Anyone who’s grown up around Lake Michigan will probably tell you that the lake itself is either comparable to the ocean, or that it’s better than the ocean. As for me? I will definitely tell you that it’s better than the ocean, but yes it is also very comparable. This is the lake I grew up with, for the most part. However, I’ve been to many other lakes, as well as both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and I have to say, I’d take any lake over either of those oceans any day. Maybe not for whale watching, or scuba diving, but definitely when I just want to have fun and hang out with my friends.
1. Rope swings
When have you ever been to a beach on the ocean with a rope swing? Oh right, probably never, because that’s just not how it works.
2. Cliff jumping
Of course you could do this in the ocean, but I mean cliff jumping into a deep sea of mystery? I'd rather not.
3. No sharks
Which is really good, because this is actually pretty creepy. The worst thing you could find in a lake is most likely, what, a two foot long fish and maybe some algae?
4. Relax and float with no worries
Once again, no worries about sharks, jellyfish or floating off into some unknown land.
5. Lakes are more private
Oh, you can’t find any parking on the beach? My friends and I just drove up and parked in front of this nice lake and we have the whole beach to ourselves. Nice, right?
6. Lake houses
It’s basically tradition while growing up to have that one friend with a lake house. It also would be totally normal to say you’ve lived at said lake house for practically an entire summer before, having the time of your life.
7. Boating
Sure, you can probably go boating in the ocean, but there’s just something about going on a lake. It’s that lake vibe, you know?
8. No salt
If you’ve never accidentally swallowed water while swimming before, my guess is that you’re lying. No matter where it’s at, it’s gross. But wouldn’t you rather have it be salt-free?
9. Great for barbecues
Once again, that “lake vibe.” Whether it be on the grill or on a campfire, cooking some hot dogs and s’mores, or something that is just typical lake behavior, it’s awesome. It also doesn’t seem like something “ocean-dwellers” would do.
10. The comradery
There are just those days where you can literally find anyone and everyone at the lake at the same time. It’s a way of bringing everyone together. It's just a place to hang out and enjoy nature. It’s really awesome if you ask me. Maybe this happens around the ocean too, but I’ll bet you that it’s better at a lake.
