Best Lakes for Outdoor Fun Near Orlando
With an average annual temperature of 83 degrees and summers topping out in the 90s, any time of year is a good time to indulge in some refreshing lake fun near Orlando, Florida. Whether you prefer fishing, swimming, boating, sightseeing, or just strolling through some of the most scenic landscapes in the south, there’s a lake that's just right for you. Here are a few of our favorites:
Lake Virginia
Located in the "Venice of America," Lake Virginia in Winter Park is one of six lakes connected by navigable canals. This 223-acre lake is popular with paddle boarders, and is a great launch spot to explore the water. Dinky Dock Park is a quiet beach area where you can relax on the sandy shore, cool off in the lake, or spend a relaxing day fishing.
Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho)
One of the largest lakes in Florida, Lake Toho in Osceola County has some of the best trophy bass fishing in the country. There are dozens of other ways to enjoy the calm waters, including scenic walks around the shoreline, grilling in designated areas, picnicking, and wildlife sightseeing. There's even a splash pad and playground for the kids! If you're feeling particularly adventurous, Makinson Island is in the northern part of the lake and is accessible only by boat or kayak.
Lake Kissimmee
If fishing is your thing, you'll want to spend lots of time on Lake Kissimmee in Osceola County. This 35,000-acre lake has it all — bluegill, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and chain pickerel. Launch your boat or cast your line from the shoreline or pier and enjoy a bountiful catch.
Harris Chain of Lakes
If it's to be enjoyed on the water, the Harris Chain of Lakes in Lake County offers it. Whether you seek boating trips through beautiful clear water, a quaint bakery overlooking the lake, a place to park your RV for the weekend, waterski action, or some serious bass fishing, you'll find it here.
Lake Eola
Offering a cosmopolitan experience with restaurants, swan boats, an illuminated fountain, and the Disney Amphitheater surrounding the water, Lake Eola is located in the middle of Downtown Orlando and provides an impressive backdrop to "The City Beautiful."
Alexander Springs
Though not a lake, Alexander Springs offers visitors a cool oasis near Orlando with its year-round, 72-degree F temperatures, soft sandy bottom, and clear, gentle water. There are also camping and fishing opportunities, but check ahead for reservation and license requirements.
If you love lake life, and only wish you could live closer to these lakes and many more near Orlando, stop by and see the brand new, single-family homes at Cypress Park Estates in Haines City, FL. With 3-4 bedrooms, 2-3 baths, spacious, modern design and a convenient location, it's the perfect home base to make getting to your favorite lakes fast and easy.
Harris Chain of Lakes
If it's to be enjoyed on the water, the Harris Chain of Lakes in Lake County offers it. Whether you seek boating trips through beautiful clear water, a quaint bakery overlooking the lake, a place to park your RV for the weekend, waterski action, or some serious bass fishing, you'll find it here.
Lake Eola
Offering a cosmopolitan experience with restaurants, swan boats, an illuminated fountain, and the Disney Amphitheater surrounding the water, Lake Eola is located in the middle of Downtown Orlando and provides an impressive backdrop to "The City Beautiful."
Alexander Springs
Though not a lake, Alexander Springs offers visitors a cool oasis near Orlando with its year-round, 72-degree F temperatures, soft sandy bottom, and clear, gentle water. There are also camping and fishing opportunities, but check ahead for reservation and license requirements.
If you love lake life, and only wish you could live closer to these lakes and many more near Orlando, stop by and see the brand new, single-family homes at Cypress Park Estates in Haines City, FL. With 3-4 bedrooms, 2-3 baths, spacious, modern design and a convenient location, it's the perfect home base to make getting to your favorite lakes fast and easy.