Nestled away on “Arizona’s West Coast”, Lake Havasu is recognized as one of America’s top outdoor and recreational destinations. Located in Lake Havasu City, AZ, it stands out as one of the premier boating lakes in the United States, attracting visitors for its exceptional boating, fishing, and watersports opportunities. The lake’s origin stems from the construction of the Parker Dam from 1934 to 1938, creating a 450-mile shoreline. Known as Arizona’s prime watersport destination, Lake Havasu also features accessible beach areas perfect for relaxation and leisure. Here’s a look at Lake Havasu’s top five water activities you can explore.
Planning and Preparation
To make the most of your Lake Havasu adventure, a little planning goes a long way. Start by considering the time of year and local weather—Lake Havasu City boasts sunshine year-round, but checking the forecast ensures you’ll enjoy the best conditions for boating, wakeboarding, or simply relaxing on the water.
Before you arrive, research reputable rental companies like the Nautical Watersports Center, known for offering the largest selection of jet ski rentals, pontoon boats, kayaks, and other watercraft rentals. Booking your equipment in advance through their website can save you time and guarantee you get the watercraft you want, whether you’re after speedy Yamaha Waverunners or a family-friendly pontoon boat. Don’t forget to compare prices and read reviews to find the best deal and the most accommodating team for your needs.
For accommodations, the Havasu Springs Resort waterfront destination and the Nautical Beachfront Resort are top options, offering direct access to the lake, convenient docks, and a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. If fishing is on your agenda, check the Lake Havasu State Park website for up-to-date regulations and bag limits for popular catches like smallmouth bass, flathead catfish, largemouth bass, and striped bass. You can also rent fishing equipment locally or purchase a fishing license to try your luck at catching some of the lake’s abundant species.
Familiarize yourself with the lake’s layout, including iconic sights like the London Bridge and scenic canyons along the Colorado River. Guided tours and boat rentals are a great way to explore these areas without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
Pack smart for your day on the water—bring sunscreen, a hat, a waterproof phone case, and plenty of water to stay hydrated, taking cues from packing tips for Havasu Springs Resort so you don’t forget the essentials. If you’re renting a boat or jet ski, inspect the equipment and fleet to ensure everything is well-maintained and ready for a safe, fun outing.
Consider visiting during the off-season for fewer crowds and better rates on both accommodations and rentals, especially if you’re planning a quiet winter Havasu getaway. Plan your transportation from your resort or hotel to the lake to minimize waiting time and maximize your time on the water.
If you have any questions or need help planning your trip, don’t hesitate to contact your rental company or resort directly—their knowledgeable team is there to help you have the best experience possible. With a bit of preparation, you’ll be set for an amazing, hassle-free adventure on Lake Havasu, ready to explore, catch some fish, and soak up the Arizona sunshine.
1. Boating
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping speed boat session or a laid-back boat cruise, Lake Havasu offers the best of both worlds, with plenty of lake activities at Havasu Springs Resort to round out your trip. Explore the Bridgewater Channel running beneath the famous London Bridge alongside the river’s numerous hidden coves, cliffs, canyons, and an abundance of wildlife.
Enjoy the convenience of accessing your boat directly from the dock simply walk over, board, and get ready to set out on the water without waiting in line. You can pull up to the dock for easy boarding or quick refueling, with fuel services available on-site to ensure a hassle-free experience. Boat rentals are available by the hour or for a full day, making it easy to plan your perfect outing.
If you want a longer stay, check out our accommodations or explore vacation homes at Havasu Springs Resort to see what works best for your Lake Havasu getaway.
2. Kayaking
If you prefer a more relaxed experience on the water, kayaking is the perfect way to explore the sights and sounds, especially around some of the top lake coves near Havasu Springs Resort. Take things slow as you maneuver around hidden coves. Explore the unique wildlife Arizona has to offer. Lake Havasu certainly offers multiple locations that sell or rent out kayaks; however, if you are staying at the resort, we have some available for rent located just outside the Outer Harbor store, which is part of the full-service Havasu Springs Resort.
3. Paddleboarding
Lake Havasu offers nearly 620,000 acres of crystal green waters with plenty of awe-inspiring landscapes to paddle. Paddleboard rentals are widely available, making paddleboarding one of the most popular water sports on Lake Havasu for families and visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. Famous paddling locations include Grass Island, Red Rock, London Bridge, Topock Gorge, and Pirate’s Cove. There’s a 15-mile stretch of the Colorado River found between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry offering surprisingly 1000 feet of canyon views. Havasu is perfect for a stand-up paddleboarding excursion.
4. Watersports
With nearly flawless weather all year round, Lake Havasu is a top destination for watersports, making it perfect for a Spring Break at Havasu Springs Resort, packed with time on the water. From waterskiing to wakeboarding to wake surfing, there is undoubtedly so much to enjoy as far as water thrills the lake has to offer. Jet skis and skis are readily available for rent, bringing extra fun and excitement to your watersports adventure. If you’re more of the exploring type, grab some scuba gear and explore diverse underwater sites. Even without any personal equipment, numerous watersport rentals ensure you have all you need to maximize your fun on the water, with professional and reliable business operations. The rental process pays close attention to details, including thorough safety checks and clear instructions, so you can focus on having a great time with friends and making lasting memories on Lake Havasu.
5. Fishing
Lake Havasu is a fishing haven without a doubt, and anglers can find even more details in this guide to going fishing on Lake Havasu. The lake is home to various fish species, including striped bass, smallmouth bass, crappies, Redear sunfish, flathead catfish, and bluegill. With 60 miles of shoreline to explore, expect the ultimate fishing experience. There are plenty of launch ramps and free public fishing docks. Effective fish habitat improvement programs ensure healthy ecosystems in the lake and sufficient healthy fish populations.
In a nutshell, Lake Havasu is a scenic paradise with plenty of fun-filled water activities on offer. Anything you want to do on the water is possible. Whether it’s boating through the Bridgewater Channel, kayaking into hidden coves, paddleboarding in Red Rock, waterskiing across the surface of the lake, or catching that prized Redear sunfish, it’s all there. The next time you’re planning a getaway, Havasu Springs offers a variety of locations, beautiful views, and sufficient amenities to cater to your vacation needs, especially if you’re considering a spring break family resort experience. It’s the ultimate relaxing escape, jam-packed with lots of wholesome fun.
