Top Five Things to Do on Lake Lanier

January 26, 2021

Living near Lake Lanier means having access to countless activities and attractions. At Harcrest Homes, our team of experienced, dedicated and knowledgeable home builders understand that a spectacular custom-built home requires a just as incredible location. That is why we specialize in building luxury custom homes on the shores of Lake Lanier where every day can be a lake day. Take a look at some of the things to do on Lake Lanier that residents can look forward to with their new lakeside lifestyle:

Things to do on Lake Lanier

Relax the Day Away 

Relaxing days at the lake are unmatched. Shoreline beaches provide sandy relaxation spots while quiet campsites offer a nice close-to-home outdoor escape for camping, picnicking and fishing excursions. Of course, our favorite way to enjoy the lakeside lifestyle is by lounging on the lake itself in a boat. Many Harcrest Homes are built on the lake allowing easy access to a private dock and cranking up the boat for leisurely lakeside enjoyment.  For homes near the lake, but not on it, marinas such as Holiday Marina, Bald Ridge Marina and Port Royale Marina allow residents to rent a boat slip and keep their boat nearby. If you don’t yet own a boat, no worries. Many marinas will also rent a variety of boats ranging from simple pontoons to luxurious houseboats. Whatever your speed is, a fun day with the family out on the water is sure to make many memories that last a lifetime.

Make a Splash with Watersports

No lake experience is complete without a bit of action-packed waterside excitement. Luckily for Harcrest homeowners, Lake Lanier is packed with opportunities for all kinds of watersports fun. A variety of clubs such as the Lake Lanier Canoe Club and the Lake Lanier Rowing Club provide a wonderful community for water sport enthusiasts. Home of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games, Lake Lanier Olympic Park serves as a popular spot for rowing, kayaking and canoeing due to its incredible history of watersports champions. Don’t have watersports equipment? No problem! Several of the marinas around the lake offer rentals for anything from stand-up paddleboards and kayaks to wave-runners and waterside toys. Whether you are an experienced wakeboarder or a paddleboarding novice, get ready to go out on the waters of Lake Lanier for some good old-fashioned family fun!

Discover the Lake by Foot

Nothing starts off the morning right like exploring Lake Lanier by foot with an invigorating nature hike. Lake Lanier’s scenic hiking trails provide a beautiful backdrop for your morning run, walk or stroll. Buford Dam on the south end of the lake offers two refreshing hiking trails with views of the dam, while Don Carter State Park on the northern end offers four miles of paved and natural trails. Other popular walking trails include those at Little Ridge Park and Laurel Park. Lanier Islands is also home to multiple trails ideal for enjoying the scenic wildlife and calming lake breezes. In 2021, make a New Year’s Resolution to spend more time outside!

Go Horseback Riding

Take a break from the lake life and head to the stables instead. The Stables at Margaritaville at Lake Lanier Islands allows residents to explore the beauty of Lake Lanier by horseback. Saddle up and ride a gentle horse on scenic trails along the shores of Lake Lanier. In addition to horseback riding, The Stables also offer private, semi-private and group lessons along with summer camps, pony rides and a petting zoo!

Grab a Bite to Eat

After a long day exploring Lake Lanier, there is a good chance your stomach is grumbling! Luckily, there are a host of delicious restaurants right on Lake Lanier to try. Whether it’s a fun cocktail, a waterside-themed menu or something for the kids to enjoy, there is something for everyone! Drive or boat up to Big Creek Tavern on Big Creek Road in Buford. Specializing in Prime Angus Beef and fresh seafood, this Lake Lanier favorite also offers an extensive wine and beer menu that is perfectly refreshing on any summer lake day! Fish Tales Lakeside Grill at Hideaway Marina in Flowery Branch also offers unique lakeside dining. Only open from March through October, this seasonal restaurant has a menu full of classic seafood options, steaks, salads, sandwiches and other summer favorites. To top off the fun-filled experience, enjoy a sandbox and play area for the kids, as well as a full bar and live music for the parents!

Lake Lanier Islands also offers several themed restaurants the whole family can enjoy. For a delicious breakfast that incorporates fresh ingredients and Southern cooking, head to family-owned Sidney’s. For a Lake Lanier staple, Bullfrog’s Bar & Grille might be a better option! Enjoy casual American dishes at this poolside bar and grill. Get the full lakeside experience with fresh seafood options at LandShark Bar & Grill. Located right on the water, this Lake Lanier hotspot is a great place to relax, have fun and eat some great food.

Have you decided that living the lake life at Lake Lanier is for you? Let our team of professional builders at Harcrest Homes help you to create a custom home that captures the Lake Lanier lifestyle of your dreams. Choose from one of our expertly designed floorplans or let our team design something brand-new. Consider your lakeside living essentials and contact us today at 678-828-7151. Be sure to visit our blog here to learn about the custom homebuilding process.