Pentwater's specialty is its location to Lake Michigan. The area is a tourist mecca in the summer, frequently visited by Chicagoans looking to get away. Pentwater has a number of bed and breakfasts, in addition to the more traditional motels. Sport-fishing is popular in the area, as is shopping. The village has a number of art galleries. Nearby Charles Mears State Park is a popular location during the summer months as well. The village hosts a juried art fair mid-July. Memorial Day in Pentwater is considered the beginning of the summer season, and there is a popular annual fishing contest.

Pentwater is home to several bands that which play concerts Thursday nights during the summer, beginning in late June, in the outdoor bandshell at the village green, a park and natural amphitheater located downtown on the shore of Pentwater Lake.

Pentwater holds an annual Homecoming, which is usually the week of second Thursday of August. Homecoming festivities include a parade, fireworks, and sandcastle-building contest.