If you were convinced you needed to jet off to Hawaii to catch some wicked waves, guess again! Some sun and surf fun can be found right here in West Michigan, thanks to the return of the Great Lakes Surf Festival.
After their first two events in 2018 and 2019 were a smashing success, the Great Lakes Surf Festival is back and will be holding their third annual event on Saturday, August 14th, 2021 from 12:30 – 7 p.m. at Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon.
The event is a perfect opportunity for those who are looking to relax, spend some time in the water or learn something new. Instructors will be on hand to help teach attendees how to surf and paddleboard, and yogis can enjoy practicing yoga directly on the beach. The whole event is a total vibe, with music, food and a raffle also taking place.
"We are excited to see the Great Lakes Surf Festival grow and to have the support from our sponsors and from the surf and paddleboard industry," said Joe Bidawid, the event's co-founder who is also a highly accomplished Great Lakes water athlete. "We have one of the most beautiful venue locations on the Great Lakes, in Pere Marquette Beach, and we encourage anyone interested in a fun and family-friendly beach day to come out and join us."
No waves? No problem! The Great Lakes Surf Festival, in conjunction with Tommy's Boats Grand Rapids, will be able to generate waist-high waves to simulate ocean waves, which are ideal conditions for those seeking a gentle way to learn a variety of boardsports.
"Imagine a late summer day on an amazing beach doing what you love, and surrounded by so many people from all over the Great Lakes who share the same passion," Bidawid said. "That is our goal."
Did we mention that several surfboards and paddleboards are included in the raffle—along with a trip to Costa Rica? Count us in!
Learn more at Great Lakes Surf Festival.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
