Tunnel Park Leads to one of Lake Michigan’s Most Popular Beaches

Follow the Tunnel to Lake Michigan Glory at Tunnel Park

One of the best summer things to do in Holland is to find the underground tunnel to the sandy Lake Michigan shore.

Tunnel Park, among more than 60 Lake Michigan beaches, enchants kids and adults alike with a dramatic entrance to the beach like no other.

But if underground walks don’t excite you, there’s plenty of above-ground views to keep you coming back to this popular beach.

Everyone loves to run through the tunnel to enter Tunnel Park in Holland

Set apart from the beach, Tunnel Park also has a fun playground.

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Tunnel Park at a Glance

  • Swimming Beach (NO LIFEGUARDS)
  • Playground
  • Dune climb/stairway
  • Picnic tables & grills
  • Sand volleyball courts
  • Horseshoe pit
  • Modern restrooms
  • Barrier free facilities

Tunnel Park Details

66 N Lakeshore Ave, Holland, MI 49424

Part of the Ottawa County parks system, Tunnel Park is a favorite for families.

You’ll love the dune climb with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. And tons of sandy beach.

There’s a clean beach, modern bathrooms, playground for kids, and lots of picnicking areas. They’ve even got seasonal vending machines.

Tunnel Park beach has lots of space for playing on the dunes and digging in the sand.

Tunnel Park is also partially accessible.

Barrier free areas include the picnic shelters, restrooms, playground and some picnic tables and grills, as well as trails to high use areas including through the tunnel to a beach overlook deck.

Hours and Fees

Tunnel Park is open from April 1 until the first snowfall, 7 AM – 10 PM.

Purchase an annual parking pass for $25 ($15 for Ottawa County residents) or a day pass for $8 (no discounts).

Many of our GRKIDS favorite beaches (Kirk Park, North Beach Park, and Rosy Mound) also require an Ottawa County Parks pass and it is certainly worth it if you frequent the beach.

Tips for Your Trip from Other Parents

Use the tunnel

Get to the beach through the tunnel behind the bathroom area.

There are stairs, so plan accordingly

Only portions of the park are stroller-friendly.

Clean up after yourself

There is not a garbage can on the beach. If you bring food, bring a bag for your garbage

Bring your puddle jumpers

While they do have life vests to borrow, they can be claimed pretty quickly.

They have multiple sand volleyball courts

Bring your own ball.

Plan for a little roaming

Picnicking areas and a playground are separate from the beach.

There’s also room to run

There’s a really cool overlook and big sand hill the kids can run down.

The playground is not toddler friendly

The play structures might be a little big for some toddlers, but the tunnel, the dune, and the beach are all fun for toddlers.

There are shady spots, but it’s mostly sunny

You will find shade trees, and there are covered picnic shelters, but be prepared for lots of sun.

FAQs

Are dogs allowed at Tunnel Park?

Dogs are not allowed during the summer season, May 1 through September 30.

The rest of the year, they must be on a 10′ max leash.

Is Tunnel Park accessible?

Some areas are accessible, but not the entire park.

Is there an entrance fee for Tunnel Park?

Yes. Purchase an annual parking pass for $25 or a day pass for $8.

What time of year is Tunnel Park open?

Tunnel Park is open April 1 – first snowfall

Have Tips About Tunnel Park?

Leave us a comment below! We love to hear from our readers.

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