Lake Michigan Recreational Beach Forecast

How to use this page

The Lake Michigan Shoreline map is color-coded to indicate the forecast Rip Current risk level.

To obtain the detailed Recreational Beach Forecast for a specific County, click along that County's lake shore.

Click out on the Lake itself to obtain the Nearshore Forecast covering the Lakeshore from St. Joseph north to Manistee.

Hover your mouse pointer over the shoreline for a quick look at the highlights of the Recreational Beach Forecast for that County.

Click on a County's shoreline to obtain the full text of the Recreational Beach Forecast for that County.

Click out on the Lake itself to obtain the Nearshore Forecast covering the Lakeshore from St. Joseph north to Manistee.

Low Risk
Wind and/or wave conditions are not expected to support the development of Rip Currents. However, Rip Currents can sometimes occur, especially in the vicinity of sand bars, jetties, and piers. Know how to swim and heed the advice of the beach patrol.
Moderate Risk
Wind and/or wave conditions support stronger or more frequent Rip Currents. Only experienced surf swimmers should enter the water.
High Risk
Wind and/or wave conditions support dangerous Rip Currents. Rip Currents are life-threatening to anyone entering the water.