City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Known for its emerald green water, red rock cliffs, limestone boulders and Mohave Mountain backdrop, Lake Havasu City is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The main draw to the area is Lake Havasu, a reservoir behind Parker Dam along the Colorado River. Western Arizona shares the Lake Havasu and Colorado River waterways with California.
Photo: Go Lake Havasu (Facebook)
Along with the obvious boating, fishing, paddleboarding and other watersports, Lake Havasu City offers parks, trails and unique attractions for the whole crew. Whether you’re in town for a week, a long weekend or an extended stay at a private boat dock for rent, we’ve got a Lake Havasu to-do list you’ll want to jot down. Let’s go!
London Bridge
Photo: Go Lake Havasu (Facebook)
Originally built in the 1830s in England, London Bridge crossed over the River Thames. Somehow it was decided that it should be relocated to Arizona. It now spans 930 feet over the Bridgewater Channel as part of McCulloch Blvd. (where Thompson Bay flows over into Lake Havasu). It crosses over onto a small island at Kenny’s Beach and London Bridge Beach. Havasu Cove, the Site Six Launch Ramp and other small coves are found all around the island.
Trivia Bonus: The vintage lamp posts were cast from cannons seized by the British at the Battle of Waterloo after defeating the French army. Thanks, Napoleon. Historic significance aside, we just think it’s a cool spot to visit from a private boat slip rental on Lake Havasu.
Lake Havasu State Park
Photo: Lake Havasu State Park (Facebook)
Lake Havasu State Park offers beaches, mountains, camping (tents and RVs), boating, birdwatching and fishing for catfish and all sorts of bass (smallmouth, largemouth and striped to be exact). The Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden has desert flowers, birds, lizards and other southwestern creatures. The park is near London Bridge and has three boat ramps, which is great to know if you’re trailering a boat. There are areas where you can pull your boat right up onto the beach for a day of swimming, picnicking and relaxation.
Lake Havasu Museum of History
Photo: Lake Havasu Museum of History (Facebook)
Looking for an activity where you can get out of the sun for a while? We hear ya. Head to the Lake Havasu Museum of History where you can check out exhibits on steamboats, mining, wildlife, Native American and other local history. See how the Parker Dam was built to create Lake Havasu. A super cool addition, Havasu Rocks, is inside the museum and features exhibits on geology and minerals. If you’re searching for fun and historic attractions from a private boat lift for rent, this is a terrific one to visit.
SARA Park
Photo: Go Lake Havasu (Facebook)
SARA Park (Special Activities and Recreation Area) is a 1,100-acre park with mountain views, Lake Havasu access and a boatload of activities. To name just a few … there are hiking and mountain bike trails, a BMX and motocross track, sports fields, rodeo grounds, a dog park, a shooting and archery range, Havasu 95 Speedway and special event venues. How’s that for an action-packed park?
We hope you’ve found some new Lake Havasu city attractions to add to your itinerary. The next time you’re at a private boat slip rental, a hotel or a local marina, check them out. Let us know your favorites!
