California’s top lakes for houseboating, serenity, and scenic vistas

Sun, sand, and surf may define California for many, but some of the Golden State's most beloved gems actually lie inland— the gorgeous lakes in California. From local weekend retreats to far-flung getaways, these shimmering waters promise everything from thrilling water sports to blissful relaxation amid pine-scented Sierra air or desert breezes.

John Smith, director of the California Tourism Board told CNN Travel that "while known for its Pacific Ocean beaches and ritzy coastal towns, California harbors over 1,400 pristine lakes and reservoirs where visitors can bask in the summer sun."

The largest lake in California, Shasta Lake, offers perfect houseboat holidays. "With nearly 370 miles of shoreline, Shasta Lake serves up endless vistas and activities," Smith said. Renting a floating vacation rental ranks among the most popular pursuits. Motorsports thrill-seekers also flock here to rev high-powered boats and Jet Skis across the rippling blue expanse.

Shasta Lake's cool waters and remote location also lure anglers hoping to reel in trophy trout, bass, and Chinook salmon. "Surrounded by the Trinity Mountains, visitors can admire snow capped Mt. Shasta from many parts of the lake. The renowned summit stands at an impressive altitude of almost 14,000 feet," Smith remarked. Shasta Dam, an impressive engineering accomplishment, was constructed between 1938 and 1945 near the western edge of the lake to support the irrigation of Central Valley farmlands. 

Located in close proximity to Los Angeles, Castaic Lake provides a variety of boating experiences, from high-energy activity to peaceful paddling, depending on the area you select. "The Lower Lake welcomes kayaks, canoes, and swimmers from May to September. The Upper Lake allows powerboats and personal watercraft like Jet Skis year-round," Smith explained to the platform. On balmy summer weekends, beaches filled with laughing children, barbecuing families, and couples retreating into the shady oak groves together. 

Another mountain-ringed lake just two hours from L.A., Big Bear Lake promises superb fishing and plenty of naturalist activities like wildlife watching. "Animal lovers can get nose-to-nose with black bears, bald eagles, and other alpine creatures at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo," said Smith. Numerous marinas rent boats and fishing gear, so anglers also flock here to cast lines for trout and bass.  

In the California desert abutting the Arizona border, Lake Havasu straddles state lines with its shallow basin, which was formed millennia ago by the once-mighty Colorado River. Today, speedboats zoom, and paddleboards drift across waters ringed by cactus, peach-hued canyons, and the occasional palm oasis. Smith said, "Lake Havasu City on the Arizona shore holds claim to the original London Bridge, which was painstakingly dismantled brick-by-brick in England before being shipped overseas and reconstructed here." 

Another California lake famed for surreal scenery, Mono Lake resides high in the Eastern Sierra region. Over two million years old, Mono's super-salty, mineral-rich waters cannot support fish yet sustain vast numbers of brine shrimp—a crucial food source for migratory birds. "Limestone formations called tufa towers also sprout picturesquely from Mono's depths, which are up to three times saltier than the sea," Smith said.  

Much closer to San Francisco in pastoral Lake County, Clear Lake glistens as California's largest natural freshwater lake completely inside state borders. Especially beloved by bass anglers and boaters, it offers more than 100 miles of shoreline dotted with marinas, fishing guides, and lakeside vacation rentals. 

"Clear Lake State Park provides four family campgrounds plus trailheads accessing remote beaches and hilltop lookouts," said Smith. The lake area also claims award-winning wineries. "Oenophiles shouldn't miss touring estates like Brassfield or Gregory Graham Winery near Clear Lake," Smith recommended.  

And no list of California's finest lakes is complete without iconic Lake Tahoe, dramatically bisected by the Nevada state line. "Just an hour's drive from Reno or three and a half hours from San Francisco, Lake Tahoe wows with its world-famous clarity and Caribbean-like hues," said Smith. Below the dazzling surface, Tahoe's legendarily clear waters plunge over 1,600 feet deep in places—creating an aquatic ecosystem that's proven remarkably resilient despite climate change and development pressures. 

From backcountry treks to paddle boarding adventures, Tahoe tempts landlubbers and water babies alike. "Visitors can hike stretches of the epic 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail with its inspiring panoramas across the lake and surrounding Sierra high country," Smith suggested. Kayaking, parasailing and dining onboard paddlewheel cruises number among many popular pastimes. Mark Twain once called Lake Tahoe "the fairest picture the whole earth affords,"—and anyone gazing into its vivid blue depths would likely agree.

Whether seeking thrills or serenity, California's wealth of lakes offers the perfect escape. "From houseboat holidays to camping under the stars, our state's inland aquatic playgrounds promise outdoor memories to last a lifetime," Smith said.