2026 Beach Shuttle Season

May 6, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

City of Muskegon Announces 2026 Beach Shuttle Season: Free, Easy, and Ready for Summer Travel 

The City of Muskegon is excited to announce the return of the 2026 Beach Shuttle, offering free weekend transit to Muskegon’s most popular lakeshore destinations. Running May 22 through September 6, 2026, the shuttle provides a simple, accessible way for residents and visitors to enjoy the shoreline without the stress of parking. 

Funded in part through beach parking revenue, the Beach Shuttle helps improve access to the waterfront while reducing traffic congestion on busy summer weekends. 

Service Details 

  • Cost: Free to ride 
  • Dates: May 22 – September 6, 2026  
  • Hours:  
    • Fridays & Saturdays: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM  
    • Sundays: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM  
  • Operator: Muskegon Area Transit System (MATS)  
  • Bikes: Bike racks available on all buses  
  • Accessibility: All buses are ADA accessible. Free ADA Paratransit service is available for eligible riders within 3/4 mile of shuttle routes (pre-scheduled, next-day service)  

How to Ride and Track the Shuttle 

There is no fixed schedule due to traffic conditions. Riders can track buses in real time using: 

  • MyBus by MATS app or matsbus.com/mybus  
  • Texting a stop number to 231-638-4445 for arrival times  

Shuttle Routes 

The Tan Line (Route 41)
A continuous loop connecting major beach destinations including Kruse Park, Beachwood Park, Beach Street access points, USS Silversides, and Harbor Towne Beach. Buses depart Kruse Park every 30 minutes at :00 and :30. 

The Town Line (Route 42)
A city connector route linking the Herman Ivory Terminal, downtown Muskegon, Jackson Hill, Lakeside, and Pere Marquette Beach with connections to the Tan Line. This route operates hourly. 

A full map and updated brochure will be released prior to the 2026 season. 

Why the Beach Shuttle Was Created 

The Beach Shuttle launched in 2025 to improve access to Muskegon’s shoreline. The program was developed after the City Commission directed staff to explore transportation options following changes to beach parking fees in 2024. 

The shuttle supports several community goals: 

  • Reducing weekend beach traffic and congestion  
  • Increasing equitable access for residents without vehicles  
  • Providing a free and convenient way to reach the lakeshore  
  • Strengthening connections between the community and waterfront spaces  

Lost and Found / Customer Information 

All shuttle routes are operated by MATS. For lost items or customer questions, contact MATS at 231-724-6420 or [email protected]. Riders should note the route number (41 or 42) and time of travel when reporting lost items. 

Parking Information 

Free street parking is available at several shuttle stops throughout the route network. 

Media Contact:  

LeighAnn Mikesell
231-724-6944
[email protected]