Lake Michigan Destinations stock photo
Lake Michigan Water Temperatures for Northeast Wisconsin
Lake Michigan is a vast, fresh water lake that is a haven for swimmers, boaters, and fishermen.
Though not as warm as the oceans, temperatures of Lake Michigan do rise to the high 60s in July and August to make swimming enjoyable, and definitely refreshing! Rarely do temperatures make it to the 70s, unless air temperatures stay up in the 90s for many continuous days.
If Lake Michigan is still too chilly for your taste, head to the inland lakes where temperatures will usually be much warmer. Smaller lakes tends to warm more quickly than Lake Michigan.
You have likely been hearing about the historic water levels in Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes, and many of your favorite beaches have nearly disappeared as Lake Michigan has advanced. But don’t be discouraged–most every Lake Michigan destination has an abundance of beaches and parks, so you can usually find at least one or two big beaches which still have ample sand and long shorelines for walking, relaxing, rock-hunting, and swimming.
There are instances of shore erosion around the entire lake, and reports of the rising waters engulfing the edges of some parks where the sidewalks may now be under few inches of water. The docks at many marinas have been affected, and the piers to lighthouses are often closed on windy days, because the waves are washing over the piers, making them unsafe to walk on.
The rising lake levels remind us of the power of nature.
Lake Michigan Travel Regions
Michigan
- Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
- Northern Michigan
- Northwest Michigan
- Central West Michigan
- Southwest Michigan
Wisconsin
Indiana & Illinois
Discover More Lake Michigan Destinations

Van Buren County, Michigan
Van Buren County is fun for all seasons, whether it be hiking the many trails, fishing the Black River, or skiing at Timber Ridge.

Marinette, Wisconsin
Marinette is a historical place and offers a museum telling the stories of its past including an exhibit honoring “Queen Marinette”.

Mason County, Michigan
Mason County is located in central West Michigan with Ludington being the main destination. Features include Lake Michigan and the PM River.

Harbor Springs, Michigan
Situated on a beautiful natural, deep harbor, this beautiful community has fabulous shopping and dining options overlooking the water.

Berrien County, Michigan
Berrien county is located in the southwest corner of Michigan and just north of the Indiana border. It’s home to the St. Joseph River.

Egg Harbor, Wisconsin
Egg Harbor is known as one of the best small towns in America. It boasts a new marina and an expanded, freshly renovated beach.