Cuddling up on a three-mile-long beach to watch the sunset while listening to the wind rustle the wild dune grasses might sound like a long, expensive journey to the Hamptons, but this romantic spot is just a short jaunt to Michigan City in northern Indiana.
Michigan City's charm includes picturesque waterfront views, miles of quiet, sandy beaches, historic architecture and romantic little inns.
Serenity Springs offers a wide range of private bungalows to visitors who want a quiet getaway. Featuring soaking tubs, fireplaces, room service breakfast and dinner options, as well as decks outfitted with grills, couples can spend quality time just hanging out or exploring the property's 85 acres. And, since it's for adults only — no kids and no pets — couples can be assured a truly quiet weekend.
The Creekwood Inn, also in Michigan City, has the look of a historic English Manor but delivers the modern amenities and comforts of a hotel — including air conditioning — and extras such as French doors that open onto private terraces. Both facilities offer easy access to Lake Michigan and the charms of downtown Michigan City.
After checking in, head for the beach. The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore boasts eight beach areas. The three-mile-long West Beach is the most popular, with sandy beaches and sand dunes that are perfect for sun worship and water play. Cowles Beach offers a more isolated experience near the lake, along with a four-mile wooded hiking trail lined with leafy black oaks. Dunbar beach is also quiet, and locals say it's the best location for sunset-gazing.
Just to the east of the Dunes, visitors look onto the calm waters of Heisman Harbor, taking in the sights of the only public operating lighthouse in Indiana and the pier that protects it. Boats wander in and out of the harbor (charter companies offer day and weekend excursions) and visitors stroll from the pier over to Washington Park, where a bandstand and zoo give the park an old-fashioned feel. Summer evenings and weekends welcome events such as the Gospel Fest, held July 21–22, and the Lakefront Art Festival, which takes place Aug. 18–19.