The Best Lake Getaways in America and Beyond

Interlaken, Switzerland

The name of this comically beautiful Swiss region literally translates to “between lakes,” and aside from stellar lake vistas, it also offers plenty of adventure opportunities. Check a line or two off your bucket list by paragliding, bungee jumping, or skydiving above the picturesque valley. There are plenty of operators, but be sure to book ahead as spots fill up quickly. Rappel, zip line, climb, and swim your way through Grimsel on an intense canyoning adventure. Or just indulge in a cheese-centric meal at a local fondue restaurant.

When you’re ready to park it for the night (or more), hit up BEATUS Wellness & Spa-Hotel, a luxury resort located at the mouth of the St. Beatus Caves on Lake Thun. Legend claims this was once the home to the area’s local dragon.

Lake Michigan, MI

Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake that’s completely located within the United States, and given that it’s surrounded by Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, chances are you’ll find a convenient entry point (like Kenosha, WI below). But the Michigan side of the lake, in particular, is well worth a visit. 

Don’t miss the area’s lighthouses. Michigan has more than any other state—and if you’re feeling really adventurous, many of them have volunteer keeper programs. Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes for hiking and dramatic views of the namesake dunes and the water beyond. Drive through the postcard-worthy Tunnel of Trees (along highway M-119 between Harbor Springs and Cross Village), and stop for snacks at Good Hart General Store. Continuing your northward journey, book a ferry to Mackinac Island to enjoy the area’s best fudge and the island’s car-free streets. 

While you’re there, splurge on accommodations at The Grand Hotel, which—as the name implies—provides stately lodging on the island. 

Sandpoint, ID

Perched on Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint will gladly play host to your boating, wakeboarding, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding adventures. Here, you can also dig your feet into a yoga class on the beach or lace up for hiking on Schweitzer Mountain (bookmark this for winter skiing). Every August, Sandpoint throws The Festival: two weeks of music, art, and grub, all on the pristine shores of the lake. 

Check into a lakefront bungalow at Dover Bay, which gives you easy access to nine miles of walking and biking trails hugging the forests, wetlands, and waters of the lake. Then, raise a glass of Huckleberry Cream Ale at Laughing Dog Brewery and toast a day well spent. With the lady? Wow her at The Float House, which is exactly what it sounds like, in nearby Hope. Don’t skip the wild huckleberry pancakes at Sunday brunch.

Thousand Island Lake, Taiwan

Located just an hour outside Taipei, Thousand Island Lake, is an ideal day trip for anyone looking to get an authentic taste of the Taiwanese countryside. The stunning blue lake is surrounded by one of the country’s major tea-growing regions. Schedule a tour at Pinglin Tea Plantation, which also offers superb views of the lake surrounded by tea plants. If you’d like to take your education even further, tastings are available at Pinglin Old Street.

Since you’re so close to Taipei, head back for the night at The Grand Hotel, a 14-story palace that has been the preferred home away from home for visiting dignitaries since 1952.

Mountain View, CA

Dubbed the “Best-Kept Secret in Silicon Valley,” Mountain View is a sporty town about an hour outside of San Francisco. Start with a trip to the Boathouse for SUP yoga, windsurfing, sailing lessons, and more on Shoreline Lake. Then, ditch your suit and rent a bike at the Boathouse to survey the sloughs and salt flats that feed into San Francisco Bay.

Fuel up at Cascal for pan-Latin tapas. Come nightfall, give your sore muscles a rest at Dinah’s Garden Hotel, an art-filled mainstay since the 1950s. If you can time your visit, catch a show at the Shoreline Amphitheater, which has hosted acts like Dead & Company, Weezer, Chris Stapleton, and Dave Matthews Band. 

Kenosha, WI

Conveniently located between Milwaukee and Chicago, this unassuming dot on the map has the best catch rates for salmon and trout on Lake Michigan. The summer boasts several festival draws, including Cheese-A-Palooza in September. When you’re done relaxing at one of the town’s five beaches, climb a lighthouse at the Southport Light Station Museum or hop aboard one of Kenosha’s vintage electric streetcars for a ride along the shore of Lake Michigan.

Beer lovers will be pleased to learn of and drink at Kenosha’s three small-batch brewers, Public Craft Brewing Co., R’Noggin Brewing Co., and Rustic Road Brewing Company. Tired and in need of coffee and sleep? Make a stop at The Coffee Pot Inn, a three-bedroom apartment atop The Coffee Pot, a townie diner.

Lake Hillier, Australia

Sure, you’ve probably been to a lake or two. But have you ever seen a pink one? Research suggests that salt-loving bacteria and algae give Lake Hillier its bubble-gum hue, but no matter the reason, it’s an impressive sight. To really get a sense of how otherworldly the area is, book a sightseeing flight through Goldfields Air Services, or take to the water on an Esperance Island Cruise. And because it’s Australia, you can also hang with kangaroos on the beach at Lucky Bay. 

When you’re ready to call it a night, head to the EcoValley Retreat, an adults-only, pet-friendly hotel that offers guests complimentary eggs and honey harvested on-site.

Sandusky, OH

There’s lots to do in Sandusky. Check parasailing off your Lake Erie bucket list. Amusement park enthusiasts should carve out a day for Cedar Point, which offers coasters with incredible lake views. Meanwhile, motorcyclists should plan their trip around Sandusky’s Ohio Bike Week, the largest motorcycle event in the Midwest. 

Unwind at Hotel Kilbourne, a waterfront boutique hotel known for the craveworthy OH Taco and its water views. For something different, catch a ferry to one of several Lake Erie islands. Favorites include Kelleys Island for the Glacial Grooves geological wonder and Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island, home to the world’s longest bar, Beer Barrel Saloon, and Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, from which you can pretty much see Canada.

Lake Arrowhead, CA

Located just 80 miles outside of Los Angeles, Lake Arrowhead is an ideal getaway for SoCal residents—or visitors looking for an escape from the city. Head up into the San Bernardino Mountains and follow in the footsteps of famous lake residents like John Candy, Sammy Hagar, and Patrick Swayze.

Check into the Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa, a hotel located right on the lakeshore—you won’t even have to leave your private balcony to enjoy the views. You will eventually leave, though, even if it’s just to stroll over to Arrowhead Lake Village and hit Belgian Waffle Works for an obscenely large breakfast. 

Ready to hit the water? Avoid the Lake Arrowhead Queen tour, unless screaming children are your thing. Instead, register with Arrowhead Lake Association and paddle your own canoe or kayak, explore the surrounding area from Seeley Creek Trail (featuring a locally famous heart-shaped rock), or just cool your feet in the lake’s shallow waters.

Lake Louise, Canada

You might have heard of the Calgary Stampede—or Sled Island if you’re a fan of indie music. But heading just a bit outside of Alberta’s biggest city pays off. Lake Louise, located in Banff National Park, is an Insta-worthy, turquoise-toned escape that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, from canoeing during the summer to skating during the winter. Get above it all on hiking paths, like the one that leads to the popular Lake Agnes Tea House, which offers incredible views of the Canadian Rockies. Or take a trail ride and let the local horses do the walking for you. 

Make a weekend out of it by staying at the nearby Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. A former getaway for the moneyed set of the 19th century, the modernized luxury property now features a spa, seven different restaurant and bar options, and a concierge service available to arrange everything from lakeside s’mores to sports equipment rentals.

Bloomington, IN

It may not elicit the name recognition of Crater Lake or Lake Tahoe, but Lake Monroe is Indiana’s biggest body of water, boasting a 10,750-acre surface area surrounded by woodsy terrain and backcountry trails in Hoosier National Forest. Set out for the day with a boat rental from Fourwinds Marina or Two Herons Marina.

Rainy day? Try indoor climbing at Hoosier Heights or blow off steam at Urban Air trampoline park, followed by an excursion to Upland Brewery’s The Wood Shop, a tasting room and production center devoted entirely to sours. If you’re not staying at Fourwinds on the waterfront, we’d point you towards a cabin at Acorn Resort.

Lake Nakuru, Kenya

Lake Nakuru is a hotspot for some of Kenya’s best wildlife sightings. You can spot legions of pink flamingos, or a baboon cliff where (you guessed it) local baboons enjoy hanging out. And then there are rhinos, zebras, and giant cats, too. No wonder the area inspired the Meryl Streep and Robert Redford film Out of Africa.

To get the full experience at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, link up with an expert tour guide for a safari. And once you’ve had your fill of adventure, call it a night at Lake Nakuru Lodge—but make sure to set your alarm for the champagne breakfast.

Smith Mountain Lake, VA

Old Dominion’s largest lake, Smith Mountain Lake has 500 miles of shoreline and sprawls across three counties. Kick off vacation at Bridgewater Plaza, a bustling marina with putt-putt, art galleries, and plenty of restaurants. When you’ve wrapped up a guided fishing tour or are all SUPed out for the day, enjoy a meal at Portside Grill and consider a scenic cruise aboard the Virginia Dare, a 19th century-style sidewheeler. 

When you’re adequately wiped, spend the night at Gills Creek Marina & Lodge. Once you’re feeling restored, give yourself a jolt of energy at Homestead Creamery’s Farm Market, or swap sweets for ‘shine at Franklin County Distilleries, where you can sample moonshine in the tasting room. For craft beer fans, a necessary pit-stop is the beer garden or pub at Sunken City Brewery, which is named for the flooding that took place over 50 years go to make Smith Mountain Lake.

Horseshoe Bay, TX

This Hill Country getaway is only about an hour outside of Austin, but you’ll feel eons away from the rush of city life. Slip into the vacation mindset at Horseshoe Bay Resort perched on Lake Lyndon B. Johnson. First, tee off at one of three celebrated golf courses, with views overlooking the lake. Once you’ve earned your liquor, head to Save the World Brewing Co. in Marble Falls or book a coach tour to some of the more than 30 wineries within 90 minutes of Horseshoe Bay.

For lakeside afternoons, the full-service marina can hook you up with pontoon boats, ski boats, and kayak rentals. After a day on the water, head to dinner at the resort’s Yacht Club, where you can enjoy your meal just steps away from the lakeshore.

Duluth, MN

Navigate the rocky ridgeline above gin-clear Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, on the Superior Hiking Trail (if you’ve got some time, hit some of the 93 free backcountry campsites and conquer the entire 310-mile-long trail). Or, book the Split Rock Lighthouse kayak tour with Positive Energy Outdoors. Duluth also plays host to many summer festivals, including the All Pints North Summer Brew Festival in July and the Bayfront Blues Festival in August.

Not into festivals? Soak up North Shore views of the lake at The New Scenic Cafe, whose regularly changing menu highlights some of the best of Minnesota’s terroir.

A must-visit while in town is Vikre Distillery, which in addition to using local grains and Minnesota oak barrels, distills its gin, aquavit, and seasonal spirits with water from Lake Superior. When all that activity and lakefront imbibing tires you out, catch z’s at one of Duluth’s many campgrounds or Pier B Resort, where you can spy ships in the Duluth-Superior Harbor or park your boat in the private docking area. 

Spring Lake in Santa Rosa, CA

A trip to Sonoma County doesn’t have to be all about wine. Instead, venture to 350-acre Spring Lake, a veritable Arcadia complete with oak woodlands, meadows, and the blossoming of wildflowers in the spring and summer. From Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, the Spring Lake Swimming Lagoon offers free admission for both lap swimming and water play at the floating water park. Cool off in the shade of redwoods before diving into a plate of cheesy garlic bread and a pint of its renowned Pliny the Elder at the Russian River Brew Pub. 

To fit that wine tour in, our pick is St. Francis Winery, where you can take a free walk through the vineyards before a wine tasting or a sit-down wine-and-food or wine-and-cheese pairing. Another big draw: the Country Summer Music Festival, which nets major acts like Florida Georgia Line, Toby Keith, and others.

While in town, spend an afternoon meandering through Historic Railroad Square for a booze-filled time of sipping wine and cider at tasting rooms. Check out the bi-weekly farmers market (every Wednesday and Saturday), and lug your produce back to an Airbnb for a cookout, or stay in the square at Hotel La Rose, which first opened its doors in 1907.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled dials up the scenery to 11. Take a traditional pletna boat out to Bled Island, and visit the church which stands on the grounds of a former temple dedicated to the goddess of life and fertility. Make sure to ring the church bells to have your wishes granted.

While you’re out there, grab a snack—potičnica, a bread pastry filled with a variety of sweet and savory fillings. Back on the shore, keep the fairytale vibes going by spending the night at Garden Village. Whether you prefer treehouses, glamping tents, or luxury apartments, there’s no wrong way to plan a stay here. 

Kirkland, WA

Located only 12 miles outside of Seattle, the eastern shore of Lake Washington provides visitors a small-town feel, but there’s plenty to do. Start summer vacation off right at Bottle and Bull, an Ernest Hemingway-inspired restaurant with a killer happy hour menu and superb food. Then, when it’s time to get on the lake, snag a SUP or kayak with local boat rental outfitters Seattle Paddle.

When thirst for an adult beverage calls, tackle The Cross Kirkland Corrdior, a nearly six-mile biking and walking route that connects you to local beer shrines, Savage Brewing Co. and Maelstrom Brewing. For lakefront vistas, post up at Woodmark Hotel, which also has a spa and two restaurants begging for a sunset meal, Le Grand Bistro and COMO. If you’re more of a downtowner, book at The Heathman Hotel, which is close to galleries, wineries, restaurants, and shops.

Finger Lakes Region, NY

Despite being a noted wine region and straight-up gorgeous, the Fingers Lakes can still feel like western New York’s best-kept secret. Because it’s a series of long, skinny lakes spaced out over a relatively large area, a trip to the region can also play out like a choose-your-own-adventure vacation.

Not sure where to start? Keuka, Cayuga, and Skaneateles lakes are among the most popular. Hit up Ithaca (the home of Cornell University) and head to nearby Watkins Glen State Park (photo above) to explore its waterfalls, gorges, and natural pools. Feel like a drink? Go on a brewery crawl in Seneca, Rochester, or Elmira. 

There’s no short of splashy places to stay in the Finger Lakes area. For a memorable romantic getaway, spend a night at Vineyard Villas, Belhurst Castle, or Idlwilde Inn.

Crater Lake, OR

Here’s your chance to visit a former volcano crater so beautiful that it has been enshrined in Native American legend. The deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake is a notable hotspot for scuba divers looking to get up close and personal with its underwater shag carpet of moss. But you don’t have to go 1,943 feet under the waves to appreciate Crater Lake’s natural wonders, which include a phantom ship rock, towering volcanic peaks for hiking, and—during the winter—43 feet of annual snowfall. 

To get the most out of early morning sunrises or late night stargazing, stay in the park at Crater Lake Lodge—or pitch a tent at its nearby campsite.