Port Washington is a four-season outdoor playground. Each season boasts its own natural magic. From the winter paradise of lake steam, ice formations and snow-covered trails to the colorful gardens, lovely sand beaches, and lush green bluffs of summer, the changing seasons make for exciting exploration year-round.
Seasonal Fun
Spring
Spring is all about the awakening and anticipation. Get outside as temperatures start to melt and the blossoms and leaves reemerge. The Marina opens April 1st, and May is prime charter fishing season for hitting coho salmon limits. Hiking the local nature preserves and shoreline and biking the Ozaukee Interurban Trail are favorite ways of seeing the new foliage and rushing waters of the Sauk Creek and other waterways. Shore fishing is also popular, as the spring melt gives way to active fishing. While here, tap into some creative inspiration, as spring explodes with art in town, including a Mother's Day downtown Flower Walk and the annual Port Festival of the Arts at the end of May. April also features the ever-popular Blood Mary Walk and competition.
Summer
Summer in a coastal town can't be beat. Head lakeside for sailboats, fishing charters, paddleboards and surfboards keeping the coast busy. Stroll the miles of accessible lakefront, making your way to the iconic 1935 Pierhead Light for panoramic views. Plan a beach day at North or South Beach (kite flying is a great way to harness the lake breeze!) or bike the Interurban Bike Trail, traversing picturesque Ozaukee County. Grab picnic food at one of the unique cafes downtown to take hiking at nearby Lion's Den Gorge or Harrington State Beach. Summer also features festivals like Fish Days, sailing races like the Clipper Cup, hometown celebrations like the 4th of July, and the weekly Saturday Farmers Market.
Fall
Experience the beauty of rich hues blanketing the bluffs and lining the streets. Fall on the coast is something special; the lake keeps us warmer longer. Walk the beaches to view the bluffs from below, or head to Upper Lake Park or Lion's Den Gorge to view them from above. September is still high garden season, with planters and gardens overflowing with color. Shore fishing for salmon heading up stream makes for busy parks and piers -- and great fun to watch! Freshwater surfing is in full swing (visit our downtown surf shop The Board Shack for the wave report), and take in the colorful views from both land and sea. Visiting nearby Appleland Market for apple picking and pumpkins is always popular, and you can't miss the fall celebration of Fall Street Festival on Franklin Street, with two bandstages, a car show and so much fun in between. The start of cozy season also lends itself to wine pairings, our amazing craft beer scene and pumpkin lattes.
Winter
Find your winter reset here in Port Washington. Let the lake steam wow your worries away. Lake Michigan is magnificent, with ice formations and lake steam, backed by the most colorful sunrises of the year. Bundle up and stroll the lakefront for these magical views. In the winter, the Ozaukee Interurban Trail is open to cross-country skiing, and fat tire biking on the beach is a mainstay. Spend your holidays at the harbor, as we celebrate the season in Christmas movie like fashion. Experience the magic of Christmas on the Corner the first Saturday in December, complete with lighted parade and fireworks finale. Try dining in a private igloo at Beanie's or on Schooner Pub's all-season deck for a cozy winter meal. Then, unwind with quiet and curated self-care, from the UV sauna at The Harborview to red light therapy and yoga at Port Washington Yoga to custom massage and facials. It's the perfect setting for a serene reset.
