Making The Most Of A Day At The Lake
Fun Ideas For Your Next Water-Based Adventure
Spending time around water is proven to be just as beneficial to your health as being in green spaces. Water sounds like waves lapping onshore are unlike the sounds of texts or email pings in that they are rhythmic and build up or dissipate gradually—the brain finds these tonal qualities soothing.
What are you waiting for? Have you had a busy week? Are you craving relaxation and refreshment? The lake is the perfect place for you! Here are some suggestions for making your day at the lake one to remember
Swim
Beaches are excellent spots for swimming, floating on your favorite inflatable, and jumping or diving off the raft. With goggles or a snorkel, you can explore underwater. Search for rocky areas where fish like to hang out, mussels buried in the sand, and other underwater surprises.
Fish
It can be helpful to decide what kind of fish you want to catch and do your research based on that. Check the online fishing forums for good fishing spots, then follow any local regulations such as licenses, permits, or catch rates.
Locals will have the most up-to-date information, so heading to the bait shop and asking for suggestions or stopping by a location you’re considering and seeing if people are catching successfully.
Paddle
Contrary to paddling on the ocean or a river, paddling on a lake is relaxing (barring high winds or speeding boaters). Large waves, swift currents, or tides are rare. If the lake has heavy boat traffic, plan your outing for a weekday or a morning, or weekend so you can have the water to yourself.
Walk, Run Or Bike
Many lakes are bordered by parks and trails. These are a great option when there are cool temperatures that would make being in the water uncomfortable. Lakeside trails are also a good option if you don’t swim but still want to enjoy the scenery.
Play In The Wake
Wakeboarding, tubing, and water skiing will get your adrenaline going. You can rent a boat or get a friend or family member to take you out. Tubing is the most accessible of the three options, requiring only that you hang on tight to the tube’s handles. Wakeboarding and waterskiing take more practice, but they are incredibly fun and rewarding. Make sure you’re wearing a bathing suit that has a lot of coverage and will stay on if you fall!
Sunbathe
Many lakes are bordered by state parks or public beaches with public bathrooms and concession stands. If you get there early, you can snag your ideal spot in the sand and set up camp. Bring a book or magazine, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a friend. It’s time to lounge.
Looking for lake gear and apparel? Check out our wake section for everything you need for wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and skiing. Get swimsuits, UPF apparel, and quick-dry gear for every activity you can think of that involves water.
Need help deciding what gear is best for your lake escape? Call a Gearhead 24/7 at 1-800-409-4502.
A day at the lake has something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to those looking to kick back and relax. There isn’t one perfect way to make your lake trip enjoyable. Try starting with one activity that sounds fun to you and going from there. Enjoy the water!
Bethany Clarke is a freelance writer with work in She Explores, Litro Magazine and Amjambo Africa. You can find her art and hiking adventures on Instagram @bethanymclarke.