Why Take Surf Lessons on Lake Michigan in Michigan?

Why Take Surf Lessons on Lake Michigan in Michigan?

Lake Michigan might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of surfing, but if you’re a beginner, it should be.

The waves here are powered by wind, not swell. That means they come fast, hit soft, and disappear just as quickly. For new surfers, that’s ideal. You get shorter rides and smaller faces, perfect for learning how to paddle, pop up, and balance on real waves without the intimidation of overhead ocean sets.

Freshwater surfing also has its own learning curve. Less buoyancy, more drag, and colder temps all teach strong fundamentals. It’s a different rhythm, but one that makes you a better surfer.

I first started surfing here in 2002. I came home after a trip to Cocoa Beach with a soft top strapped to the roof, and that was it. Back then, it was fringe. Just a few core riders chasing storms and lake swell, most of whom are still out there today and close friends. Surfing wasn’t common in Michigan back then, but around 2014, local schools started surf clubs and the scene started to grow. It’s still not California or Florida, but it’s ours. And with the right board and a little know-how, the waves here are actually fun.

At Stoke Riders, we teach private surf lessons in St. Joseph, Michigan, where the pier break and south-facing shoreline offer some of the most consistent rideable waves on the coast. While we travel all over, from Muskegon to South Haven to Frankfort or even Chicago to chase our own waves, St. Joe is where we run our lesson program.

If you’re looking to learn how to surf in Michigan, this is one of the most approachable and authentic ways to start. Friendly beach, real waves, and expert instruction from local riders who’ve been here since the beginning.

Where Are the Best Places to Surf Lake Michigan in Michigan?

While Stoke Riders runs surf lessons exclusively in St. Joseph, we’ve surfed all over the Lake Michigan coast—and we know where the good spots are when conditions line up. Here are some of the top locations in Michigan for freshwater surfing:

 

St. Joseph

This is our home break, and where we teach all private surf lessons. The south-facing shoreline and pier structure help focus swell, making it one of the most consistent spots for beginner-friendly waves. When the forecast hits right, it can get surprisingly fun. Similar to grand haven beginners should keep some distance from the Peir. The waves can stack up here but you’re taking a risk getting close. We surf on either side of the pier depending on on the wind direction. Some of the best waves happen in the morning after a strong wind forecast that clocks east and gets light. You’ll get an hour or two of glassy faces lined up with the sand bars. 

 

South Haven

Just a short drive north of St. Joe, South Haven has become one of the more recognizable surf spots along the southern Lake Michigan coast. The main break is near the South Beach pier, with easy walk-up access from the public parking lots. The beach is wide and sandy, with soft transitions and generally good visibility, great for newer surfers learning how to read incoming sets.

Like most Lake Michigan towns, conditions here shift year to year depending on how the sandbars form. Some seasons there’s a defined inside bar that breaks beautifully on wind swell, especially from the southwest. Other years, the sand moves around and it takes a stronger onshore push to get it working. We've had early fall days here where waist-high sets roll in clean and consistent, and others where you're mostly paddling and waiting. That’s part of the game on the lake.

There’s a small but solid surf crew here too. You’ll see soft tops and longboards mixed with shortboarders when it’s firing. Locals are friendly, especially if you show up with stoke and respect. There’s even a little pocket of regulars who monitor conditions closely and paddle out when most would write the day off.

Off the water, the town’s got everything you need: coffee, food, boardwalks, and plenty of space to change and rinse off. South Haven works best when you’re paying attention to wind shifts and swell angles, but when it turns on, it’s one of our favorite places to ride.

 

Grand Haven

Grand Haven has one of the deepest surf histories on Lake Michigan. Home to the Rock Pile Gang, a crew of core local surfers who’ve been riding here since the ‘90s, this town has been part of the Great Lakes surf story long before it was trending. The vibe? Think mini-California—especially in the summer. There’s a boardwalk, a line of beachside restaurants, and that classic tourist energy. But behind the crowds is a legit surf scene that’s earned its place.

The beach is wide, and when storms roll through with northwest winds, Grand Haven lights up. But it’s not all beginner-friendly. We don’t recommend surfing near the pier unless you’re experienced, it’s heavy, technical, and has real risks if you don’t know what you’re doing.

For new surfers, the stretch between City Beach and the Pavilion is the place to go. The waves here are softer, the crowd’s more relaxed, and you can still catch fun, rideable lines on the right wind. South winds bring in decent longboard days, and with the right sand setup, it can be magic.

On the north side (technically Ferrysburg), there’s a lesser-known break about 400 yards south of the pier. You’ll usually see a crew out there on south winds. The shore break stacks nicely and can produce either a mellow longboard wave or a punchy shortboard wall if the conditions are firing. You’ll have to park in the fisherman’s lot and walk down the beach, but the setting is worth it, quiet, raw, and one of the prettier sections of the coast.

Muskegon

This is where I grew up, and my first experience surfing was right in front of the water filtration plant. Back then, I didn’t fully understand the benefit of getting closer to the pier. These days, I’ll see kids running down it and jumping off to skip the paddle out. Like Grand Haven, it’s a legit spot, but not one to play around with if you’re still learning. The pier can get heavy and has real risk. Stay clear unless you’re advanced.

Muskegon’s bottom is mostly shallow for about 800 feet out with a hardpack base. About 400 yards south of the pier, you’ll notice a shift, waves get a little less chaotic, a little more lined up. Sandbars change every year, but we usually get two or three defined bars that hold consistent breaks. I recommend finding the transition zone and tapping into the cleaner sets there. If you’re trying to go big or chase steeper walls, go closer to the pier, but know you’re risking rocks and strong current.

On a south wind, the North Muskegon side always has a crew. Vans lined up. Locals out. You can use the rip next to the pier to drift out, then paddle north into the lineup. It’s a bit of a hike, but it works, and the payoff can be solid.

The beach scene? It's vibrant. Paid parking now, but worth it. There’s a massive restaurant complex nearby with live music, outdoor seating, yard games—it’s a whole vibe. Some days it’s volleyball tournaments, some days it’s kiteboarders flying overhead. Either way, Muskegon feels alive.

It’s still my favorite beach in the world. No, it’s not world-class surfing—but when the waves line up, it’s 100% worth it. Summer can be slow unless we get a strong north wind, but fall is prime time. If you’re here to surf, this place belongs on your list.

Frankfort

Frankfort and most of northern Michigan always feel like an adventure. I don’t know the science behind it, but the water up here gets clearer—less algae—and turns this Caribbean blue that makes the whole place feel surreal.

There are a number of beaches worth checking out, and just like everywhere else on the lake, it mostly comes down to sandbars. The pier setup is similar to Muskegon, but what’s interesting here is the north side. There’s a massive sand dune that runs right up to the water. The waves here have always been fun for me, though I’ve never caught it on a super powerful day. I’ve mostly ridden this zone with a kite, but the potential for real surf is obvious.

The town itself is just beautiful. That stretch along the waterfront leading to the lakeshore is lined with restaurants, shops, and scenic views. It’s colder up here, and you’ll want a thicker wetsuit, but when the winds back off and the long-period swell sets in, this is one of the cleanest wave setups on Lake Michigan.

We may only teach in St. Joseph, but we’ve logged hours all along this coast. Whether you're booking a surf lesson or hunting down your own waves, these are the spots that light up when the wind starts moving water the right way.

 

When is the Best Time to Surf Lake Michigan in Michigan?

The best surf on Lake Michigan doesn’t follow a perfect schedule, but there are clear patterns if you know where to look.

Fall is the sweet spot. September through early November brings stronger winds, colder temps, and more consistent swell. Southwest winds fire up southern breaks like St. Joseph, Grand Haven, and Muskegon. Northwest winds feed Frankfort and the northern coast. The water’s still warm enough early fall, but you’ll want your 4/3 or thicker by mid-season. Personally I use a 5/4 as the water can turn over fast. 

Spring has windows too. April and May can surprise you with a few solid wind events, especially those late snowmelt storms that hit from the west or north. But it’s cold, thick wetsuits, booties, gloves, and hoods are standard. We get lots of wind in April and there are waves but be warned the water is frigid. 

Summer is hit or miss. You’ll get the occasional north wind swell in July or August, but it’s rare. That said, it’s the best time to learn. On calm days, Stoke Riders runs surf lessons right in St. Joe, teaching paddle technique, board control, and pop-up skills in warm water and mellow surf.

Winter? Advanced only. Hardcore lake surfers chase storms all year, even in snow. But we don’t recommend it unless you know what you’re doing, have the gear, and a crew. Hypothermia is real. Leave that to the locals who live for it.

Lake surfing is a forecast game. You’ve got to watch wind direction, speed, and duration. Surf cams help a lot and honestly being willing to drop what you are doing and work around the wind. 

 

What Gear and Preparation Do You Need for Lake Michigan Surf Lessons?

Surfing the Great Lakes means gearing up for freshwater, not salt. That matters more than people think.

Wetsuit thickness is key. Even in summer, the lake runs colder than the ocean. For spring and fall, a 4/3mm wetsuit is the minimum. When it drops below 50°F, you’ll want a 5/4 or even a 6/5/4, plus gloves, booties, and a hood. Don’t mess around with cold water, it saps your energy fast.

Freshwater is slower. There’s more drag compared to saltwater, which means you’ll work harder to paddle into waves. But it also makes things a little safer, less push, more time to react. Great for learning.

Boards matter. we start students on wider longboards. They float better and are way more forgiving when you’re figuring out your pop-up. The exact board depends on the day’s conditions, but we’ve got options.

The good news: Stoke Riders includes all the gear in your lesson—surfboard, wetsuit, everything. You just show up with a towel, sunscreen, and a mindset ready to learn.

Want to get your own gear dialed in?
→ Check out our water wear collection for wetsuits, booties, gloves, and more.
→ Browse surfboards if you’re ready to build your own quiver.

 

How Do You Book Surf Lessons in Michigan with Stoke Riders?

Booking a surf lesson with us is simple, and it all starts in St. Joseph.

We offer private 90-minute surf lessons for $90. That includes everything: your surfboard, wetsuit, land instruction, and guided water time with one of our local coaches. Just pick a date, show up at the beach, and we’ll take care of the rest.

 

Here’s how it works:

1. Choose your date: We run lessons during the warm season, typically May through September. Availability depends on weather, waves, and coach schedules.
   

2. Book online: Head to our Private Surf Lesson page and lock in your session.
   

3. We’ll confirm the conditions: If the waves are good, we hit the water. If it's flat, we shift focus to paddle skills, pop-ups, and technique—still super valuable.
   

4. Show up stoked: All you need is a towel, water, sunscreen, and positive energy. We’ll provide the rest.
   

If you're outside St. Joe, don’t worry. Our team often travels the coast to chase good conditions. When it’s on in Muskegon, Grand Haven, or South Haven, we’ll let you know and help make it happen.

Want to learn more? → Book your lesson now and we’ll get you in the water.

 

---

 

What Does a Typical Surf Lesson Look Like on Lake Michigan?

Every session starts on land. Whether the waves are chest-high or knee-slappers, we begin with fundamentals.

First, we break it down on the beach:

You’ll learn how to carry your board, how to read the waves, and how to position yourself for takeoff. We’ll go through pop-up technique in the sand so you’ve got the movement locked in before we hit the water. This part matters, it builds confidence.

Then we get wet.
We paddle out together, staying close to the best break for the day. Depending on the conditions, you might start in the whitewater or line up outside if it’s mellow. You’ll practice timing, balance, wave reading, and getting to your feet. Most people stand up in their first session. Our breaks are generally shallow and on the sandbars near the shore. Many students are able to stand up if needed so there is a sense of safety you won’t feel elsewhere. We also don’t have to worry about any big fish in the great lakes here so that ‘s a huge plus. 

Every lesson is 1-on-1 or small group, so your coach tailors the session to your ability, goals, and the day’s conditions.

 

Tips for Surfing Safely on Lake Michigan in Michigan

Surfing freshwater is different. The waves are shorter, the water’s colder, and conditions can change fast. Staying safe out here means understanding a few key things before you paddle out.

1. Dress for the water, not the air.
Lake Michigan stays cold even in summer. You’ll want a wetsuit most of the season. In early spring or late fall, that means a 4/3mm or 5/4/3mm full suit with boots and gloves. Stoke Riders provides everything you need, but know that warmth = confidence = longer sessions.

2. Know the break and stay clear of the pier.
A lot of our surf happens near piers, and while the waves can be great, the current and hazards increase. Stick to beginner zones like City Beach in Grand Haven or the south end in St. Joe. Leave the pier waves to the seasoned locals.

3. Keep your leash on and your eyes open.
Even on mellow days, the lake can push you around. Wear your leash, and pay attention to drift. If you start sliding too far down the beach, reset before you get pulled near rocks or structure.

4. Learn the lineup and respect it.
Lake surf culture is welcoming, but small breaks can get crowded. Don’t snake waves, don’t ditch your board, and give space. Everyone’s out there for the same reason. Generally you’ll be able to find your own waves but at times, some sandbars or spots are going to be crowded. With limited prime conditions, its best to do your due diligence and get competent before venturing into the line up. Taking lessons is the best way to get in sync. 

5. Watch for changing conditions.
Winds shift, waves turn off, thunderstorms pop up fast. Always check the radar and surf cams before your session, and when in doubt, sit it out. Unlike the ocean, squalls are not much of a worry but currents are. The rip tides here and undertow can be extremely hazardous in the fall. Know your abilities and go with friends. 

We’ve surfed this lake through every season and squall. When you’re geared right, tuned in, and riding with awareness, it’s one of the most rewarding surf experiences out there.

 

Why Learning with Stoke Riders Is the Best Surf Experience in Michigan

We don’t just teach surfing, we live it.
We’ve been surfing Lake Michigan since before it was cool. Our team knows the breaks, the moods of the lake, and how to teach in our freshwater conditions. 

We keep our lessons small and personal.
No big crowds or getting lost in the shuffle. Just you, your coach, and a focused 90-minute session designed to meet you where you’re at. We include boards, wetsuits, and local knowledge, all you have to bring is a towel, sunscreen, and some stoke.

Our lead coach Tyler Spence has been called one of the Midwest’s top surf instructors by Chicago Magazine, and it’s not just hype. He’s been chasing freshwater surf for years and brings the same energy whether you’re in waist-high chop or lining up for the clean stuff.

We surf all over this lake.
Our home base is in St. Joseph, but when the wind calls, we go. Grand Haven, South Haven, Muskegon we chase the best waves for our own sessions, and that local surf knowledge carries into every lesson.

Want the best surf experience in Michigan?
Book with the crew who actually ride here. We’ll show you how to stand up, read the lake, and feel the stokel of riding your first wave. 

 

Book Your Private Surf Lesson Today

Ready to catch your first wave on Lake Michigan? Stoke Riders offers full‑service surf lessons in St. Joseph — with gear, coaching, and a crew that actually surfs these waters year-round.
Whether you’re brand new or looking to sharpen your skills, we’ll help you stand up, ride longer, and build real confidence.

Book your 90‑minute private surf lesson today and get in the water with Stoke Riders.

 

---

 

FAQ: Lake Michigan Surf Lessons with Stoke Riders

Q: Can I learn to surf on Lake Michigan even if the waves are small?
Yes. Smaller days are perfect for learning paddling, pop-ups, and board handling. Even flatwater sessions can help build key fundamentals before riding whitewater.

Q: Do I need to bring my own wetsuit or board?
Nope. We provide the board and wetsuit. Just bring a towel, water, sunscreen, and some stoke. If you want your own gear after the lesson, check out our surfboards and water wear collections.

Q: Are lessons only in St. Joseph?
Yes — that’s where we teach. But we surf all over the Lake Michigan coast. Depending on the day, we’ll give you tips on where to go next — Grand Haven, South Haven, Muskegon, even Frankfort.
You can also check out our surf spot guide for more insight.

 

---