Petaluma Lakes

Lakes Close to Petaluma

The weather is warm so it’s time to plan your next family vacation. There aren’t many better options than a lake near Petaluma. A stay at a lake is amazing for those who love the outdoors too, because they offer opportunities to take in the local scenery and all that nature has to offer.

Whether you’re seeking to float in a tube with a book, buzz around doing wakeboarding, go swimming, or work on your tan, the lakes near Petaluma offer you plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities. Browse through the table directly beneath this paragraph to see your options including small lakes with beaches to all sports lakes for you and the family to enjoy.

Nearby Lakes for Petaluma

Things to Do at the Lake

A day trip, or a more lengthy getaway provides an almost boundless list of activities for families, couples, or even those seeking some quiet time.

Any stay at the lake offers you a full range of activities from thrilling to chilling.

Get in the water. Finding a swimming lake near Petaluma will provide tons 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. If you want to spend time swimming and on the beach you’ll want to be sure your lake has a nice swimming area and a sandy beach to spread out on before you make the trip! Admit it, even the nicest swimming pool just isn’t as much fun as a glorious public beach!

Start paddling. If you want a little physical activity, load up your preferred vessel and chart your course to a lake near Petaluma that has a public launch and start paddling around to soak up the scenery on the waterfront.

Catch some fish. For anglers, finding a good fishing hole shouldn’t be too hard to help you have a relaxing day with a line in the water whether you’re drifting behind a trolling motor or standing on a dock with a beer in one hand and a rod in the other.

Lake Getaway Prep

A lake day itinerary can be drastically different depending on which lake you choose, when you decide to go, and what you want to do while you’re there. To make things easier we’ve built out a short list of some of the most common go-to necessities for you to use as a checklist prior to locking up the house and heading out.

The basics

For a day spent on the water you’ll probably want to take along several of these items so that you’ll be safe, comfortable, and relaxed.

  • Sweatshirt and sweatpants
  • Insect repellant
  • A blanket or sheet
  • Radio or speaker
  • A sunhat or glasses
  • Snacks
  • A cooler and drinks
  • USB charger
  • Sunscreen
  • Swimsuits

More lake items

Take into consideration your planned activities at the lake and your guests, the list of gear might also prove useful and adding to your checklist prior to leaving.

  • Baby gear (if necessary)
  • Swimming goggles
  • Kindle
  • Bait
  • Inflatable pool toys
  • Wine key
  • Tackle box and lures
  • Fishing and boating licenses
  • Beach toys (buckets, shovels, football, frisbee, etc.)
  • Safety gear like life jackets

Lake Safety Tips

While it’s easy to get lost in a fun day at a lake near Petaluma, failing to follow some simple safety rules can make things turn tragic in a hurry. Here are some general tips that can make sure that you and your family are always safe on the water.

  • Avoid plants that can sting or cause allergic reactions
  • Stay close to shore and avoid areas with shallow water or where the current is strong
  • Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat
  • Make sure no one swims alone
  • Regularly apply sunblock throughout the day – following the product’s instructions
  • Have an escape plan for what to do if you get stuck on a boat that capsizes or tips over
  • Avoid alcohol consumption before swimming, as it can impair judgment and result in drowning

More Tips for a Lake Getaway in Petaluma

When you make a trip to the beautiful lakes near Petaluma, there are a few things that might make your itinerary far more rewarding. For example, every individual lake has unique environment which makes it important to think about what you need to make an unforgettable trip as you plan yours.

  1. No boat, no problem. If you’re near the water you’ll often find local marinas where you can rent a boat. You don’t need to own a boat to enjoy fishing with family and friends or a day of watersports. Using a search engine can typically allow you to locate several places that can hook you up with the right vessel.
  2. Research your beaches. Early, mid, or late season, sometimes beaches may be packed with tourists. To find some more peace and quiet, do some digging on a variety of lakes and beaches to learn about how busy they are if you want a more relaxing vibe. If you want to be where the party’s at, then look for the busiest, most happening beach!
  3. Maximize the best assets in the area. When there’s time for a longer getaway, look for local recreational areas, state parks, and campgrounds that offer the option to stay right on the water for a reasonable price.