Dan Saunders

Owner

Hometown: Libertyville, IL 

Life Prior to Third Coast: I have prior experience running a sales call center for a cable company in Chicago, and also co-owned an Audio Visual company that supported Pharmaceutical companies. Before starting Third Coast Vacations I owned another vacation rental company here in Harbor Country.

Why Harbor Country: My wife and I got married in New Buffalo and found our first investment property here, created a business here, and finally made the move to raise our 3 kids and multiple dogs (Rhodesian Ridgebacks) here for the past 12 years. We love being close enough to see Chicago from the shore but far enough away to feel the slower pace of life.

Favorite Places to Eat: Of course everyone will say the Stray Dog and it’s great for the whole family, but my real favorite is Bridges in Michigan city. You can sit on the channel and enjoy a huge outdoor seating area. Try the Sunny day fish wrap with a cold beer, it's fantastic!  We also love the Terrace Room which features outstanding food and marina seating. In fact, you can find my wife and I there most Thursdays for date night. For a more out of the way vibe, try Heston’s Supper Club tucked just over the border in the country in Indiana. The prime rib melts in your mouth.

Favorite Activity: Kayaking with the kids along the Galien River.

Locals Only Tip: Did you know the Marina Grand has a rooftop deck? Grab some food and a drink at Bentwood Tavern, just ask the staff how to get to the roof.  It overlooks the marina and has beautiful views of the lake and amazing sunsets. Not many people know about it so you'll feel like a genius.