Tucked between Holland and Grand Haven, just off the main road in West Olive, there’s a public lakeshore park I often recommend for family sessions. It’s simple, beautiful, and easy to enjoy—especially with little ones in tow.
This spot has all the things I look for in a family photo location: sand, tall dune grass, beautiful walking paths, and that lake light that shows up so beautifully in the evening.
Here’s why I often recommend it to local families:
1.Kid-Friendly
There’s a great little playground right by the parking lot…perfect for the kids to enjoy once we’re done, and such a fun way to wrap up the evening together. The path to the beach is short and simple, making it easy to move between the dunes and the shoreline.
2. Easy Variety
Everything is tucked into one spot, which makes it so simple. Between the grassy dune paths and the open shoreline, we have just enough variety to create a full gallery—without having to trek all over. It keeps the session flowing and the kids happy.
3. Calming
In the evenings, the light moves across the dunes in this really gentle way. It’s soft and makes everything feel a little more relaxed… especially when kids are running around and we’re just going with the flow.
4. Convenient
This beach is close enough for a weeknight session or a spontaneous family outing, which makes it ideal for busy schedules. For many Holland families, it’s a beautiful setting that doesn’t require an entire day’s planning.
Not Set on a Spot Yet?
If you’re not sure where you want your session…or you’re open to making a bit of a drive…some families choose to meet me in Ludington instead. The beach near the state park offers more wide-open space and a slower, quieter setting. It also happens to be my all-time favorite place to photograph families on the beach. If you’re curious what makes it so special, here’s why I love it.
Wherever we meet, I’ll guide you through what to bring, how to prep, and when the light is best… so you can simply enjoy this season, exactly as it is.
