land of lakes and rivers, in late summer the humidity spikes, and rains are frequent, so pack rain gear as well as sunblock and mosquito repellent.

April and May are cooler — think high 50s and low 60s Fahrenheit — but still pleasant, and autumn, which begins mid-September and lasts through November, is glorious, with crisp air and brilliantly colored foliage. Winters stretch from early December to March. During those months, temperatures below the 40s Fahrenheit are the norm, and the lakeshore effect brings freezing winds and snows.


Top things to do in South Haven

Saugatuck

Just 20 miles north of South Haven, Saugatuck has the air of a perennial resort. Its charming downtown is the culinary capital of the coast, and between meals you can stop in at craft breweries and art galleries. The city is also considered the Provincetown of the Midwest, with numerous LGBTQ-friendly campgrounds and gathering spaces.

Kal-Haven Trail

This flat, wooded trail extends 33 miles between South Haven and Kalamazoo, with bridges and towns along the way. A former railroad, its crushed-rock surface is free of steep inclines and easy for bikes and wheelchairs to navigate. In the winter, cross-country skiers leave their stripes in the snow, and some snowmobiles travel as far along the route as they can go.

Fruit picking

Southern and western Michigan is the Midwest’s fruit bowl, providing three seasons’ worth of berries, stone fruit, and apples. U-Pick farms are scattered around South Haven, and the city hosts an annual blueberry festival. Even if you can’t fill your suitcase with fresh cherries, you can pick up pastries and jams for the journey home.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in South Haven?

    South Haven, Michigan, experiences a moderate climate. Summers are warm, typically around 80°F (27°C), perfect for beach activities. Winters are cold, often dropping to 20°F (-6°C) with snowfall, creating opportunities for winter sports like skiing.

  • What are some of the best things to do in South Haven?

    Visitors to South Haven can explore the Michigan Maritime Museum, relax on North and South Beach, or hike in the Van Buren State Park. Also, don't miss the chance to see the historic South Haven Lighthouse.

  • What is the best time of year to visit South Haven?

    The summer months, particularly July and August, are the most popular times to visit South Haven, as the weather is warm and the town hosts many events, including the National Blueberry Festival.

  • What are the best places to stay in South Haven?

    The downtown area of South Haven is a popular place to stay, due to its proximity to shops and restaurants. The North Shore and South Beach areas also attract visitors with their scenic views and beach access.

  • What are the best places to visit in South Haven?

    In South Haven, the Michigan Maritime Museum and South Haven Lighthouse are frequently suggested. Nearby, the Van Buren State Park and its beach are also often recommended.

  • What are some hiking trails in South Haven?

    In South Haven, the Van Buren State Park Trail is a popular hiking spot. The Kal-Haven Trail, a 34 mile (55 km) trail connecting South Haven and Kalamazoo, is also frequented by hikers and cyclists alike.

  • What are some family activities to do in South Haven?

    Families in South Haven can enjoy a day at the Kid's Corner Playground, explore the Michigan Maritime Museum, or have a fun-filled day at the beach. The National Blueberry Festival in August is also a family-friendly event.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in South Haven?

    For a day trip from South Haven, consider visiting the nearby city of Kalamazoo, which is home to several museums and the Kalamazoo Nature Centre. Another option is Saugatuck, a charming lakeside town located just 30 miles (48 km) north.

  • What types of vacation rentals are available in South Haven?

    Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in South Haven. From over 50 condo rentals to over 420 house rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in South Haven?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 260 vacation rentals in South Haven featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Destinations to explore

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