Tawas Bay Live Cam

• Tawas Bay U.S. 23 Highway

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The shoreline of Lake Huron to the storied Au Sable River

The Tawas Bay Weather Station is located 2.4 nautical miles north of Buoy Number 2 on the shore of Tawas Bay in northeast Michigan.

A vacation here is a wonderful experience. You can enjoy the excitement of adventure or the ultimate pleasure of relaxation. We offer a full menu of activities or the complete luxury of doing nothing. The Tawas Area is known for its visual beauty - the sandy shores of Lake Huron and Tawas Bay, the lush forests, streams and nearby lakes, and the vibrant colors and relaxing sounds - nature at its best.

But another beauty of the Tawas area lies in its diversity as a vacation spot. In deep winter, fabulous summer, in natural spring or spectacular fall; the Tawas area offers you more options than you'll ever have time to experience.

History

East Tawas is a small city located on the shores of Lake Huron in Iosco County, Michigan. Its history is closely tied to the development and growth of the state, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries. Here's an overview of the history of East Tawas:

Early History: The area that would become East Tawas was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Ojibwe (also known as Chippewa) and Ottawa. These tribes relied on the rich natural resources of the region, including the abundant fish in Lake Huron and the surrounding forests.

Settlement and Growth: European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, attracted by the region's timber resources and the potential for trade. In 1849, the U.S. government constructed the Tawas Point Lighthouse to guide ships navigating Lake Huron's treacherous waters. This lighthouse played a significant role in the growth of the area, as it provided a reliable navigational aid for mariners.

In the 1860s, the town of Tawas City was established to the west of East Tawas. The two towns grew in tandem and eventually merged to form the present-day city of East Tawas in 1902. The community flourished as a center for shipping and trading lumber, fishing, and agriculture.

Tourism and Resorts: During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, East Tawas and the surrounding area became a popular destination for tourists seeking recreational opportunities. The city's scenic location on Lake Huron, with its sandy beaches and picturesque views, attracted visitors from nearby urban areas, particularly Detroit. The establishment of several resorts, hotels, and cottages catered to the growing tourist trade.

Industrialization and Economy: As the timber industry declined in the early 20th century, East Tawas experienced a shift in its economic base. The region's natural beauty and proximity to Lake Huron continued to draw tourists, but other industries emerged as well. Manufacturing, particularly the production of wooden products, played a vital role in the local economy. Additionally, agriculture, fishing, and recreational activities sustained the community.

Modern Development: In recent years, East Tawas has continued to evolve as a popular tourist destination and a residential community. The city has worked to preserve its historic character while promoting tourism and outdoor recreational activities. It offers various amenities, including parks, campgrounds, a marina, and access to water sports such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The Tawas Point State Park and the Huron National Forest are nearby, providing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

East Tawas remains a close-knit community that celebrates its heritage and natural surroundings. The city's rich history, combined with its scenic beauty, continues to make it an appealing destination for residents and visitors alike.

Top Tourist Attractions

East Tawas offers several top tourist attractions that highlight its natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. Here are some of the notable attractions in East Tawas:

• Tawas Point State Park: Located on the tip of Tawas Peninsula, this state park is a must-visit destination. It features picturesque sandy beaches, nature trails, a historic lighthouse (Tawas Point Lighthouse), and a diverse range of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
• Tawas Point Lighthouse: Constructed in 1852, this iconic lighthouse has guided ships along Lake Huron for over a century. Visitors can tour the lighthouse, climb to the top for panoramic views of Lake Huron and the surrounding area, and explore the museum to learn about its maritime history.
• Downtown East Tawas: The downtown area offers a charming atmosphere with unique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. Visitors can stroll along Newman Street, enjoy local cuisine, browse through specialty stores, and experience the town's welcoming ambiance.
• Iosco County Historical Museum: Housed in a historic building, the museum showcases the history and heritage of Iosco County. It features exhibits on local industries, Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and the area's maritime history.
• East Tawas Harbor Park: Overlooking Tawas Bay, this park offers a scenic waterfront area with a beach, picnic spots, playgrounds, and a pavilion. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the views, have a picnic, or engage in water activities.
• Huron National Forest: Situated near East Tawas, the Huron National Forest is a vast expanse of natural beauty, featuring forests, lakes, rivers, and abundant wildlife. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and birdwatching within this pristine wilderness.
• Tawas Point Birding Festival: Held annually in May, this festival attracts birdwatchers from around the country. Participants can spot a wide variety of migratory birds as they make their way along the shoreline, including warblers, shorebirds, waterfowl, and raptors.
• Tawas Bay Summerfest: This popular summer festival takes place in July and offers a range of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, a car show, and a grand fireworks display.

These attractions showcase the natural beauty, history, and community spirit of East Tawas, making it an appealing destination for tourists seeking relaxation, outdoor adventures, and a glimpse into the region's heritage.

Climate

East Tawas experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Here's an overview of the climate in East Tawas:

• Summers (June to August): Summers in East Tawas are generally warm and humid. Average high temperatures range from the mid-70s°F (around 24°C) to the low 80s°F (around 27°C). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the upper 80s°F (around 31°C) during hotter periods. The summer months also bring a fair amount of precipitation, with occasional thunderstorms and rain showers.
• Autumns (September to November): Autumn in East Tawas is a beautiful season characterized by cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. September sees average highs in the upper 60s°F (around 20°C) to low 70s°F (around 21°C), gradually dropping to the upper 40s°F (around 9°C) to low 50s°F (around 11°C) in November. Nights become cooler, ranging from the upper 40s°F (around 9°C) to mid-30s°F (around 1°C) by November.
• Winters (December to February): Winters in East Tawas are cold and snowy. Average high temperatures range from the upper 20s°F (around -2°C) to mid-30s°F (around 1°C), with overnight lows dipping into the teens°F (around -8 to -5°C). Lake-effect snow from Lake Huron can bring significant snowfall, making East Tawas a winter wonderland. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the surrounding area.
• Springs (March to May): Springs in East Tawas can be unpredictable, with varying temperatures and weather patterns. March is still quite cold, with average highs in the mid-30s°F (around 1°C) and overnight lows below freezing. However, temperatures gradually warm up as spring progresses. By May, average highs reach the upper 50s°F (around 14°C) to low 60s°F (around 16°C). Springtime also brings an increase in precipitation, with rain showers becoming more frequent.

It's worth noting that weather patterns can vary from year to year, and extreme temperatures or weather events can occur outside of the typical ranges described above. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts and conditions when planning a visit to East Tawas.

Geography

It is situated on the shores of Lake Huron and encompasses part of Tawas Bay. Here's an overview of the geography of East Tawas:

• Lake Huron: East Tawas borders Lake Huron, one of the five Great Lakes of North America. The city's eastern boundary is defined by the lake, providing stunning views and direct access to its waters. Lake Huron is the second-largest of the Great Lakes by surface area and offers recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
• Tawas Bay: Located on the eastern shore of Lake Huron, Tawas Bay is a prominent feature of East Tawas' geography. The bay provides a protected inlet and a natural harbor, attracting boaters and water enthusiasts. Tawas Point, a sandy peninsula that extends into the lake, forms the southern boundary of Tawas Bay.
• Tawas River: The Tawas River flows through East Tawas, draining into Tawas Bay. It originates from several small lakes and streams in the surrounding area, meandering its way through the city before reaching the bay. The river serves as a scenic feature and offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
• Tawas Point State Park: Situated at the end of Tawas Point, Tawas Point State Park is a notable geographical landmark. The park features sandy beaches, dunes, wetlands, and forested areas. It provides a habitat for various plant and animal species and is renowned as a popular birdwatching destination due to its location along a major migratory bird route.
• Surrounding Landscape: East Tawas is surrounded by a diverse landscape that includes forests, farmland, and inland lakes. To the west, the Huron National Forest encompasses vast tracts of woodlands, offering opportunities for hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing. Inland lakes, such as Tawas Lake and Van Etten Lake, are located nearby, providing additional recreational options.

The geography of East Tawas combines the beauty of Lake Huron, Tawas Bay, and the surrounding natural landscapes. Visitors to the area can enjoy a mix of water activities, outdoor exploration, and the serene charm of Michigan's northeastern coast.