Lakes often go overlooked when people imagine a vacation surrounded by water. Beaches may offer sand and salty air, but they don’t always allow you to get back to nature and really enjoy your surroundings.
If enjoying your water-filled vacation in a relaxing destination surrounded by stunning mountain views or breathtaking forests sounds more your speed, a lake may be your perfect location. And the U.S. has a plethora of incredible lakes just waiting to be seen and enjoyed.
No matter how you choose to get to your lake destination, be it a road trip using 14-day car insurance, or hopping on a plane to fly there, at least one of these locations will catch your eye.
#1 – Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Known as a popular summer vacation destination, Lake of the Ozarks has a lot to offer. The man-made lake boasts over 1,100 miles of shoreline, which is more than the entire coast of California. With so much shoreline, you won’t find a shortage of locations to stay, places to stop, and public beaches to access on this gorgeous lake.
If you’re a nature lover, Lake of the Ozarks offers many outdoor activities to enjoy. You can play a round of golf, see the sights from horseback, or even take a zipline tour. Or, if you’re looking for something a little less outdoorsy, you may enjoy a relaxing day at a winery, get pampered at a spa, or go on a shopping spree.
The lake also has multiple marinas to rent various boats if you’re looking to take your lake experience to the next level. If boats aren’t your choice, you can always hop in a rental with insurance coverage and cruise the shoreline, taking in all the views. No matter what you choose, you’re sure not to be left wanting after visiting this lake.
#2 – Lake Havasu, Arizona
Your Arizona adventure won’t be complete without this stop. Visiting Lake Havasu may have you feeling like you’ve stepped foot into a tropical paradise, and for a good reason. This lake is surrounded by sand and palm trees with stunning blue water.
If you’re a bass angler, you will be pleased to learn Lake Havasu is a hotspot for the sport, even hosting frequent tournaments. However, if fishing isn’t your style, never fear; you can always relax and enjoy the sun on the lake’s 450 miles of shoreline. You can even take a dip in the water, which is known for being welcomingly warm most of the year.
Lake Havasu has multiple parks offering beach access, boat rentals for those looking to really take their lake experience to the next level, and surrounding breweries to enjoy a cool drink after a hot day on the water. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll surely find it in this little slice of lake paradise.
#3 – Lake Erie, Ohio
On Ohio’s northern coast, Lake Erie, one of the five Great Lakes, offers much more than people may think in terms of water-filled fun. With stunning islands only a ferry ride away and multiple beaches waiting to be explored on the mainland, you won’t be bored visiting this lake destination.
The most popular attraction on Lake Erie is Put-in-Bay, a downtown island destination known for its fun, party-like scene. If that’s not quite your style, however, never fear; the island also is home to South Bass State Park. This park offers an abundance of beautiful water views, camping spots, and scenic hiking trails.
If you’re hoping to stay away from the hustle and bustle completely, you may want to catch the Ferry to Kelly’s Island instead. The vibe here is much more relaxed but still filled with fun activities and stunning views. For example, you will find a truly unique experience visiting the glacial grooves, a natural wonder created by glaciers long ago. These grooves are 400 feet long, 35 feet wide, and up to 15 feet in depth. They are a fantastic sight to see.
There isn’t much driving to do on the islands, so if you hope to get the most out of your 14-day car insurance, you can always stay on the mainland and take a drive. There are countless spots along the coast to visit, whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, a taste of the city, or even a tiny coastal town. You’re sure to find it all on Lake Erie.
#4 – Lake Cumberland, Kentucky
For a truly unique water experience, Lake Cumberland might be just the place. Known as the houseboat capital of the world, you can spend your trip relaxing without ever having to leave the water.
If you’re not one for houseboats but still want to enjoy the water, the Lure Lodge offers full amenities. The lake’s surrounding areas also offer unique shopping opportunities, a trout hatchery, and beautiful picnic spots.
Aside from being the houseboat capital, Lake Cumberland is also well known for its fishing. With walleye and trout in abundance, fishermen will certainly enjoy their time on this lake. There is even a one-of-a-kind trout stream sourced directly from the hatchery.
#5 – Lake Willoughby, Vermont
If breathtaking views and spectacularly clean water are high on your priority list, look no further than Lake Willoughby. Situated between two mountains, this stunning lake will undoubtedly take your breath away.
Multiple cabins and vacation homes sit on the lake’s edge, just waiting to be rented and enjoyed. Some may offer direct beach and water access, depending on their location. If you don’t stay directly on the water, the lake provides multiple access points to get out and enjoy the scenery.
This lake is the perfect location for outdoor lovers, as the surrounding mountains offer beautiful hiking trails and nature explorations. You will find yourself consistently awed by the views.
Why You Should Visit a Lake
Lakes have a lot to offer. From stunning views to natural wonders, lakes are often more than they might first appear. They certainly aren’t the beach, but then again, we don’t want them to be. Instead, lakes offer an experience uniquely all their own.
You won’t find a shortage of lakes across the U.S. With so many to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is perfect for you. Whether you opt for a destination on this list or research one all you own, you will find peace and relaxation on a lake vacation.
About the Author:
Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, BuyAutoInsurance.com. Living close to stunning lakes, she loves their beauty and enjoys finding new destinations to explore.
