I came to Saugatauck on a last minute business trip but I wanted a unique and quiet place to stay, and I found it at the Retro Motel. Take a step back in time and visit this amazing motel. Rob was amazing. He reached out to me to confirm my arrival time and checked in on me from time to time via text. The motel is quaint and peaceful. Located only a few minutes from downtown Douglas and Sagatauck, a perfect and relaxing, clean, pleasant place to stay. A few things to keep in mind, it is on eastern time zone, that's important if you're driving from the central time zone! Rob was gracious when I was running late to check in. A great place to relax and unwind after a busy day of play, shopping, or in my case working. Lounge by the amazing pool or gather with friends and family at the fire pit, or take a nap in the hammocks! If you're a golfer, it's only a few minutes from The Ravines, an Arnold Palmer designed golf course. I am looking forward to visiting again! read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - Fire Pit - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

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We had a very disappointing stay here. The rooms are so small and smell like smoke. The sheets feel like they needed to be replaced a long time ago. The worst part was the management- outwardly rude, arrogant, and abrasive towards guests. Very strange behavior from them, would not recommend. Hopefully new management will take over, bc with some good upkeep, and proper maintenance of the rooms, as well as just professional behavior from management they would do quite well. Would definitely not recommend- especially if you are traveling with children. read more

This was my first trip to Saugatuck, so I really didn't know what to expect. I'm a hotel snob (annoying to both myself and anyone I travel with). Rob called me and I was immediately set at ease. The charm cannot be captured on camera. Loves: 1. Rob, the owner, is super welcoming. 2. Well thought special touches, like corkscrews, lighters, grills, and morning coffee. 3. The pool is pristine! I'm also a pool snob and owner of a 25k in ground pool. Hard work! No sand, super clean, sparking, well-balanced water! 4. The community fire pit and abundant lounging furniture, firewood, etc. 5. The rooms are 5 star clean, all bedding is washed after every guest, carpet looks new and respected, fridge/freezer, nice furniture, not a cobweb in sight! 6. Upon checkin, Rob points out sights and attractions on a map. 7. Relaxing music all day long on the patio. 8. Rob knows guests by name, as many guests are regular visitors. 9. Comfortable sleeping. Location - a great fit for those who have bikes and want to relax, a short drive to everything. Thank you! I can't wait to return with my partner and sons this summer. read more

Nice grounds and firepit and Be Kind shampoo but....it's like a youth hostel with Ritz Carlton prices. AND people smoke all over the grounds. As an asthmatic I have problems with this ( but maybe it's part of the 50s theme--the Mad Men era when everyone smoked). Whatever, some nice aspects here but not nice enough. read more

The Saugatuck town is filled with very friendly and courteous people. Great Place... The Motel owner Rob is very friendly and extremely courteous as well. He suggested many places for food. Great Guy! As far as the Motel itself, just not for us. The rooms and bathroom are just too small. They have no daily service; you have to acquire fresh towels daily from Rob. Even if you run out of TP, you have to go ask Rob for a new roll. If you want coffee, you also have to wait for Rob who shows up at 9:00. No place to sit in the room except on the bed. However, if you look under bed, there is a chair for you... We accidentally found one. No one told us about it. We felt very cramped, and our bed made squeaking noises when you moved on it. So as far as the Motel goes, like I said just not for us.... read more

My husband and I stayed here for one night back in Mid-August and we had a lovely, if brief, stay. The rooms were comfortable, although very much a motel (aka, nothing fancy) and they took cleanliness/COVID protocols very seriously with check in outdoors, in room air conditioner (aka no shared HVAC system with the other rooms) dedicated parking spaces in front of each room (aka no interaction with other guests if desired), and clean, disinfected bathrooms. The owner was also super friendly and helpful. We didn't have much time to enjoy the grounds but there is beautiful pool area (which I was very excited to enjoy, TBH, but there was a large family that had already taken the majority of the space and I didn't want to get too close and then we ran out of time). They also have some nice fire pits and outdoor seating to enjoy the space. It's truly beautiful on the grounds! As others have mentioned, beyond that there aren't a ton of amenities in room (no coffee maker, not many TV channels, etc) and the wifi was practically non existent in our room that evening (if you want to get away and disconnect, which was our casee, this won't be an issue) so if you have any need for internet for work or anything this is something to consider checking on with them beforehand. It was a delightful stay and I look forward to hopefully spending more time there next summer. read more

Think of the motel in the Schitt's Creek tv show with updated decor, swimming pool, lots of trees, and friendly guests. A great place for our get-away vacation! Some things to consider: no coffee or breakfast, limited cable tv channels, small shower and bathroom, and no maid service during the pandemic. read more

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This place is the CUTEST!! We are totally chain hotel type people and found this on a Google search. It's is fantastic!! The owner is great and gave us tons of recommendations and the rooms are so fun! It's been redone and updated. The room is modern but quaint. We stayed in an adjoining room with our 2 kids and each had a little mini fridge and tons of storage. The fire pit, pool and hammock were just steps away from our door and each room had their own parking spot right in front. There is firewood available for a couple of dollars, and all you need to cook some hotdogs or s'mores are right there. Topped off with great table and chairs right outside the door, we can't wait to return! We were the last check in and they were totally booked! read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - Love this cute sign! Lights up the night. - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

This place is an absolute dream. Bossa Nova music is piped into the pool area all day, at the perfect volume to obscure other's conversations and help you drift away. The pool is spotless, with beach chairs aplenty and Rob seems to check on it every hour or so when it's busy, adding towels and just generally being dear. The surrounding grounds are Michigan summer at it's finest, as you can see by my pics - look at my parents and swinging my baby in the hammock - can you even?? Rooms are just exactly as you'd expect: small, spartan but nice. They absolutely know their audience. They've put a lot into the most important thing: the beds. Comfortable, with linens that seem to be new for the season (maybe every season?), just lovely. With nice touches like mini-fridges and a beach chair under every bed, they know folks are here to sip drinks, sit on the beach, relax by the pool, sleep and otherwise recharge. The bathroom is a little bit more summer camp than Westin, but it's clean and it has absolutely everything you need and is probably part of why this place is such an amazing value. Rob is perhaps the loveliest hotelier I've ever come across. Ian Schrager may be a bigger name, but I can't imagine he's a better person. This place felt like a movie to me, and Rob is definitely the leading man. Caring about his customers, his property and livelihood, his community. There is no telling how many hours he works in the summer, but if he's stressed or tired, you'd never know. He's perfectly in his element, taking care of guests and managing a million requests from big to teeny and treating them all with respect and kindness. I was lucky to have a few minutes to talk to him during this trip, and I'm a fan. We've already made plans to come back next summer. read more

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We really enjoyed our stay! Cool retro vibe was exactly what we hoped it would be! Owner was very attentive and involved in the daily resort operations. Location was convenient to Saugatuck, Douglas and Holland. read more

First things first - Rob is the coolest. This was our first visit to Saugatuck, so we were lucky to book with a very welcoming and communicative host. We came looking for sand, sun and scenery. Rob's suggestions made our trip unforgettable! The Retro Resort was the cherry on top. We loved the communal area complete with fire pit, hammock & pool. Thank you for providing a fun & cozy place to stay, and taking time to talk with us about cool things to do in the area! We had an amazing time! read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - Hidden gem! Thanks for the tip! - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

I just stayed the weekend at the Saugatuck with some girlfriends. The resort grounds are wooded, nicely landscaped and private. There is a large fire pit that we enjoyed with other guests. The pool area is not large, but it is beautiful. There are a few tables and many lounge chairs. The pool is not heated, so we were not able to enjoy it early in the season. You can park right in front of your room, and there are comfortable Adirondack chairs and a table in front. The room is not roomy, but it is clean and updated. I found the bed to be comfortable. The bathroom is small, but again perfectly functional. Rob, the owner of the Saugatuck, is friendly and responsive. The resort is a ten minute cab ride from Saugatuck, so it can add up if you intended to go back and forth to the bars and restaurants. I really enjoyed the atmosphere at the resort. From the beautiful ground to the fire at night and the music playing in the grounds, the Saugatuck felt like an oasis. I will be back when the pool is warmer! read more

Wow! What an amazing place. So beautiful. Serene yet a fun vibe! Check in was great and Rob made perfect recommendations for dinner and sites. We're not usual motel guests but love this place makes me crave more places like this! Absolutely beautiful grounds and rooms are well appointed. Love the retro playlist that play all day until nightfall. Fellow guests are respectful and fun. Girls trip but can't wait return with my husband. read more

Just stayed there this last weekend (Sept 14-16). Had my doubts as it was a bit old but not the case. Totally re-done on the inside with very clean accommodations; bathroom and bedroom. The outside grounds were also clean, meticulously clean and up to date with comfortable, clean patio furniture. You are approximately 4-5 minutes from downtown Saugatuck and 8-10minutes from Douglas. Highly recommend for a clean and comfortable stay with reasonable rates. read more

Though it is right off blue star highway, the owners have made it a nicely landscaped oasis. There is a great community fire pit with hammock and adirondack chairs. Our favorite part was the well maintained pool area with lounge chairs, and surrounded by mature trees. The bed was comfy and ac worked great. We will be back! read more

Beautifully renovated motel. The owners have preserved a sweet piece of 1950's Americana with classy upgrades through and through. Everything seems new and nice. Comfy beds, flat screen TV, microwave, refrigerator, cool bathroom sink faucets and clever towel racks (brushed nickle?), ample towels too. Also A/C and even a modern ceiling fan that keeps things cool when it's hot and muggy outside. Rob the owner was friendly and very helpful. He loaned us a wine opener and recommended 2 restaurants that we tried and really liked... Everyday People and Red Dock in Douglas. This place is a perfect getaway for couples and only a short (less than 5 minutes drive) distance from Saugatuck where there are plenty of places to spend all the $$ you will have saved from staying here. My husband and I ended our 2 week Michigan vacation with 2 days in Saugatuck... 2 nights at this jewel of a motel. Great value for the money. We're from California, but I'd stay here again if we ever come back... and I hope we do. What a pretty area. Oh, forgot to mention, free WiFi included, yet anothrt bonus. Also clean and pretty pool area with new lounge chairs...nice ones. For the area, I'd say the price is inexpensive compared to anything comparable in the area. read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - Nice pool area surrounded by pretty landscaping and comfy, clean, new lounges and umbrella tables. - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

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What a wonderful place! This immaculately restored 1953 motel has spotless (though not large) rooms, a fabulous pool area, the ultimate hammock beneath big old maples, and ambience to burn. "Retro Rob" was also very helpful with restaurant and activity recommendations. There is no question where my wife and I will stay on future visits to the area! read more

From the second we pulled in, I loved this place! Rob was an outstanding host! Told us all the great places to go(you should get a kick back from these establishments because you were spot on, Rob). We came to Saugatuck from Brighton, Mi very last minute one night getaway. I wish we could have stayed longer, we did not want to leave. My boyfriend suggested we not go to the beach upon arrival and take advantage of the beautiful pool instead. I thought that was silly with the beautiful, Oval Beach, so close by. I am glad we hung out at the pool! They have fresh towels for you, pool noodles, superb taste in music playing just at the right level, and gorgeous grounds of flowers everywhere! We met some great people that raves about their prior stays here as well. They had us talked into the bonfire until we stuffed ourselves at dinner and were just ready to go back to our cozy, adorable room! We will Definitely be back! Thanks Rob! read more

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We took a last minute, spur of the moment family trip to the Saugatuck area and loved where we ended up! I really enjoyed our stay at The Saugatuck Retro Resort. The rooms were super clean and fresh and new, the decor was spot on, and the vibe and feel were perfect. I loved that we were supporting a local small business owner, and I could tell that the owner puts time and effort and thought and care into his choices and what he does. We had a double queen room and felt that we had enough space for our family of three - me, my husband and our preschool age son. We were there in early spring for the tulip festival in Holland, so the weather was a little too chilly to utilize all the amenities but we hope to go back in the summer when we can enjoy the pool area, the grills, and the fire pit - and hopefully some of our other family will join us as well! My only two cons, which are small and nitpicky, and didn't really affect my opinion, is that I didn't really think it was necessary to charge an extra $40 a night for our preschooler, and I didn't like that there are not chain locks for the doors. I am assuming that is an aesthetic choice and that the owner didn't want to mess up his beautiful woodworking around the doors, but I am weird about safety precautions and I would have felt a smidge better with an extra lock. But these two minor things aside, I really enjoyed everything about our stay and hope to go back soon! * I read in another review that if you want coffee early to plan to go out for it as the office has coffee but at 9. This is totally true, and we just headed to downtown Saugatuck for our coffees in the morning. We went to Uncommon Grounds one morning and to The Annex Coffee Shop the other. read more

We loved our stay at the Retro Motel. They have made the rooms very comfortable and convent. The landscaping, pool, and fire pit are all very well maintained. If you are looking for a place to come and relax you found it. You aren't very far from the attractions. The owners are so friendly and check on you. The only issue we had was phone service and WiFi was a little spotty but honestly who needs it in such a beautiful place. read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

Rob is an excellent host and seeks to take care of all your needs while you're staying at Saugatuck Motel. I would recommend the motel to anyone looking to escape the main drag of town. The grounds are impeccable and the amenities are plentiful. Stay at Saugatuck Retro Resort! read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

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Made a reservation, for a single night. Was out spending money and the staff called me to let me know the charge didnt go through. As im transfering funds with the gentleman on the phone i notify him that i have a service animal, and a letter from a therapist allowing me the dog. Apparently his supervisor believes that the Saugatuck retro resort is EXEMPT from the Americans With Disabilities Act. Because i could hear them tell the poor kid on the phone to "just say someone else got the room, we don't take dogs". So, he got on the phone and dutifully repeated what he was told to say. I felt bad for him, but what they just pulled is a violation of Federal Law. IF ANY ATTORNEY is reading this, i have a recording of the exchange. Please message me if you want to file a case. Sadly, this kind of chicanery is far too common in Michigan. I never set out to become some annoying activist, but i have an amazing, well-trained dog and the Law is the Law. read more

Delightful place, comfortable accommodations, and the customer service is top notch. Property is maintained to a very high standard, and the pool in particular is beautiful. The surrounding grounds are lush and well-manicured, including a substantial fire pit for late-night gatherings. Would recommend 100% and absolutely plan to stay here again. read more

I stayed at the Retro resort for one night. It was a great location to drive to different attractions (ie Oval Beach was maybe 10 mins, downtown Saugatuck was less than that). The room was really nicely done and very comfortable; nice little touches added! The pool was also nice. When checking in we were given a good tourist booklet and were told suggestions of places to go. I definitely recommend this motel! read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

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This place was awesome! Motels usually scare me but this place was updated, clean, and had a relaxed vibe. The owner Rob was very welcoming and had great recommendations for us. Quick drive to all of the fun in downtown Saugatuck. Definitely would come back again. read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

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We found Saugatuck accidentally when a clerk at a Saugatuck winery recommended it. The term "motel" has always had negative connotations for me, so I had my doubts. But we wanted to stay in the area one more night, yet everything else was booked. So we drove to the motel to investigate. We are so glad we did. The Saugatuck is an incredible lovely oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Saugatuck, yet only a mile or two away from downtown. Every room in the motel has been completely renovated. The rooms were eat-off-the-floor clean as well as very comfortable. In addition, the lovely pool area has been refurbished, too. The quiet motel sits off the road and is nestled under stately mature trees and surrounded by lovely landscaping, providing plenty of shade on a hot summer afternoon. Two adirondack chairs with a small table are placed outside each room to enjoy the view. Other chairs are placed throughout the grounds. In the evening, we enjoyed our wine and conversations with other guests around the large fire pit. The next morning, free coffee was placed on the patio outside the office for all to enjoy. Co-owner, Rob, and his employee, Stephanie, were incredibly friendly and pleasant. They treated us as though we were their only guests. Jay explained the history of the Saugatuck as well as the effort that went into renovating it. I wish I could give the Saugatuck more stars! We plan to return - and stay more than one night. read more

I like to stay at places that are different. This place is. In a great way. Recently remodeled & everything was very nice. It's like a step back in time, but w a modern twist. An 8 dollar cab ride suggested by the owner introduced several bars & restaurants that provided a great night. I'd recommend the Saugatuck Motel & I'd have no problem staying there again. read more

I really enjoyed the lounge-worthy, poolside music and overall style and feel of this hip retreat; bits of timeless Euro touches with Michigan cottage knotty pine and quilt. It's very convenient to Holland, Saugatuck & Douglas, yet out of the fray/noise/traffic of downtown. In fact, I don't know when I've ever slept this much! To top it off, Rob and the whole staff are so thoughtful, extremely helpful and kind! A very relaxing, nifty find, and me with all my allergies - I really appreciate when I can fix a little something with the little fridge & microwave. read more

Great spot, excellent amenities with pool, Adirondack chairs and a nightly fire pit on weekends. This is how motels should be run; well attended, clean and unique enough to make you smile. Close to Douglas and Oval beach for swimming (or even just relaxing on the beach). Forget the chain hotels, support local business! read more

What a great find! We planned an overnight trip to Holland for the Tulip Festival and wanted to stay somewhere a little different rather than a cookie cutter corporate motel and decided to look in Saugatuck. After doing some research I decided to book one night here and take some time to explore Saugatuck. Boy am I glad that I did the research and found this motel! The hotel has been completely redone and the rooms are warm and cozy with alot of thought going into the details. Rob was super helpful when we checked in pointing out the best options for dinner in Douglas and Saugatuck and how to get to Oval Beach to enjoy the sunset. His recommendations were spot on and we decided to enjoy our dinner by getting carry out in Saugatuck and going up to Oval Beach to enjoy the sunset, which was amazing. I look forward to our next stay at the Saugatuck Motel!! read more

Excellent stay! We plan to always book this motel first if available! We suggest early it fills up fast! A+++

We stayed just one night at The Saugatuck Motel on a last minute decision for a weekend getaway. We were extremely happy with our stay. It was our first time to the area and the owner Rob was SO helpful! The weather wasn't that great, but Rob gave us some awesome suggestions for things to do and places to eat. Our room was superb, everything has been remodeled and updated. You can truly see all the care and thoughtfulness that went into the details of all the accomadations. We had a fabulous time and we're already planning a longer stay next summer!! read more

We are fans. The pool is amazing. 10' at deepest. Fire pits. Grills. Bottle opener/corkscrew at entrance. Friendly. Great landscape / feel. From a 60's/70's roadside movie. It's great. Highly recommended. read more

The Saugatuck Retro Resort - the pool - Hotels Near Me - Saugatuck, Michigan

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Beautiful grounds with a delightful pool, quiet local, room was clean and comfy. The decor sweetly cabin like with microwave, fridge and retro groove lawn chairs.Check-in was fast and efficient. Owner Rob was a fantastic resource of all things Saugatuck. Last year stayed at the equally charming sister property: The Pines but this is my new fave. You'll be hard pressed to find a better experience. read more

I'm here right now. This place is Wonderful! Spotless inside & outside. Beautifully landscaped grounds, very quaint, Wonderful owner, very comfy room, awesome pool, great location. I will most Definitely be back! I LOVE it here! Truly Hate to be leaving soon--until next summer! read more

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What a gem we stumbled upon! From the nicely remodeled rooms to the beautifully landscaped grounds and relaxing music by the pool, this lovely place far exceeded our expectations. We enjoyed the pool, the firepit and even the basketball hoop! Rob was a superb host.... Coffee available, plenty of ice and he gave us some really great recommendations of places to eat and hang out. Just a couple of minutes from the downtown saugatuck action but far enough away to enjoy some peace and quiet. The Saugatuck Retro Motel will not disappoint! We will definitely be back! read more

Accommodations are wonderful, retro campy/modern, everything newly remodeled (and you can tell its a labor of love project for the owners). Great pool, great woodsy location. Minus a star due to quirky/awkward staff experience, but otherwise highly recommended. read more

We stayed at The Saugatuck Motel on our way from Chicago to Detroit. It is a quaint motel with a retro feel, no frills. Rob checked us in, came to our room and explained how everything worked and where everything was. Very personal touch at check in. There is a fire pit area (wood for sale at property), BBQ area, pool (no hot tub). If you are looking for a place to just relax off the beaten path, but close proximity to everything, give this place a chance. You won't be disappointed. One note: if you'd like to check in early, schedule in advance or you may be waiting until 3pm. read more

Such a great little gem! The place is homey and quaint with completely renovated rooms that still retain their beach town charm. Rob is incredibly friendly and offers recommendations for must-try spots around town. The rooms were very clean and the property offers fun community activities like bonfires, grill outs and a hammock. It would be a nice place to take the kids as they can be put to bed and adults can continue the evening right outside the door without disturbing the littles. A bit more expensive than big box hotels in the area but well worth it in my opinion. I can't imagine staying anywhere else on our summer weekend trips to Saugatuck. read more

Great experience. Very clean. Newly renovated. Rob was a fantastic host. Sitting by the bonfire with a bottle of wine was a nice touch.