Lake Travis Archives

Best Lake Vacation Destinations for Partygoers

Posted on July 28, 2023July 26, 2023 Noah Ryan

people in floats on the water — Courtesy of Eagle Mountain Lake

These four lakes in the United States are America’s favorite party places:

Lakes are enjoyed for their natural beauty and recreational opportunities, but lakes can also be a hotbed for festivity and revelry. From California to Alabama, every state has its own party lake with unique events, cultures, and atmospheres. Prepare to embark on a journey filled with music, dancing, laughter, and the exhilarating spirit of celebration that can only be found at the shores of these remarkable party lakes.

Lake of the Ozarks

people, boats, water, and floats — Courtesy of Boat Planet

Nestled in the corner of the Gravois Arm of the lake, Party Cove, officially named Anderson Hollow, is known for its wild boat parties and festive atmosphere — what the New York Times called a “permanent floating bacchanal.” People anchor their boats together, creating a floating party with music and dancing, and the area can see thousands of vessels on weekends in the summer. It’s a unique experience that has become an iconic part of the Lake of the Ozarks party scene.

The main party area off the water is at the Bagnell Dam Strip, a lively neighborhood packed with bars, restaurants, and clubs. This strip offers a variety of entertainment options, from live music and DJs to karaoke and dancing. It’s a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

Lake Travis

two tiered boat with slide — Courtesy of Lake Travis

With several coves and islands, Lake Travis, outside Austin, Texas, is considered the original party lake by many Americans. To get to Devil’s Cove, visitors will have to pass through Marshall’s Point, but the echoes of a musical flotilla welcome partygoers deeper down the inlet. Here you’ll find a large tie-up with pontoon boats, slides, floats, and booming speakers. Starnes Island, also known as Monkey Island or Snake Island, is another popular spot on the lake where boaters drop anchor on the shore to enjoy activities in the water, on the boat, and the island.

Like a mirage, Sometimes Island is an islet that comes and goes. The Colorado River ran through a flood-prone basin that threatened the local population, so the Lower Colorado River Authority constructed Mansfield Dam to prevent flash floods and provide drinking water. When water levels are low enough, you can still spy the peak of this hill lost to time.

Contributing to its partying history, Aquapalooza was first hosted on Lake Travis in 2006. The inaugural Aquapalooza event at Lake Travis was a success, attracting a crowd of boaters and music lovers. Over the years, Aquapalooza has grown in scale, featuring larger stages, renowned musical acts, and a broad range of activities. It has become one of the premier on-water concert events in the United States, drawing thousands of attendees.

Lake Tahoe

Split between coastal California and the deserts of Nevada, Lake Tahoe is an oasis for locals and visitors. The foremost party lake of America’s West boasts endless opportunities and is only a short drive from Carson City, Reno, and Sacramento. While the mountains have breathtaking daytime hiking trails, the casinos and clubs at their base invite midnight escapades.

Casinos in Crystal Bay, like the Tahoe Biltmore, are a community staple. Visitors can try their luck at slot machines, video poker, and table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps. Tahoe Biltmore hosts a range of entertainment and events throughout the year. From live music performances and comedy shows to themed parties and special events, something is always happening to keep guests entertained.

Tahoe City, on the northwest side of the lake, has several venues that provide live music and a lively atmosphere, while breweries such as Tahoe Mountain Brewing Company and Alibi Ale Works serve up delicious craft beers. Nightclubs and late-night venues may be less prominent in Tahoe City, but occasional DJ nights or live music events at places like Lakeside Pizza & Sports Bar or Hacienda Del Lago offer opportunities to dance and party.

Lake Martin

people and boats in front of a cliff — Courtesy of Opelika Auburn News

As Alabama’s third-largest lake, Lake Martin is the state’s premier party lake. Chimney Rock is a popular diving and party destination, often confused for Acapulco Rock and vice versa. During summer, boaters tie up and form a platform around “The Rock” to play music, dance, and watch divers. Sail around Lake Martin to see its storied islands for a reprieve from the party scene.

From concerts to casinos and clubs, America’s lakes provide a perfect place for your party escapes. But if your ideal afterparty is somewhere to relax, check out these seven peaceful lake locales.

Fresh Water, Sandy Shores: The Best Beach Lakes in the U.S.

Posted on August 30, 2020March 15, 2022 Camille Smith

Lake Michigan – Photo courtesy of Kelsey Young.

Who said sandcastles are reserved for ocean coasts? It turns out, you can find that sandy shoreline you’ve dreamed of on a landlocked lake. Further, many of these lakes with beaches are comparable to coastal settings. The difference is how they’re formed. Most saltwater lakes develop from tidal action eroding sediment while freshwater beaches arise from materials along the shoreline. Across the U.S., thousands flock to beach lakes every year. If you’re looking to purchase a lake home — but you’ve considered a beach house as well — you can have the best of both worlds.

Lake Michigan, MI

Of all the beach lakes in the U.S., Lake Michigan is perhaps the most famous. Given its prominent reputation and expansive coastline, it’s no surprise why. Some refer to it as the country’s “third coast” following the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. However, Lake Michigan’s 3,200 miles of shoreline surpasses the Atlantic Ocean’s 2,069 miles of general coastline along the east coast. Besides its size, Lake Michigan is known for its sand dunes, which make up the most extensive freshwater dune system in the world. While strolling along these dunes, you’ll hear a distinctive squeaking noise beneath your feet. This endearing quality is due to the high quartz levels in Lake Michigan’s sand. From over 2,000 listings on our website, you’re sure to find a dream home here.

Lake George, NY

Lake George is fondly called the “Queen of American Lakes” for a reason. Four hours north of New York City, this clean, natural lake is surrounded by the stunning Adirondack Mountains. The Adirondack waters are some of the country’s most pristine, and the water’s clarity makes it a popular scuba diving destination. Along Lake George’s shores, popular public beaches include the Million Dollar State Beach, Shepard Park Beach, and the Lake George Dog Beach. Most of these beaches are close to Main Street for convenience. After a day at the beach, head to the bustling town and grab a burger at Heroes at the Lake before catching a concert in the tree-lined park behind Shepard Park Beach.

Lake Willoughby, VT

The unassuming town of Westmore, Vermont’s population, rarely exceeds 300 people. However, it would be best if you didn’t underestimate it. This tiny town is home to one of America’s stunning beach lakes. Nestled between Mount Pigsca and Mount Hor, Lake Willoughby is known as “America’s Lucerne,” after Lake Lucerne in the Swiss mountains, due to its fjord-like features. Fed by underground springs, it remains crystal clear and cold throughout the year. Poet Robert Frost referred to it as a “fair, pretty sheet of water.” For beach access, the North Beach is particularly stunning, but you can find sandy shorelines in multiple spots.

To check out the area before buying a home, book a spot at the WillowVale Inn. Westmore’s only year-round lodging center offers cozy cabins and cottages to enjoy the crisp New England weather.

Geneva Lake, WI

Are you dreaming of a luxurious life on the lake? Look no further than Geneva Lake, Wisconsin, located in the resort city of Lake Geneva. This destination is a popular retreat for midwesterners, just two hours outside Chicago. The surrounding town is steeped in history from the late 19th century’s Gilded Age. During this short period of rapid economic growth, wealthy Chicagoans developed homes along the Shore Path still standing today. After a full day at one of the public beaches (Riviera Beach, Williams Bay Beach, Fontana Beach, or Big Foot State Park), you can enjoy antique shopping in the historic downtown area.

Lake Travis, TX

Part of the Highland Lakes Chain in Texas, Lake Travis is a beloved spot for Austinites and visitors. Spanning 63.75 miles, this massive lake is famous for fishing, boating, and Devil’s Cove (also known as the “party cove”). From film festivals to breweries, there’s always something to do in the Lake Travis area. Today, we’re highlighting its status as one of the best beach lakes in the U.S. specifically. Tourists flock to Volente Beach for its resort and water park. For a more secluded vibe, hop over to Mudd Cove Beach or Bob Wentz Park. In short, if you’re seeking a relaxing beach lake with proximity to a thriving city, Lake Travis is an excellent pick.

For more information on these beach lakes and other lake markets nationwide, check out our listings at Lakehomes.com!

6 Things You May Not Know About The Highland Lakes’ History

Posted on July 9, 2020March 15, 2022 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of *Encyclopaedia Britannica*.

What do Buchanan, LBJ, and Lady Bird all have in common? Besides being presidential figures, they’re also all names of beloved lakes on Texas’s Colorado River. Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, Lake LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Travis, and Lake Austin make up the Highland Lakes, the largest chain of lakes in all of Texas. (Lady Bird Lake is technically not a Highland Lake since it’s controlled by the City of Austin rather than the Lower Colorado River Authority, but it’s still an honorary member). These human-made lakes are about more than recreation. Over 1 million Texans in the surrounding communities rely on the Highland Lakes for their farming and businesses. Although these lakes are essential and cherished among Austin residents, do you know about the history of the Highland Lakes?

Austin’s First Dam Was a Big Failure

Austin Dam Memorial Park
Photo courtesy of *Tripadvisor.com*.

In Texas, only one natural lake exists — Lake Caddo. As such, all the Highland Lakes are human-made, designed to provide hydroelectricity and prevent flooding. However, the state’s first attempt to create a dam didn’t work out. In the 1890s, mayor John McDonald built a dam on Lake Austin (then named it Lake McDonald, after himself) to promote Austin as an industrial city. However, in 1900, the dam collapsed in massive storms, and Lake McDonald evaporated. This event is known as the Great Granite Dam Failure. It wasn’t until Roosevelt’s New Deal in 1940 that things got better. In 1942, the Mansfield Dam was constructed, giving rise to Lake Travis. In 1960, the Longhorn Dam was built, and Lady Bird Lake came into existence. But you can still visit the Austin Dam Memorial today.

Marble Falls’ Waterfalls Are Submerged

Photo courtesy of *101HighlandLakes.com*.

Visitors to this region may wonder — why is it called Marble Falls if there are no falls? There are! They’re just hidden beneath the water’s surface. However, in the 1800s, water levels were lower, and the falls were visible. Settlers fell in love with them, referring to them as “marble falls,” mistaking the limestone construction for marble. In 1854, Adam “Stovepipe” Johnson was so mesmerized by the falls that he launched a town around them. But in the 1950s when the Colorado River Authority dams were built, the falls became submerged. Although you can’t see the falls today (unless the lake’s depth is lowered by 7 feet), there’s plenty to do in town. For instance, Marble Lake is known for its nearby vineyard where you can book wine tours.

There are Islands on Lake Travis… Sometimes

Depending on the rainfall, you could visit several small islands on Highland Lakes. These landmasses appear on Lake Travis— well, sometimes. Aptly called the Sometimes Islands, this irregular topography beneath the lake’s surface becomes elevated when water levels are low. During a 2011 drought, so much of the Sometimes Islands were exposed that it created a peninsula. In 2014, an entire field of bluebonnets grew on a nearby piece of exposed land. Although these islands may not be the most idyllic beaches, they’re certainly an intriguing feature of this particular Highland Lake.

A Woman Became Mayor Before Women Could Vote

Ophelia “Birdie” Harwood
Photo courtesy of *kut.org*.

In Marble Falls, Ophelia “Birdie” Harwood became mayor in 1917, just three years before the 19th amendment granted women the right to vote. During her short two year term, she made an impact on the town. One of her achievements was creating comprehensive traffic laws in an area without stop signs and traffic signals. She was also known for her belief in a transparent government. By publishing the city’s budget twice a year, she practiced what she preached. As an equestrian, the townspeople could see Mayor Harwood often riding her horse through town. But her career didn’t end at Marble Falls. In 1936, she became the first female municipal court judge.

Old Rules Still Apply at Lady Bird Lake

When you think of lake activities, swimming likely comes to mind. However, this isn’t true for Lady Bird Lake (also known as Town Lake, if you’re a local). Since four years after its creation in 1960, swimming in Lady Bird Lake has been illegal. Unfortunately, there are tragic beginnings of this law when Inez and Cynthia Rendon were swept away by the water’s currents. In addition to this heavily enforced law, it’s illegal to have motor vessels on Lady Bird Lake. Despite the downsides of these restrictions, these laws make the lake excellent for paddle boating, kayaking, and canoeing.

A Lost Civilization is Buried Under Lake Buchanan

Before the Buchanan Dam was built in 1939, a small town of Bluffton thrived. Corn farming, pecan trees, a school, a cotton gin, and a community center served the town’s 50 families. But when dam construction began, residents of Bluffton had to sell their land to the Colorado River Authority and move to higher ground. While residents built New Bluffton 7 miles away, remnants of Old Bluffton sank beneath Lake Buchanan. However, when Texas droughts hit in the late 2000s, the town’s remains resurfaced. The Texas Historical Commission excavated the land and found tombstones, homes, and remains of a hotel. Today, you can discover these findings on a history cruise.

Click here to learn more about the Highland Lakes region: Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, Lake LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Travis, and Lake Austin.

Always Something To Do: A Look at Lake Travis, TX

Posted on February 19, 2020February 19, 2020 Camille Smith

You may have heard the phrase “Keep Austin Weird.” Originally a slogan used to promote local businesses in the city, it now serves as a mantra proclaiming Austin’s eclectic, artsy feel. If you’re looking for this same lively vibe that’s unique to Austin but you’re also searching for a little more nature and open space than a city offers, look no further than Lake Travis.

Just 30 minutes outside the city of Austin, you’ll find a large lake with plenty of activities, restaurants, breweries, and fun events. With an abundance of things to do, Lake Travis is Texas’s most visited freshwater lake for a reason. Check out the highlights of this remarkable southern lake — and maybe find your dream lake house along the way.

The History

Mansfield Damn 1958 — Photo courtesy of Texas Water Development Board.

Lake Travis is part of a series of Highland Lakes that extend from Colorado to Central Texas. These man-made lakes, along with the Mansfield Dam, were created by the Lower Colorado River Authority to control flooding. In 1958, President Lyndon Johnson called the Colorado River his “proudest accomplishment,” viewing this series of lakes as an integral part of the national economy and an ideal way to eliminate waste. Though Lake Travis is one of many lakes on the massive Colorado River, it’s certainly not an insignificant one. Stretching 63.75 miles, Lake Travis is enormous. Surrounding the lake, there’s plenty of open space with several communities and villages. Today, the area continues to thrive as a vacation destination and a growing community of residents.

Lakeside Attractions

Ranging from classic lake excursions such as fishing and boating to more unique pursuits like ziplining and scuba diving, there’s truly no shortage of exciting outdoor activities on Lake Travis. As the largest body of water in the area, Lake Travis is a perfect location for boating or relaxing on a yacht. You may even choose to anchor down at Devil’s Cove, famously known across both the state and the country as the “party cove.” While you’re out on the water, take advantage of the abundance of fishing opportunities in Lake Travis. You’re likely to have the most luck reeling in a sunfish, bass, or catfish.

If you’re looking for a place to take your dog, have a picnic, or toss the frisbee, check out one of Lake Travis’s many parks. In particular, Windy Point Park is known for its diving opportunities where you can find underwater canyons and discover interesting remains from shipwrecks. If you’re looking for remnants of Austin’s edgy flare, there’s also Hippie Hollow Park, the only clothing-optional public park in Texas. Regardless of how you spend your time outdoors, there’s always something to do on Lake Travis.

What to Do

After a long day of boating, fishing, and exploring, you’ll likely be on the lookout for a cold beer and a steak right off the grill. Luckily, Lake Travis is known for its craft breweries such as Hops & Thyme and Iron Wolf Ranch and Distillery. Oasis Texas Brewing Company is one of the most popular, offering live music, a dog-friendly patio, and scenic views of the water. Of course, Lake Travis is also known for its restaurants. Check out Beachside Billy’s, an upscale steak restaurant complete with a pool for kids and an adult pool with a tiki bar. For a more chill, lakeside feel, there’s Emerald Point Bar and Grill where local musicians frequently play on their outdoor stage. After dinner and drinks, there’s plenty of fun, often artsy, events that are worth seeing around Lake Travis. From February 27th to March 1st, the Lake Travis Film Festival will attract filmmakers from around the world to show their latest projects. If you won’t be in town during those dates, there’s always other performances going on, such as this Comedy Showcase on February 1st.

Like the neighboring town of Austin, Lake Travis boasts an eclectic range of activities, delicious restaurants, and people who choose to make this special lake their home. There’s something for everyone here!

To learn more about Lake Travis, click HERE.

Top 5 Biggest Markets of 2018

Posted on January 19, 2019May 31, 2019 Staff

2018 was quite a year for Lake Homes Realty! In the last 12 months, our corporate headquarters relocated to a larger, multi-tenant business complex; ranked on the Inc.5000 list of fastest growing, privately owned companies in America for a second consecutive year; and opened operations in six more states.

Across the nation, the year has been good to many lake real estate markets as well, including these five markets, which ranked among the largest lake real estate markets in the country in 2018.

Lake Michigan, Michigan

From the beginning of 2018, No. 1 Lake Michigan’s overall market value (or the combined listing value of all the lake’s properties for sale) increased by nearly 35 percent, according to LakeHomes.com’s Fall Lake Market Report.

Individually, the lake’s home and land markets saw overall value increases of 45 percent and 9 percent, respectively. This rather wide margin between the two markets can be attributed to uneven increases in listings and average home price.

While land listings on Lake Michigan increased from 822 in January to 900 this fall, residential listings more than doubled, up from 673 to 1021.

This spike in homes for sale increased Lake Michigan’s total market by approximately $293 million over the year. This market also saw its average home price increase by about 10 percent to roughly $1 million.

As of fall 2018, the Lake Michigan real estate market is valued at more than $1.2 billion. Its home market currently boasts listings totaling nearly $957 million, while Lake Michigan land listings total about $267 million.

Lake Norman, North Carolina

The second-largest lake real estate market featured in the Fall Report, Lake Norman has an overall market of roughly $795 million, up 24 percent since January 2018.

Lake Norman’s home market increased by more than 28 percent this year to $654 million.

This is likely due to an increase of 181 residential net listings since January; however this increase also resulted in a drop in average home price, which is down from $876,000 to $849,000.

The lake’s land market also grew by about 9 percent to $141 million, despite a slight drop (4 percent) in listings.

In total, Lake Norman currently has 1,225 listings along its 520 miles of shoreline.

Lake Lanier, Georgia

Lake Lanier, ranked No. 3 among LakeHomes.com’s largest lake markets, reports a total inventory of 1,397 listings valued at roughly $650 million.

This market saw increases across the board in both number of listings and market value. Its average home price, however, remained virtually unchanged compared to winter 2018 data.

Most significantly, Lake Lanier’s home market rose more than 46 percent in listing value, up from $329 million in January to $482 million in the fall. Homes for sale increased as well, by nearly the same amount, 48 percent, from 591 to 872 listings.

Land listings increased from 459 to 498 this year, driving the market’s value up almost 10 percent to $139 million.

The Fall Market Report puts Lake Lanier’s average home price at $553,000.

Lake Travis, Texas

At $616 million in lake real estate, Lake Travis is the No. 1 largest lake in the Lone Star State, and the fourth-largest featured in the Lake Market Report.

Since the beginning of 2018, this market has increased by more than 22 percent in overall market value and almost 30 percent in total inventory.

Much of this influx of net inventory is homes for sale, which almost doubled this year from 242 listings to 354. Because the home market increased by only about 23 percent, Report data indicates the average home price on Lake Travis dropped 12 percent.

Currently, this average home price is $1.4 million, the third-highest in the state.

The Lake Travis land market value increased by 18 percent over the same period, with listings increasing by about 14 percent.

Land listings now total $120 million.

Lake Oconee, Georgia

Rounding out our list of the Top 5 biggest lake real estate markets of 2018 is Georgia’s Lake Oconee.

Its 1,207 total listings combine for a total market of $496 million, up 14 percent from $434 million at the beginning of the year.

The lake’s land market increased slightly to $147 million from $141 million in January. Land listings decreased by only one property compared to winter data.

Approximately 18 percent more residential properties are on the market at the end of 2018 than were for sale at the beginning of the year.

Currently these residential listings combine for a total lake home market value of $328 million.

Lake Lanier’s average home price only increased by about 2 percent.

About the Lake Market Report

Each quarter, LakeHomes.com publishes an in-depth Lake Market Report, that analyzes real estate data pulled from the approximately 100 MLSs of which they are members, to feature the Top 10 lake real estate markets across 16 states in the Central and Eastern U.S.

The 2018 Fall Lake Market Report reflects values of current listings across each lake’s home, land and commercial markets as of Sept. 1, 2018, at which time Report data was pulled.

These figures – market value, average home price, etc. – represent only those properties currently on the market.

According to Lake Market Report Methodology, lake property is defined as “any home or land/lot listing adjacent to a recognized inland body of water, has a view of any of these lakes, has designated access to a lake, or is within a community that considers itself a lake-focused community or development.”

For more information about your local market please download your free copy of the Lake Market Report here!