Day Trippin' In Grand Haven, Michigan (Part Two) ~ The Marina and Downtown

Greetings Gather Friends!

If you haven't seen part one of this post, be sure to check it out when you have a chance.  If you're here because you liked the first post and wanted to see what I'd come up with for this one, I'll try not to disappoint you.  Either way, thank you for stopping by to view (and hopefully comment)!

As we made our way along the beach, still dark yet, I couldn't help but notice the cute little tracks left by the sea gulls wandering around.  I must say that I was surprised at how well behaved they were ~ no begging, crying, whining.  They simply went about their business or continued to rest in the sand.  I'm sure it helped that we didn't have any food to give them!  ;)

Just across from the main pathway leading to the pier and lighthouse  (pictures in previous post), was a small hilly area that looked to be composed of little sand dunes and grassy knolls.  When we arrived at that spot, I could see the sun lighting up the clouds ever so slightly and thought it made a pretty picture.  See for yourself!

Some of the sea gulls seemed to enjoy taking their perches on the lamp posts along the boardwalk and I loved the backdrop that nature provided at that very moment.

Making our way down the boardwalk and closer to the marina/docks, the sun began to come into view for me.  Unfortunately, I missed some great shots because there were far too many wires and buldings in the way for my taste.  Luckily I didn't miss it altogether because it was very pretty.

There is a state park on the beach where people can set up tents or park their RV's nearby. Along the pathway, are these beautiful signs...

Here's a banner flag I captured that commemorates a very special anniversary in Grand Haven.

Next up were some ducks, some gulls, a beautiful pathway leading back to the boardwalk, and a birdhouse ... er ... birdCASTLE for some sparrows (must be the martins gave up).

Along the water's edge, I spotted this bunch of cattails ~ without tails, but I liked the way they looked against the sun draped water.

What's any trip without flowers?  I was lucky enough to spot some cone flowers...

... a fragrance garden

... and some colorful annuals

Along the docks were some small shops ~ none of which were open yet since it was pretty early on Sunday morning that we were there.  Love this store and the way they lined their shops with these posts and ropes ~ so nautical looking!

The docks were lined with a myriad of boats ~ ranging in size, color and type.  I love how this shot turned out.

For some, boating is more than for just pleasure ~ it also happens to be a business...

There was an old train that was being renovated...

From there we went into town and I took some photographs of some amazing architecture...

In town, there were more flowers scattered around, but none struck me more than this lovely hibiscus.

On our way back, I couldn't resist a few more shots of the ducks along the way!

Thank you so much for stopping by.  If you haven't been to Grand Haven, Michigan I invite you to pay them a visit if you're ever in the area.  For those of you who've been there, I hope these pictures conjure up some great memories for you!

Keep your eyes open and your camera handy ~ you never know what's going to happen and I wouldn't want you to miss it!

Hope you enjoyed my little day trip (part two).  Please come again soon!