Palo Alto Lakes

Lakes Close to Palo Alto

When the weather is right you just need to spend some time near the water. As it turns out, when you visit Palo Alto there are quite a few options for spending time on the lake.

There are many brilliant arguments to visit a lake in Palo Alto during the warmer months – the cool water for swimming, relaxing summer activities such as wakeboarding, fishing, or just relaxing on a raft. You’ll find that some lakes have beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day. The time is now! Load up your vehicle with sunscreen and a cooler then hit the road on your next vacation to find a brand new favorite spot on a lake!

Lakes Near Palo Alto

Things to Do at the Lake

A quick excursion to a lake, or a more lengthy trip provides an almost endless list of activities for people of all stripes.

Any stay at the lake offers you everything from fun to relaxation.

Get in the water. The swimming lakes near Palo Alto provide all kinds of laughs and games for the youngsters, or all the physical activity that an exercise junky could want in between getting that perfect golden tan. Make sure to do your research and verify that your lake has a sandy beach and a designated swimming area before you make the trip! Admit it, even the nicest swimming pool just isn’t as much fun as a glorious public beach on a lake near Palo Alto!

Get a little crazy with the water sports. If you’ve got access to a ski boat, why not get out on the water and start kicking up a wake showing off your water sports skills? Enjoy a day of wakeboarding, skiing, or tubing as the lakes near Palo Alto offer you all kinds of options.

Partake in some delicious delights outside. Palo Alto’s lakes provide all sorts of great picnic areas where you can enjoy culinary delights, or you could just do some cheese and crackers as you enjoy the view. Should you be with someone you want to impress, good food and a view is hard to beat.

Lake Getaway Prep

A day at the lake can be very different based on the lake you’re heading to, when you go, and what you want to do for entertainment. However, we’ve created a list for some ideas for your watery excursion to ensure nothing gets forgotten!

General items

When you’re out on a lake near Palo Alto you will likely need to take several of the items below so that you’ll be safe, comfortable, and getting the most out of your getaway.

  • Insect repellant
  • Eye protection, a hat, or both
  • Plastic grocery bags (for trash and/or wet clothes)
  • Portable stereo
  • Sunscreen
  • Towels
  • Swimsuits
  • Beach blanket
  • Flip flops or water shoes
  • Cords and a charger for portable devices

Specialty lake gear

Take into consideration what you’ll be doing at the lake and who will be in your entourage, the items below could make your day more enjoyable and adding to your checklist before hitting the road.

  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Life jackets
  • Bait
  • Baby gear (if necessary)
  • Wine key
  • Fishing gear
  • Your favorite magazine or book
  • Goggles or masks
  • Games for the beach
  • Rafts for the kids

Lake Safety Checklist

While it’s easy to get lost in a fun day at a lake near Palo Alto, it’s important that you remember to keep safety top of mind. Following a few standard safety tips that should ensure that everyone are always safe on the water.

  • Always wear sunblock
  • Keep children within arm’s reach at all times while swimming in deep water
  • Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking or paddle boarding
  • Always swim with a buddy
  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Don’t mix alcohol with swimming
  • Avoid swimming near rocks or shallow water areas that may not be deep enough to dive underneath and escape from waves

More Tips for a Lake Getaway in Palo Alto

Not everyone has had the opportunity to make their way to the amazing lakes around Palo Alto and likely have some questions on ways to maximize their fun. Of course, every lake will possess unique qualities and surroundings, but it’s worth noting a couple key points to look into when planning that might help start your trip on the right foot.

  1. Research your beaches. Depending on the time of year, occasionally beaches can get extremely crowded. If you want more space to spread out, do some digging on multiple lakes and beaches to see if you can find one that’s less crowded to find one with a slower pace. To get in on the party, search out the busiest, most happening sandy party scene!
  2. Rent a boat. If you’re near the water you’ll often find nearby marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. Just because you don’t own a boat to enjoy fishing with family and friends or a day of watersports. Asking a local can typically allow you to locate a marina that has what you need.
  3. Maximize unique local resources. If you have time for a longer stay, look for local state campgrounds and parks which give you the ability to stay directly on the water at an affordable price.