*Photos may include products that are no longer included in our Lake Life collection.
You’re all familiar with our love of the tropics, but today, we’re taking a break from our regularly scheduled programming to bring you another kind of paradise: Lake Life! Break out your Yeti coolers, pack up some cold ones, and join us out on the boat as we help you plan the perfect lake vacation this summer! We’re sharing our top lake vacation destinations, how to use your ALOHA Splash-Proof bags out on the water, a Lake Life packing guide, and a NEW Spotify soundtrack to help you get your float on this summer!
*Photos may include products that are no longer included in our Lake Life collection.
ALOHA’s Top 5 Lake Vacations
We’re here to help you plan the perfect lake vacation this summer! From tranquil lake stays to boat-packed party destinations, here are our favorite lakeside destinations for summer vacation.
Lake Tahoe
Soak in the sun up in Lake Tahoe! Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and straddles the California-Nevada border. In the summer, you can go swimming, paddle-boarding, wakeboarding, wake surfing, foiling etc. Basically any water sport can be found here in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. The phenomenal clarity and color of Tahoe is something you have to see to believe! We always spend at least one day floating the Truckee River! Bring your own River Runner float or book a rental with Truckee River Raft Co! Tahoe is also great for going deck to dock–don’t miss boating up to Chamber’s Landing for a Chamber’s Punch in Tahoma or Camp Richardson for a Rum Runner at the Beacon in South Lake Tahoe.
Pro Tip: During the early morning hours, South Lake Tahoe has the clearest glass for wakeboarding and wake surfing. Dawn patrol!
Coeur d'Alene
Lake Coeur d’Alene in the mountains of northern Idaho Is the ultimate summer getaway for anyone looking for a mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation. There are plenty of activities and water sports at this lake including wake surfing, waterskiing, fishing, boating, kayaking, parasailing, lake cruises, SUP, jet skiing, and seaplane rides. You can even book a sunset dinner cruise or you can charter your own boat to cruise the lake. We recommend eating at the Dockside restaurant for brunch and Whispers for a cocktail. Both have great views overlooking the lake! Golfers will love the Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course, home of the world's only Floating Green!
Lake Havasu
When you think of Lake Havasu, Spring Break might come to mind, but this legendary spot located along the Parker Dam off the Colorado River near the Arizona-California border is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a good time out on the water. A perfect wakeboarding destination, Lake Havasu has sparkling clear waters and plenty of hidden coves. The warm water and nearly constant elevation of Lake Havasu make it one of the best boating lakes in America.
Lake Travis
Lake Travis sits in Hill Country northwest of Austin, Texas, and is the largest lake in the area. Known as the "crown jewel" of the Central Texas Highland Lakes, it is the most visited freshwater vacation destination in the state. As they say in Texas, everything is bigger, and this massive lake offers a wide range of water activities (their motto is "If it's on the lake, it's here!"), serene spas, and some of the best boating in the state. The lake has something for everyone, whether you're looking to rent a party barge for a day or book a houseboat vacation, charter racing boats and luxury watercraft, or kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddle-boards along the many shorelines and coves. If you're looking for a beer and a bite, there are several restaurants with docks for cold drinks right on the water's edge.
Pro Tip: After a day of water activities, head to the Oasis restaurant for a sunset cocktail overlooking Lake Travis! On a bluff 450 feet above the lake, the 30,000 square foot restaurant is the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas.
Butler Chain
Located in central Florida, the Butler Chain of Lakes consists of thirteen (13) freshwater lakes connected by navigable canals. Butler Chain of Lakes contains 4,927 acres of freshwater perfect for boating. The lake offers a variety of recreational activities like boating, bass fishing, wakeboarding, and water skiing. Paddle-boarding, kayaking, wake surfing, and even tubing are all fun activities you can enjoy. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the lush tropical landscape.
ALOHA Collection Boating Gear Essentials for a Summer on the Water
There is nothing better than spending the summer on the water. Lounging by the pool or beach is nice, but nothing says summer than being out on a boat with friends and family. If you're heading out on the water, make sure you bring the right ALOHA Collection gear with you: This essential boating gear guide will make sure you're ready for a full day on the water.
Day Tripper: Pack for a day on the lake with this must-have tote. A zipper enclosure and an expandable top will keep your gear organized and in one easy-to-find place.
Mini Pouch: Stash your keys, sunscreen, and cash inside our mini pouch to keep your smaller, easy-to-lose items safe from getting lost.
Small Pouch: Use our small Splash-Proof pouch as awet bikini bag! Toss in your wet swimwear after a wake surf or wakeboard sesh to keep your boat’s interior dry!
**Mid Pouch:**Keep your cell phone and tech safe from small splashes with this ultimate wet dry bag.
**MAX Pouch:**Our MAX pouch can accommodate a change of clothes like a sundress or joggers in addition to a light sweater so you can easily go from deck to dock! This pouch is a must for anyone boating up to lakefront restaurants or bars after a day on the lake.
Pareo: Wear our lightweight pareo as aswimsuit coverupon the boat or as a dress for lakeside BBQs. You can also dip it in the water and throw it around your shoulders to cool off and keep the sun off.
ALOHA Trucker Hat: Stay out of the sun or take a dip in the lake with our ALOHA trucker hat! You can even wear wake surfing for an extra layer of sun protection.
Need extra packing tips? Check out our blog, _**How To Pack the Perfect Carry-On Suitcase **_for more info!
* Photos may include products that are no longer sold in our Lake Life collection.
What to Pack for a Getaway at the Lake
**Insulated Cooler:**we don’t leave the cabin without ourYeti Cooler!You can keep waters, brews, sodas, and ice cold for up to seven days-perfect for boat drinks and hangin out on the shore!
Wide-Brimmed Sun Hat: We love Hemlock Hat Co.’swide-brimmed sun hatsfor lounging lakeside or cruising the lake.
Swimsuits: be sure to pack at least a one-piece swimsuit if you plan to do any water sports! No one wants to go looking for bikini bottoms after a wipeout.
Sunscreen: Proper sun protection is vital out on the water! We love Vertra’s SPF 45 face stick for wakeboarding and wake surfing. It’s formulated to stay on throughout your sesh and bonus? It won’t sting your eyes.
Polarized Sunglasses: Strong sunlight reflecting off the water and UV rays can be harmful to your eyes, so be sure to wear polarized lenses out on the water!
Sun Protective Top, Rash Guard, or Shirt with SPF
Short Wetsuit: Alpine lakes can get COLD, even in the middle of summer, keep the chill out with a 3/2mm or 2mm.
Flip Flops or Sandals
Waterproof Shell Jacket or Poncho: Summer storms can come out of nowhere, be prepared for the possibility of thunderstorms!
ALOHA Collection Can Coldies: Keep your cold ones COLD with our neoprene logo can coldies!
Funboy Floats: Tie up a Funboy float to your dock or boat for the ultimate floatilla!
ALOHA’s Lake Life Playlist
Click here to tune into our NEW ALOHA Lake Life Spotify soundtrack!