Lakes Close to Santa Paula
Sometimes you just need to pack up and find a spot by the water. A lake vacation can be perfect for people that enjoy the outdoors too, as they are a great way to see birds, fish, turtles and other animals in their natural habitat.
It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking to go kayaking, buzz around doing watersports, go for a swim, or nap in the sand, the lakes near Santa Paula offer you lots of options for aquatic adventures. Has there ever been a better time? Load up your vehicle with your fishing gear and a picnic basket then hit the road on your next vacation to find your own number one location on the water!
Nearby Lakes for Santa Paula
Things to Do at the Lake
On a day trip to a lake near Santa Paula you’ll find all kinds of activities that can be enjoyed by families, couples, or with a group of friends. Whether you’re just looking for a day trip or make it a long weekend at a hotel on the beach to make for a bigger, better getaway.
Every getaway on or in the water gives you a full range of activities from thrilling to chilling.
Start paddling. If paddling is your thing, load up your preferred vessel and chart your course to a lake near Santa Paula that has a boat launch and get out and soak up nature’s beauty in all it’s glory.
Catch some fish. For those that love to fish, 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 tossing a line in from the dock.
Go for a swim. The swimming lakes near Santa Paula offer tons of laughs and games for the youngsters, or all the physical activity that an exercise junky could want in between working on their 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 prior to packing the car and the family! Admit it, even the nicest swimming pool doesn’t offer as much to do as a glorious public beach!
Preparing for a Day on the Lake
A day at the lake can be very different based on the lake you’re heading to, when you go, what your goals are for the getaway. However, we took the time to make a list that will give some ideas for your next summer trip so there’s nothing to stress over!
The basics
If you’re going to be on, in, or near the water for the majority of the day, the following list of items should be an excellent starting point for essentials you are likely to need.
- Plastic grocery bags (for trash and/or wet clothes)
- Portable stereo
- Dry shirt
- Towels and dry clothes
- A sunhat or glasses
- Bottle opener
- Swimsuits
- Cords and a charger for portable devices
- Food
- Cooler, ice, beverages (always remember water!)
Specialty lake items
Take into consideration the itinerary when at the water and who will be joining you, the list of gear might also prove useful and worth packing prior to departure.
- Wine key
- Masks and snorkels
- Your tackle box
- Kindle
- Pool noodles, rafts, floats
- Toys for the beach
- Fishing poles, nets, etc.
- Bait
- Diapers and baby gear
- Something to clean up with like sanitizers or wet wipes
Staying Safe on a Lake
While the water can provide fun during a day on the lake, it’s important that you remember to keep safety top of mind. Following a few standard safety tips that should ensure that your whole group remains safe at your favorite Santa Paula lake.
- Make sure you have a life jacket for every person on the boat
- 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
- Use sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy outside
- Always swim with a buddy
- Make sure children have swimmies or other approved flotation devices
- Have an emergency plan if you run into trouble on your watercraft
More Santa Paula Lake Tips
If you’re going to visit the fabulous lakes near Santa Paula, you’ll want to remember a couple critical items that will make your trip plan far more rewarding. Case in point, each lake near Santa Paula is going to have unique qualities which makes it important to consider what you need to make a memorable getaway as you plan yours.
- No boat, no problem. Many lakes have nearby marinas that offer boat rentals of all sizes. Boats are expensive to own, but a rental will still allow you to enjoy a day fishing on the lake or tubing with the kids. Using a search engine can usually allow you to locate options for renting the perfect boat.
- Pay attention to the beaches. If you pick the wrong time of year, sometimes the beaches near Santa Paula may be really busy. If you want a little more privacy, research 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 biggest, most happening beach!
- Make the most of the best assets in the area. If you have time for a lengthier stay, find local state campgrounds and parks which give you the option to camp near or even on the water without breaking the bank.
