The Top Things to Do on Lake Lanier For Locals or Tourists

Lake Lanier spans more than 38,000 acres and includes hundreds of shoreline miles, marinas, parks, islands, and structured recreation areas. Those researching things to do in Lake Lanier will find boating, hiking, lakeside dining, fishing, and seasonal entertainment spread across public parks and private resorts. The lake’s size and layout create opportunities for both active and leisurely outings, offering locals and visitors numerous ways to engage with the water and its surrounding landscape.

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands serves as one of the lake’s largest recreation destinations. The property includes a seasonal water park, a marina, a lakeside boardwalk, and restaurants with boat-up access. Guests often start with time at the wave pool, water slides, or the aquatic adventure course.

The boardwalk area features shaded seating, stunning lake views, and outdoor dining options. Marina slips accommodate motorboats and pontoons, making it easy for boaters to spend a day moving between the resort and open water.

Boating is one of the most popular activities on Lake Lanier, thanks to its expansive channels, deep basins, and sheltered coves. Local marinas, such as Holiday Marina, Aqualand Marina, and Sunrise Cove Marina, offer rental boats and fuel docks, enabling guests to access the water without the need for long-term storage.

The main channels offer open water suitable for cruising at steady speeds, while quieter coves near places like Shoal Creek Park and Big Creek Park appeal to those who prefer slower floating or anchoring.

Learning a new water sport on Lake Lanier is one of those experiences that turns an ordinary lake day into a core memory. With wide-open water, scenic coves, and a lively lake community, it’s the perfect place for both locals and visitors to try something new. Whether that’s wake surfing, paddleboarding, water skiing, or tubing. There’s a unique thrill in mastering a new skill on the water, and Lanier’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to learn at your own pace. Add in sunshine, laughter, and views that never get old, and you’ve got a fun, confidence-boosting way to enjoy the lake all season long.

Lake Lanier is renowned for its crystal-clear water and diverse fish populations, which include largemouth bass, spotted bass, striped bass, crappie, and catfish. Anglers use public access points such as those at Lanier Point Park or Little Hall Park to reach productive shoreline areas.

Seasonal patterns influence where fish gather. Spring often draws bass to shallow brush and rocky shorelines, while cold-weather anglers focus on deeper water near submerged timber. Fishing guides offer half-day and full-day trips for those who want support in locating active fish or learning local techniques.

Don Carter State Park, situated on the northeast arm of the lake, offers one of the best opportunities for hiking near the shoreline. The park includes more than ten miles of mixed-surface trails that move through forested areas, rolling hills, and quiet lake inlets.

The multi-use trail on the western side offers long stretches with broad views across the lake. The Terrapin Cove Trail winds closer to the water and features wooden boardwalks that span wetland areas.

The calmer waters of Lake Lanier create ideal conditions for paddle sports. Kayakers and paddleboarders often head to Flat Creek, Balus Creek, or the upper arm of the Chattahoochee River, where wind conditions and boat traffic tend to be lighter.

Local rental shops, including those near Gainesville and Flowery Branch, supply boards and kayaks for guests who do not bring their own equipment. Guided paddle tours occasionally run during sunrise or sunset hours, giving visitors a distinct way to experience the lake’s natural environment.

Lake Lanier Olympic Park in Gainesville hosted rowing and sprint canoe/kayak events during the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games. The facility remains active and includes a 2,000-meter sprint course, grandstands, and a boathouse used for training and competitions.

Visitors often come to watch regattas, rent kayaks, walk the lakeside paths, or attend seasonal festivals on the plaza. The park’s setup allows guests to explore both the historic venues and the waterfront areas.

The lake includes multiple waterfront restaurants that allow direct lake access. Fish Tales at Hideaway Bay Marina serves seafood dishes and casual meals, offering open-air seating with stunning marina views. Pig Tales provides a variety of barbecue and grilled items, accompanied by a patio overlooking the lake.

For those near the southern shoreline, Pelican Pete’s at Port Royale Marina remains a popular option with live entertainment during peak months. Twisted Oar is a local favorite and must try although boat parking is limited. Head a little further north to Skogies located at Gainesville Marina for nice casual dining and a seasonal brunch offered. These restaurants highlight the social side of lake culture, offering boaters convenient places to dock, dine, and return to the water. Double check hours of operation as they all have different operating hours throughout the year!

Little Ridge Park is located on the south end right off of Buford Dam Road and is one of the very few Forsyth County parks that allows dogs. You and your pups will love it as there are ample trails throughout the park leading to sandy beaches. Some folks love to bring an Eno hammock and a book and enjoy the outdoors for a few hours!

Mary Alice Park in Cumming features shaded picnic areas, open lawns, and shoreline access, making it ideal for day use. The park’s layout features gentle slopes leading to the water, multiple picnic shelters, and sandy areas perfect for relaxing near the shoreline.

Visitors often bring lunch, walk along the paths, or spend time observing the lake’s open water and passing boats. Paddleboard rentals are available on-site during the summer months.

Buford Dam separates Lake Lanier from the Chattahoochee River below and offers one of the lake’s best vantage points for sunsets. Overlooks near the dam provide elevated views of the central water basin and the surrounding foothills.

Visitors often bring cameras to capture long sightlines across calm late-day water. The overlook area features paved paths and benches that enable visitors to stay for extended periods during evening hours.

Lake Lanier offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, lakeside dining, paddle sports, scenic overlooks, and seasonal events. Those searching for things to do in Lake Lanier can build full days around the lake’s natural and built attractions.

Living on Lake Lanier guides clients who want to understand how lake access, shoreline amenities, and recreational opportunities influence real estate decisions.

Interested in Lake Lanier real estate? Contact us today and we’ll be happy to help you find your dream Lake Lanier home!