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West Michigan Guides Photo

Beach Weddings

It’s no wonder couples choose Ludington for their destination wedding. Our beautiful beaches are popular with brides and grooms that desire a more casual ceremony. If you’re considering tying the knot with Lake Michigan as your backdrop, here are a few pointers to get you started:

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Stearns Park Beach

Stearns Beach is expansive and is located right at the end of Ludington Avenue. It is the setting for many small weddings in Ludington. The park area has restrooms, accessible walkways, concessions, picnic area, mini golf, and skate park. You are free to set up chairs anywhere on the beach, hold your ceremony, then clean up immediately after. Tents or canopies are not allowed, and no permits are required. Keep in mind the beach is public domain, so your event may not be completely private. But a few extra onlookers sending their best wishes adds to your happy day!

Buttersville Beach

Located south of Ludington, Buttersville Beach is accessible from a steep stairway, so keep your guests’ needs in mind. It’s a bit more private, and once again, no tents may be erected but chairs are fine. There is no permit needed to exchange vows on Buttersville Beach.

Summit Park

Also located south of Ludington, Summit Park has the same setup as Buttersville, with a steep staircase leading down to the beach. However, this park has a pavilion, with 40 folding chairs, six long tables, picnic tables, stove, microwave, and refrigerator available for use. The pavilion can hold up to 75 people and can be rented for a small fee.

Ludington State Park

Ludington State Park has two beaches- one on Lake Michigan and the other on Hamlin Lake. There are also miles of public beaches along M-116 leading out to the park. The outdoor amphitheater is available to rent for open-air weddings and other events. The rental fee includes reserved parking, exclusive use of the amphitheater facility, electrical and nearby restrooms. Access to the beach and other scenic areas is available for photo opportunities. For details and reservations, call (231) 843-2423.

Waterfront & Copeyon Parks

Though neither is on the beach, these two parks on Pere Marquette Lake both have gazebos for small weddings. Waterfront Park is set between our two marinas and features a playground and many bronzed sculptures. Rental of the gazebo does require a permit from the City of Ludington. Copeyon Park overlooks Pere Marquette Lake and has a picnic area and restrooms. No permit is needed. Another nice location with a covered picnic area is Suttons Landing along the Pere Marquette River.

  • Beach Weddings in West Michigan