Phil Nykamp, REALTOR
Phil Nykamp, REALTOR
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Holland's Just A Great Place To Live.

 Choosing a place to live or study in Holland, Michigan, means more than just picking a school; it’s about joining a community that balances historic Dutch charm with modern innovation. From the award-winning public and private K-12 systems to the globally recognized halls of Hope College, the area offers a diverse educational landscape designed to help students thrive at any age. Beyond the classroom, you’ll find a city famous for its heated winter sidewalks, sprawling sand dunes, and a vibrant downtown culture that feels like a year-round vacation.


Whether you are relocating for a new career, looking for the perfect school district for your children, or searching for a home near the lakeshore, having a local expert on your side makes all the difference. Phil Nykamp, a seasoned Realtor with Keller Williams and a deep-rooted member of the West Michigan community, is available to help you take a deeper dive. With over 28 years of local connection and a passion for Holland's unique neighborhoods, Phil can provide the personalized insights and real estate expertise you need to turn this research into your new reality.

Local Resources

K-12 Public & Charter Schools

 

Holland Public Schools

  • Focus: A diverse district offering specialized programs like the Holland Language Academy (Spanish Immersion) and Nature-based learning at Holland Heights.
  • Standout Offering: The Holland Early College program allows students to earn an Associate Degree from Davenport University or teaching credits from Hope College at no cost while still in high school.

West Ottawa Public Schools

  • Focus: The largest district in the area, known for its high academic standards and extensive extracurriculars.
  • Standout Offering: Offers both International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) paths, along with a Montessori option (K-5) and a robust Dual Language program.

Black River Public School (Charter)

  • Focus: A K-12 public charter school with a heavy emphasis on college preparation.
  • Standout Offering: The elementary program is Montessori-based, and the high school is famous for its "Project Term," a month-long intensive course where students study unique subjects like robotics, fencing, or foreign travel.

Zeeland Public Schools

  • Focus: Serving the neighboring Zeeland area but drawing many Holland residents; known for a "whole child" approach.
  • Standout Offering: Unique specialized schools like Zeeland Quest (K-8 project-based learning) and a highly-regarded career/tech partnership.

K-12 Private Schools

Holland Christian Schools

  • Focus: A large private system (Preschool-12) focused on a faith-based, "Christ-centered" education.
  • Standout Offering: Strong integration of faith with academics, highly competitive athletics, and a dedicated Forest School for outdoor early childhood education.

Calvary Schools of Holland

  • Focus: A K-12 private school utilizing the Charlotte Mason philosophy, which emphasizes high-quality literature and "living books" over traditional textbooks.

Eagle Crest Charter Academy

  • Focus: A K-8 public charter school (part of National Heritage Academies) with a strict focus on academic basics and moral character.

Career & Technical Education

 Careerline Tech Center (CTC)

  • While not a standalone school for full-day attendance, this center serves juniors and seniors from all local districts. It offers 28+ programs in fields like Mechatronics, Healthcare, and Culinary Arts, providing industry certifications and college credit. 

More Than Just Wooden Shoes

Holland State Park

This is Holland’s most popular destination, famous for its expansive sugar-sand shoreline and clear views of the "Big Red" Lighthouse. It features two large campgrounds, a brand-new playground, and a pier for walking or fishing. Because it is a state park, you’ll need a Michigan Recreation Passport or a daily pass for vehicle entry.

  • Website: michigan.gov/holland


Tunnel Park

A unique 22-acre park named for the concrete tunnel that leads you directly through a sand dune to the Lake Michigan beach. It’s a family favorite because it includes a massive dune climbing area, four sand volleyball courts, and a sunset viewing deck at the top of the dune.

  • Website: miottawa.org/tunnelpark


Laketown Beach

If you are looking for a more secluded, "local" experience, this hidden gem is tucked between Holland and Saugatuck. To reach the water, you have to hike up and over a steep wooden stairway system, but the payoff is a pristine, quiet beach with dramatic views of the towering dunes.

  • Website: holland.org/laketown-beach


Kirk Park

Located just north of the city, Kirk Park offers over 1/3 of a mile of shoreline backed by high bluffs and wooded dunes. It is specifically known for being dog-friendly, with a dedicated off-leash dog beach area available during specific morning and evening hours.

  • Website: miottawa.org/kirkpark


Culture, History & Parks


Windmill Island Gardens

This is a 36-acre heritage park that houses "De Zwaan," the only authentic, working Dutch windmill in the U.S. It’s a beautiful spot for a walk, especially in May when over 100,000 tulips are in bloom.

  • Website: cityofholland.com/windmillisland


Outdoor Discovery Center (ODC)

A sprawling 150-acre nature preserve that is free to the public. It includes five miles of trails, a "Nature Playscape" for kids, and a Birds of Prey exhibit where you can see live eagles and owls.

  • Website: outdoordiscovery.org


Holland Museum

Located downtown, this museum explores the city’s Dutch roots and its transition into a modern industrial hub. It also features a Spark!Lab for kids to engage in hands-on science and invention projects.

  • Website: hollandmuseum.org


Nelis' Dutch Village

A step back in time to 19th-century Netherlands. This attraction features wooden shoe carving, Dutch dancing lessons, and a petting zoo. It’s highly interactive and great for younger families.

  • Website: dutchvillage.com


Holland Aquatic Center

A massive indoor water facility that underwent a major $26 million renovation recently. It has a competitive 50-meter pool, but families love it for the splash pad, lazy river, and giant water slide.

  • Website: hollandaquatic.org


Kollen Park & Heinz Waterfront Walkway

A beautiful 30-acre park right on Lake Macatawa. It features a historic band shell for summer concerts, a large playground, and a long boardwalk that is perfect for sunset strolls near the downtown area.

  • Website: cityofholland.com/parks


Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk

Located near the entrance to Holland State Park, this is a towering 157-foot sand dune. A boardwalk and stair system (about 230 steps) takes you to the summit for the most breathtaking panoramic view of the lakes and the lighthouse.

  • Website: holland.org/mt-pisgah


Holland Farmers Market

Held at the Civic Center Place, this market features over 100 local vendors. It operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May through October, with smaller "indoor" markets during the winter months.

  • Website: hollandfarmersmarket.com


DeGraaf Nature Center

This is a "neighborhood" nature center that feels like a quiet escape. It has an interpretive center with live animals and several woodland trails that are very easy to walk, making it great for a quick nature break.

  • Website: cityofholland.com/degraaf

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Phil Nykamp, REALTOR

240 E 8th St, Holland, MI 49423, USA

(616) 377-9700

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09:00 am – 05:00 pm

 Each Keller Williams® office is independently owned and operated. 

© Phil Nykamp 2026

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