Submitted by: Beth Rudnick
Beach lovers who really dig their dunes should check out Hagar Park, which is about 8 miles north of St. Joe, Michigan, on M63. But keep your eyes on the odometer – Hagar Park, very much off the beaten path with little signage, is easy to miss from the road but a not-to-be-missed spot for tranquil walks on the shoreline, beach combing, and awesome views of our lovely lake.
Off the beaten path, Hagar beach is also dog friendly!
The park itself includes a small area with playground equipment to tempt the kids and built-in grills for cooking out. But the real beauty is down a flight of stairs to an unspoiled stretch of beach speckled with cliffside houses and beautiful views of the lake. Although Hagar beach becomes very popular with the locals at the height of summer, this time of year the park and beach are delightfully serene. And while Hagar Park suffered some beach erosion a couple years ago, the beach is back!
Haymarket Taproom in Bridgman is one of our favorites!
The park opens early, so start your Michigan day trip there. After checking out nostalgic downtown St. Joe (sidewalk sales starting May 17!), head back to Indiana on Red Arrow Highway (Business I-94) and be sure to stop at Haymarket Taproom and Brewery in Bridgman, Michigan, about 10 – 15 minutes south of St. Joe. Tucked in the woods, this microbrewery also boasts made-from-scratch wood fired pizzas (including vegetarian/vegan options), a kid’s menu, and indoor/outdoor seating (also dog friendly!). Haymarket uses locally sourced ingredients and the food is simply delish.
Deals, dunes, and drafts (and dogs!) – enjoy springtime along the lake!
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