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

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More Activities & Attractions in Ludington

Cool Things to Do

Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.

The Baby Badger

A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.

Sunset Times

It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.

Ludington Has Two Lighthouses!

Ludington visitors flock to the area to view our two majestic lighthouses, the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

Fall Color Tour

Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.

Bicycle Trails

Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!

Waterfront Park Sculptures

The bronzed sculptures in Ludington’s 5-acre Waterfront Park sets it apart from other parks. The park is situated on the Lake Michigan inlet.

Weather & Water Conditions

West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.