Victoria Resort Blog | South Haven Travel Tips

Delight Your Tastebuds at the Top 3 South Haven Wineries

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 23:09:29 GMT

Try These South Haven Wineries and Tasting Rooms

Your South Haven getaway is sure to be packed with exciting things to do. You can swim in nearby Lake Michigan, bike, kayak, and paddleboard– just to name a few!. Amid all of these lively ways to explore our area, experience what South Haven has to offer just by pulling up a seat at the bar of these South Haven wineries. Even though Michigan is classified as a humid continental climate, vineyards can still thrive here because of the mild summers. Sip the bounty of our land at various tasting rooms across South Haven that are locally tested and visitor approved. Request a copy of our complimentary Vacation Guide for more ideas to put on your South Haven itinerary. At Victoria Resort, we only recommend our very favorite places and things to do. Come to South Haven a visitor and leave feeling like a local.

Cogdal Vineyards

Cogdal Vineyards is a South Haven winery that serves innovative pours near the lakeshore. This vineyard sits atop land owned by the Cogdal family for years. What started as a fruit and vegetable farm has transformed over time. At one point, the land was a Christmas tree farm! Now, Cogdal Vineyards serves several carefully grown, fermented, bottled, and poured whites, reds, and blends. View a list of their wines and dream of what you'll sip on your trip!

The Cogdal's have struck gold with their vineyard because of its close proximity to Lake Michigan. This location, approximately a half-mile, allows for more regulated temperatures that are ideal for wine grapes. Today, the vineyard grows across seven acres and has plans for expansion.

Warner Vineyards

Warner Vineyards wines are a South Haven novelty. Not only is Warner's one of the state's oldest wineries, but it has also been managed by the same family for three generations. This summer marks their 81st anniversary! Warner Vineyards has tastings rooms across the great state of Michigan, including one in South Haven.

The South Haven tasting room's hours vary year-round, but in the high season, you can generally expect it to be open from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. This tasting room is located in the heart of downtown South Haven with outdoor patio seating for our crisp summer nights. For groups of more than 10, call ahead for a group reservation to ensure you get the best service possible.

12 Corners Vineyards

12 Corners Winery is located in Benton Harbor, MI. This area is about a 30-minute drive from South Haven. Take a day trip there for the full winery experience, or pull up a seat at the South Haven tasting room location for an equally divine experience.

Tastings at this location are $10 per person and include a souvenir wine glass and complimentary chocolates. You can also gather here with your large party so long as you call in advance! A tasting here is just one of the many exciting things to do in our area.

Sip Back and Relax at Victoria Resort

South Haven wineries are among the most romantic things to do in our area. Conversely, a wine tasting can also be the perfect way to celebrate with your large group. At Victoria Resort, we're able to accommodate both types of travelers. Our resort has bed and breakfast accommodations that are ideal for couples as well as cottages and a Resort House for mid-size to large parties.

Kick-off your summer with a group getaway! This is the perfect time to enjoy South Haven's mild temperatures as well as the best season for sipping on bottles of wine. You can rent the Family Suite, Master Suite, or both sections of our Resort House depending on the size and needs of your party. Rest assured that if you only rent one, the other will be sectioned off for optimal privacy. You'll also have access to all of our wonderful amenities with your reservation.

Here Are the Most Romantic Things to Do in South Haven, MI

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 23:07:19 GMT

Make the Most of Your Getaway With These Romantic Things to Do in South Haven, MI

Let your love flourish during a getaway to South Haven, MI. Our small, lakeside town is the perfect place to celebrate romance both old and new. South Haven is located near a lot of major metropolitan cities in the Midwest, making it the perfect destination for a weekend road trip getaway. So, don't wait until the next anniversary or vow renewal to celebrate your love. Celebrate in South Haven. No occasion needed. Not only are we easy to travel to, but there's also an abundance of romantic things to do in South Haven, MI. Uncover more of the best things to do when you request a copy of our complimentary Vacation Guide. This guide is brimming with local recommendations so that you can easily plan your romantic getaway to our area.

Indulge in Intimate Lodging

We're sure you'll want to see our area on your romantic getaway to South Haven. Our temper-weathered summers and expansive lake makes for a comfortable, breezy getaway. Before you imagine all of the romantic things to do on your getaway, imagine the most romantic place to stay.

Our resort offers lodging options for all types of travelers. The property is made up of three acres that can house group getaways, family vacations, and romantic getaways. This means you can visit Victoria Resort for any getaway occasion! For our romantic travelers, stay in one of our bed and breakfast rooms. There is nothing more intimate than a private B&B experience. Each of our romantic B&B rooms comes with cozy queen or king-sized beds, access to our onsite amenities, plus daily breakfast.

Surprise Your Special Someone

Enhance your getaway with our romance basket. Go the extra mile for your special someone without any added stress. We believe that relaxation is the pinnacle of any romantic getaway. So, let us take care of the small details that make all the difference.

This special package includes sparkling cider, simple charcuterie, fine chocolates, a complimentary bottle of wine, and more. Not only does this basket save you time, but it also saves you money! The basket's components value at more than $75, but only cost you $29.99. What more could you ask for?

Delight in Small Bites

Taste is one of the most popular restaurants in the South Haven area. It's also the perfect spot for date night dining. Taste is centrally located in the center of downtown South Haven and is only a half-mile walk from South Beach. So, take a stroll on the lakeside after enjoying small plates and martinis with your special someone.

Aside from the delicious food, smooth martinis, and bistro ambiance, this restaurant has its own unique love story. Head Chef Joel and his wife Heidi met at what is now Taste when he was visiting South Haven from Chicago. He ordered a drink from Heidi, the charismatic bartender, and from there they began dating. Their romance flourished right here in South Haven and later opened Taste together!

Fall in Love With Victoria Resort

We want you to enjoy the most romantic things to do in South Haven, MI while staying with us. Not only can we give you local information on the best way to spend your trip, but we can also enhance your romantic getaway with our private B&B rooms and romance package.

Our most popular room for romantic getaways is our King Deluxe Room. This suite has a whirlpool tub for two that's perfect for sipping on your complimentary bottle of wine. You can also adjust the temperature of the tub's lining for optimal comfort. Retreat to this room after exploring South Haven to reminisce with your special someone. Or, you can easily relax in this spacious room all day!

The Best Finds at the South Haven Farmers Market

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 23:03:30 GMT

Your Guide to Shopping the South Haven Farmers Market

The South Haven Farmers Market is an expansive, outdoor venue where local vendors can sell the bounty of their land. The market offers shoppers a wide variety of products like local produce, USDA-grade meat, fresh-cut flowers, and so much more. Taste all that South Haven has to offer on your next getaway when you visit the farmer's market. Have an authentic South Haven getaway when you stay at Victoria Resort & Bed and Breakfast. We offer comfortable lodging options for all types of travelers, accommodating staff and hospitality, and a specially curated Vacation Guide. This guide is your one-stop-shop to all things South Haven. Request your copy and start planning today to experience our area like a local.

The Michigan Difference

Farming is an intensive, complex process. First, farmers have to understand the soil in their area, weather patterns, and what product is the best for this specific type of environment. Michigan has many different types of soil, harsh winters, and mild summers. Navigating this landscape and climate takes research, practice, and most importantly, patience. All of this care makes the end result even better.

Hours of Operation and Details

The farmers market is open on Saturdays, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. from May to October as well as Wednesdays from June to August. Most summertime travelers can bet on having two days to visit the market! The market is located on Phoenix Street with a parking lot behind Dyckman Park for optimal convenience. However, our resort is only one mile from the market, so you can enjoy our mild temperatures should you decide to walk there!

Once you arrive, browse all of the market's outdoor booths, meet the vendors, and browse all of the fresh, locally-grown, and sourced offerings. Aside from fruits, vegetables, and meats, the South Haven Farmers Market also offers honey curated thanks to local bees, fresh jellies and jams, baked goods, and a wide variety of fresh-cut flowers and hanging baskets.

Stay With Victoria Resort & Bed and Breakfast

Take your finds from the South Haven Farmers Market back to your room at our resort. Victoria Resort & Bed and Breakfast is known for having the friendliest accommodations around. That's why we offer lodging that feels like home.

Bring your friends or family on your trip to South Haven and book Cottage E. This cottage accommodates up to six guests in three bedrooms and has access to all of our on-site amenities. There are also three bathrooms, a living space, and a full kitchen that's perfect for storing and cooking with your fresh farm products.

Why Shop Local?

Shopping local means you get to know exactly where your food is coming from. Often, the farmers themselves or someone very familiar with the product are at the market. You can ask about what conditions the product was grown in, how it was cared for, and sometimes even sample it to taste the freshness. This is also a great opportunity for networking within the community, or, if you're just visiting, to find out what the locals here are all about!

Another reason to shop local is to support the community's economy. It would be hard for small, local farmers to keep nurturing the bounty of the land without economic resources. Every purchase goes toward sustaining the South Haven Farmers Market. The farmers market isn't the only example of our area supporting local farmers and artisans. South Haven, MI, area restaurants use locally-grown and sourced ingredients whenever possible. Our area also has several shops that sell local artists' and artisans' crafts.

Where Is the Best Shopping in South Haven, MI?

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 22:55:42 GMT

Your lakeside getaway is guaranteed to be one that stands out from the rest. Experience everything our area has to offer like mild summer temperatures, diverse eateries, and a prime location on Lake Michigan. Don't miss out on our shopping scene, either! The shops in our area are dedicated to making sure you have all of the essentials you need to explore South Haven like a local. Whether you're looking for a boogie board to rock the waves or want to take some locally-crafted art home with you, you'll find it when you go shopping in South Haven, MI. Request your copy of our specially-curated Vacation Guide before planning your trip. You'll want to save room on your itinerary for all of the amazing things to do in our area.

Soha Surf Shop

Visit Soha Surf Shop is a nautical boutique shop. This surf shop has all of your lake getaway needs covered. Soha carries everything from sunglasses and clothing to kayaks and paddleboards. If you're just visiting, you can even rent kayaks and paddleboards from Soha at their locations on South Beach, North Beach, and Black River Park. You can even book a rental online!

Soha also carries a variety of high-end sunglasses like Maui Jim and Ray-Bans. So, treat yourself to that pair of glasses you've been eyeing and relax in style. Speaking of style, our area boasts mild summertime temperatures. So, don't worry about wearing the lightest clothing you have. June, July, and August's highs range from mid to high-80s, while the lows can dip down into the 50s!

Eagle Street Market

Eagle Street Market is an antique shop that offers guests fine art, vintage, and other collectibles. This market is comprised of 9,500 square-feet where more than 60 local vendors sell their craft. Purchase an item here and take a little bit of the South Haven character home with you.

The market is in a building that's almost a century old and was one of the first Ford dealerships in the state. Adorned with a vintage flair, step back in time when you go shopping here. They even have a collection of vintage, 19th-century clothing.

Decadent Dogs

Who says Fido doesn't want a souvenir? Surprise the four-legged friend in your life with a special treat from Decadent Dogs . This boutique pet store supplies treats, toys, and more! If your dog already has enough of those things, you can buy thematic mugs and decor for you and your home! Because a house isn't a home without a dog.

Stay in South Haven's Most Versatile Lodging

Shopping in South Haven, MI, is a good way to spend a whole day of your getaway. After a day of shopping, be sure to stop by one of our area's best restaurants to end your day! There's no better way to conclude your day of exploring our area's charming shops than by relaxing at Victoria Resort and B&B.

Our resort accommodations for every type of traveler. Romantic getaway travelers can stay in one of our bed and breakfast rooms, while families and girls getaways to South Haven and share our spacious cottages or Resort House. Bring your friends to South Haven and stay in Cottage D. This cottage can house up to four guests and have all of the comforts of home like a full kitchen, dining room, deck with a picnic table and outdoor grill.

The Best South Haven, MI, Restaurants

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 22:48:22 GMT

At the center of every successful vacation is an anecdote of a wonderful dining experience. Whether it's an unbeatable ambiance, local dishes, or a decadent wine pairing, an excellent meal can enhance your getaway. Planning where you want to eat is just as exciting as planning to visit local attractions. It can be difficult to know exactly where to dine with so many restaurant options in the area. That's why we've hand-picked some of the best South Haven, MI, restaurants for you to browse before deciding where to go. Our complimentary Vacation Guide is full of more local recommendations that are yours for the taking!

3 South Haven, MI, Restaurants You Must Visit

We want you to have a dining experience like no other on your South Haven, MI, getaway. That's why we've crafted this list about three amazing restaurants below!

Phoenix Street Cafe

From the outside, Phoenix Street Cafe seems unassuming. There's a single black awning fixated to the front of the building with orange lettering that simply reads, "Phoenix Street." The red neon "Open" sign glows from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and invites passersby to stop in for breakfast or lunch. This simple cafe features family recipes and unique daily specials. Phoenix Street serves everything from chicken and waffles to the B(E)LT sandwich with a half-pound of bacon! Try Phoenix Street Cafe on your South Haven, MI, getaway for traditional eats with a modern flare.

Sophie's Steakhouse

Sophie's Steakhouse is an ode to traditional steakhouses. Sophie's serves a variety of steaks like ribeye, filet mignon, and sirloin. These steaks pay tribute to the surrounding areas of South Haven, MI, as they are from corn-fed Midwestern beef. Each steak is aged for 30 days. So, by the time it gets to your table it's rich in flavor and juicy from careful searing. Enjoy the steakhouse's cozy ambiance complete with a fireplace and warm orange and red accents.

Three Blondes Brewing

In keeping with its name, Three Blondes Brewing is, in fact, owned and operated by three sisters adorned with blonde hair. Megan, Carrie, and Amanda are South Haven, MI, natives and opened their brewery after the emergence of craft breweries in surrounding areas started to take off. Three Blondes Brewing has an extensive beer list and a delicious menu to match. Their menu features traditional bar foods like tacos, burgers, and pizzas.

Stay at Victoria Resort and B&B

Qualify for our Dinner Special at one of the best restaurants in South Haven, MI, when you book our Queen Deluxe Room. Plan a getaway to South Haven, MI, for you and your special someone and take advantage of this room's fireplace and in-room whirlpool tub. Choose one of our Dinner Special restaurants and let us contribute $25 toward your meal! Browse all of our accommodations and amenities and book your perfect getaway to South Haven!

Top 10 Best Activities in South Haven Michigan

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 22:39:22 GMT

The gorgeous little town of South Haven in Michigan has a tremendous amount to offer to locals and tourists and in this article, we've pulled together the top ten things that you can do when visiting. Read on and be prepared to be impressed by how this charming beach town has something for everyone's budget.

1. Watch the sunset and see the stars sparkle
The moment that you see the sunset from South Haven, you will realize you have been transported to one of the most beautiful places on earth. Absolutely stunning, breath-taking, and exquisite; these are only a few of the many adjectives that can describe the view. Walk along the pier, admire the historic homes and the popular marina. Take your flip flops off and step onto the sand and listen to the waves whisper as the sky changes color while the sunsets. Also watch the moon glow and the stars start to sparkle as day turns to night.

2. Ride a Bicycle
The natural beauty of and from South Haven is so very picturesque and you can best experience that for yourself while riding around and through it with a bicycle. Bicycles are complimentary for guests of the Victoria Resort and Bed & Breakfast. You will have a number of bike trails to explore and some of the best ones actually start from South Haven. A great choice is the Kal-Haven Trail, which is known for having a flat terrain that is great for cruising on. What makes this trail stand out is the perfect canopy of trees that give you shade during the stretch.

3. Visit a farm and enjoy picking blueberries
If you are looking for something for the whole family in South Haven, check out the farms around. At the DeGrandchamp Farms, you can learn about blueberries and even pick them for your own consumption later. There are a number of family-run farms around but do note the time slots they have set up regarding when you can visit and pick blueberries as well as purchase some blueberry produce. With blueberries being a great source of antioxidants, picking them and popping a few in your mouth is not just a great treat, it's great for you as well.

4. Attend a wine tasting session
If you fancy yourself as a potential wine connoisseur, then you will be delighted to hear that the state of Michigan has more than 125 wineries and some of the best are known to be tucked away in South Haven. The wineries and vineyards in this town are spots on and it would be a shame to visit South Haven and not attend a wine tasting session at one of its exceptional establishments such as the Cogdal Vineyards. You will be greeted by the friendly staff and enjoy the wonderful outdoor patio where you can relax while sampling various types of wine.

5. Devour Sherman's ice-cream
Sherman's ice-cream is a big name in South Haven; ask any local and they will tell you that it's the best place for a sweet treat in the area. This place makes ice cream in the old fashioned way, so without the help of any fancy technology, it still serves up an abundance of flavors to its customers. There is a reason why there is always a line coming out of the door at Sherman's as this place is an ice-cream heaven that can't be missed. Try the butter pecan, coconut almond fudge, or the mint chocolate chip ice cream; you will be convinced that Sherman is the best ice cream ever within a few mouthfuls.

6. Take a trip to The Maritime Museum and enjoy the Friends Goodwill Sunset Cruise
The Maritime Museum in South Haven is truly fantastic. While it is a rather small museum, its displays are incredibly engaging, and the content is informative. The best part of an experience here, however, has to be when you step onto the outdoors part of the museum and discover the replica of a very tall 1810 merchant vessel ship which, for a fee, will take you to Lake Michigan for one hour. For an even greater experience, time the trip with the sunset, letting you enjoy the splendor in the sky. The crew onboard are outstanding and will make sure that you have a totally memorable experience. Get ready to embrace and experience history in action while you sail on this tall ship.

7. Visit the Farmers Market on Wednesday and Saturday
Locally produced meat, cheese, fruit, vegetables, as well as home-grown flowers and herbs are in abundance in South Haven. No trip to this town would be complete without a stop at the Farmers Market which is open on Wednesday and Saturday from 8.00 am to 2.00 pm. The market has a great atmosphere and is filled with local farmers and artisans who are enthusiastic to share their items with you and we believe that you will be enticed by what's on offer here.

8. Get sporty and do some kayaking, paddle boarding, and golf
Believe us when we tell you that South Haven is the place to be if you're a fan of outdoor activities; its serene beach and stunning lake mean that it's the perfect environment for all things wet and wonderful. If you're looking to do some watersports, then contact Black River Boat Rentals, Kayak-Kayak or Soha Paddleboard & Kayak Rentals. Perhaps you're interested in golf? Get in touch with the popular 18-hole Beaches Golf Club, the lush Heritage Glen Golf Club or the family-owned Cheshire Hills Golf Course.

9. Go a little bit wild on an ATV on the move
Adding a thrill to your outdoor experience is best done on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), a 4-wheel vehicle that is ready to get your adrenaline pumping. South Haven is home to well-established KJC ATV Rentals & Trails which offers some of the best ATVs out there for you to enjoy while exploring the awesome trails. The trails have a lot of turns, twists, and peaks which makes a ride on them brilliant fun; the ATVs have real power. The staff at KJC ATV Rentals & Trails are known for their safety cautious yet fun approach; visiting them and enjoying an ATV experience here will not disappoint.

10. Get a professional to take your family photographs
As South Haven has so much beauty, it's a special place in which to take photographs and we suggest that you instruct a local professional photographer to capture the beauty and your loved ones. Create a memory that incorporates the stunning South Haven and the happiness of your travel companions. Photographers like Greggersen Photography LLC are family-friendly and can take some wonderful photos for you, whether it be in the morning, afternoon or evening. This is perfect if you're captivated by the sunrise, sunset, or night stars and want to save a moment with it.

Conclusion
All that is left for you to decide now is when you're coming and for how long. We suggest that you stay for a minimum of three nights if you want to appreciate the natural beauty, scenery, and history that is on offer in South Haven! For more destination guides and accommodation reviews, hotels and vacation rentals, check out Trip101.