Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Slip onto a side street and admire the charming Victorian homes and cottages of Pentwater. Many take pride in their beautiful gardens, filled with colorful hyacinths, daylilies, roses, and hydrangeas. The tree-lined streets are so typical of bygone days in small town America.Walking through downtown, you’re struck by the colorful storefronts that beckon you inside to explore their unique items…perfect for your home or that special gift. Discuss the day’s news inside one of Pentwater’s cozy restaurants, or take an ice cream cone and sit on the soft grass on the Village Green. The cool breezes off Lake Michigan will refresh you, and it’s fun to watch the boats come in and out of Pentwater marinas.
Charles Mears State Park offers 175 paved campsite lots and a nice sandy beach along Lake Michigan, adjacent to Pentwater’s North Pierhead Light. There is a one mile interpretive trail for hiking, and a sand dune called Old Baldy that provides a spectacular view of Lake Michigan.
Visitors can enjoy a playground, picnic shelter, and great fishing. The park also has an accessible walkway by the concession stand, making it easier for people in wheelchairs or those with strollers and coolers on wheels.
Nearby is the public beach, where you’ll enjoy the natural Lake Michigan shoreline of Pentwater.
Pentwater is known for its art galleries and antique shops. You can spend hours looking around at past and present treasures. Make sure you’re in Pentwater the last Friday of the month for the Gallery Stroll, where various participating downtown galleries open their doors from 5-8pm in June, July and August. Pentwater also plays host to Arts & Crafts Fairs during the summer months, where you’re guaranteed to find something special!
The quaint village of Pentwater has events to enjoy every season! The highlight of the year is, of course, the summer season and Pentwater welcomes it each June with their Start of Summer Party which includes food, music, and visiting with friends and neighbors returning to Pentwater after wintering away. Pentwater’s most popular event, Homecoming is held each August and is a four-day celebration of all things Pentwater. In the fall, Oktoberfest brings many fun activities to the masses, including a 5k, Car Show, music, and more. December brings Christmas in the Village which includes events like Santa’s arrival, Tree Lighting, and more.
The Pentwater Chamber of Commerce
324 S. Hancock St., Pentwater, MI, 49449
Planning a visit to the Pentwater area? Have questions about your trip? Here’s where you can find help:
Pentwaer fishing reports for Pentwater Lake and Lake Michigan are provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Get some fresh air and exercise during those cold winter months when you hit the Pentwater Pathway for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Find artifacts, photographs, and lots of information and stories about the rich history of Pentwater at this historic museum!
The North and South Pierhead Lights are located in Pentwater along Lake Michigan and are rare pier range light systems along the Great Lakes.
The Pentwater River provides opportunities to experience a paddle sport for the first time or take on a challenge for those more experienced.
The village of Pentwater, Michigan has beautiful beaches and fun shops to explore. They also host many festivals and events all year.