Wake up to the serene beauty of Central Texas lakes, where luxury and nature blend seamlessly. These five stunning waterfront properties set a new standard for upscale living with breathtaking lake views, private water access, and custom design. Whether it’s a Mediterranean-inspired villa or a unique hillside retreat, each home features spacious layouts, premium amenities, and peaceful surroundings. Located in exclusive communities or on expansive estates, they offer both privacy and tranquility—ideal for a lakeside getaway or a forever home.
From luxurious mansions close to Houston to peaceful lakefront getaways in Livingston, these five Texas residences set new standards for high-end living. With spacious floor plans, top-of-the-line furnishings, and luxurious amenities reminiscent of a resort, each home presents a distinct combination of opulence and coziness perfect for entertaining or unwinding in elegance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Lake Michigan – Photo courtesy of Kelsey Young.
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
Million Dollar Beach Lake George, NY Photo courtesy of LakeGeorge.com.
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.
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.
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
Volente Beach, Lake Travis, TX – photo courtesy of AustinTexas.org.
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!
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During the pandemic, demand for lake houses has increased as more people want their own socially distant slice of paradise. On Lake Whitney, White Bluff Resort embodies this peaceful atmosphere that people are seeking. This spacious gated community with 3,500 acres and 62 miles of road is outside the Dallas/Fort-Worth area. To learn more about White Bluff, we talked with Lake Homes Realty real estate agent Emily Morris and her marketing manager Tish Robinson. They shared with us what makes this lake and community special.
Setting on Lake Whitney
Though few homes on the market are located directly on Lake Whitney, White Bluff Resort has unique access to this impressive lake. Spanning 223 miles of shoreline, Lake Whitney was built on the Brazos River in the 1940s in response to floods in the early 1900s. Emily Morris adds that a major distinction of Lake Whitney is its beauty. She comments, “Lake Whitney has huge limestone bluffs that keep the waters crystal clear.” Many visitors frequently cliff dive from these bluffs. Other popular activities include boating, scuba diving, and water skiing. Fishing is major activity, as Lake Whitney is known as the “striper capital of Texas.” Another benefit of this lake is that it’s not overpopulated. Tish Robinson explains, “Compared to all the other lakes in North Texas, Lake Whitney is uncrowded. It’s a secret, in a way.” Because it’s relatively unknown, visitors and residents can avoid boat traffic and competition for the best fishing spots. She adds, “There are great nooks and crannies for getting off your boat to swim.” Given all these plusses, it’s unsurprising that Lake Whitney is a top 20 real estate market for Lake Homes.
Amazing Amenities
Located right on the shores of Lake Whitney, White Bluff Resort has only gotten better since its opening 26 years ago. In recent years, it has undergone several changes that benefit its residents. One of the Property Owners Association’s most exciting additions is the complete renovation of White Bluff’s two 18-hole, professionally maintained, championship golf courses. Rated four stars by Golf Digest, the courses were designed by PGA tour winner Bruce Leitzke. If you aren’t a golfer, you can try your hand at tennis or pickleball.
Besides sports, White Bluff Resort residents appreciate a host of other amenities like a club and restaurant, Mulligan’s Grill. Although the property is adjacent to Lake Whitney, there’s no shortage of water activities within the community. White Bluff has four pools, two catch-and release-interior lakes, and streams that run through the property at different locations. Other attractions include two RV parks, a playground, several picnic pavilions, and a chapel. White Bluff’s non-denominational chapel is well-attended by residents and is a hub for both social and charitable organizations. Soon, residents can look forward to the marina’s refurbishment and bigger tournaments on the golf course.
Affordable Properties
Individuals own most of the 6,000 lots available at White Bluff Resort. Many homeowners also own two or three additional lots. Emily adds, “We have many vacant lots available, and some buyers never intend to build, but they want to use the amenities.” If you’re interested in buying a home on White Bluff, there’s a wide range of home prices (between $200,000 and $1 million). The minimum size home is 1,700 square feet. Even at this home size, you have access to all amenities. If you’re a horse lover, you can look for a home in the equestrian area. “It’s a very affordable lake to live on compared to most North Texas places,” Tish comments, “You don’t have to be wealthy to live here.” If you’re not ready to buy, you can still check out the property by renting a log cabin or condo.
A Peaceful Community
Although buyers enjoy the guarded entrance and the countless activities, Emily says that they appreciate the people most of all. White Bluff’s initial residents were mostly retirees, but over the last five years, an intergenerational community has developed as young families moved in. This mixed-age group participates in a myriad of organized activities. From motorcycle groups to quilting clubs, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved. Although the community is tight-knit, it isn’t a noisy environment.
On the contrary, White Bluff is also known for its tranquility. Many community members enjoy watching the abundance of wildlife, and residents are often posting pictures of various birds. Lively, yet peaceful, White Bluff is truly the best of both worlds.
Emily Morris recognizes the property’s special qualities on a personal level, as she is a resident in the equestrian area. “I feel that real estate is my calling,” she says, “I am personally in my 4th home in White Bluff in 21 years.”
If you’re looking for both a lake home and a vibrant community, White Bluff Resort on Lake Whitney might be a perfect fit. Learn more about Lake Whitney HERE.
For anyone who enjoys both the fast-paced city life as well as a peaceful lake environment, choosing to buy a house in an urban lake area may provide the perfect balance you’re seeking.
According to the Encyclopedia of Lakes and Reservoirs, an urban lake is defined as an inland body of water, which is larger than a pond surrounded by an urban environment. An urbanized area encompasses both the region’s city and surrounding areas, such as towns and suburbs.
To qualify as anurban area, a city and its neighboring parts should have a high population density (at least 50,000 people). In addition to providing an aesthetically pleasing balance of cityscapes and landscapes, urban lakes have several practical functions. They encourage biodiversity, assist in flood control, and provide a recreational spot for the city’s many residents.
Further, there are several personal advantages to living on an urban lake. There’s the apparent advantages — the opportunity to have that high-powered city job while also going boating, swimming, and fishing on the weekends.
But there’s also the lesser-known benefits of living by a “blue space.” For example, research suggests that living by water has a positive impact on physical and mental health. While scientists have yet to determine the reason behind this correlation, it certainly has implications for the benefits of urban lakes.
If you’re already sold on the possibility of living adjacent to both natural beauty and a concrete jungle, check out these five thriving urban lake areas in the U.S.
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.
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!
The Dallas-Fort Worth region often seems like an endless sea of asphalt, concrete, and steel. Buildings and boulevards dominate the landscape, and it can feel as though lake life is hundreds of miles away.
Actually, it takes less than a 30-minute drive from the DFW metroplex to reach many of the lakes surrounding the city. This is where hustle and bustle are replaced by peace and quiet.
“It’s amazing that you can be so close to the metro area, but it feels like you’re out in the middle of the wilderness,” says William Ford, Parks and Recreation Director for the city of Cedar Hill, which is located approximately 15 miles from downtown Dallas and is home to 7,500-acre Joe Pool Lake. “It’s one of the reasons this area is so appealing to people.”
There are approximately 50 major lakes and reservoirs within 100 miles of Dallas-Fort Worth. Here is a quick look at five of the closer ones:
Eagle Mountain Lake
Located 15 miles outside Fort Worth, Eagle Mountain Lake has something for nearly all tastes. Nature lovers can enjoy the hiking trails that lead to numerous hills and bluffs, offering picturesque views of the lake. All manner of watersports are available, and the 8,700-acre lake is regularly stocked with bass and catfish for anglers. There is even a designated party cove for boaters who prefer their fun a little more on the boisterous side.
In addition to such regular water activities as boating and fishing, Lake Grapevine is home to the largest floating aqua park in Texas. Spread out over 25,000 square feet, Altitude H2O offers floating trampolines, slides, and an obstacle course. There are also 40 miles of paved and natural trails around the 7,200-acre lake, for those seeking a relaxed lake experience.
Joe Pool Lake borders four parks, including the popular Cedar Hill State Park. As a result, there are numerous boat ramps, beaches, fishing areas, campsites, and picnic shelters surrounding the lake. Joe Pool is also near Dogwood Canyon, a 250-acre forested ravine that is a favorite for birdwatchers. Dogwood’s two miles of hiking trails lead to some of the highest elevations in Dallas County, providing beautiful views of the lake.
With 121 miles of shoreline along its 21,400 acres, Lake Lavon lives up to the reputation of everything being bigger in Texas. Because of its size, there are amenities galore around the lake. These include 16 parks, 244 picnic sites, 19 boat ramps, five beaches, and six group shelters for large picnics. There are also hiking and biking trails in the area, as well as a 9-mile equestrian trail. The lake is a prolific fishing hole for sunfish, crappie, and catfish.
It doesn’t get much closer to the metroplex than this, as White Rock Lake is located just 5 miles from downtown Dallas. Originally used as a water source for the city, this 1,015-acre lake has nearly 10 miles of shoreline trails as well as an official Audubon Society bird-watching area. There are fishing opportunities for bass, catfish, and sunfish, and boating activities are available through both the White Rock Boat Club and the 80-year-old Corinthian Sailing Club.
So despite initial appearances, there is much more to the Dallas-Fort Worth area than the glass and steel that originally meets the eye.
“There are plenty of natural resources in this area,” Ford says. “With all the natural beauty that we have around here, you can get out and enjoy it whether you’re a walker, biker, jogger, boater, whatever.”
Click here to learn more about lake life in Texas.
The only thing more fun than playing at the lake is eating at the lake! We’ve done the hard work of choosing the best of the best lakeside restaurants. Hey, somebody’s got to do it! Savor local lakeside flavors at these must-try boat-up restaurants.
The BoatYard Grill
On the sparkling shores of Cayuga
Lake in Ithica, New York, The BoatYard Grill
specializes in ” serving up a warm welcome and unforgettable
experience” for all lake-loving guests.
Featuring American favorites like
burgers, sweet potato fries and juicy, wood fire-grilled steaks alongside
creative dishes like lobster lollipops and eggplant arrabiata, this restaurant
has plenty of mouthwatering options for hungry boaters to choose from.
Patrons are invited to relax on the
waterfront in the Grill’s Adirondack chairs, sip on Frozen Boatyard Thrill
cocktails and enjoy live music every Friday night during the summer.
And better still, The BoatYard Grill
offers watercraft docking at its on-site marina for convenient fishing to
feasting.
The restaurant is also part of the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, a 5.5 mile paved route connecting the lake’s most iconic lakeside attractions.
One of five Tim’s Rivershore restaurants and venues, Tim’s at Lake Anna has been an Old Dominion favorite since first opening its doors (and shores) in 2012.
Located in Mineral, Virginia, on the lake’s northwestern region, the restaurant offers fresh seafood year-round, its menu featuring scallops, oysters, crab and cod prepared in every way imaginable.
Renowned for its home-cooked cuisine, Tim’s at Lake Anna is also known for its idyllic lake views and family-friendly, community atmosphere.
Each year, in addition live entertainment, Tim’s at Lake Anna hosts a variety of lake-wide events, including a Memorial Day Pig Roast, Halloween Bash, Crawdad Festival and poker runs for charity.
The Gnarly Gar
Never leave the water for lunch or dinner again at Lake Travis’ famous floating eatery The Gnarly Gar.
An all-in-one restaurant, bar, filling station and entertainment venue, The Gnarly Gar provides a one-of-a-kind experience for lake lubbers of all ages.
With plenty of boat parking, lake lovers flock to this Texas novelty’s decks and docks to enjoy watching sports on the restaurant’s big screens, listen to live music, feed the area’s giant catfish, and indulge in the tastes of Lake Travis.
Menu items range from classic fish and chips to burgers to shrimp stuffed with Serrano peppers, wrapped in bacon and deep fried, paired with a kickin’ strawberry lime habanero sauce.
The Gnarly Gar also proudly serves Maine Root handcrafted, organic fountain drinks.
Fish Tales Lakeside Grill
Dubbed the “Best Dining Experience on Lake Lanier” Fish Tales Lakeside Grill has been serving up good times and fish tales (fried grouper fingers) since 2010.
Located within Hideaway Bay Marina in Flowery Branch, Georgia, this Lake Lanier landmark welcomes lakers by boat, car and even the occasional aircraft, year-round.
The restaurant caters to their loyal lake guests at every turn, offering a courtesy dock for those traveling by water, allergy-friendly menus at every table and unwavering service with a smile.
Fish Tales Lakeside Grill also features a giant kids’ sandbox and live music.
Mouthwatering menu favorites beyond the restaurant’s famous Fish Tales include the fish tacos, grouper sandwiches and signature items like the Aloha Chicken and Gulf Mix Platter.
And did we mention Fish Tales’ bar menu features NINE taste bud-tickling, shareable cocktails?
Enjoying the lake goes beyond boating and swimming. Take our advice and enjoy these great restaurants, remember lakes across the U. S. have great local restaurants with lots of local color. Be on the lookout and let us know what you find!
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