Is there anything better than sitting down to a delectable meal after a day packed full of adventure? If you choose to live on one of the many lakes in Texas that’s close to shopping, dining, and culture, you won’t have to work hard to form memories that last a lifetime. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best Texas lakes to visit for local staples that are sure to delight.

The Best Lakes in Texas for Shopping, Food & Fun

We’ve compiled our list of the best lakes in Texas for delicious food, unforgettable entertainment, and local shopping or experiences:

1. Lake Travis
2. Lake Austin
3. Lake LBJ
4. Canyon Lake
5. Lake Dunlap
6. Lake McQueeney
7. Lakes Placid, Seguin & Meadow Lake

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best Texas lakes for shopping, food, and, of course, fun!

1. Lake Travis

The beautiful Lake Travis is one of the most popular lakes in Texas; it’s also a top pick for local cuisine and unforgettable experiences.

Stay close to the water and experience upscale dining and refreshments at Hudson’s on the Bend. Or stop by Captain Pete’s Boathouse, a floating restaurant with plenty of entertainment options.

Are you looking for something with a scenic view and unforgettable architecture? Try The Oasis on Lake Travis, a stunning spot for food, weddings, private events, and more. Here, you’ll find some of the best views you’ll ever get in the area. Another great pick is The Lighthouse Bar & Grill, which offers live music, access to a seven-boat dock, and plenty of bites that hit the spot.

When you’re ready to take a break from fun on the water, head over to Flat Creek Estate & Winery to try local concoctions and purchase carefully crafted drinks.

2. Lake Austin

Much like Lake Travis, Lake Austin (unsurprisingly) benefits from being close to Austin. That means you’ll only be minutes away from plenty of shopping districts, museums, art galleries, and – you guessed it – tons of unique dining options.

No Lake Austin dining list would be complete without Hula Hut, serving up classic Tex-Mex dishes with a Polynesian flare. It’s one of the most iconic waterfront restaurants in Austin, so it can get a bit busy. For something more private, check out Ski Shores Cafe or the brand-new restaurant Quince, which is located right next to Hula Hut.

And don’t forget to start your day right with a piping hot cup of joe from Mozart’s Coffee – it’s even accessible by boat!

Get away from it all at the Lake Austin Spa Resort, a premier hub for classic spa activities like massages, sauna time, and more. Or, if you’d like to dabble in Texas’ local culture, stop by the LBJ Library or Bullock Texas State History Museum to learn more about the Austin area.

3. Lake LBJ

In the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Lake LBJ is surrounded by a welcoming and rich cultural environment. One of the best places to turn for lake life fun and delectable dining options is the Horseshoe Bay Resort. While you’ll need to be a member to experience the Resort yourself, we think the access to amazing meals, drinks, and activities makes it well worth the investment.

Check out the Bay View Restaurant for some of the best waterfront views in the area. Or, keep it simple with a burger and fries from Forno’s Bar and Grill. The Boat Town Burger Bar is another favorite for classic American dishes.

4. Canyon Lake

The only restaurant you’ll find on the water at Canyon Lake is the Breakwater Grill & Cantina, which is found right at the Canyon Lake Marina. It may be one-of-a-kind, but this local classic more than carries its weight. It’s a fun place to hang out with friends and family, take in some views of the area, and witness some seriously gorgeous sunsets.

5. Lake Dunlap

There aren’t any restaurants directly on Lake Dunlap, but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of great options!

Lake Dunlap is found in the heart of the Greater New Braunfels area, which is one of the top vacation spots in Texas. While you’re in New Braunfels, stop by Gruene, TX, a historic district packed with shopping, food, and unique stories.

6. Lake McQueeney

The lake lifestyle isn’t all about food and drink – it’s also about becoming part of a community. That’s why one of our favorite spots on Lake McQueeney is the Lake Breeze Ski Lodge. It is a private club, but it offers an unmatched atmosphere. Stop in, grab a table, and spend your evening catching up with members of your community. It’s one of the best ways to get in touch with the local culture that makes these lakes so amazing to live on.

7. Seguin Area Lakes

The Texas lakes near the city of Seguin – including Meadow Lake, Lake Placid, and Lake Seguin – give you access to a bustling and vibrant community. Visitors from around the state and beyond stop by just to experience the art, music, goods, and other cultural staples in the area.

Get a taste yourself and stop by Burnt Bean BBQ, which was recently rated the fourth-best BBQ joint in the state. You won’t want to miss the Power Plant Texas Grill (also known simply as “Seguin Power Plant”), which offers home-cooked classics, sandwiches, and more. Mix things up by visiting A-Tan Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar and trying something new.

Discover the Best Texas Lakes With The Lakefront Group

This is just a glimpse at some of our favorite Texas lakes for dishes and experiences that you won’t forget. But that’s not to say these are the only lakes in Texas with plenty to offer.

At The Lakefront Group, we specialize in all things Texas lakes. It’s our mission to help you find the best lakes to live on in Texas based on your preferences and goals. Living on or near the water grants you easy access to the activities you love the most.

We know Texas lakes because we live on them ourselves. You can count on our team to help you explore waterfront homes in Texas that speak to you. Don’t wait – check out our listings or contact us today to see your other options. Your dream waterfront home is just a few clicks away!

Lake House Alert