Lake Lanier Islands
A tropical oasis near Atlanta, Lake Lanier Islands offers a water park, beaches, and resort amenities for a fun getaway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Lake Lanier Islands
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tropical oasis near Atlanta, Lake Lanier Islands offers a water park, beaches, and resort amenities for a fun getaway.
"This place is a lot of fun once you get in but for my family of four for one day we spent $350-$400."
🎯 Season Pass Value
Consider a season pass if you plan multiple visits; daily passes are pricey for families.
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water or be prepared to buy it; staying hydrated is crucial, especially at the water park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fins Up Water Park
Margaritaville at Lanier Islands
Splash into fun with thrilling slides, a massive wave pool, and lazy rivers for ultimate summer enjoyment.
Sandy Beaches
Lake Lanier Islands
Relax on soft sand shores, soak up the sun, and enjoy the tropical atmosphere reminiscent of a mini Hawaii.
Sunset Cruise
Lake Lanier
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake, complete with stunning sunset views and refreshing drinks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Lake Lanier Islands
Beyond the Beach: History & Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Season Pass Value
Consider a season pass if you plan multiple visits; daily passes are pricey for families.
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water or be prepared to buy it; staying hydrated is crucial, especially at the water park.
🏖️ Beach Day Bliss
Enjoy the sandy beaches for a tropical vibe without the flight, perfect for a relaxing day out. 
⚠️ Water Safety First
Be aware of the lake's history and prioritize safety, especially when swimming or boating. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Season Pass Value
Consider a season pass if you plan multiple visits; daily passes are pricey for families.
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water or be prepared to buy it; staying hydrated is crucial, especially at the water park.
🏖️ Beach Day Bliss
Enjoy the sandy beaches for a tropical vibe without the flight, perfect for a relaxing day out.
⚠️ Water Safety First
Be aware of the lake's history and prioritize safety, especially when swimming or boating. +1
🚗 Golf Cart Rentals
Rent a golf cart to easily navigate the large resort and access different attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Lanier Islands offers a fun-filled tropical escape with a popular water park and relaxing beaches. Visitors praise the enjoyable slides and short lines at Fins Up Water Park, as well as the 'mini Hawaii' atmosphere. However, some guests find the pricing steep for day passes and have raised concerns about inconsistent food quality and inadequate medical response in the water park.
"We didn't stay overnight, we just visited the water park. Park was clean and well maintained. Staff (early twenties age group) were nice, helpful and seemed to enjoy their jobs. Buy your ticket at the gate if you are eligible for a military discount, price will still be right at $100 for two people, but worth the savings."
Dusty Talton
"Fun slides. Not very long lines. Food was meh. I didn't have any cocktails, but there were bees buzzing around the bar anyway. Kids had a great time, so that's what counts. Parents might be a bit disappointed with the food and drink, though."
Dave M
"Wrote an email but didn't get a response!
I'm writing to inform someone in management at Fins Up Water Park that my friend and her boyfriend were injured in the Typhoon & Twister slides (the blue one).
My friend and her boyfriend went on the blue slide together in the blue couples tube. They were given no direction or information from the teenagers that were working there, and ultimately got injured. They came out of the blue slide so fast that they slammed into the concrete wall and railing, injuring her foot and his ankle.
When the lifeguard at the bottom of the slide came over, he called for the medical staff. When the medical staff came over, she said "I don't have anything with me but I can give you a band-aid" for what could possibly be a broken bone (no cut by the way). After we were offered a band-aid and nothing else, we were told to walk down to the medical tent for an ice pack (because it makes sense for someone with an injury to walk half-way across the park).
After we got to the medical tent where there were no ice packs, we were given a zip-lock bag and told to go to the bar for ice. There was also no water at the medical tent for her to use to take the tylenol she was given, just old Gatorade coolers that hadn't been cleaned in week per the First Aide associate (again, lets make the person with the injury walk to get help).
The medical attention here was so below standard that it seemed like we were being pranked. We were here to celebrate her boyfriends birthday, and ended up not being able to do much else because of this accident and lack of care.
The staff here needs to be upgraded. Teenagers that don't care about people's safety that have piss-poor attitudes are ridiculous. I'm just grateful that it was an adult that got injured and not a child. Again, if you'd like to refund us for this experience, please respond to my email. This accident could have been avoided if the associate gave any information on weight limit, instructions, etc.
Let me know if you have any questions. She still can't walk on it or put pressure, and she has a large bruise that indicates it's sprained."
Brooke C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Lanier Islands is conveniently located about an hour's drive northeast of Atlanta. Most visitors drive, and parking is available on-site. Some social media posts highlight it as an easy 'staycation' or 'getaway' from the city.
Yes, Lake Lanier has numerous public parks and access points managed by the Army Corps of Engineers and local municipalities. However, Lake Lanier Islands is a specific resort area with its own entry fees and amenities.
Once inside Lake Lanier Islands, renting a golf cart is a popular and convenient way to explore the resort's various attractions, including the water park and beaches.
Public transportation options directly to Lake Lanier Islands are limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access for most visitors.
From Atlanta, take I-85 North towards Montgomery, then take Exit 115 for I-985 North towards Gainesville. Continue on I-985 North and take Exit 8 for Lanier Islands Parkway. Follow signs for Lake Lanier Islands.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees can vary, especially for the water park. Daily passes can be expensive, with one review mentioning $350-$400 for a family of four for six hours. Consider season passes if you plan to visit multiple times. Military discounts may be available at the gate.
While advance purchase is often recommended for theme parks, some reviews suggest buying tickets at the gate, especially if you are eligible for discounts like military. It's best to check the official website for current ticketing policies.
Operating hours vary by season and specific attraction. Fins Up Water Park typically opens in late spring and operates through the summer. It's crucial to check the official Lake Lanier Islands website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
Yes, besides daily passes, season passes can offer better value for frequent visitors. Look out for potential discounts, such as military rates, which might be best applied at the gate.
Admission to Lake Lanier Islands typically grants access to the beaches and general grounds. Access to specific attractions like Fins Up Water Park usually requires a separate ticket or a bundled package.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Lake Lanier Islands offers a variety of activities including Fins Up Water Park with slides and a wave pool, sandy beaches for relaxation, mini-golf, arcades, and sunset cruises on the lake.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for family fun, with Fins Up Water Park being a major draw for kids. Overnight stays at the Legacy Lodge are also available, making it a great family getaway.
Food options range from casual dining at places like LandShark Grill to resort restaurants. However, some reviews suggest the food quality might be average, and parents might be disappointed with the food and drink options.
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas, particularly at the water park and beaches within Lake Lanier Islands. However, be aware of the lake's historical reputation and always prioritize water safety. +1
Lake Lanier was created by flooding the land that was once Oscarville, a predominantly Black town. This history has led to discussions about submerged communities and a 'haunted' reputation due to numerous drownings. +2
📸 📸 Photography
The sandy beaches with tropical umbrellas offer a 'mini Hawaii' vibe, perfect for scenic shots. The lake itself provides beautiful backdrops, especially during sunrise or sunset. The water park also offers vibrant, fun photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and resort areas to ensure safety and privacy. It's advisable to check the official Lake Lanier Islands regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
While the history of Oscarville is significant, direct photographic opportunities related to the submerged town are limited. The focus for most visitors is on the recreational aspects. However, understanding the history adds a layer of depth to the location. +1
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most flattering light for photography, enhancing the tropical and scenic views. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant colors of the water park.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide beach scenes and details at the water park. Waterproof phone cases or action cameras are great for water-based activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Consider purchasing a season pass if you plan multiple visits, as daily tickets can be costly for a family. Beyond the water park, the sandy beaches provide a safe and fun environment for younger children to play. Renting a golf cart can make navigating the expansive resort easier with little ones in tow.
Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, or be prepared for the cost of on-site food options. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks can significantly cut down on expenses, as on-site food and cocktails can add up. While the resort offers a 'mini Hawaii' experience, exploring other public access points around Lake Lanier might offer more budget-friendly ways to enjoy the lake itself, though without the resort amenities.
💑 Couples
+1While the water park is geared towards families, couples can still enjoy the resort's dining options and the scenic beauty of the lake. Exploring the islands during the fall for leaf-peeping can also offer a more serene and romantic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Complex History of Lake Lanier
This history has contributed to Lake Lanier's reputation as one of the most dangerous lakes in the US, with a disproportionately high number of drownings. Some believe these incidents are linked to the spirits of those displaced or lost in the lake's creation. While many visitors focus on the fun and relaxation, it's important to acknowledge this historical context.
Recent documentaries and social media content have brought more attention to this history, particularly within the Black community, urging a more respectful approach to the lake and its past. Understanding this background adds a significant layer to the experience of visiting Lake Lanier Islands.
Experiencing Fins Up Water Park
+1While the park offers a fun-filled day, some visitor experiences highlight potential issues. One review detailed injuries sustained on a slide due to a lack of clear instructions and inadequate medical response, emphasizing the need for attentive staff and proper safety protocols.
Despite these concerns, many families report having a great time, with kids enjoying the slides and the overall atmosphere. The park's tropical theme and location on the lake contribute to its appeal as a summer destination.
+1Lake Lanier Islands as a 'Mini Hawaii'
+1Instagram reels showcase the picturesque beaches, umbrellas, and clear waters, emphasizing the 'staycation' aspect for those in the Atlanta area. The resort offers amenities like the Legacy Lodge for overnight stays and various dining options, contributing to the resort feel.
+1While the visual appeal is strong, it's important to manage expectations. It offers a beach-like experience with lake water, which differs from the ocean. However, for a convenient escape with a tropical ambiance, Lake Lanier Islands delivers a popular option for many Georgians.
+1
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