Diamond Lake is one of Southwest Michigan’s largest and most prestigious recreation-friendly lakes, located in Cassopolis, and features a small island near its center.
Diamond Lake is known for its exceptional clarity, sandy bottom, and active waterfront community. It’s a hub for boating, sailing, and year-round recreation, all a little away from South Bend and the University of Notre Dame. The lake has its own island called “Diamond Island” (43 acres).
With more than 9 miles of shoreline, Diamond Lake offers a range of homes from classic cottages to luxury estates, many with panoramic views and private docks.
Access: Via M-60 or M-62; South Bend International Airport ~an hour away
Diamond Lake offers one of the most vibrant lake lifestyles in Southwest Michigan. With its large surface area and deep, clean water, it’s perfect for everything from sailing to wake surfing.
The shoreline features a mix of modern luxury homes, legacy family cottages, and custom-built estates. Diamond Island, accessible by boat, features premium properties with expansive lake views and privacy that rival those of any inland Michigan lake
Many residents live here year-round, supported by nearby Cassopolis schools, local restaurants, and essential services. Others maintain second homes, enjoying long summer weekends and extended stays. Community ties are strong: lake associations, sailing clubs, and neighborhood gatherings make Diamond Lake feel close-knit despite its size.
Whether you’re watching the sunrise from your dock, boating to lunch, or enjoying an evening around the firepit, Diamond Lake delivers the quintessential “up north” experience just two hours from Chicago.
Diamond Lake consistently ranks among the most desirable and valuable lakefront markets in Southwest Michigan. Its combination of size, clarity, and accessibility to major cities drives high demand and limited inventory.
Diamond Lake’s reputation draws buyers for its luxury, boating culture, and proximity to Notre Dame. Sellers benefit from the strong demand and low inventory of high-quality lakefront listings.
Diamond Lake’s size and depth make it a year-round playground for outdoor recreation.
The lake’s expanse accommodates speedboats, pontoons, sailboats, and jet skis. The Diamond Lake Yacht Club, established in 1938, hosts sailing regattas and social events throughout the summer.
In colder months, residents enjoy ice fishing, snowmobiling, and visits to the Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area (about a 15-minute drive).
Anglers enjoy largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, perch, and walleye. The lake’s clarity and variety of depths create excellent fishing conditions year-round.
Diamond Lake Golf Course, located just off the lake, offers a scenic local option.
Sandy-bottom beaches and clear water make Diamond Lake perfect for swimming. Several public beaches and private association swim areas exist around the lake.
Dr. T.K. Lawless Park (about 40 minutes away) offers hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing trails
Wakeboarding, tubing, and water skiing are staples of summer fun.
Early mornings and calm bays are perfect for paddling adventures.
Diamond Lake sits amid several scenic Cass County lakes:
These neighboring lakes add variety to the region, but Diamond Lake remains the premier destination for luxury lakefront living and recreation.
Diamond Lake covers about 1,020 acres and reaches depths up to 64 feet, making it one of Southwest Michigan’s largest inland lakes.
Yes. Boating, sailing, wakeboarding, and personal watercraft are all permitted.
Homes typically range from $600,000 for off-lake or smaller cottages to $2.5 million for premium lakefront homes. Rare luxury builds and island properties can reach $4–$5 million.
Yes. There’s a public boat launch on the southwest end and public swimming access in select areas.
Cassopolis, South Bend, and Elkhart offer dining, shopping, and entertainment. Diamond Lake Golf Course and the Yacht Club provide local recreation options.
Absolutely. Many residents live full-time, and the area supports both summer tourism and four-season recreation.
Its size, clarity, and proximity to major cities make it one of Michigan’s most sought-after lakes for both vacation and permanent residences.
Frontage type, water depth, and property size play major roles. Island and point-front properties typically command premium pricing.
Inventory is limited. Updated, move-in-ready homes with quality frontage often sell quickly, especially in spring and early summer.
Modernized docks, outdoor kitchens, and remodeled interiors add strong buyer appeal.
Spring and early summer attract the most active buyers, though high-end properties can draw interest year-round.
Whether you’re looking for a summer retreat, a luxury island property, or ready to sell your Diamond Lake home, The Lake Life Realty is your trusted partner. As specialists in Michigan’s lakefront markets, we understand the nuances of pricing, seasonal timing, and what makes Diamond Lake truly shine.
Contact The Lake Life Realty today to explore current Diamond Lake listings or schedule a complimentary home valuation.
“Paul and his team are my go-to experts for lake property in Southwest Michigan. He’s got great perspective and expertise when it comes to getting a deal done.” Tim L.
