The adventures of MR5 as she cruises America's Great Loop
Lake Michigan coast: South Haven and New Buffalo
September 6, 2026 through September 11, 2026
South Haven, MI
Labor Day Weekend has always held a special place in our hearts, since it was twenty-six years ago, on Labor Day Weekend at Block Island, that we first met. So, we were thrilled beyond belief when we arrived in South Haven on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend and discovered an equally spectacular place to celebrate the holiday.
It was one of those perfectly warm and sunny days that makes you want to bottle up summer and keep it forever. The town and beach were overflowing with people determined to squeeze every last drop out of the season, and our spot on the channel wall gave us the perfect front-row seat for the parade of boats. There was plenty to watch, plenty to laugh about, and plenty of opportunities for Chris to play marina cop (we really need to get him a badge).
The charming seaside town was also a conveniently short walk from the marina—or, more accurately, a conveniently short walk to the top of a conveniently short hill. All in all, it was a pretty wonderful place to spend a weekend that already carries so much meaning for us—and a lovely reminder that, twenty-six years later, we’re still making some of our favorite memories together.
This is one of THE most convenient dock locations we’ve had on this trip: 50 feet from the marina office, laundry, and washrooms! It’s these little things in life that you begin to appreciate.We had front row seats to the parade of boats flowing in and out all day and into the evening.Some boats were sleek and modern……others were an ode to the past like this well maintained classic antique Chris Craft.And what would Labor Day be like without a floating Tiki bar? Does Block Island have one of these?The lighthouse at the opening of the bay was a popular walking destination that day.The beach to the south of the lighthouse was bustling with beach goers enjoying what could possibly be the one last hot summer day.And the channel north of the lighthouse was a parade of every kind of boat imaginable, including a tall ship. We didn’t need to walk to the top of the hill. We just let the wave of people carry us–kind of like crowd surfing. Haha.A shot of the marina from the top of the hill. Can you see the Rambler.The street of this delightful coastal town were lined with whimsical sculptures in addition to numerous gift shops and eateries.Ok, although we aren’t sailors, we appreciate the nod to boating.And, of course, this appeals to Chris’ love of fishing…as well as the favorite pastime of Michiganders.The sweet little downtown park had a beautiful garden as well as plenty of shaded benches for sitting…and novel bike stands. Although, I’m not sure if I would want to potentially ruin this work of art.Yes, my friends, ice cream does solve everything. But, can it help that goofy looking lady with her wardrobe?Taking a bike ride was one way to escape the crowds for awhile. (“I love my new little bicycle.”)
New Buffalo, MI
Sadly, New Buffalo would be our final stop along the Michigan coastline. We were determined to make the most of our last few days, so we explored the town, hopped on our bikes for a long ride all the way to the Indiana border, enjoyed an afternoon at the beach, and—because no adventure is complete without it—made a very important stop at an ice cream shop.
We’ve thoroughly enjoyed our travels along the Michigan coast and are already thinking about how we might find an excuse to come back someday. Until then, we’ll have to console ourselves with the memories, the photos, and probably a little more ice cream! 🍦🚲🏖️
Ah! A statue of the town mascot.Just one of the uniquely beautiful and interesting homes along the coastline.I guess you can never have enough bird houses.What’s a day at the beach without seagulls? There were plenty. I actually found this particular breed to be very attractive.We’re not sure if this was a working lighthouse or just an innovative lifeguard station.Ah! Ice Cream! Opened in 1987, Oink’s Dutch Treat is a popular ice cream parlor with a unique experience.Beyond enjoying deliciously creamy ice cream, customers can be amused by the thousands of pig and nostalgic memorabilia items.A photo of the wandering cyclists“I’m not tired. I think we should run up and down these stairs a few times. What do you think Chris?”Proof of our state crossingThese smooth large stones are a novel, sustainable seating option. This mural on the wall outside of Starbucks was painted by Kate Lynn Lewis.No, this is not a boat propeller. This sculpture, Enduring Spirit, was created by artist Fritz Olsen. It represents the Four Winds and honors the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians.Good night, New Buffalo! Goodbye, Michigan!
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