by Joy Mosenfelder

Created on: December 15, 2008   Last Updated: June 17, 2011

For those who love being out on the open water, Michigan is second to none as a prime vacation destination. In addition to bordering four of the five great lakes, Michigan is home to more than 11,000 smaller inland lakes, many of which offer prime locations for fishing, swimming, diving and other sorts of outdoor fun. This state truly is a midwest paradise, harboring some of the crown jewels of the region across its diverse terrain.

When most people think about coastal states California and Florida tend to top the list, however, Michigan actually sports a longer coast line than either of these popular destinations. With 3,288 miles of waterfront property Michigan tops out every state but Alaska, and for climate the midwest certainly has a broader appeal than the chilly north. Additionally, Michigan's coastline is home to 116 lighthouses, historic sentinels standing guard over vital shipping lanes on some of the nations most dangerous shores. Many of these lights are open to the public, and the stories of the men and women who watched over them offer a rich glimpse into the past for the curious traveler.

Michigan's beaches have some distinct advantages over the salty swimming offered along our nations other coasts. While the waves on the lakes might not get quite as big as those on the ocean, they do still offer ample opportunities for surfing, sailing, body boarding and other sorts of fun in the sun. The fresh water won't sting your eyes or dry your mouth, and none of the fauna here is hazardous to your health.

While you don't have to worry about being eaten by the aquatic wildlife, you may want to consider turning the tables a bit. With more than 11,000 lakes and countless rivers Michigan has a sweet spot for every sort of freshwater catch. Whether you want to charter a boat and hit the open water or find a nice quiet bend in the river to set your fly you can find the bait, the gear and the perfect place to make your choice catch. Even in winter, Michigan fish are still willing to bite if you are ambitious enough to set up your shanty and drill through the ice.

For those who aren't satisfied simply enjoying themselves on the water and would really rather be in it, Michigan offers a unique diving experience. Shipwrecks on the great lakes offer a fascinating chance to explore the past from a completely different perspective. Michigan's strategic location and natural bounty have made it a trade up throughout is history, and the vessels scattered around its shores have many tales to tell about the growth of its exports and industries and the constant struggle against fickle weather on and around the big lakes.

While there is certainly more to Michigan than its proximity to water, this natural resource is such an integral part of the state that any visit is going to be touched in some way by its presence. And why not? The natural beauty of the rivers and lakes that shape Michigan's scenery offer tranquility to the mind and eye

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