Lake Michigan looks calm on a lot of days. It can also be dangerous, and it changes faster than people expect. A beautiful day can still have strong waves and currents just off shore.
I have been hosting for over ten years, and before every beach season I tell guests the same few things. None of it is complicated, but all of it matters. Please take five minutes to read it before your first beach day.
Why this blog? Hi, I'm Katie. My family and I run Mitten Rentals, and I have been hosting vacation rentals for more than ten years (Superhost since 2015). This is where I share the places I send our own guests along the West Michigan lakeshore.
READ: Our Favorite Lake Michigan Beaches, North to South
Four Rules for a Safe Beach Day
1) Check the Conditions
Before you go, look up the beach forecast. It takes a minute and tells you a lot about wave height and currents for the day.
When you get there, watch for warning flags. Red means stay out of the water. Not wade in a little, not just to your knees. Stay out.
If you are not sure what the flags mean or the conditions look rough, sit this one out. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy a day at the lake, from a dune climb to a long walk along the sand.
2) Know About Rip Currents
Rip currents are the big one. If you get caught in a current, do not swim against it. That is how people get worn out.
Instead, swim parallel to shore until you are out of it, then swim in. Talk about this with your kids before they get in the water, so they know what to do without having to think about it.
It helps to pick a landmark on the beach when you go in, like a bright umbrella or a bench, so it is easier to tell if the current is pulling you down the shore.
3) Stay Off the Piers in Waves
The piers are one of the best parts of the lakeshore, but waves can sweep people off of them. It happens.
Enjoy the piers on calm days only. On a wavy day, watch the show from the beach instead.
The piers are especially tempting at sunset when the waves are big and dramatic. That is exactly when they are the most dangerous.
READ: Quieter Beaches Locals Love
4) Watch Kids Closely
Most Lake Michigan beaches do not have lifeguards. That surprises a lot of people who are used to pools or ocean beaches with a guard stand.
Keep kids within arm's reach in the water. As a parent of school age kids myself, this is the rule I hold the hardest.
Assign one adult to watch the water at a time, and trade off. It is easy for everyone to assume someone else is watching.
Have fun and be safe out there. A little caution goes a long way, and the lake will still be there tomorrow if today is a red flag day.
We would love to host your beach trip. Pick a home, pack the sunscreen and come see the lake for yourself.