We're in the middle of summer and as the temperatures keep climbing, many families will head to the beach. One of the nicest beaches in the country is just a short drive away.

Located about 60 miles north of South Bend along Lake Michigan is the quaint resort town of Saugatuck, Michigan. It's a place where you can stroll and smell the flowers while taking in both natural and man-made beauty.

Calling this an artist community may be an understatement. Most of the stores and shops are contained on a few block radius. There are alleys filled with sculptures and the art is so big, it literally lines the streets, but it has some competition with an array of classic cars proudly displayed throughout downtown.

“This is absolutely beautiful. We love coming to Saugatuck because it's kind of a nice little artist community and the accessibility to the lake is really something to enjoy,” said Dan O’Grady, a visitor from Dallas.

“It’s my first time. It's been great. Lot of fun places to wonder around, eat, drink, shop,” said John Clochesy, another tourist.

There is no shortage of galleries here. There’s a selection to please traditional, modern, and eclectic tastes.

Speaking of tastes, a Saugatuck staple is “The Butler”. There you can dine indoors or on the laid-back patio and try their famous 1/2 pound butler burger, topped with all the fixings, including ham.

If you have an adventurous pallet, head to the Olive Mill, where you can taste and buy 30 different kinds of balsamic vinegars and olive oils. Oil flavors range from blood orange to garlic, lemon, and white truffle. The balsamic ranges from peach, blueberry, green apple, and even chocolate.

While restaurants and shops overlook the bay, on the other side of the trees and sand dunes is Oval Beach. MTV calls this one of the top 5 beaches in America and Conde Naste Traveler names this as one of the 25 best beaches in the world.

Families and couples come to play, swim, and soak of the sun, which is a nice deserved break from a day of busy day shopping, eating, relaxing, and enjoying what Saugatuck has to offer, even if it is for only a day.

For more information on Saugatuck, click here.