When summer weather is right around the corner here in Michigan, you know what that means: it’s time to pull those swimsuits out of storage and get ready to immerse yourself in some of our state’s most lovely freshwater destinations! There are plenty of awesome spots to take a dip here in the Great Lakes State. Here are nine of our favorite swimming holes in Michigan that will keep you cool all summer long:

1. Black Rocks (Marquette)
TripAdvisor/Cherie J.
Venture to Marquette and get ready for a one-of-a-kind day at Black Rocks, a gorgeous attraction on Lake Superior that offers options for daredevils and peace-seekers alike. Leap from the top of these stunning rock formations within Presque Isle Park or simply relax along the more laid-back Black Rocks Beach. Either way, you’ll be completely delighted. Click here for our previous article on Black Rocks.

Address: 2 Peter White Drive, Marquette, MI 49855
2. Torch Lake (Antrim County)
Flickr/full frame
Okay, this spot certainly isn’t "little known" among its hundreds of annual visitors, but those who live outside the area will be completely charmed by its stunning shorelines and crystal-clear blue water. Take a boat onto the water or float peacefully alongside loved ones at Torch Lake in Michigan, which will make you feel as though you’ve been transported to a tropical destination. For more information and beautiful photos, click here.

Address: Torch Lake, MI, 49622
3. Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground (Rogers City)
Yelp/Bob D.
Looking to combine your love of camping with your passion for swimming in the summer months? Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground might just be the perfect place for you. Set up a tent just steps from the area’s babbling waterfalls and bask in the refreshingly chilly waters with your friends and family. There’s no better way to appreciate Michigan’s great outdoors. For more information about this one-of-a-kind campground, see our previous feature here.

Address: M-68, Rogers City, MI 49779
4. Fisherman’s Island (Charlevoix)
TripAdvisor/lizmorgan11
This Charlevoix beach is lesser-known than its counterparts in the area, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less wonderful. Fisherman’s Island offers a truly unique and rustic vibe to those who visit, and you’ll feel as though you’ve been swept back in time while you walk along the shoreline and dip your toes in the waters of Lake Michigan. You’d be hard-pressed to find a lovelier beach in the Great Lakes State; it is truly one of the best beaches in Michigan. For more information about Fisherman’s Island, click here.

Address: 16480 Bells Bay Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720

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5. Splash Universe (Dundee)
TripAdvisor/ThemFirst185
Okay, maybe the weather isn’t so great. Never fear! Michigan is home to plenty of indoor swimming locales as well. If you’re seeking a fun escape from the stress of everyday life, pack up the car and venture to Splash Universe in Dundee. This awesome indoor waterpark will keep every member of your family entertained with its slides, splash zones, and hot tubs. For more information about this exciting Michigan getaway, click here.

Address: 100 Whitetail Drive, Dundee, MI 48131
6. Olive Shores Beach (West Olive)
Flickr/Josh May
Have you ever seen the Tom Hanks movie "Road To Perdition?" Well, part of it was shot right here at Olive Shores in Michigan, and it’s easy to see why this location was scouted. When you make a trip to Olive Shores, you’ll find the perfect combination of greenery and waterfront charm. With 20 acres of dune formations, over 700 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline, and plenty of forested areas to explore, there’s truly something here for everyone — your swimming adventure will just be the icing on the cake! To learn more, click here.

Address: 8555 Olive Shore Avenue, West Olive, MI 49460
7. Laketown Beach (Holland)
Flickr/mollyali
Venture to the beautiful shorelines of Holland and check out Laketown Beach in Michigan, a small but mighty attraction that locals rave about. Sure, you’ll have to climb a few steps to get there, but the views from atop the dunes at this one-of-a-kind park are second to none. And the water isn’t too shabby, either! It’s the perfect place to spend a quiet beach day when you’re searching for a peaceful swim. For more information about Laketown, click here.

Address: Holland, MI 49423
8. Warren Dunes State Park (Bridgman)
TripAdvisor/DawnandJerry1
If you’re a fan of clean beachfronts and soft white sand, Warren Dunes is the place for you. This spot in Bridgman boasts some of the most stunning views in the state, and its lakefront is nothing short of gorgeous. Bring the whole family and pack a picnic lunch — once you arrive at this Lake Michigan stunner, you’ll want to stay and swim until the sun goes down! To learn more about Warren Dunes, check out our previous article here.

Address: 12032 Red Arrow Highway, Sawyer, MI 49125
9. Higgins Lake (Roscommon County)
Flickr/George Thomas
While we adore our Great Lakes, our inland swimming and boating spots aren’t too shabby either! Higgins Lake is a wonderful example — this breathtaking inland spot boasts 21 miles of shoreline and plenty of public areas to test out the clear water for yourself. The blue hues at Higgins Lake are absolutely dreamy, and you might never want to leave. For more information about this magical lake, click here to read our previous feature piece.

Address: Higgins Lake, MI 48627

Did we leave one of your favorite swimming holes in Michigan off our list? We’re always eager to hear your suggestions! Share your thoughts in the comment section, and get ready for another incredible Michigan summer.

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More to Explore

Swimming Holes in Michigan

Andrea Limke | June 14, 2019

What is the cleanest lake in Michigan?

There are many lakes in Michigan that have beautiful, clear water, as you can tell from the photos of the swimming spots above. Torch Lake in Michigan, described in the article, has clean and blue water, perfect for swimming. That is likely why this is such a popular spot on a summer day. When looking at the Great Lakes, Lake Superior has long been thought of as the cleanest of them all. However, recent reports share that Lakes Michigan and Huron are now at least clearer, due to a large number of mussels in Lake Superior.

Does Michigan have any natural inland lakes?

Michigan is known as the "Great Lakes State," thanks to the incredible lakes that surround it. But there are also over 11,000 inland lakes that fill the state's landscape. And to add to that, many say that no matter where you go in Michigan, you will be within 6 miles of a lake, so there are endless opportunities to relax by the water in our beautiful state.

What is the only state with no natural lakes?

Michigan has no shortage of lakes, but there is a state that has no natural lakes whatsoever. Maryland has plenty of waterways to enjoy, but it does not have any natural lakes. There are some of the manmade variety and of course there is Chesapeake Bay, but you won't find any natural lakes.

What state has the least amount of lakes?

As you can guess, Maryland is the state with the least amount of lakes, since it has no natural ones. If you're wondering which state has the most lakes, you may assume Minnesota, since that is what it is known for. However, Alaska actually takes this prize, and this naturally beautiful state is home to more than 3 million lakes!

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