A Unique Destination for Family Fun in West Michigan
West Michigan is celebrated for its breathtaking beaches and lakeshore getaways, but one standout destination is redefining what it means to enjoy family fun. Lake Arvesta Farms, located just outside South Haven, has become a hub for water sports, outdoor activities, and event spaces that cater to a wide range of interests.
The Vision Behind Lake Arvesta Farms
Lake Arvesta Farms was originally a landscaping business that transformed sand pits into several lakes. The property was founded by Brian deBest, who saw an opportunity to create something unique in the area during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. His vision was to offer a different kind of water experience when conditions on Lake Michigan were too rough for traditional activities.
“I just felt that there was another need in the area, that we needed to create something unique,” deBest said. This idea quickly took shape into a vibrant recreational spot that continues to grow each year.
Water Activities for All Ages
The property boasts a wide array of water-based activities. One of the most popular features is the Wibit inflatable aqua park, which deBest describes as a jungle gym on water. Since its installation in 2020, the aqua park has expanded significantly over the years.
Life jackets are required for all guests in the aqua park area and are included with admission. For those seeking more excitement, a large mound overlooks the swimming areas, where thrill-seekers can ride three 240-foot-long water slides with an 84-foot elevation drop.
Guests can also try skiing behind an electric cable system designed to pull up to five water skiers at once. This system is only the second of its kind in the state. “The cable park was the first entity that we wanted to have here,” deBest explained. “Wakeboarding, knee boarding, and skiing behind an electric motor that pulls five skiers at one time and a cable that goes around pulleys.”
Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent near the beach area, while private boat rides are offered for one hour, accommodating up to five people. These rides include tubing, water skiing, or wakeboarding on the property’s largest lake.
More Than Just a Waterpark
Beyond the water, Lake Arvesta offers a variety of outdoor and indoor activities. There are nine outdoor and three indoor pickleball courts, where clinics and tournaments are occasionally held. This summer, a new beer garden area was added, complete with live music, a bounce house, and a snack bar offering Mooville ice cream and other treats.
For dining, guests can visit Fire Water Bar & Grill, a full-service restaurant located on-site. The property also houses seven outdoor venues and an indoor event space ideal for weddings and corporate events. The island venue, situated on the back half of the property, provides a beautiful setting for special occasions.
Additionally, there is an 18-hole mini golf course that winds through the property’s large mound, with nine holes being handicap accessible. A replica of the South Haven lighthouse, built one-third to scale, is incorporated into the mini golf course.
Disc Golf Excellence
In addition to water sports, Lake Arvesta is home to one of Michigan’s top-rated disc golf courses. This course has gained international recognition since its opening and currently ranks third in the state and 71st in the world, according to the UDisc app.
The course features 18 tee pads with three baskets on each hole, providing three levels of difficulty. Distances range from 5,791 feet in the shortest layout to 11,111 feet in the longest, which is considered an elite par 67. “We feel we did well for South Haven and Michigan to draw tourists from all over the world to come here to play disc golf,” deBest said.
The course was designed by Jim Schultz, who was given the freedom to create his dream 18 holes using the diverse landscapes of the property. With decades of experience in site development and landscaping along the Lake Michigan shoreline, deBest aimed to create a destination that offers something for everyone.
“If you do it, do it right. And don’t cut corners. And that’s what we’ve done here. And our guests, we want them to have an experience that’s second to none,” he said. “Just come out and leave your worries and your problems at the gate and come in and enjoy and have a great day in nature.”
Planning Your Visit
Those planning a visit can fill out a participation waiver online ahead of time to speed up the check-in process. Parking is available on-site at no additional cost. For more information about the park’s hours and rates, visitors can check the Lake Arvesta Farms website.
For families looking for a one-of-a-kind summer experience, Lake Arvesta continues to grow as one of West Michigan’s most dynamic summer recreation destinations. Future plans for the property include a large outdoor amphitheater capable of hosting up to 3,000 people, a campground, and floating hotels.
