A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
As the end of summer nears and August days begin to hint at fall, now’s the perfect time to cruise through Wisconsin’s beautiful coastal counties. From sandy Lake Michigan shores to the wild edges of Lake Superior, here’s how to make every last day of summer count! With fewer crowds and lingering warm days, this late-summer stretch invites you to slow down, explore hidden gems, and savor those golden moments before the season changes.
Lake Michigan Counties
Home to two Great Lakes, Wisconsin’s coast is packed with summer escapes. Each stop promises its own mix of breezy beaches, lakeside views, and classic adventure. Ready to hit the road? Here’s your route along Lake Michigan:
First Stop: Racine County
Kick things off in Racine County, where outdoor fun meets lakeside scenery. Spend a sunny day at Samuel Myers Park—explore the 7 acres, birdwatch, picnic, or just relax by the water. Make time for a stop at the historic Wind Point Lighthouse, which towers 108 feet above Lake Michigan. For adventurers, summer brings paddle sports galore: try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding for awesome shoreline views.
Next Stop: Sheboygan County
Head north to Sheboygan County, a paradise for families and nature lovers. The highlight: Kohler-Andrae State Park, one of the last pristine preserves on Lake Michigan. Summer here means walking sand dunes, splashing on the beach, or casting a fishing line. After a busy day, enjoy the seasonal concert series in River Park with live music and great food under the open sky.
Last Stop: Door County
No summer cruise is complete without Door County. Drive the scenic Door County Coastal Byway and take detours for extra adventure, like hiking or relaxing at Peninsula State Park. To really soak up the coast, take to the water for a classic boating trip—summer memories made from a new perspective.
Lake Superior Counties
August brings out the best of the Northwoods, where sunny days and cool nights set the perfect mood for exploring new places or simply unwinding by the water. Northern Wisconsin sparkles in August with wide-open spaces and cool lakeside air—here’s how to enjoy Lake Superior’s shores:
Up First: Ashland County
Ashland County is made for laid-back summer days. Take in vast views from the Penokee Scenic Overlook, then reel in a big catch or just set out on the water around Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay.
Up Next: Bayfield County
Your final stop: Bayfield County—a place where the best of the season rolls on. Make your adventure unforgettable at the Apostle Islands: paddle through sea caves or set sail to explore island shores. Prefer to stay on land? Cruise along the Wisconsin Lake Superior Scenic Byway for breathtaking August scenery.
Even as summer winds down, there’s still plenty of time to cruise, paddle, and explore Wisconsin’s coastal gems. Grab your sunglasses, hit the road, and make the most of every late-summer moment! With each sunset and shoreline stop, you’ll find new reasons to savor the season and create memories that last well beyond the last warm day.
Hailey Rose, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
