Pentwater is a village located in Oceana County within the U.S. state of Michigan, situated in West Michigan. It lies within Pentwater Township and occupies a total area of 1.62 square miles, comprising 1.28 square miles of land and 0.34 square miles of water. As the biggest community in Oceana County by area, it serves as a significant local hub for the region.

The name Pentwater derives from the phrase Pent or Penned up waters, reflecting its geographical characteristics. The entrance to the channel is notoriously shallow, a feature that historically dictated the size of vessels the village could accommodate. This natural constraint shaped early development and maritime activity in the area.

The village features eight streets named after signers of the Declaration of Independence, including Hancock, Carroll, and Wythe. Notable sites include Mears State Park, also known as Charles Mears State Park, which serves as the public beach. The Village Green acts as a park and natural amphitheater downtown on the shore of Pentwater Lake.

Pentwater is a tourist destination, particularly in summer, attracting visitors from Chicago for sportfishing, shopping, and art galleries. Annual events include a juried art fair in mid-July and a Homecoming celebration with a parade and fireworks. The Civic Band plays free concerts Thursday nights in the summer at the village green.

The population was 890 at the 2020 census, down from 857 in 2010. US 31 passes east of the village, providing access to Muskegon and Ludington, while Bus. US 31 formerly ran through downtown until May 4, 2023. The area offers various accommodations and activities centered around Lake Michigan and Pentwater Lake.