Photo by Craig Sterken
Ludington Weather & Water Temperatures
Ludington Weather Conditions
West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.
Along the Lake Michigan shoreline our weather patterns can hardly be called patterns. The Great Lakes have a tendency to create their own weather in their own way. That keeps the local forecasters on their toes. What’s forecasted isn’t what always happens. Weather that happens in Wisconsin doesn’t always make it across Lake Michigan, fronts in Canada that should miss us sometimes come barreling down, and sometimes “squalls” develop over the lakes from clear blue skies.
Visit forecast.weather.gov to get the most updated weather information for Ludington from the National Weather Service.
Lake Michigan Water Conditions
We residents of Ludington are blessed to have one of the Great Lakes right in our backyard. Lake Michigan is a vast, fresh water lake that is a haven for swimmers, boaters, and fishermen. The S.S. Badger carferry crosses Lake Michigan every day during the summer as a shortcut to Wisconsin. Though not as warm as the oceans, temperatures of Lake Michigan do rise to the high 60’s in July and August to make swimming enjoyable, and definitely refreshing! Rarely do temperatures make it to the 70’s, unless air temperatures stay up in the 90’s for many continuous days.
Our beaches in Ludington are some of the nicest and cleanest you’ll find anywhere. You can choose whether or not to join the crowds at the highly populated spots or find a private beach that’s less busy. Sunning, swimming, or building that special sand castle- Ludington’s beaches offer it all!
Visit coastwatch.msu.edu to get daily temperature readings of Lake Michigan in Ludington and for current swimming safety conditions, go to forecast.weather.gov.
Hamlin Lake Water Temperatures
One of the wonderful things about Hamlin Lake is the shape of the lake. Here’s why. Upper Hamlin Lake runs east and west, while Lower Hamlin Lake runs north and south. This means that, no matter what the wind direction on any given day, there’s probably a section of the lake which can be enjoyed. Hamlin Lake also has multiple bayous which are often very sheltered from the prevailing winds.
The waters of Hamlin Lake beaches are typically much warmer than the water along Lake Michigan beaches. So, if the big lake feels a bit on the chilly side, head to a sheltered Hamlin Lake beach, such as the beach within the Ludington State Park.
More Environmental Information
UV Forecast– Get information on how much sunblock you need!
Air Quality Forecasts from the National Weather Service
Great Lakes Winds- The NOAA website shows you coastal wind speeds for Lake Michigan
Beaches & Parks in Ludington
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
Long Skinny Park
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
Farmer’s Markets & U-Pick Farms
Farm Markets & U-Pick farms offer locally grown and organic produce, flowers, plants, seeds, and more in West Michigan.
Port of Ludington Maritime Museum
Step back in the past and learn about Ludington’s rich maritime history at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.
Charter Boat Fishing
No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.
Festivals & Events
There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.
Aerial View of Big Sable Point
The aerial view of Big Sable Point features Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.
