The Top Lake Destination In Florida Has Been Crowned
Visiting a lake is one of the most relaxing vacations you can take. From swimming and relaxing to fishing and other water sports, there are plenty of things to do and beautiful lakes to see all over the United States. And Florida’s best lake has been named!
If you want to visit a lake soon, Travel Pulse has put together a list of the best lakes in each state. The list includes everything from hidden bodies of water to famous hangouts and everything in between.
Writers say that Lake Okeechobee is the best choice in Florida. This is why:
“They don’t call it ‘Florida’s Inland Sea’ for nothing, as this sprawling body of water is the second largest freshwater lake entirely within the Lower 48. How big? Big enough that you won’t be able to see land on the other side of the lake when standing on the shore. Fish, boat or just spot wildlife year-round at this marvel of Mother Nature.”
Florida’s best lake, and here’s why… look at this beaut!
Lake Okeechobee Facts
- Size and Location: Lake Okeechobee is the largest freshwater lake in the state of Florida, USA. It covers an area of approximately 730 square miles (1,890 square kilometers) and is situated in south-central Florida.
- Water Supply: The lake serves as a crucial source of water supply for both agricultural irrigation and municipal use. It is often referred to as the “liquid heart” of the Everglades ecosystem.
- Historical Significance: The lake has historical significance for Native American tribes, particularly the Seminole tribe. It was also a crucial part of the early development of Florida, aiding in transportation and commerce.
Need more travel recommendations? The full list is on travelpulse.com .
10 Fun Things to Do at the Lake
Swimming in the cool waters
I grew up a swimmer, but some lakes are just too cold for my taste. That said, many people love a refreshing dip into crisp, cold water at their local lake. Just check temperatures before you jump in, because if it’s too early in the season, those temperatures could be dangerously cold.
Little kid swimming in the lake. Getty Images.
Camping near the shoreline
Water often attracts special wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else. That makes camping near a lake a very special experience and different from the typical campground. When you’re camping, make sure you check out the nature that blossoms around the lakes and wetlands, too.
Campsite with orange tent. Getty Images.
Fishing
When I was a little kid, I wanted to go fishing. My dad was not a fisherman by any means and was pretty clueless about it. So, he had a friend of his take us fishing, and it was so fun, even though I didn’t catch anything. That said, fishing is a great summer activity on the lake.
Father and son fishing on boat. Getty Images.
Paddleboarding, kayaking or canoeing
If you’re looking for an activity to help keep you in shape, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are all great exercise. All of those activities are harder than they look, too, so they can be challenging. But, in the end, you’ll have a good time and get in a real workout. Many lakes have places were you can rent a paddleboat, kayak or canoe, too.
Couple kayaking together. Getty Images.
Water sports
One of my cousins absolutely loves jet skiing. It’s always fun to hear him talk about the experience. I’m not much of a water sports enthusiast, but I can appreciate those who do partake. You don’t even have to have your own boat or jet skis, as they are often available for rent nearby.
Young man riding jet boat on a summer day at the lake. Getty Images.
Have a picnic
It’s always a charming activity to have a picnic by the lake. Invite some friends or family over and bring some delicious food to enjoy while looking at the water. Oh, and make sure to have ice cream. That’s a must.
Picnic by the lake. Basket with berries, bread. Getty Images.
Take a hike
Hiking near a lake can be extra lovely, as the water can offer glorious scenery to really make your hike memorable. As aforementioned, lakes often attract nature that you don’t find anywhere else, so hiking around the water can be a unique experience.
Woman with a small yellow dog standing on pier by the mountain lake. Getty Images.
Party with friends
Parties by the lake are always fun. So, get out a grill and invite a bunch of friends down to the beach to enjoy a day or night of partying by the water. But, don’t get wasted, because drinking and swimming can be a deadly combination.
Happy friends doing selfie swimming in the sea with sail boat in background. Getty Images.
Sunbathing
Here’s my top choice, even though you’ll likely find me doing it in the shade: sunbathing. If the water is too cold of you’re just not up to more challenging activities, you can get some sun and lay on the beach. But, remember the sunscreen.
Women relaxing at the lake. Getty Images.
Lakeside games
Lakeside games are definitely a thing, and there are many quirky games that you can play by the lake. A few enjoyable lake games include water balloon fights, bean bag tosses, horseshoes and more. Pick a game and dig in.
Family on dock splashing feet in lake. Getty Images.
