Lake Austin Activities: Best Things To Do On The Water And Around The Lake

Austin summers are best experienced on the water, and there’s no better place to enjoy them than Lake Austin.

With its clear blue waters, scenic shoreline, and lively atmosphere, the lake offers endless opportunities for fun.

Whether you’re looking for exciting Lake Austin activities like wakesurfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, or more relaxing ways to unwind, this guide covers the best Lake Austin things to do. Enjoy adventurous water sports, breathtaking scenic spots, and relaxing lakeside dining for the ultimate summer experience on the water.

Exciting Lake Austin Activites on the Water

What’s your thrill of choice? Regardless of your answer, you’ll find plenty of Lake Austin activities to enjoy.

The most popular sports on Lake Austin are wakesurfing, wakeboarding, and skiing. Lake Austin is also home to a Dam to Dam Barefooting Race which is a blast to watch and/or participate in. If you don't have a boat there are numerous adventure companies on and around the lake with gear and rentals for boating, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more.

And if you’re looking for a more relaxing day out on the water, Lake Austin is a biodiverse fishing spot with an extensive population of largemouth bass, including trophy bass. Many skilled fishermen catch bass weighing eight to 10 pounds each year. You’ll also find redbreast, bluegill, redear, flathead, and blue catfish. This makes it a hotspot for fishing and other water activities in Austin.

Outdoor Exploration Around Lake Austin

The Covert Park at Mount Bonnell is a prime spot for Austin views. Boasting the highest point in the Austin city limits, Mount Bonnell offers sunset views that will leave you breathless. Take a walk to the summit or spend a relaxing day walking around the park or stopping for a picnic.

Another highlight is the Pennybacker Bridge, which has views of the lake and the surrounding scenery. The trail climbs to an overlook of the lake, river, and Austin 360 Bridge. It’s famous for biking and walking, but you can also take a scenic drive.

These outdoor spots make things to do near Lake Austin perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the natural beauty surrounding the lake.

Dining and Nightlife by the Water

Beyond water sports and outdoor adventures, Lake Austin activities also include relaxing and enjoying the local dining scene. The lake is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars, offering the perfect backdrop for lakeside meals and evening outings.

Hula Hut, located right on the banks of the lake, offers drinks, food, and a huge patio over the water for sunset views while sipping cocktails.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Austin since 1954, Ski Shores Cafe brings a carefree lakeside vibe with classic burgers, fish tacos and frozen cocktails served just steps from the water. Whether you arrive by car or boat, it’s a spot where local boaters, families and friends can kick back, soak up the sun and leave their shoes behind.

Another great restaurant is Abel’s on the Lake, known for its exceptional burgers and Texas Tea. While casual, you can enjoy unpretentious dishes and drinks overlooking the water.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a casual outing with friends, these destinations are some of the best things to do on Lake Austin for dining and nightlife.

Lake Austin for Nature Lovers

For those who appreciate the outdoors, Lake Austin activities go beyond boating and water sports. Nature lovers can explore serene trails, gardens, and wildlife preserves that highlight the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve has serene walking trails with beautiful roaming peacocks! Officially the Mayfield-Gutsch Estate, the grounds feature a historic cottage and gardens with a bluff overlooking the lake.

The River Place Nature Trail is one of the more challenging and fun hikes in the Austin area. There’s a lot of elevation gain, giving you a good workout while you hike along the river dotted with tranquil waterfalls. The system has three trails to choose from: Panther Hollow Trail, Little Fern Trail, and Canyon Trail.

If you’re set on seeing more of Texas’s native wildlife, the Nalle Bunny Run Wildlife Preserve has 35 acres of natural scenery in Texas Hill Country. The preserve is open to the public for monthly guided tours to see wildlife like the golden-cheeked warbler and the black-capped vireo. The preserve mainly provides a habitat for small mammals, songbirds, and rare waterfowl.

These experiences make things to do around Lake Austin perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

Find Your Dream Home on Lake Austin

With so many Lake Austin activities, a quick vacation won’t feel like enough. Living near the lake gives you the opportunity to soak up all an Austin summer has to offer, including hair-raising watersports, lazy beach days, and more cocktails and water sunsets than you can count!

Lake Austin waterfront homes provide access to this lifestyle every day. Whether you’re looking for a modern lakefront retreat or a cozy riverside cottage, owning a home here allows you to make the most of all the things to do on Lake Austin year-round.

The Lakefront Group is your premier resource for Lake Austin real estate. Our expert team can help you find the perfect property and guide you through every step of the buying process.

Posted by Hunter Croan on September 13th, 2022