There are usually a lot of places that typically come to mind when someone asks you what you would define as the perfect "warm weather" town. Places like San Diego, Newport Beach, and all of Hawaii definitely pop into one's head, but did you know that Indiana is actually home to one of the best warm-weather towns in the entire United States? It's true; as it turns out, you don't need an ocean to have beaches, and you don't even necessarily need beaches to enjoy the outdoors (though they are nice -- and this town does, in fact, have beaches). Michigan City - and its sister city of LaPorte - is a small, lakeside town in Indiana that comes alive during the warmer months when throngs of visitors arrive to enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan in a stunning Midwestern beach town. Come see why Michigan City-LaPorte is one of the best warm-weather towns in Indiana; you'll love every moment of it.

This tiny-but-mighty warm-weather destination is nestled along the southern shore of Lake Michigan.

Lake Michigan has an impressive 1,638 miles of shoreline, but only 45 miles belong to Indiana. Michigan City-LaPorte is one of the coolest destinations in Indiana year-round, but there's something about the warmer months that just bring out the best in it.

It seems like everywhere in town you go, you'll be met with vibrant greenery and smiling faces.

There's so much to do packed into this little town that you'll definitely need to stay a few days (or longer!) to try and experience it all.

The main draw to the town is Lake Michigan and the world-famous Michigan City Lighthouse, which was constructed in the 1850s and is one of the country's most-photographed lighthouses.

With the lake comes all the fun water-based things to do like beachcombing, sailing, fishing, and more. Some areas let you camp right on the beach, and the incredible Indiana Dunes National Park is a mere stone's throw away from Michigan City-LaPorte.

Explore vineyards, bakeries, and local eateries you'll never find anywhere but right here.

During the spring and summer months, when the days are warm and the nights are short, you'll find that there's always something going on in Michigan City-LaPorte. Festivals, concerts, events, you name it - you'll find fun and engaging things to do galore, whether you're here solo or with family.

The charm of old Michigan City is on full display in the form of gorgeous old buildings and historic places dotted all over.

While you're here, make sure to add some specific things to your to-do list, like visiting the zoo and art center. If you're a risk-taking type, you might enjoy Blue Chip Casino (and a stay at the adjacent hotel). Casinos not your thing? No worries - the shops, galleries, and eateries ought to be. Find yourself an adorable local Airbnb or bed and breakfast and stay as long as you want. You'll never get bored.

There's something magical about the sunrises and/or sunsets over Lake Michigan, and Michigan City-LaPorte is the perfect place to watch both in wonder.

Now, do keep in mind that Michigan City and LaPorte are sister cities and are often included together - including on the official Michigan City-LaPorte website, but some of the best towns and cities are, too - just look at Indianapolis-Fort Wayne!

This exciting, high-def drone video of Michigan City's best sides ought to convince you the rest of the way (if you aren't already):

What do you think? Are you as in love with Michigan City-LaPorte as we are? There's something about the small towns in Indiana that we just can't get enough of, and we think you'll love them as much as we do. What's your favorite warm-weather destination in Indiana? Tell us about it in the comments!