Surfing

Surf the “Malibu of the Midwest”

So how do you surf Sheboygan? Lake Michigan is 310 miles long and 110 miles wide with 22,440 square miles of fresh water. It’s not a lake. It’s an inland ocean! Surfers call it the “Malibu of the Midwest.”

Advanced Surfing

Centrally located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, Sheboygan County juts out five miles into the lake. When winds of 20-25 mph blow from the northeast or west southwest incredible, ridable waves are sculpted from the surface water. Several times a year Lake Michigan produces an open water swell of 24 feet or better. In Sheboygan, surf season starts in late August and stretches through early April. Peak surf season is mid-September to March. Winter surfing is recommended for advanced level surfers only with proper equipment. Water temperatures of 33 degrees and sub-zero wind chills with moving ice flows and icebergs create a winter adventure only seasoned knowledgeable veteran surfers will enjoy. Sign up to receive the surf report from the local surf shop, EOS.

Recreational Novice Surfing

Even though the official Sheboygan surf season runs through fall and spring, winds can kick into a whirling splendor any time. During the summer, novice surfers will enjoy warmer water temperatures piquing from late July through early September. Calmer waves at North Pier near Deland Park offer a serene paddle board experience or a fun-filled day of honing those balancing skills. (Remember, you will be less buoyant on the fresh waters of Lake Michigan.) Beginners are encouraged to start their surfing experience in the Aloha spirit with a community gathering of surfers from all skill levels at the Dairyland Surf Classic. Test the waters or stay on shore, observe and gain some insight from other freshwater surfers at this annual Labor Day event.

The Dairyland Surf Classic presented by PACIFICO

Everyone is welcome to attend the Dairyland Surf Classic presented by PACIFICO. In the true meaning of the Aloha spirit, it’s a gathering of community to celebrate freshwater surfing. It’s a great place to meet new friends and check out the surf scene. You can watch the competition from the beach, or you can join the competition for a nominal registration fee. Either way, all are welcome to the annual Aloha Awards Banquet at Deland Park. It’s a classic evening under the stars with pot-luck dinner, live music and camaraderie. Open to the public, the only admission is bringing a dish to pass or something to grill! Click here for the 2012 Dairyland Surf Classic Schedule of Events.