Costa Mesa Lakes

Lakes Around Costa Mesa

Sometimes you should gather your family and friends and make time to be near the water. Fortunately, when you come to Costa Mesa there are some options when it comes to spending time on the lake.

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking to float in a tube with a book, get active with water skiing, go for a swim, or nap in the sand, the lakes near Costa Mesa offer you lots of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Browse through the data below and see the nearby locations including small lakes with beaches to all sports lakes for you to visit.

Lakes Near Costa Mesa

Things to Do at the Lake

On a day trip to a lake near Costa Mesa you’ll find all kinds of things to do for people of all persuasions. Whether you’re just looking for a day trip or take a longer vacation at a hotel on the beach to enjoy yourself more fully.

Every getaway on or in the water offers you a full range of activities from thrilling to chilling.

Fishing. For anglers, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a good fishing spot to help you reel in a day of fun whether you’re roaming the lake in a killer fishing boat or fishing from shore.

Water sports. Should you be able to get access to a ski boat, you might want to have some fun and make a day of flying around the water showing off your water sports skills? Enjoy a day of wakeboarding, skiing, or tubing as the all sports lakes offer you several options.

Start paddling. If you like to paddle around, load up your preferred vessel and chart your course to a lake that has a public launch and get out and enjoy nature’s beauty in all it’s glory.

Preparing for a Day on the Lake

Everyone’s beach getaway will be unique depending on the lake you’re heading to, what time of year it is, what your goals are for the getaway. While every trip is its own animal, we put together a list with some of our favorite ideas for your lake getaway to ensure nothing gets forgotten!

The basics

For a day spent on the water you’ll probably want to take several of the items below so that you’ll be safe, healthy, and having fun.

  • A cooler with water bottles
  • Portable stereo
  • Bottle opener
  • Sunblock
  • Beach blanket
  • Plates, cups and utensils
  • Towels
  • Bathing suits
  • A receptacle for trash
  • Cords and a charger for portable devices

More lake gear

The list of items below might prove useful for getaways to the lake considering your itinerary. You may want to double check for some of these before heading out.

  • Wine key
  • Games for the beach
  • Diapers and baby gear
  • Fishing poles
  • Tackle box
  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Kindle
  • Masks and snorkels
  • Rafts and floaties
  • Worms or other bait

Lake Safety Tips

While spending a weekend at the lake can provide ample amounts of fun, safety should remain top of mind at all times. If you’re going to be out on the water these are some extremely important tips for keeping everyone safe.

  • Avoid plants that can sting or cause allergic reactions
  • Always wear sunblock
  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning
  • Don’t swim alone
  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding

Some More Tips

Not everyone has had the opportunity to visit the amazing lakes around Costa Mesa and might have a few questions regarding planning. Certainly, any body of water will possess unique qualities and surroundings, but you should keep in mind a few things to review while making plans that might help you end up with a winning itinerary.

  1. Maximize the best assets in the area. When you have time for a lengthier stay, find local state campgrounds and parks which give you the ability to camp in a spot that is right on top of the water for a reasonable price.
  2. Find a marina. Many lakes have local marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. Just because you don’t own a boat to enjoy a day fishing on the lake or taking the kids out for some wakeboarding or tubing. Asking a local can typically allow you to locate a marina that has what you need.
  3. Pay attention to the beaches. Depending on the time of year, sometimes the beaches near Costa Mesa can get very crowded. To find more space to yourself, research multiple lakes in the area to learn about how busy they are to find one with a slower pace. To get in on the party, then look for the busiest, most popular beach!