Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf Waterfall

Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf Under New Owners In 2022

Jim and Beth Selke of Clarkston, Michigan, consulted with and guided their 25-year-old Son, Justin Selke, into his first business venture.  If the first season is any indication, this storied business was entrusted into good hands. The Selke family takes pride in taking over the reins of Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf, an iconic local mini-golf and dairy bar near Port Austin, Michigan.

Experience In Hospitality

Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf
Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf

The Selke Family businesses include Bowling Centers, a Niche E-Commerce Pond Supply Business, and a Specialty Insurance Agency.  Sandy Dunes Operator Justin Selke has cut his teeth in the family bowling businesses, starting as a pre-teen in the kitchen.

The appeal of Sandy Dunes to the family was that it is a family-oriented entertainment business which they fundamentally understand through years of operating bowling centers, so the Selke Family’s comfort level of entering the mini golf and its ice cream business was high, plus it was run exclusively by the founder for almost 30 years. The family was looking for a well-run, healthy, iconic business that is beloved in their community.

Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf’s Park Like Setting

Evening at Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf in Port Austin
Evening at Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf in Port Austin

When Justin and his parents first saw the property, it was evident that it was better than well cared for – a rich, beautiful landscape and topography (Jim described as an arboretum) gleaming clean in a scenic tourist area. It’s a little-known fact that Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf is home to the highest and only waterfall in the Upper Thumb!

The Selke’s appreciated the effort it takes to build and maintain a successful business.  This opportunity checked all the boxes for them, and Justin was ready to begin his business career.

The family has rallied around Justin as he nears the end of his first season.  He’s bringing energy and customer-focused service to the business, similar to its founder.  

Owners’ Offer New Outlook For Visitors

Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf Waterfall
Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf Waterfall

He has worked diligently, mostly 12-14 hour daily since April, proving his intentions and determination by maintaining the impressive landscape and grounds, offering super-premium ice cream treats, and building rapport with locals and staff alike.

Justin brought back a small arcade area this season, and plans for the future include adding family attractions, making improvements to the sound and lighting system, and some re-modeling to make it more comfortable for guests in the heat of the summer.

End of Season Offers a Sweet Deal

Sandy Dune Adventure Golf

Sandy Dunes will be closing out the 2022 season with a sweet deal. The facility will be open during the weekends starting at 11 am until mid-October. Pay for a round of mini-golf and get a free scoop of premium ice cream

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Michael Hardy

Michael Hardy is the owner of Thumbwind Publications LLC. Michael was born in Michigan and grew up near Caseville. In 2009 he started this fun-loving site covering Michigan's Upper Thumb. Since then, he has authored a vast range of content and established a loyal base of 60,000 visitors per month.

View all posts by Michael Hardy →

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