There’s something undeniably magical about a summer escape on the lake. Maybe it’s the quiet lapping of the water against the dock, the smell of sunscreen mixed with pine trees, or the pure joy of diving into cool, fresh waters on a hot summer day.
With lake vacations, we get to swap traffic for paddleboards, office lights for sunsets, and fast food for grills. Whether you’re looking for adventure, serenity, or a little bit of both, these are the kind of summer getaways that will linger in our memories long after the tan fades.
Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada
Lake Tahoe is a true icon, straddling the border of California and Nevada with clear blue waters surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains. In the summertime, the snow has melted, the trails are open, and the lake transforms into a playground for watersports. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard, hike the Rubicon Trail, or just bask on the beaches at Sand Harbor or Pope Beach.
As for where to stay, you can check into The Landing Resort & Spa in South Lake Tahoe if you’d like a little lakefront luxury. Or, you can opt for a cozy A-frame cabin in the woods on the North Shore. For food, Base Camp Pizza in South Lake is a fan-favorite for casual bites and live music. Meanwhile, Evan’s American Gourmet Cafe will be happy to provide you with a more upscale experience.
Lake Champlain, Vermont & New York
Tucked between the Green Mountains of Vermont and the Adirondacks of New York, Lake Champlain is all about peaceful, pastoral summers. The lake is huge (stretching over 100 miles) and trimmed with charming towns, trails, and beaches. It’s a dream if you love history, farm-to-table food, and early morning swims.
You can base yourself out of Burlington, VT, right on the lake. The Hotel Vermont has beautiful views and an unbeatable location. You can spend your days biking the Island Line Trail, exploring the Shelburne Museum, or hopping on a boat tour to spot the local “lake monster,” Champ. Don’t miss dinner at Hen of the Wood if you’d like to indulge in some of the finest seasonal eats this side of New England.
Lake Powell, Utah & Arizona
If you’re dreaming of an otherworldly escape, Lake Powell will deliver with its red rock canyons and deep blue waters. Although it’s technically a reservoir on the Colorado River, Powell feels like you’re in a desert dreamscape. Truthfully, the best way to explore is by renting a houseboat and cruising through the labyrinth of slot canyons and hidden beaches.
For access to the lake, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend, stay near Page, Arizona. You’d have a nice couple of nights at the Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell. Or, you can camp under the stars at Lone Rock Beach. All you need to pack is your camera, sunscreen, and a good sense of adventure. Dinner options here are mostly casual, but Big John’s Texas BBQ will hit the spot after a long day on the water.
Lake George, New York
Nicknamed the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George is a classic East Coast summer spot, loved by generations of families. Nestled in the Adirondacks, it comes with crystal-clear waters, charming small towns, and festive summertime fun. Whether you’re boating, parasailing, or just reading by the dock, it’s the place where summer memories are made.
For a bit of a splurge, stay a few nights at the historic Sagamore Resort. It’s right on the lake and full of old-world charm. Or, you can rent a lakeside cabin for a more laid-back experience. During the day, plan to take a steamboat cruise, hike Prospect Mountain, and stroll the village boardwalk with an ice cream in hand. In the evening, see if you can book a table at the Lake George Beach Club or Bistro LeRoux just outside of town. You’ll love either option.
Flathead Lake, Montana
This glacial lake in northwest Montana is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Surrounded by cherry orchards, pine forests, and the towering peaks of the Mission Mountains, it’s perfect if you’re a nature lover and like your lake vacations with a side of magic.
Base yourself in Bigfork, an artsy little town on the lake’s northeast corner. You’ll find plenty of B&Bs and rental cabins there. Or, you can check into the rustic-luxe Flathead Lake Lodge. Then, all you have to do is plan to spend your days kayaking, sailing, and exploring Glacier National Park. When it’s time for dinner, be sure to eat at Flathead Lake Brewing Co. at least once for great food, local beer, and unimaginable views from the patio.
Lake Martin, Alabama
Lake Martin is a sprawling reservoir with over 750 miles of shoreline in Southern Alabama. It’s beloved by locals for its laid-back charm, hidden coves, and warm water. It creates a trifecta for swimming, tubing, and floating the day away. Imagine front porch rockers, fried catfish, and golden hour boat rides.
You can rent a lake house or cabin, or check into The Hotel at Auburn University if you’re combining your trip with a little SEC football. You can also explore Goat Island (there are real goats), grab a burger at Kowaliga Restaurant, and cool off with a peach milkshake from Peach Park.
Lake Superior, Minnesota
With rugged cliffs, pebbled beaches, and cold, clear waters, Lake Superior feels more like the coast of Maine than the Midwest. Summer is the sweet spot here. The air is warm; the lupines are blooming; and the hiking trails are calling.
For cozy lodges and easy access to the Superior Hiking Trail, you can stay in Grand Marais or Lutsen. Surfside on Lake Superior is a great upscale option with townhomes right on the water and a peaceful, secluded feel. Bluefin Bay is another favorite, with lakeside condos, wood-burning fireplaces, and beachfront access. You can also hike to waterfalls in Gooseberry Falls State Park, take a dip at Black Beach, and end your day with some fish tacos at Angry Trout Café.
Lake Chelan, Washington
Lake Chelan is a long, narrow lake that cuts deep into the North Cascades, serving up alpine beauty with a side of sunshine. (In fact, the area gets over 300 sunny days a year.) The town of Chelan is all about summer fun with its wine tastings, paddleboarding, and boatloads of cocktails beside lakeside resorts.
You can stay at Campbell’s Resort, right on the water, or book a rental up in the hills for incredible views. Don’t miss the boat ride to the remote town of Stehekin at the far end of the lake – no roads, just trails and serenity. Then, you can spend your afternoons wine tasting (Tsillan Cellars is a must), and enjoy a few meals at Local Myth Pizza or the romantic Sorrento’s Ristorante (also in Tsillan Cellars).
Lake Ouachita, Arkansas
As one of the cleanest lakes in the country, Lake Ouachita is a peaceful, uncrowded paradise hidden in the mountains. With over 200 islands and no shoreline developments, it’s all about unplugging, exploring, and savoring nature. It’s a great spot for swimming, scuba diving, and stargazing in electric skies, far away from city lights.
You can stay in Hot Springs for a blend of lake and town life. You might like The Waters Hotel. Then, you can rent a boat for the day or hop in a kayak to find your own private beach. After all that activity, you can soak in the historic hot springs or treat yourself to a spa day. Come evening light, sample a few meals at The Vault or grab some barbecue at Smokin’ In Style.
Big Bear Lake, California
Just a couple of hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake is an alpine escape that feels worlds away. In the summertime, this ski town transforms into a sunny haven for hiking, boating, and lakeside lounging. The pine-scented air and cool mountain breeze are a welcome reprieve from the SoCal heat.
You can rent a cabin near the lake or check into The Lodge at Big Bear Lake. It might also be fun to rent a pontoon for the day, zipline through the forest, or take the scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit for some spectacular views. Big Bear Lake Brewing Co. is a go-to for craft beer and burgers. Or, you can make a reservation at Himalayan Restaurant for a couple of meals with a unique twist.
Ready to Make a Splash?
Whether you’re in search of mountain air, desert skies, or forest retreats, you can find it here in America. From paddleboarding at sunrise to lakeside BBQs at sunset, these destinations are full of slow, sweet moments that will make your summer unforgettable.
As you prepare to let the lake days wash over you, paddle through our library of destination guides. It’s loaded with unique ways to plan the ultimate American road trip, explore the East Coast, the West Coast, and everything in between. Here’s to making some magic under the sun as we prepare to step into the hottest months of the season.