Lake Austin
A vibrant reservoir in Austin, Texas, perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports with stunning views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Lake Austin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant reservoir in Austin, Texas, perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports with stunning views.
"Lake Austin is SO beautiful!! :-) I have so many memories spent on the water here over the years."
🛶 Paddleboard & Kayak Friendly
You can absolutely paddleboard and kayak on Lake Austin! Don't let misinformation stop you.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Boat Options
Bring your furry friend along for the fun! Some boat rentals offer dog-friendly options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Boat Day Bliss
Throughout Lake Austin
Cruise the shimmering waters, enjoy water sports, or simply soak in the stunning Texas scenery from a boat.

Clear Water Swimming
Jessica Hollis Park
Discover a local favorite for refreshing dips in clear, cool water, perfect for escaping the Texas heat.

Paddling Adventures
Lady Bird Lake (part of Lake Austin)
Kayak or paddleboard through the heart of Austin, enjoying scenic trails and city views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Water Life
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Paddleboard & Kayak Friendly
You can absolutely paddleboard and kayak on Lake Austin! Don't let misinformation stop you.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Boat Options
Bring your furry friend along for the fun! Some boat rentals offer dog-friendly options.
🎬 Movies on the Lake
Catch a unique floating movie night at Mozart's Coffee every Thursday.
🚗 Parking at Bob Wentz Park
Be prepared for a short walk to the 'beach' area at Bob Wentz Park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Paddleboard & Kayak Friendly
You can absolutely paddleboard and kayak on Lake Austin! Don't let misinformation stop you.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Boat Options
Bring your furry friend along for the fun! Some boat rentals offer dog-friendly options.
🎬 Movies on the Lake
Catch a unique floating movie night at Mozart's Coffee every Thursday.
🚗 Parking at Bob Wentz Park
Be prepared for a short walk to the 'beach' area at Bob Wentz Park.
🚫 Avoid Town Lake Swimming
Steer clear of swimming in Town Lake due to potential parasites and debris.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lake Austin's stunning beauty, with its clear blue waters, lush green surroundings, and impressive homes lining the shores. It's a beloved spot for water sports, fishing, and boating, offering a perfect blend of natural scenery and city proximity. Some find the lake incredibly peaceful, while others enjoy the lively atmosphere of boat parties and water activities.
"Lake Austin, formerly Lake McDonald, is a water reservoir on the Colorado River in Austin, Texas. The reservoir was formed in 1939 by the Tom Miller Dam. Lake Austin is SO beautiful!! :-) I have so many memories spent on the water here over the years. The lake offers a lovely space for a variety of rec activities, including water sports, fishing, and boating. I highly recommend this area, it’s so stunning!!"
Kristen L. Matulis
"Absolutely fun. Beautiful views and landmarks. Good place to go fishing."
Robert Lealiiee, Jr.
"Lake Austin is mind blowing. Beautiful blue looking water, green trees and awesome houses on both sides definitely blow your mind. Please look at these pictures then you know what am I talking about."
Gajen Jan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Austin is easily accessible by car, with various points of entry depending on your desired activity. Popular access points include parks like Bob Wentz Park and The Commons Ford Metropolitan Ranch.
While direct public transport to all lake access points is limited, you can utilize Austin's bus system to get close to areas like Lady Bird Lake, from where you can rent kayaks or paddleboards.
Parking availability varies by location. Parks like Bob Wentz Park and The Commons Ford Metropolitan Ranch have designated parking areas, though they can fill up on busy days.
Yes, there are several boat ramps available for launching personal watercraft. Check with local marinas or park services for specific locations and any associated fees.
Yes, Lady Bird Lake, which is part of the larger Lake Austin system, is centrally located in downtown Austin and offers numerous access points for paddling and recreation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to most public areas of Lake Austin, like parks and trails, is generally free. However, specific activities like boat rentals or tours will have associated costs.
Some parks on Lake Austin, such as Bob Wentz Park, may have a small entrance fee, especially on weekends or holidays. It's always a good idea to check the park's official website for current pricing.
Boat rental prices vary depending on the type of boat and duration. Expect to pay anywhere from $50-$150+ per hour for various options, including electric boats and jet skis.
Yes, you can bring your own boat to Lake Austin. There are public boat ramps available for launching, and the lake is popular for various water sports.
Operating hours vary significantly for different attractions. Parks are generally open from dawn to dusk, while boat rental companies and specific venues like Mozart's Coffee have their own schedules.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include boating, wake surfing, wakeboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming in designated areas.
While some areas like Jessica Hollis Park offer clear, cool water for swimming, it's advised to avoid swimming in Town Lake due to potential water quality concerns.
Yes, Lake Austin is a popular spot for fishing, known for its largemouth bass population.
Absolutely! Parks like Bob Wentz Park and The Commons Ford Metropolitan Ranch offer scenic spots to relax, picnic, and enjoy the lake views.
You can rent various types of boats, including electric vintage boats, jet skis, and options for wake surfing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Several waterfront restaurants offer dining with beautiful lake views. Hula Hut is a popular spot, and The Oasis on Lake Travis provides a scenic dining experience nearby.
Many boat rental companies allow you to bring your own snacks and drinks (often with a no-glass policy), making it perfect for a picnic on the water.
Besides Hula Hut, consider The Oasis on Lake Travis for stunning sunset views and dining.
Yes, parks like Jessica Hollis Park and Bob Wentz Park offer picnic tables and grills, ideal for a casual meal by the water.
While direct food delivery to boats might be limited, many restaurants offer takeout options that you can enjoy at a nearby park or on your rented boat.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots from boat decks, waterfront parks, and scenic overlooks. The rolling hills and beautiful houses lining the lake offer picturesque backdrops.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography on Lake Austin.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. Always check with park authorities or the city for current rules regarding drone operation before flying.
Boat rentals provide unique perspectives for photos, from action shots of water sports to serene landscape views of the lake and surrounding hills.
The beautiful houses along the shoreline and the rolling hills provide a constant stream of picturesque views. The Tom Miller Dam is also a significant landmark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
🎣 Anglers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Water Sports Galore
Beyond the thrill of motorized sports, Lake Austin offers a unique experience with its electric-powered vintage boat rentals. These user-friendly boats allow you to captain your own adventure, fitting up to four people and often allowing you to bring your own snacks and drinks. This provides a more intimate and personalized way to experience the lake, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a day out. Remember to check for dog-friendly options if you want to bring your furry companion along for the ride!
For those seeking a truly unique aquatic adventure, consider the Evojet experience, described as a 'go-kart on the water.' This innovative rental offers an exhilarating ride with a sense of security and comfort, adding another layer of excitement to your Lake Austin visit. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or seeking a leisurely cruise, Lake Austin has a water activity to suit every preference.
Finding Your Perfect Spot
Bob Wentz Park is another popular choice, especially for families. While it offers a 'beach' area, be prepared for a short walk to reach it. It's a great place to set up chairs, enjoy snacks, and let the kids play. For those looking for a less crowded, more secluded experience, The Commons Ford Metropolitan Ranch is often cited as a 'best kept secret,' offering gorgeous scenery without the usual hustle and bustle.
Lady Bird Lake, often referred to as Town Lake, is the green heart of Austin and a fantastic area for paddling. It provides scenic trails, city views, and is a hub for kayaking and paddleboarding. However, it's important to note that swimming in Town Lake is generally discouraged due to potential water quality issues. Always prioritize safety and check local advisories before choosing your swimming or recreation spot.
Unique Lake Austin Experiences
For those interested in the burgeoning sport of wake surfing, Lake Austin is a prime location. Many locals and visitors enjoy this rope-less surfing experience on the lake's waves. If you're looking for a unique way to explore the lake, consider renting an Evojet, described as a 'go-kart on the water,' offering an exhilarating and novel experience.
When it comes to dining, the waterfront offers some spectacular options. The Oasis on Lake Travis, while technically on Lake Travis, is a popular nearby destination known for its breathtaking sunset views and lively atmosphere. Closer to the heart of Austin, Hula Hut offers a fun, tropical-themed dining experience right on the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit