Favourite Lakeside Destinations for Family and Friends

What’s the best lakeside destination you’ve been to?

Whether a longer stay or a weekend getaway, doing life by a lake within earshot or a stone’s throw of waves lapping up on the shore helps to boost wellness and endorphins, not to mention family fun.

Discover lakes you can vacation at and experience their unique allure with your loved ones, best buds, or colleagues on a corporate retreat.

Lake Huron, Ontario, Canada

Lake Huron, one of the five Great Lakes, is known for its warmer waters and sandy beaches, particularly in Southwestern Ontario. The popular lake is less than an hour away from London, Ontario, and home to many vacation rental properties.

“Growing up, Lake Champlain was our summer go-to as we had a cottage close to Montreal,” writes Elinor Schwob, corporate event and publicity advisor at s2e Technologies Inc.

She elaborates, “As we got older, Lake Huron became our go-to for family reunions, hosted there every two years since the ’60s. Nothing beats those Lake Huron sunsets.”

Toronto-based painter, Scott Kish, remarks, “My favourite lake has to be Lake Huron, for that is where our family cottage is located. I’ve enjoyed it through all conditions and seasons for swimming, boating, and fishing.”

Scott has traveled the world, capturing the beauty of nature and lakes, which you’ll see below in our section dedicated to Lake Como (Lago di Como) in Italy. His paintings and photographs depict his experiences and international travels, incorporating his trademark “motion” style into his work.

Highlights at Lake Huron

Ross and Sandy Rains, owners of The Focal Point Group, enjoy Lake Huron as well, specifically the beach at Port Franks, citing, “Port Franks beach on Lake Huron is the best sand beach, with a gradual slope for young children.”

The Rains family spends a week at a time enjoying their 1980s family rental cottage, hosting three generations during the summer holidays.

Activities in Port Franks on Lake Huron

The Cove’s Instagram account in Port Franks lists many places families can explore in the area, including Grogs, Twin Pines, Grand Bend (vacation rentals here), and Bayfield.

Ross and his family heartily recommend checking it out to help you make the most of your vacation.

Lake Rosseau, Muskoka, Ontario, Canada

Canada’s Cottage Country is home to the Big Three lakes in Muskoka, including luxurious Lake Rosseau, which is home to Millionaires Row. Many Hollywood celebrities, including Martin Short, Goldie Hawn, and Kurt Russell, have cottages along its shores.

The photo above of the Lady Rosseau from Muskoka Cruises represents much of the excitement and wonder aboard a vessel cruising Lake Rosseau, whether it be for an afternoon out, a special Mother’s Day celebration, or a private charter for weddings.

On his Instagram, entrepreneur and Muskoka blogger Ed Boutiler notes, “Millionaires Row is located in the Beaumaris area on Lake Muskoka. Many wealthy Americans from Pittsburgh set up their summer homes in the late 1800s, and the area became known as ‘Little Pittsburgh.’”

He adds that one such family, the Mellons (think Carnegie-Mellon), made their fortune in banking, rail, oil, and other means. Ed states, “They were one of the wealthiest American families in their day and spent their summers right here. There is lots of fascinating history on the Muskoka Lakes.”

High-rise real estate developer and investor Diana House, President of FFV Capital, is also a fan of Lake Rosseau in Port Carling, home to the iconic Turtle Jack’s Muskoka Grill. Lake Rosseau brings back memories for her, including “Some of our fave family friends, 1980s summer vibes, and Shamrock Lodge!”

If you want to spend time here, this Lake Rosseau family cottage rental may be just the place for you.

Lake Norman, North Carolina, USA

Caleb Hannon, COO and owner of Stay Lake Norman, makes Lake Norman his vacation destination. Just 30 minutes north of Charlotte, NC, in Mooresville, NC, the area is known for its natural beauty, access to recreational activities, and privacy for homeowners.

Highlights of Lake Norman

What draws people to Lake Norman? Caleb explains, “The beauty of the lake, recreational activities, privacy of the homes, things to do everywhere, and its proximity to large city and airports.”

Tips for visiting Lake Norman

Whether you’re spending just a few days or a few weeks, experiencing the area by boat is the way to go. 

Caleb recommends, “Rent a boat that’s delivered to your home for you, spend up for the views at the houses (some of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen), take one day off the lake to do some amazing things and eat the best food around the area.”

Activities in Lake Norman

While in the area, Caleb recommends checking out:

• On The Nines
• US National White Water Center
• Downtown Mooresville
• Bell’s Box Collective

Lake Shasta, Northern California, USA

Hone John Tito, co-founder of Game Host Bros, went on a trip with his friends to a lake in Northern California.

He writes, “One of my best lakeside getaways was to Lake Shasta in Northern California. I went with a small group of friends, and we stayed for four days in a cozy lakefront cabin. This lake forms a breathtaking sight.”

Highlights at Lake Shasta

The lake itself is a draw to the area, and with a cabin right on Lake Shasta, Hone and his friends found many ways to make the most of its enticing waters.

Hone remembers, “Every morning, we went kayaking inside the coves, while afternoons consisted of short walking trips to find secluded points with broad vistas. But the highlight for me was the evening sunset. Sitting by the water, watching the sun dip behind the mountains, was something I will never forget.”

Tips for Visiting Lake Shasta

Planning to visit Lake Shasta? Hone encourages you to book a waterfront cabin, pointing out that these lakeside cabins are excellent bases for enjoying outdoor activities.

Activities at Lake Shasta

“A must-do is the Shasta Caverns—touring the cave system was a real adventure, and it is a great way to mix things up,” Hone exclaims.

“For meals, stop by the Lake Shasta Lodge. They have got some of the freshest fish you will taste. If you are going during the summer, definitely reserve your place early because the area fills up fast.”

Lake Ouachita, Hot Springs, Arkansas, USA

Ben Armstrong, CEO of Famvia Travel, visited Lake Ouachita on a five-day guys trip with their sons.

Highlights at Lake Ouachita

“This lake is one of the hidden gems in America and looks like something out of a Bob Ross painting. There is everything from freshwater scuba diving to ATV trails that go for miles. Really something for everyone!” Ben exclaims.

Tips for Lake Ouachita

Eyes to the skies! Ben says, “Keep your eyes peeled for American Bald Eagles! Whether staying in a cabin or pitching a tent, you will find a lot of families enjoying the lake as well, so it’s a very family-friendly atmosphere.”

Activities at Lake Ouachita

If you’re a fan of state parks, Ben notes that Lake Ouachita State Park is a few miles away from Hot Springs, which has everything you could want, including a veritable feast for the eyes and the stomach.

“Definitely go to The Pancake Shop for a great breakfast before a long day of trail riding,” Ben suggests. You’ve got to keep your energy up!

Lake Balaton, Hungary

Odellé Joubert, Chief Operating Officer of Dentaly Go, takes time away from work seriously. She’s a strong believer in balance, whether it’s managing our operations or just having a much-needed break.

Of a recent trip, Odellé remarks, “I just embarked on a holiday trip to Lake Balaton in Hungary. It was beyond beautiful and peaceful, perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle and finding some quiet time. I took my son with me, and I would say that it was a great way to spend time with him and create some lasting memories.”

Highlights at Lake Balaton

As is the theme, the closer to the water that you are, the greater the benefits and opportunities to create lakeside memories.

“For us, we had a lovely holiday home close to the water. It was stocked with all that we required from home, and it was ideal for a peaceful family holiday,” she confirms.

Tips for Lake Balaton

Where should families take their children?

Odellé recommends, “For the families who go to the lake, I would suggest visiting the local beaches to get some sunshine fun but also spending time visiting the villages around. The best advice is to hire bicycles and ride the scenic routes along the lake, as it helped me get acquainted with the region up close. My son and I enjoyed the fresh air as we drove around.”

Activities Near Lake Balaton

We visited a few of the nearby sights, and I highly recommend Siófok water promenade, where you can eat a fantastic meal by the lake, and a really good café called KávéHáz in Balatonfüred to have coffee and cake.

Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy

Danilo Coviello, founder of Espresso Translations, provides language services to multiple industries.

He reflects, “My week-long visit to Lake Como with my close friends will forever stay engraved in my memory. The remarkable natural scenery features majestic mountains that hover above crystal clear waters to produce a sight that resembles perfection.”

Highlights of Lake Como

“The peaceful nature combined with the traditional charm of the nearby villages proved to be the main attractions for me. The breathtaking villa that we lived in faced directly towards the water while fresh lakeside scenery welcomed us with each new day,” he shares.

If you’ve ever been to Lake Como, you know that its shores are dotted with little towns, each with their own charms.

Danilo relates, “Every little town we visited, from Bellagio to Varenna, had something unique to offer, whether it was a peaceful garden or a hidden cafe.”

Tips for Lake Como

“If you are bringing the family, definitely take a boat tour around the lake. It is a great way to see the surrounding towns, and kids love being on the water.”

Activities at Lake Como

“The unique local coffee spot Caffè della Posta in Bellagio offers the finest coffee drinks in the area from its hidden location. Trattoria San Giacomo in Menaggio attracts food lovers from the entire community of local residents. The pasta at this place stands above any typical tourist fare, thereby enhancing its appeal. Tourists will regret leaving without experiencing this special local meal.”

As alluded to earlier, Lake Como has inspired many artists, including masterpieces by brush-based artist, Scott Kish, including the image above.

Feast your eyes on the delightful town of Menaggio on Lake Como, one of Scott’s many works in his Britain and Europe painting series. Other Lake Como towns have received the royal treatment from Scott, including Varenna, Lenno, Tremezzo, Bellagio, Blevio, and Como.

“Internationally, Lake Como was a definite highlight. With the aura created by the surrounding mountains and European architecture, it took on a magical feel,” Scott remarks.

Lake Eildon, Victorian Alps, Melbourne, Australia

Matt Little, Founder and Managing Director at Festoon House, fondly recalls one of his favorite lakeside getaways, a trip to Lake Eildon in the foothills of the Victorian Alps not too far from Melbourne.

Matt shares of Lake Eildon, “It is a massive lake known for its scenery and recreational activities. I went along with my friends since we wanted a break from our busy lives.”

Highlights at Lake Eildon

In pursuit of the extraordinary, Matt sought the splendor of the great outdoors paired with incomparable elegance.

He reminisces, “I wanted to experience its beauty. The idea of boating, swimming, and hiking in such a beautiful location was too good to pass up. We spent a full week at Lake Eildon, which, for me, was just the right amount of time to unwind.”

Tips for Visiting Lake Eildon

If you are thinking about going to Lake Eildon, Matt’s best tip would be to plan ahead.

“Reserve your accommodations and boat rentals in advance, especially during peak season. Pack for all types of weather as the conditions in the mountains change quickly,” he says.

Activities near Lake Eildon

Matt highly recommends checking out the local shops and cafes in the nearby town of Eildon.

“For a unique experience, take a drive along the edges of the lake and stop at some of the viewpoints for incredible photo opportunities. We stayed in a vacation rental right on the lakefront. It had a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious living area with a huge deck.”

Lake Macquarie, New South Wales, Australia

Daniel Vasilevski, Director and Owner of Bright Force Electrical, spent a week at Lake Macquarie in April 2018 with his parents and siblings. The lake is about 90 minutes north of Sydney, so it was close enough for Daniel’s family to drive to, but far enough to disconnect from their usual routines.

Of Lake Macquarie, Daniel says, “I picked it because I wanted somewhere quiet, with space to breathe, without needing to go off-grid. The lake is massive, and there were plenty of access points where you could just walk down to the water without crowds or noise. You didn’t have to plan much. It was one of those places where you could just arrive and settle in.”

Highlights at Lake Macquarie

The most important thing was being together, and Lake Macquarie afforded Daniel’s family ample opportunity to connect in its solitude.

“It had been a long time since we had all taken time off together, so, we made the most of the seven days. Mornings were slow, usually a walk along the shoreline or sitting out with coffee. Afternoons were spent either hiring a boat or driving out to explore small local spots. We just kept things simple. Evenings were back at the rental, cooking together, catching up properly, and enjoying the quiet.”

Activities near Lake Macquarie

The Vasilevskis found a few places nearby that made the trip even better.

Daniel remembers, “One spot we kept returning to was Common Circus in Belmont. It is a café and lifestyle store near the water. The coffee was solid, the food was simple, and the atmosphere made it very easy for us to just sit and unwind after a walk. We also had lunch at Speroni’s in Warners Bay, which is a local Italian place with proper woodfired pizza. It wasn’t anything over the top, but you walk out satisfied.”

Relaxation was the goal, and Lake Macquarie delivered.

“We booked a lakefront place through a local agent. It was an older house, nothing modern, but it was clean and had what we needed. Three bedrooms, a basic kitchen, and a deck that looked straight out onto the water,” Daniel recounts.

“Every morning, we’d sit out there with a coffee, not saying much, just watching the lake. It was quiet, and we didn’t feel like doing much else. The whole trip ran at that pace, and that’s exactly what we wanted.”

Tips for Lake Macquarie

Daniel advises that if you plan a trip to Lake Macquarie, you should book early to get a spot right on the lake because the best waterfront places are usually taken well in advance, especially during school holidays. He cautions, “The last thing you want is to end up a few streets back, missing out on the views and direct access that make the trip so relaxing.”

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