Water Recreation

Pack your swimsuit, because Michigan offers an array of thrilling water-based activities suitable for all experience levels. Want a relaxing and inspirational excursion? In Munising, embark on a guided kayaking trip and explore the breathtaking view of Pictured Rocks National Lake shore that adorn the region’s shoreline. Looking for adventure? Scuba diving at Sleeping Bear Dunes presents an opportunity to discover the underwater wonders of the Great Lakes. If you want an adrenaline rush, Michigan’s inland lakes like Houghton Lake and Holland’s Lake Macatawa offer popular and exhilarating jet skiing experiences. And if you’re an angler looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to check out Escanaba’s Big Bays de Noc in the Upper Peninsula.

The soothing sounds of crashing waves and picturesque coastal landscape make Michigan a haven for beach and water lovers. Framed by four Great Lakes and boasting 3,200 miles of shoreline with more than 11,000 inland lakes, the state offers a diverse range of beach experiences. Wilderness State Park, near Mackinaw City, stands out for its 26 miles of unspoiled Lake Michigan shoreline, providing ample opportunity for sunbathing and swimming. Head to Magnus City Park Beach near Petoskey to uncover the mysteries of the past by unearthing fossilized, ancient coral embedded in the sands. And for even more history, the Great Lakes State boasts over 100 lighthouses, including the oldest surviving beacon in Port Huron’s Lighthouse Park.

Michigan is known not only for its vast Great Lakes, but also for its smaller bodies of water and rivers that invite unique recreational opportunities. The Detroit River, flowing through the heart of the city, provides a picturesque setting with Belle Isle — featuring a family-friendly beach and a riverwalk, which named the best riverwalk in America three years in a row, offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. In Roscommon, Higgins Lake is sure to entice you with its deep, clear waters, inviting activities like boating, fishing and swimming. And if you’re ready for a relaxing, scenic day on the lake, Silver Lake in Northwest Michigan offers pontoon and powerboat rentals.