Spend some time at one of the nearby lakes in Los Angeles County and stay cool in nature by only a short drive away from LA. Los Angeles, in the state of California, is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in the world. Tourists enjoy a lovely holiday in the city, which has some of the best amusement parks, film studios, beaches, cafés and bars, and, of course, celebrity spotting. However, there are some spots in Los Angeles where you may go boating, fishing, swimming, picnicking, or simply strolling about and admiring the peaceful waters, such as the lakes. So, in this article, I will list the best boating lakes near LA, follow me to learn more!

Castaic Lake

Castaic Lake offers one of the best boating experiences in the state, whether by engine or sail. The lake is the largest state water project reservoir in Southern California, accommodating both non-powered boaters and jet skiers. Because of its proximity to Los Angeles, it offers some of the best boat tours in the state. You may unwind here while admiring the quiet waters and natural beauty. Or, have a good time by participating in one of the many activities available, such as boating, camping, fishing, and more.

There are numerous walking routes and special picnic sites with all of the necessary conveniences for everyone to enjoy their day out. Of course, the area’s claim to fame is Castaic Lake Lagoon, which has three miles of shoreline and 197 acres of shallow waters. Locals and visitors alike enjoy float tubes, kayaks, and non-gasoline-powered boat fishing. Also, many campgrounds are available in the region if you wish to extend your stay. So, consider setting up a warm tent at one of Southern California’s top boating lakes.

>>Also Read: Best Boating Destinations in California

Lake Shasta

Do you want to have the best boating holiday of your life? Lake Shasta is the ideal location for this. The 30,000-acre reservoir, located in the middle of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, offers a wide range of water-related activities. On a typical summer day, the beautiful blue waters are strewn with inner tubes, jet skis, fishing boats, and everything else that floats. This is because there are roughly 370 miles of shoreline on Lake Shasta. You will definitely find mirror-smooth bays that are perfect for anchoring. Bridge Bay is the place to go if you’re seeking the greatest houseboat rentals in Lake Shasta.

Trinity Lake

Trinity Lake is the third largest lake in California, with a length of 21 miles and a shoreline of 145 miles. The lake is near Lake Shasta and it offers spectacular views without the crowds. Even during the busy summer months, Trinity Lake is quite uncrowded. Anglers and houseboaters will love the peaceful, tree-lined coves. There will always be a great space for you at Trinity Lake, whether you have a ski boat, paddleboard, kayak, or sailboat. Trinity is NorCal’s number one boating destination, with the clearest seas, you’ve ever seen. Find one of the tree-lined coasts and hidden coves and make it your personal basecamp. Note that Trinity Lake has a number of isolated, tree-lined nooks that are ideal for houseboats. The best part is that you’ll feel like you have the entire lake to yourself because this lake is never crowded, regardless of the season!

>>Also Read: Best Boating Lakes in the US

Pyramid Lake

This reservoir, created by the Pyramid Dam, is a great area to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city without having to drive a long distance from LA. In front of the dam stands the pyramid structure that gives the lake its name. With a 21-mile shoreline, this is a fairly large lake. A huge observation platform is available to the public at the Vista del Lago Visitors Center. Even if you have no intention of using the facilities, you can stop by just to enjoy the scenery. In addition, there are educational installations about geology and water supply systems at the visitors center.

Lake Perris

This is a popular lake for boating and other leisure activities such as camping, fishing, and jet skiing near Los Angeles. Because the water levels are somewhat low here, the number of boats allowed each day is limited, thus it is best to secure your spot before planning your trip. There’s a marina here where you can rent boats, as well as a store for basic necessities.

Near the shore, there are recognized swimming places where you can go for a swim. Scuba diving, motorcycling, hiking, and horseback riding are some of the other activities available. It’s also a popular camping spot, with all the amenities needed for a pleasant stay in the great outdoors. Note that this is a desert environment, it becomes tremendously hot throughout the summer. A lot of people go to the lake to cool down but bear in mind that you’ll need to bring sun protection. There are some large trees a few feet from the water’s edge.

Lake Skinner

Skinner Reservoir, often known as Lake Skinner, is a popular recreational area managed by Riverside County. Beautiful Lake Skinner, nestled in the rolling hills of Winchester, offers natural vistas and energizing recreational possibilities, such as camping, picnicking, splash pad, hiking, horseback riding, sailing, and fishing. This lovely lake is located in the Auld Valley, at the foot of Bachelor Mountain. This is a terrific spot for a picnic and for a weekend trip. There are around 200 full hookup sites, 20 water and electricity sites, and 40 water-only sites on the site. And, this is yet another place near Temecula’s wine country. Note that all boating activities must be conducted in a non-contact manner.

Mono Lake

Mono Lake, located just outside Yosemite National Park, is one of California’s top boating lakes. The beautiful scenery attracts all people to go boating, and it is open to both motorized and non-powered boating. The lake is a massive inland sea that fills a 695-square-mile natural basin. Mono Lake is well known for its spooky tufa towers, which are mineral structures formed when fresh-water springs burst up through the alkaline waters of the lake. And, it is not just one of North America’s oldest lakes, but it is also one of the saltiest. You can spend the day kayaking around Mono Lake in the beautiful outdoors. If you’re looking for a boat excursion, the Mono Lake Committee has some great canoe and kayak options.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, North America’s largest alpine lake, is without a doubt one of the most beautiful in the country. The beautiful blue beauty, which spans state borders between California and Nevada, is one of California’s top boating lakes. You’ll never run out of options here, from kayaks and paddleboards to jet skis and powerboats. There’s also Lakeside Marina, the largest water sports service on Lake Tahoe, which is a must-see. The marina is approximately a five-minute walk from South Lake Tahoe’s best attractions and offers fuel docks, boat rentals, and launch ramps. You will need days or a week to live the absolute experience and admire the granite towering reflections on the lake while the crystal clear water keeps you afloat.

Lake Berryessa

Lake Berryessa is a two-hour drive north of San Francisco and is one of California’s largest, nicest, and oddest locales. The lake is a year-round watersports paradise, with over 165 miles of sparkling shoreline. Lake Berryessa’s main feature is its mild temperatures, which is why one million people visit each year to escape the heat. In addition, note that there are a few sandy beaches and isolated coves in Lake Berryessa. Note that Pleasure Cove Marina, on the southern shore, is a boat rental service to use if you don’t have your own boat. In any case, on one of California’s top houseboat lakes, you can live the aquatic lifestyle without needing to own a boat.

Big Bear Lake

Set sail for your next adventure at Big Bear Lake, the state’s greatest year-round attraction. Big Bear Lake, being one of Southern California’s top boating lakes, never disappoints when it comes to water activities. Also, the Big Bear Lake shoreline has six marinas. Renting a pontoon boat is the greatest way to make the most of your time here. You’ll navigate waves spanning the seven-mile shoreline with an easy-to-operate throttle level and steering wheel. The marinas, on the other hand, provide kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and other rentals if you want to sail closer to the wind.

Silverwood Lake

This is one of Los Angeles’ top fishing lakes, yet it’s only 90 minutes from the city in San Bernardino County. For residents of the greater Los Angeles area, this is also one of the best boating destinations. You can rent a boat at the marina or contact individual charters who will deliver your preferred boat to the lake for an additional fee. Many parts inside the lake have speed limits, making it a popular fishing spot where you may catch crappie, rainbow trout, and catfish, among other species of fish. The lake’s tranquil and peaceful waters, set against a ruggedly magnificent mountain backdrop where you will enjoy boating as well as other water activities!

Folsom Lake

Folsom Lake, one of California’s top boating lakes, offers the best of the Sierra Nevada foothills. The vast reservoir, which is home to numerous campgrounds, hiking trails, and coastline access, promises unique vacations. Sailing, windsurfing, and jet skiing are just a few of the popular boating activities available in Folsom Lake. Folsom Lake Marina has 674 wet docks and 175 dry slips for vessels up to 26 feet long. As you may understand, the area’s top feature is the 11,700-acre lake it has. There are lots of boats, kayaks, jet skis, water skis, and paddleboard rentals available at the park. Like this, you will experience the water in many different ways. You can also head downstream to Lake Natoma, which is mostly used for non-motorized water activities, for a more relaxing setting.

Lake Sonoma

Lake Sonoma is one of the best boating lakes in Northern California, with 50 miles of shoreline and excellent recreational areas. The lake is located 30 miles north of Santa Rosa amid the coastal mountains. Lake Sonoma, like many other alpine reservoirs in California, has long, thin arms that snake up canyons. Canoes, ski boats, wakeboards, and jet skis are all available for hire at this boater’s paradise. There are miles of wonderful boating and water skiing on Lake Sonoma. On the lake, the maximum speed limit is 50 mph.

Note that No Water Skiing and No Wake zones are clearly defined. The only marina on the lake is Lake Sonoma Resort. Lake Sonoma Marina is a rental dock with everything you need, located about 10 minutes west of Healdsburg. Another launch ramp is located across the lake. Anglers and boaters may explore miles of beachfront with various inlets and coves.