Sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, remote islands, waterfront villages, and port cities – these all make up the unforgettable experience of Lake Michigan boating. As the third largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is bordered by four states, promising unbeatable proximity to waterfront fun. With prime boating season upon us, brush up on some of this dreamy location’s best destinations for on-the-water adventuring before you cast off!
Les Cheneaux Islands
In this chain of 36 islands, conventional roads are replaced by majestic channels of calm waves that invite boating options of all types. This archipelago was carved out naturally by glaciers thousands of years ago and now provides sheltered channels and bays which offer unparalleled year-round opportunities for day trips, quiet breaks, and vacations. Be sure to visit in August and behold the famous antique wooden boat show, in which the channels fill up with beautiful vintage boats.
Torch Lake
Measuring in at an impressive 18 miles in length, Torch Lake is Michigan’s longest inland lake and a popular destination for both power boating and sailing. This awe-inspiring body of water is renowned for its deep, multi-tone color resembling the Caribbean. Dock in the quaint village of Alden and enjoy one of the few public beaches available on Torch Lake, which got its name from the way native fishermen long ago used torches to light their way.
Lake St. Clair
Connecting Lake Erie to Lake Huron and the Detroit River, Lake St. Clair provides plenty of space for commercial and pleasure boats to mingle as they traverse the water. Roughly 150,000 recreational boats are registered in the immediate area but the lake’s size – 26 miles by 24 miles – makes sure that there is no problem for everyone on the water, whether boating for pleasure or business. In 2013, this awesome lake was even named the number one bass fishing lake in the world by Bassmaster!
Gull Lake
Due to its proximity to densely populated centers like Chicago, Gull Lake was popularized early in the Michigan tourism industry. Nowadays, it serves as a hotspot for both boating and scuba diving as visitors search the waters for submerged artifacts like a phone booth, motorcycle, and railroad tracks! Lovely homes and cottages dot the shoreline, making for a homey atmosphere on the water. Swing by on the weekends – the local yacht club offers exciting sailboat racing!
Lake Charlevoix
Once named by USA Today as the second most beautiful lake in the country, this pristine body of water is a spectacle. Deep blue shades of the water complement the vibrant green color of the surrounding hillside. Once a year, Lake Charlevoix hosts its very own Venetian Festival – a wonderful event highlighted by a candle-lit boat parade. Stop by the many marinas, outfitters, and restaurants found here for a glimpse into what makes Lake Charlevoix so special.
To get to the best boating destinations, you need the best boats. Great Lakes Yacht Sales is your one-stop shop for all your boating needs! Give us a visit and find the boat that is perfect for your needs, whether that’s a weekend of sailing Lake Michigan or a day of fishing your favorite flats. Our locations and marinas allow us to serve the greater Chicago area as well as the eastern shores of Lake Michigan. Unforgettable memories are waiting for you on the water – come find them with us!
