When most people think about surfing in the U.S., places like California, Hawaii, and even Florida come to mind. However, there is an unexpected destination that provides some surprisingly great waves too. It’s colloquially known as the Third Coast and it’s located right in America’s heartland.
The Great Lakes may not offer the same experience as those other popular destinations, but adventurous surfers will discover 20+ foot waves with a complete lack of crowds. Moreover, there is very little marine life (read: no sharks!), and tides are pretty much nonexistent. In short, surfing on these bodies of water is unlike anything else and highly rewarding.
When surfing the Great Lakes, it is essential to dress appropriately, so a wetsuit or drysuit is necessary. Additionally, having a proper board (thicker for freshwater surfing) is vital, and one must be prepared for unexpected conditions. Consequently, the water can be rough, and high winds add to the challenge of staying on the board.
01 of 05: Sheboygan, WI
Address: Sheboygan, WI, USA
Wisconsin isn’t traditionally recognized for great surfing; however, it was home to the Dairyland Surf Classic for years. This event took place for more than two decades on the western shores of Lake Michigan in Sheboygan, where a dedicated surf culture has flourished. The prime surfing season runs from August to April, so be prepared for cold water and pack a drysuit.
Sheboygan boasts five miles of beautiful beach with a total of 22 breaks to ride within the city limits, making it convenient for surfers to hit the water. It doesn’t take long to uncover why Sheboygan has been dubbed “The Malibu of the Midwest.”
02 of 05: Whiting, IN
Address: Whiting, IN, USA
Nestled on Lake Michigan’s southern shore, Whiting, Indiana is a remarkable destination for surfers who can tolerate cooler weather. The premier time for surfing here is during the winter and early spring months when powerful storms whip up high winds to generate impressive waves.
Furthermore, due to its closeness to Chicago, Whiting is accessible and convenient. Local surfers can enjoy beach access right within the city limits. Notably, an old refinery stands on the shoreline, creating a unique landscape as surfers ride the formidable swells that sometimes rival traditional surf towns in the U.S.
03 of 05: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Address: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Maple City, MI 49664, USA
Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features stunning landscapes, including breathtaking views of Lake Michigan from atop a soaring 450-foot sand dune. While it attracts summer visitors, it also hosts a dedicated group of winter surfers.
In the off-season, the Lakeshore is often deserted, providing a tranquility that is hard to find in most surf spots. With waves exceeding 20 feet, surfers can enjoy incredible swells against the backdrop of massive dunes.
04 of 05: Duluth, MN
Address: Duluth, MN, USA
Residents of Duluth, Minnesota, can vouch for the excellent surfing conditions found on the Great Lakes, as the city has approximately a dozen surfable spots nearby.
The outstanding surfing is at Stony Point, where deep waters and unobstructed winds generate the largest waves in the region. Newbies can opt for Park Point, where the family-friendly beach atmosphere welcomes beginners. Additionally, the mouth of the Lester River produces solid point break surfing when conditions align perfectly.
As with other locations on this list, winter is the most favorable time to surf in Duluth. Strong north and northwest winds, combined with dense cold air, create ideal conditions for larger waves.
05 of 05: Muskegon, MI
Address: Muskegon, MI, USA
Pere Marquette Beach, located in Muskegon, Michigan, is another exciting surf destination for Midwest adventurers. November usually brings strong winds across Lake Michigan, fostering robust wave conditions. It’s common to encounter waves up to 9 feet at the beach, with even larger swells found further off shore.
Nearby Muskegon State Park also offers excellent opportunities for catching waves during suitable conditions. Nonetheless, this destination remains relatively under the radar for most Great Lakes surfers, even though it promises quality surfing experiences during the winter months.
When surfing the Great Lakes, it is crucial to dress appropriately in wetsuits or drysuits and use a thicker board designed for freshwater. Moreover, being prepared for unexpected conditions is essential, as the water can be harsh and high winds can pose challenges. By keeping these considerations in mind, you may find that the surfing experiences here can surprise and delight.
