lake fun Archives

Lake Life in the Slow Lane: Non-Motorized Watercrafts

Posted on May 13, 2022May 16, 2022 Camille Smith

In 2021, most boats that you’ll see on the lake are motorized. The typical propulsion system for boats, outbound motors are a self-contained unit affixed to the back of the boat which contains an engine, gearbox, and propeller. Essentially, these contraptions take fuel and convert it to power so your boat moves forward. Some motors are inbound rather than outbound, meaning that the engine is inside the boat’s hull.

While motors are a useful, modern invention for boats, they aren’t always necessary. In fact, there are several joys and benefits of forgoing the motor for paddles, oars, and other manual propellers. If you love being on the water, but you enjoy a slower pace of lake living, one of these non-motorized watercrafts might be perfect for you.

Sailboat

The technology of sailboats is as old as recorded history. Our earliest record of sailboats is from Ancient Egypt when the Nile River and the Mediterranean were used as popular trade routes among various lands. Without the technology of a motor, sailboats simply use the natural wind to propel the boat forward. Because wind is unpredictable, any seasoned sailor knows how to adjust the sails to the wind — a concept that lends itself metaphorically to life. Although the terminology can be complicated, once you learn the tricks of the trade, it’s worth it.

Canoe

Similar to the sailboat, the canoe’s history dates back thousands of years. Rather than being specific to one country and culture, canoes were likely ubiquitous across the world and instrumental in trade, war, and personal transportation. The English word comes from a Caribbean word meaning “dugout.” This name appropriately reflects the practice of constructing a boat from a tree and carving a hollowed space for sitting. Instead of a motor, typically, canoers use paddles to propel the boat forward. In a two-person canoe, the front paddler controls the speed and power while the back paddler controls the direction.

Kayak

Unlike canoes that have an unspecified origin, kayaks likely originated in northern parts of the world such as present-day Greenland, Siberia, and North America. Meaning “small boat of skins” in the Greenland Eskimo language, these non-motorized watercrafts were first used by Inuit and Aleut people for travel and trading. While these first kayaks were created out of bone, wood, and animal skin, today’s kayaks are mostly made from long-lasting polyethylene plastics. Because kayaks are usually operated by one person, the kayaker will use a double-sided paddle to propel the small boat forward.

Standup Paddleboards

Photo by Tower Paddle Boards on Unsplash

Most personal watercrafts involve sitting in, not on the watercraft. Not so with SUPs. An acronym for “stand up paddleboard,” SUPs have roots in surfing. The modern sport originated in Waikiki, Hawaii in the 1940s by John Ah Choy, a surfer who as he aged, wasn’t able to get up and down from his surfboard like he could in his younger days. For aid, he used a canoe paddle to catch waves. Eventually, the style gained popularity among other surfers. Usually made of fiberglass and resin, these boards are a sturdy non-motorized watercraft that’s perfect for fishing, yoga, and other lake recreation.

Banana Boats

We’re not talking about the brand of sunscreen or the delicious banana s’more dessert. Like other lake floats, banana boats are a purely recreational type of non-motorized watercraft. Shaped like a banana, these inflatables come without any type of motor system and can sometimes be tugged behind a motorized boat. Typically, they seat up to 10 people — perfect for a fun-loving group of guests at your lake house.

Whether you choose a motorized or non-motorized personal watercraft, we hope you keep enjoying the lake in whatever way suits your lifestyle!

Top Floats for 2021

Posted on July 17, 2021August 11, 2021 Camille Smith

It’s summertime at the lake! During this season, there’s nothing better than relaxing on a float, drifting the day away. Whether you choose a simple raft or a luxurious eight-person inflatable, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy an afternoon on the water. As a lake homeowner, it’s likely you already have a storage shed full of lake toys from 2020 and earlier years. But if you and your family are in the market for some new floats this season, you’re in luck. Today, we’re reviewing some of the top floats for 2021.

Bestway Tropical Breeze III

Looking for an all-inclusive float that the whole family or friend group will love? The Bestway Tropical Breeze III is perfect. There’s plenty of seating for everyone with multiple features such as two detachable rafts, a canopy, and a mesh interior. As a whole, this top float can hold eight people, and it’s complete with six cup holders. If you’re trying to stay close to the dock, it also includes attached ropes for anchoring.

WOW Watersports Floating Island

With this circular inflatable, you and your crew can spend all day chatting on the lake. The WOW Watersports Floating Island can hold up to 10 people on its party-size 12-foot-long surface. Made of heavy-duty PVC plastic, this lake float is meant to last. It also comes with eight cup holders, so there’s plenty of room for beverages. In the center, there’s a mesh area for anyone who wants to be immersed in water while still enjoying the raft.

WOW Parthenon Spa Island

With this top float, you can bring the magic of Ancient Greece to your lake house. But this fun theme is only part of the reason why the Wow Parthenon Spa Island is a great option. Made of PVC plastic, this eight-person float is extremely durable. But its most defining feature is being fully shaded, making this float perfect for a hot day. After all, how else did the ancient Greeks make it through the Mediterranean heat? Also, keep in mind that an electric pump is sold separately to inflate and deflate it.

Funboy Golf Cart Float

Many of us lake-dwellers are fans of golf. But with the Funboy Golf Cart float, you can bring a golf cart directly to the water. In addition to being a fun, two-person float, this inflatable doubles as a convertible with a fringe roof that’s removable. This way, you have the option of basking in the sun or keeping it shady. Additionally, the brand Funboy is donating 20% of all product proceeds to Feeding America, a nonprofit promoting hunger relief in the U.S.

Aqua Beach Wave Floating Party Mat

Although this top float is more on the expensive side, the Aqua Beach Wave Floating Party Mat is undoubtedly worth it. The design looks simple — essentially a massive floating mat — but it’s actually very durable with impressive features. It’s made of cross-linked foam, which will keep this mat both afloat and intact. It also has four cup holders for a small group and hook straps so you don’t float too far from the dock.

Retro Phone Lounger Float

Hello? The lake is calling! If you’re looking for a relatively inexpensive float for one person, look no further than this product from Funboy. This candy-colored retro phone lounger float is cute, simple, and perfect for the lake. Made from 100% PVC vinyl, it’s easy to maintain, wipe, and clean. Plus, its small size makes it easy to transport from the pool to the lake and back.

From our lake house to yours, we hope you enjoy your summer lounging on these top floats!

Lake-Inspired Gift Baskets

Posted on March 26, 2021April 19, 2021 Camille Smith

Regardless of whether or not you celebrate Easter, the gifts associated with this holiday are instantly recognizable. Peeps, chocolate rabbits, robin’s egg candies, and the all-encompassing gift basket. Gift baskets are incredibly versatile, whether it’s a “welcome to the company” assortment of sweets or an “I’m sorry” message expressed through Edible Arrangements. The versatility of gift baskets makes them easy to customize to the recipient. Plus, creating them can be fun! If you need a gift for a lake lover, try tailoring a gift basket to their favorite lake hobbies. Here’s some inspiration for creating gift baskets for your loved ones who love the lake.

For the One Who Loves Fishing

If you know any anglers, you know that they’re nowhere to be found on a sunny summer afternoon. That’s because they spend hours in a canoe, hoping to reel in a fish. A gift basket of outdoorsy snacks in a cute fishing basket is the perfect gift for these friends. They’ll need some fuel while they’re on the water.

For the One Who’s Always the Host/Hostess

Photo courtesy of Getty via The Spruce Eats

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, game day, or another event, many of us like to host guests at our lake home. But the hosts and hostesses in your life need some relaxation too. The gift baskets that will suit them the most contain delectable goods like wines and cheeses. This time, you’re bringing the party to them!

For the One with the Green Thumb

Many of us lake lovers have impressive gardens in our backyards. When it comes to native plants and landscaping solutions, these friends seem to have all the answers. To make things a little easier for them, create a gift basket with some of the latest gardening tools. Your gardener pal will undoubtedly appreciate a nice new pair of gloves, an extra shovel, and a packet of seeds for a new plant.

For the One Who’s Always Crafting

Do you have a friend who’s always in the middle of a creative craft project? Whether it’s creating DIY decor for their lake home or stitching a sofa cover together, some people are simply crafty. For this person, a gift basket full of supplies from Michael’s or Blick would be perfect.

For the One Who Never Leaves the Porch

There’s something about front porches that evoke a sense of relaxation, especially with a beautiful view of the lake. If your friend typically goes to the lake solely for the cozy porch experience, put together a gift basket that screams “hygge.” Your friend will love a combination of books, mugs, and soft blankets for those misty mornings enjoying a cup of coffee.

For The One Getting Lost in the Woods

Some lake-dwellers spend more time getting lost in the woods than they do at their lake house. When preparing a gift basket for your hiking-fanatic friends, an assortment of trail snacks is a great option. They’ll definitely appreciate beef jerky, toasted almonds, and other outdoorsy favorites.

For the One Who’s Always Taking Pics

Since lakeside surroundings are so beautiful, many lake homeowners are hobby photographers. For your friend who’s always taking pictures, get them a gift basket that caters to this pursuit. If they already own a nice camera, add an inexpensive Polaroid camera to the basket so they can capture more moments instantly!

For the Family Game Night Champion

Lake houses are all about relaxation, family, friends, and fun. In this spirit, game night is a popular lake home activity that spans across every season. For the one who’s always challenging the group to another round of Scrabble, a gift basket of games is a perfect choice! From card games to board games, they’ll surely appreciate the assortment.

Stars, Stripes, and Sips: Recipes for 4th of July Cocktails

Posted on June 29, 2020June 25, 2020 Camille Smith

What’s your favorite July 4th tradition? Maybe it’s grilling burgers and taking your family on the boat. Or tasting the first bite of homemade apple pie and admiring the fireworks’ reflection in the water. Whatever your routine may be, a lake home is an unbeatable setting for this holiday. To top off the celebration, you can create 4th of July cocktails for you and your guests. After all, there are few excuses throughout the year to serve whimsical, colorful cocktails. Plus, you can skip the alcohol with most of these drinks, so they’re appropriate for kids. This holiday, pick your patriotic poison and enjoy the lake!

Red, White, and Blue Spritzer

If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, this spritzer is a perfect choice. Add some fresh strawberries and blueberries for the full red, white, and blue effect.

Ingredients:

1 cup simple syrup (1 part sugar + 1 part water, boiled until dissolved and cooled)
½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced in halves
½ cup fresh blueberries
1 bottle dry white wine
Club soda or tonic water
Ice
Fresh mint for garnish

Directions: Add ice to pitcher until full and top with berries (save some for individual glasses). Pour in simple syrup and wine until the pitcher is ¾ full, then add soda or tonic water. Stir, serve and garnish with mint and extra fruit.

Courtesy of: Pretty Plain Janes

Sugar Cookie Pudding Shots

Photo courtesy of Jelly Shot Test Kitchen.

Confectionery sweetness meets alcohol with these celebratory shots. The bright colors and thick, pudding consistency make for a fun, festive treat.

Ingredients:

1 box white chocolate flavored instant pudding
1 cup cold milk (any kind)
¾ cup vanilla vodka
2 tbsp amaretto liquor
½ cup whipped topping (or whipped cream)
Red and blue liquid food coloring
Cookies or sprinkles for garnish

Directions: In a medium bowl, pour pudding mix and add cold milk. Beat for two minutes. Add the vodka, ¼ cup at a time (combine thoroughly before each new ¼ cup addition). Stir in amaretto and whip. Evenly divide the pudding mixture into 3 bowls. Tint the first bowl with red food coloring, the second bowl blue. Leave the last one white. Layer the puddings in shot glasses and top with chosen garnish.

Courtesy of: Jelly Shot Test Kitchen

Firecracker

This cocktail’s spicy flavors are just as sizzling as the fireworks. For those who enjoy a relatively simple cocktail with a few fun flavors, this is for you.

Ingredients:

4 watermelon chunks
3 oz Flor de Caña Grand Reserve seven-year-old rum
1 oz Triple sec
1 oz fresh lime juice
1 oz simple syrup
½ tsp cayenne pepper
Lime wedge for garnish

Directions: Muddle the watermelon in a mixing glass. Add all other remaining ingredients and ice and stir. Unstrained, pour into a cocktail or margarita glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Courtesy of: Liquor.com

Red, White, and Blue Sangria

Photo courtesy of Certified Pastry Aficionado.

Sangria is a summer staple (alliteration, anyone?). But this time, you don’t have to decide between red and white wine as the base. As long as you add blue, it’s patriotic.

Ingredients:

¼ cup of sugar
¼ cup brandy liquor
1 750 mL bottle of dry white wine
12 ounces lemon-lime soda
1 pound strawberries (sliced)
1 dry pint blueberries
Ice (for serving)

Directions: In a pitcher, mix sugar and brandy and stir until sugar is dissolved. Add a bottle of chardonnay and lemon-lime soda. Stir, then add strawberries and blueberries. You can let it sit for a few hours ahead of time to absorb all the flavors. When ready to serve, fill glasses halfway with ice, then pour sangria and serve immediately.

Courtesy of: Certified Pastry Aficionado

Red, White, and Boozy Margarita

Nothing says “summertime” like a frozen margarita. But this time, try it with a 4th of July flare. After a day of grilling and relaxing in the sun, cool down with this colorful recipe.

Ingredients:

9 cups ice
6 oz. silver tequila
3 oz. triple sec
2 oz. grenadine (for the red layer)
2 oz. blue curaçao (for the blue layer)
2 oz. lime juice (for the white layer)

Directions: Divide ingredients for ice, tequila, and triple sec into thirds, and use ⅓ of each amount for each layer. Make the red layer by blending all ingredients, dividing evenly into glasses, and then repeating them with blue and white layers. Serve immediately.

Courtesy of: Delish.com

Red, White, and Blueberry Mule

If Moscow Mules are your cocktail of choice, try this festive twist on your favorite beverage. It has the same classic mix of vodka and ginger beer, with a unique fruity flavor. Don’t let your copper mugs go to waste this holiday!

Ingredients:

2 oz. berry vodka (blueberry or raspberry)
6 oz. ginger beer
Blueberries
Blackberries

Directions: Muddle blueberries and blackberries in a shaker. Add vodka and shake. In a Moscow Mule mug, fill with ice and pour vodka and berries mixture. Fill with ginger beer and garnish with extra blueberries and blackberries.

Courtesy of: Brooklyn Crafted

From all of us at Lake Homes Realty, happy 4th of July!

Freezin’ for a Reason: Upcoming Polar Plunges in Our Lake Areas

Posted on February 4, 2020January 27, 2020 Camille Smith

participants running into San Pedro beach on new year's day

At this time of year, you may look out the window of your lake house and see a freezing body of water, perhaps partially covered in ice, and can imagine that jumping in would be downright unpleasant. Even standing outside in the cold is hardly bearable, much less being submerged in frigid lake water. However, thousands of people do this every year. Whether it’s raising money for a cause or just for the thrill of it, groups of people come together and jump into a cold body of water, such as a lake or beach, during January, February, and March. Appropriately, it’s called a Polar Plunge (could also be referred to as Polar Bear Plunge or Polar Bear Swim).

The History

massive crowd at Annual polar bear swim in Vancouver, Canada — *Annual Polar Bear Swim in Vancouver. Photo courtesy of Red Leaf.*

Although it may seem odd, these events aren’t new. In fact, people have been participating in Polar Plunges for over 100 years (a plunge in Boston in 1904 was the first one recorded) and they’re practiced around the world. In Canada, the UK, and the Netherlands, Polar Plunges are typically held to celebrate the new year. In South Korea, there’s an annual polar swimming contest that takes place on Haeundae Beach. There’s even a Polar Plunge in Antarctica, which is a rite of passage for scientists conducting research on this southernmost continent. Regardless of where you are, there’s certain to be a nearby Plunge to satisfy your search for an adrenaline rush. Here in the U.S., you can attend a polar plunge in 2020 at many of our lakes.

Polar Plunges in the U.S.

Participants take to the icy waters at Canandaigua Lake, NY — *Polar Plunge participants take to the icy waters at Canandaigua Lake, NY. Photo courtesy of Daily Messenger.*

Across the country, Polar Plunges primarily work to raise money for the Special Olympics, a global organization that provides athletic opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Chances are, you’ll find a Plunge this season that benefits the Special Olympics in your specific state. In New York, you’ll find Polar Plunges on Cayuga Lake on March 21st and Canandaigua Lake on March 28th, both raising money for the Special Olympics of New York. In Missouri, check out the Polar Plunge at Lake of the Ozarks on February 29th, or if you’re in Texas, there’s an event at Lake Gladewater on February 8th, both benefiting the Special Olympics of their respective states. Of course, there’s a Plunge on the great Lake Michigan in Chicago. If you attend this particular plunge on March 1st, you might even run in to Lady Gaga or Vince Vaughn who have attended in the past.

Besides the Special Olympics, there are several Polar Plunges that benefit other charities as well. For example, a Polar Plunge at Lake Anna State Park in Virginia raises money for the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) Warrior Foundation that provides financial support for both retired and active-duty EOD war veterans. We encourage you to take a look at upcoming Polar Plunges in your own communities — you never know who you might meet or what great local causes you’ll be able to support.

Why Take the Plunge?

Man raising rock on symbols in air running into lake with large crowd behind him — *Polar bear plunge participants splash their way into the new year on Sanders Beach in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Photo courtesy of The Spokesman-Review.*

For those of us who steer on the side of caution, Polar Plunges might seem too intense, unpleasant, or even unsafe. While there’s certainly a debate over whether jumping into icy water is dangerous, most every organized Polar Plunge has a trained safety team on staff to make sure that conditions are appropriate. As long as your heart is healthy, a few seconds in the water would only give you a good shock — enough to leave you with a jolt of energy as you run back to your awaiting warm towel. At the end of the day, it’s about doing something different with a group of people to celebrate a new year or a good cause. That sense of community and spontaneity is what lake living is all about.

Interested in the lakes mentioned in this article? Learn more here: Cayuga Lake, Canandaigua Lake, Lake of the Ozarks, Lake Gladewater, Lake Michigan, and Lake Anna.

Lake Wallenpaupack, Lake of Big Fun in the Poconos

Posted on November 1, 2019February 28, 2020 Cary Estes

The area in the Pocono Mountains that Native Americans called “the stream of swift and slow water” is now more like “the lake of big fun.” But no matter how you wish to translate it, Lake Wallenpaupack is the focal point of a charming community that offers plenty of recreation and entertainment options for tourists and residents alike.

The expansive 5,700-acre lake has 52 miles of uninterrupted shoreline, providing easy access to the water. Boats abound during the warmer months, and fishing is popular throughout the year. And all this takes place deep within the breathtaking beauty of the tree-filled Poconos.

“One of the great things about this lake is the natural beauty of the shoreline,” says Steve Gelderman, co-owner of Wallenpaupack Scenic Boat Tours. “Everywhere you look you can see these landscapes along with wildlife like bald eagles and ducks. You can really enjoy the natural beauty of the lake.”

Wally Lake Fest with tens of boats during the summer — Wally Lake Fest, Lake Wallenpaupack, PA

Area residents add a little buzz to this beauty with a series of festivals extolling life in Wally World. The big event is Wally Lake Fest, held each August with the support of numerous local businesses and mountain resorts. Vendors take over the shoreline around the town of Hawley, while bands play on a floating stage surrounded by a flotilla of boats and kayaks, creating a sort of Wallypalooza.

“It’s a call to the local community to showcase lake life,” says Rory O’Fee director of marketing for Woodlach Resort and one of the event’s founders. “The music on the lake is a cool spectacle to see. And that’s just one part of what’s developed into a very popular festival.”

The fun doesn’t stop once the temperature drops, either. The city of Hawley hosts a pre-Christmas Winterfest, which honors the season the old-fashioned way with campfires and horse-drawn carriage rides. “It harkens back to the town’s historic, Victorian-era roots,” O’Fee says. “The town beams for this weekend of nostalgic fanfare.”

Happy family on horse drawn sleigh ride during the winter — Photo courtesy of The French Manor.

Then a month later in January, once winter truly arrives and the lake freezes over, the area celebrates with Wally Ice Fest. Eight hockey rinks, 12 curling rinks, and a 9-hole golf course are created on top of the lake, along with spaces for vendors and music.

“It’s another event that shows the strong community we have around the lake,” O’Fee says. “Everybody comes together to support one another. It’s small-town America on a big lake.”

Of course, Lake Wallenpaupack also has plenty of places where you can simply get away from it all. There are six public recreation areas featuring hundreds of acres of forest lands, wildlife, trails, campsites, and boat slips. The area also is home to the Lacawac Sanctuary, a pristine 556-acre nature preserve with 8 miles of hiking trails.

“It’s still not heavily developed around the lake, so it feels like being out in the country,” says James Hamill, director of public relations at the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. “But you also have a lot of opportunities to enjoy culture, music, arts, antique shops, art galleries. Everything compliments each other.“

So many people have fond memories of coming back year after year to this huge lake. It’s just a beautiful place to recreate and fish and hike, with no shortage of things to see and do. If you want to live in an area where you can enjoy it all, Lake Wallenpaupack is one of the top places.”

To see more about Lake Wallenpaupack, visit our home listings here.

Fort Loudoun Lake

Posted on September 28, 2016June 4, 2019 Staff

Located in East Tennessee on the upper Tennessee River, Fort Loudoun Lake stretches across 14,600 acres.

The lake takes its name from the nearby site of a British fort built in 1756, which was named for Scotsman John Campbell, the fourth Earl of Loudoun, who served as commander of British Forces in North America at the time.

Lake Fort Loudoun possesses strong ties to its rich history extending back to the French and Indian War, when its namesake fort was one of the few British outposts west of the Appalachian Mountains.

Today, the lake is a major recreation destination for East Tennessee residents and out-of-state visitors but for you…Fort Loudoun is simply home.

Your social life is merely a boat ride away

The best part about living on Fort Loudoun? You don’t bother with pulling the car around because inding the social hub of the lake is, instead, only a short boat-ride away.

Prater’s Flat, the “party cove,” is THE place to be on a sunny weekend. You and hundreds of other boaters gather, tie up and enjoy the best of what lake life has to offer.

After the sun sets, you love that you can get to most restaurants by boat. Restaurants like Calhoun’s, Willie’s and Lakeside Tavern, for a more upscale night out, are a few of your favorites.

Two Words: Tennessee. Volunteers.

Because of Fort Loudoun’s proximity to Knoxville, you know you are in the best position to cheer on the best team in the SEC.

Neyland Stadium, one of only two college football venues accessible by boat, makes “Vol’s Navy” one of your, and all of college football’s, most beloved traditions.

Inspired by Volunteers broadcaster George Mooney, Vol’s Navy is a fleet of some 200 vessels of all sizes whose passengers watch the game from monster TVs on their tricked-out boats. Game Day is made even more special on the water with family and friends.

At Fort Loudoun, boats rule the world

Fort Loudon Lake is a particularly boat-centric lake. Throughout the year, festivals and fishing tournaments are accessed and enjoyed on boats.

Friends and families gather to cheer on competitors in the Dragon boat races, and locals love supporting the Concord Sailing Club, based out of Knoxville.

And on holidays? Nothing’s better than gathering friends and family for Rockin’ The Docks, an elaborate fireworks display, on the Fourth of July, Memorial Day and Labor Day.

The event, held in Lenior City Park, is also well attended by boat just off the shoreline.

The entire Southeast is at your disposal

One of the greatest things about Fort Loudoun would have to be its convenient location in East Tennessee.

Just west of Knoxville, Fort Loudoun Lake is a straight shot to major cities like Atlanta, Nashville and Charlotte.

Favorite band playing in Atlanta? No problem. The lake is only a couple hours away from civilization, and the best part is that you always get to come home to the peaceful waters of Fort Loudoun Lake.

Most beautiful sunsets in the southeast

Known for its picturesque views, it’s no surprise that Fort Loudoun Lake is home to some of the most exquisite sunsets in the region.

While you’re waiting for the sun to set, you like to keep an eye out for bald eagle and osprey sightings.

With a perfect location, rich culture and undeniable beauty, Fort Loudoun Lake is an excellent choice for a weekend retreat or a permanent residence. At 535 listings and counting, there is sure to be something for everyone here.

Fort Loudoun homes range anywhere from $100,000 to $5,000,000. For more information, visit lakehomes.com and find your dream lake home today!

Lake Toys for Family Fun in 2016

Posted on July 13, 2016November 29, 2017 Staff

Lake lovers can find summer fun in numerous ways with lake toys. Modern technology allows for a variety of lake toys ranging in price, style and size.

From boating, fishing, and skiing to inflatable water parks there are lake toys for everyone on the water.

Inflatable Pontoon Slide

Kids and adults of all ages can enjoy the fun of sliding into the lake from their boat.

These inflatable slides come with turbo air pumps and are easily attached to the side of your pontoon for hours of floating fun.

For more information and pricing click here.

Giant Water Mats

Whether you are interesting in jumping, playing, working out or being towed behind a boat you will love these mats.

These foam pads are safe, durable and do not require air to float.

Ranging in size from 150 feet long to 6 feet wide they can hold up to 3000 pounds.

To order and customize your water mat click here.

Sea-Doo Sea Scooter

These scooters are perfect for little ones wanting to have some fun with lake toys.

They are also useful to scuba divers and those needing a quick float back to the dock.

Below are four of the scooters Sea-Doo offers:

The Explorer X has a battery that last up to two hours, can go 130 feet deep and 3.3 MPH.
The Auqua Ranger’s battery last an hour and will reach depths of 30 feet at 2.5 MPH.
The VS can reach a depth of 100 feet going 3 MPH and has a battery life of an hour and a half.
The Dolphin can reach a depth of 15 feet at 2 MPH and also has a battery life of an hour and a half.

For more information and pricing click here.

Inflatable Water Parks

Inflatable water parks are completely customizable. Lake lovers can choose from floating trampolines, rock climbing walls, bridges, cliffs, swings, slides and more.

For more information and pricing click here.

You May Be From Smith Mountain Lake If…

Posted on May 25, 2016July 21, 2022 Staff

Smith Mountain Lake, referred to by locals as “SML,” is a reservoir boasting more than 500 miles of shoreline in the Roanoke Region of Virginia.

The lake, which encompasses more than 20,000 acres, is nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in the rural southern part of the state.

You may be from Smith Mountain if you love the lake for its character, stunning scenery, and ability to make any day extraordinary.

And if the following list seems all too familiar, you are definitely from Smith Mountain Lake.

The area is rural but still connected to civilization.

Perhaps the best part about living on SML is being able to detach from the world among the mountains but still getting to enjoy world-class amenities.

The area surrounding Smith Mountain Lake has everything you could ever need: supermarkets, plenty of restaurants, banks, marinas, fitness centers, and libraries. There are also doctors, dentists, attorneys, and independent retail stores nearby.

What more could you ask for? And with large metropolitan cities close by, like Raleigh or Washington D.C., you know that SML is the best place to be.

Boating, Golf, Fishing…Oh My!

You know that the beauty of living on the lake is that there is an opportunity to both relax AND participate in any outdoor activity of your choosing.

Whether you want to spend the day boating, skiing, swimming, or fishing, Smith Mountain Lake always provides.

In fact, Bassmaster has rated SML in the top 25 best bass fishing lakes in the United States.

If you want to spend your day golfing with your buddies, try your hand on one of the lake’s five championship courses. You know that a day on the lake is whatever you make of it!

You eat your fill of America’s best ice cream.

Who would’ve thought that the best ice cream in America is located in the Roanoke Valley of Virginia? Well, while this is not a verified fact, you know that locals rave about Homestead Creamery’s ice cream.

The specialty frozen treat, as well as local dairy and meat products, are sold in a stand-alone store, a food truck, and also by the carton in local general stores and supermarkets.

As an SML resident, you love taking visiting friends and family to Homestead to give them a taste of what living in Roanoke is really like!

Boats are used more often than cars.

One of your favorite parts about living on the lake is that most restaurants can be accessed by boat.

What better way to cap off a day at the lake than piling into the boat and docking at Bay Roc Marina Cafe, Blackwater, Heath’s, or King’s Point?

Live music, lakefront view, and amazing food – where you live has it all!

Tours on tours on tours.

You’ll be the first to admit there are a great many touristy attractions around the lake…but you secretly love them. You even consider them to be a rite of passage to getting to know the area!

Aside from traditional lake activities, including great dinner cruises and fishing expeditions, popular off-water options include winery tours, visiting the local alpaca farm, and touring the birthplace of Booker T. Washington.

Catching a movie, playing miniature golf, and spending an evening at Hot Shots or Bridgewater Plaza are also some options you’ll want to consider when making your plans.

Interested in living on the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains?” With 1,295 current listings on Smith Mountain Lake, there is sure to be a home that fits everyone’s needs.

Homes on the lake range anywhere from $60,000 to $25 million, so why not find your dream home on one of the most coveted lakes in the region?

To talk to one of our many lake experts about living your lake dream, visit the Smith Mountain Lake page on lakehomes.com.