Family Beach Getaways Made Easy: Why Sunset Dunes in Bridgman, Michigan is the Perfect Lake Michigan Escape

Matt Schmidt • July 9, 2025

Planning a family beach vacation can feel overwhelming. Parents want beautiful scenery and relaxation, while kids crave space to run and plenty of fun things to do. And of course, everyone wants to avoid breaking the bank.


If you’re dreaming of a beach getaway without the crowds and sky-high prices of coastal destinations, look no further than Sunset Dunes in Bridgman, Michigan. Nestled along Lake Michigan’s gorgeous shoreline, Sunset Dunes offers families a peaceful, affordable, and memory-filled escape.


Lake Michigan Beaches Without the Stress

Many families worry a beach trip will mean:

  • Endless crowds and packed beaches
  • Expensive beachfront hotels
  • Long drives to reach fun attractions


Sunset Dunes solves these problems beautifully. Bridgman’s beaches are known for being less crowded than more famous spots like New Buffalo or South Haven, yet equally stunning. And with Sunset Dunes as your home base, you’re steps from soft sand, gentle waves, and those iconic Lake Michigan sunsets.


Spacious Vacation Rentals Designed for Families

Unlike small hotel rooms, Sunset Dunes offers spacious accommodations perfect for families. You’ll enjoy:

  • Multiple bedrooms so kids and parents each have privacy
  • Full kitchens for easy meals and snacks (perfect for picky eaters)
  • Comfortable living areas for movie nights or rainy-day downtime
  • Outdoor spaces for grilling or evening s’mores under the stars

Many families say this extra space is a game-changer, making vacations more relaxing and less chaotic.


So Much More Than Just the Beach

While the beach is the star, Bridgman offers plenty of family-friendly fun just minutes away:

  • Weko Beach Park – A beautiful beach with a playground and scenic dunes to explore
  • Wineries & Breweries – Many with family-friendly patios and non-alcoholic options
  • Warren Dunes State Park – Climb towering dunes and enjoy spectacular lake views
  • Local farmers markets – Perfect for fresh fruit, pastries, and Michigan-made goodies
  • Ice cream shops galore – A must for any summer evening stroll

Plus, Sunset Dunes’ location makes quick day trips to St. Joseph, New Buffalo, or even Indiana Dunes National Park easy and convenient.


Affordable Family Beach Vacation

One of the biggest pain points for families is cost. Lake Michigan getaways can be far more affordable than big-name coastal destinations. Sunset Dunes helps families save with:

  • Reasonable rates compared to larger beach towns
  • Kitchens that cut down on restaurant bills
  • Free or low-cost nearby attractions

Many families find they can enjoy an entire week at Sunset Dunes for less than a few nights at a resort elsewhere.


Hear From Other Families

Here’s what one family shared after staying at Sunset Dunes:


“We brought our kids (ages 5 and 9) and absolutely loved Sunset Dunes. The beach was steps away and never felt crowded, even in July. We saved money cooking a few meals ourselves, and the kids loved exploring the dunes. It was peaceful and beautiful — we’ll definitely be back!” — Emily R., Illinois

Plan Your Perfect Beach Escape

If your family is dreaming of a beach vacation where you can truly relax, avoid huge crowds, and enjoy gorgeous Lake Michigan sunsets, Sunset Dunes in Bridgman is the place to be.

 Ready to book your family’s perfect beach getaway? [Check availability at Sunset Dunes today!]


By Matt Schmidt June 24, 2025
Welcome to Sunset Dunes in Bridgman, Michigan —your newly refreshed summer sanctuary, just steps from Lake Michigan's stunning Weko Beach and the majestic Warren Dunes State Park. Summer Happenings Near Sunset Dunes Weko Beach Summer Concerts : Enjoy free live bands on select June & July evenings at Weko Beach House—from Van Dyke Revue in early June to PT & the Cruisers in July bridgmancga.org+15bridgman.org+15sunsetdunes.com+15 . Courtyard Concerts : Catch Friday-night performances downtown at Courtyard Park, part of Bridgman's vibrant summer live-music scene swmichigan.org . Bridgman Public Library Events : Weekly family-friendly happenings like outdoor watercolor nights at Weko Beach and open mic evenings—great for all ages tripadvisor.com+15events.getlocalhop.com+15bridgman.org+15 . Harvest the Region : Explore local wineries, breweries, distilleries, outdoor markets, and the annual Makers Trail Festival nearby bridgmancga.org . Prime Location — Dive Into the Lakeshore Lifestyle A 2-minute stroll from sun-soaked mornings at Weko Beach. Warren Dunes State Park —just a short drive away, with towering sand dunes and scenic hiking trails airbnb.com+12sunsetdunes.com+12vrbo.com+12 business.harborcountry.org+9cardcow.com+9tripadvisor.ca+9 . Just off I-94 on Red Arrow Hwy , making us a convenient stop for travelers exploring Southwest Michigan events.getlocalhop.com+2visittheus.ca+2mindtrip.ai+2 . Close to downtown’s Courtyard Park, Weko Beach House pavilion, and a variety of local eateries and shops. Newly Renovated & Ready for Summer 2025 Under fresh ownership, Sunset Dunes has undergone a full transformation since October 2022. Expect: Modernized condos and villas , with all-new kitchens and baths, open layouts, and cozy interiors bridgman.org+1swmichigan.org+1 hotels.com+8sunsetdunes.com+8mindtrip.ai+8 . Spacious accommodations, ideal for families or couples—up to eight guests in our 2‑bedroom units. Fully-equipped kitchens, breezy living areas with Lake Michigan views, and stylish finishes. Additional perks like in-unit washer/dryer, community fire pits, and optional package add-ons (wine tours, golf, spa). Why Book Your Michigan Summer at Sunset Dunes? Ultimate mix of relaxation & fun : beach days, dune hikes, live music, and lakeside sunsets—all within easy access. Contemporary accommodations : freshly renovated units that seamlessly blend comfort and luxury. Ideal summer timing : enjoy June–July music series, outdoor events, and natural beauty when it’s at its peak. Local Insider Tips Bring beach gear— w ater shoes are helpful for dune trails. Pick a Weko Beach concert night and enjoy picnic with live music. Reserve your unit early, especially for July stay—spots fill fast. Extend your getaway by driving to nearby wineries, breweries, and the Makers Trail venues.
June 3, 2025
If you’re in search of the perfect summer beach getaway along the shores of Lake Michigan I have just the spot for you! Sunset Dunes Villas offers beautifully remodeled condos with all the conveniences of home, just a short walk away from Weko Beach. Situated in the charming lakeside town of Bridgman, just 90 minutes from Chicago, Sunset Dunes is the perfect home base for exploring all that Southwest Michigan has to offer. With multiple units ranging from studios to two bedrooms that sleep up to 8 guests, the villas are beautifully designed and ideal for couples or families. Disclosure: This post was sponsored in partnership with Sunset Dunes. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Stay at Sunset dunes Each of the villas at Sunset Dunes has a unique design complete with upscale finishes and coastal charm. The villas also feature a full bath as well as a fully equipped kitchen which is perfect for eating in or packing a picnic to take with you to the beach. The property itself feels so private and secluded and guests have access to a balcony (second floor) or walk out patio as well as a communal fire pit with complimentary firewood. The size of your group will help guide which villa is the best fit for you. The two-bedroom unit can sleep up to 8 guests in the master bedroom featuring a plush king-size bed, a second bedroom with two queen-size beds, and a living room with a full-size sleeper sofa. I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious the villas felt and there is plenty of room for everyone to spread out and relax after a long day on the beach. The check-in and check-out process is contactless, with remote keyless entry code sent via email prior to the start of your stay. There is also dedicated free parking available onsite as well as coin laundry machines on the first floor.
By Matt Schmidt April 22, 2025
Are you staying at our beautiful Sunset Dunes Vacation Villas and looking to explore Southwest Michigan's thriving craft beer scene? You're in luck! Our prime location in Bridgman puts you within easy reach of some of the region's most celebrated breweries. After a day of relaxing on Lake Michigan's pristine beaches or exploring the magnificent Warren Dunes, treat yourself to exceptional craft beers and delicious food at these nearby establishments.
By Matt Schmidt April 21, 2025
Discover why Sunset Dunes Vacation Villas in Bridgman offers the ideal location for your Lake Michigan getaway