Top 20 Things to do this Summer in Lake Havasu
Summer in Lake Havasu City means one thing: the good life on the water. With crystal-clear skies, warm desert sunshine, and a lake that practically begs you to jump in, Lake Havasu City is Arizona's ultimate summer playground — and whether you're planning a family getaway, a friends' trip, or a little of both, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of it. From high-energy water sports to laid-back sunset cruises, here are 20 of the best things to do in Lake Havasu this summer.
On the Water
1. Rent a Boat and Explore the Lake
There's no better way to experience Lake Havasu than from the water itself. Rent a pontoon, deck boat, or ski boat for the day and cruise out to Copper Canyon, the Sandbar, or one of the many tucked-away coves along the 450-mile shoreline. Several local outfitters offer hourly and full-day rentals, making it easy to get on the water no matter your experience level.
2. Paddleboarding on the Lake
Stand-up paddleboarding is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the lake in summer — and for good reason. The calm, clear water near shore is ideal for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can venture further out for a full workout with a view. Rentals are widely available throughout the city, and sunrise paddles have become something of a Havasu tradition.
3. Jet Skiing and Watercraft Rentals
For the thrill-seekers in the group, nothing beats cutting across the open water on a jet ski. Rental companies throughout Lake Havasu City offer single and double watercraft, making this one of the most exhilarating — and Instagrammable — activities on the lake.
4. Kayaking
Prefer a quieter pace? Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the lake's hidden coves and scenic inlets at your own speed. The area near the London Bridge and English Village offers particularly beautiful paddling conditions, and sunrise and sunset kayak outings are especially memorable.
5. Tubing on the Lake
Round up the whole crew and grab a towable tube for an afternoon of pure fun. Tubing is a go-to activity for families and friend groups alike — equal parts thrilling and hilarious, and a guaranteed way to make summer memories.
6. Fishing in Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu is renowned as one of Arizona's top fishing destinations, with striped bass, largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie all plentiful in the summer months. Whether you fish from the shore, a dock, or a rented boat, this is a relaxing and rewarding activity for anglers of every skill level.
Learn more about fishing in Lake Havasu
7. Take a Guided Lake Tour
Want the full Lake Havasu experience without the planning? A guided boat tour is a fantastic option for first-timers and returning visitors alike. Tours often pass under the London Bridge, through scenic channels, and out to open-water viewpoints you wouldn't easily find on your own.
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Iconic Attractions
8. Walk Across the London Bridge
Yes, the real one. The original London Bridge — dismantled in England and rebuilt stone by stone in the Arizona desert — is Lake Havasu City's most iconic landmark, and summer is one of the best times to visit. Stroll across for stunning lake views, learn about its fascinating history, and don't forget to stop for photos.
Discover the London Bridge
9. Explore the English Village
Just beneath the London Bridge, the English Village is a charming waterfront district with boutique shops, dining options, and beautiful lake views. It's a great place to start or end your day, and the combination of English architecture against the Arizona shoreline is genuinely one-of-a-kind.
Visit the English Village
Outdoor Adventure
10. Hike the Mohave Sunset Trail
One of the most scenic hikes near Lake Havasu City, the Mohave Sunset Trail offers sweeping views of the lake and surrounding desert landscape. Best tackled in the early morning during summer to beat the heat, this trail rewards hikers with vistas that are nothing short of spectacular.
11. Off-Road and ATV Adventures
The desert terrain surrounding Lake Havasu City is a playground for off-road enthusiasts. Several outfitters offer ATV and UTV rentals, and there are miles of trails and open desert to explore. It's one of those only-in-Havasu experiences that perfectly complements a day on the water.
Browse Outdoor Adventures
12. Head to a Lake Beach
Lake Havasu City is home to several beautiful sandy beaches, including the popular stretch near Windsor Beach. Claim your spot, set up your chairs and umbrella, and spend the afternoon soaking it all in. The combination of blue water, desert mountains, and wide-open sky makes for a beach experience unlike anything else in the Southwest.
Dining & Social Experiences
15. Dine at a Waterfront Restaurant
Lake Havasu City's dining scene has grown significantly in recent years, with a range of waterfront restaurants offering great food alongside unbeatable views. Whether you're looking for fresh seafood, elevated American fare, or a cold drink at a lakeside bar, the options along the waterfront deliver on every front.
Explore Dining in Lake Havasu
16. Grab a Drink at a Local Brewery or Wine Bar
After a full day on the water, there's something deeply satisfying about settling in at a local craft brewery. Lake Havasu City has a growing craft beer scene with options that cater to every palate — a great way to unwind and talk about the day's adventures.
Browse Breweries & Wine Bars
17. Shop the English Village and Downtown
Lake Havasu City's shopping scene offers a mix of boutique shops, locally owned stores, and one-of-a-kind finds — especially in the English Village area. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, apparel, or gifts to bring home, a stroll through downtown and the Village is a worthwhile summer afternoon.
Discover Shopping
18. Kokomo — Beach, Surf & Party Bar
If there's one spot in Lake Havasu City that perfectly captures the summer-on-the-water energy this destination is known for, it's Kokomo. Situated right on the Bridgewater Channel next to the London Bridge, this tropical-vibed beach, surf, and party bar is the kind of place you stumble into for one drink and end up staying for the whole afternoon. Cold drinks, good vibes, and one of the best settings in the city — Kokomo is a Havasu summer staple.
Learn More About Kokomo
19. The Spot — Pizza, Arcade & More
Looking for a spot where the whole crew can eat, play, and stay a little longer than planned? The Spot delivers exactly that. With freshly made pizza and an arcade under one roof, it's the kind of place that works equally well for families with kids, friend groups unwinding after a day on the lake, or anyone who takes their pizza and their games equally seriously. Fun, casual, and genuinely entertaining — The Spot is one of those Lake Havasu City experiences that surprises first-time visitors in the best way.
Learn More About The Spot
20. Watch the Sunset from the London Bridge
Save this one for your last evening in town. As the sun dips behind the desert mountains and turns the lake into a mirror of gold and amber, the view from the London Bridge is something that stays with you long after you've headed home. There's a reason visitors keep coming back to Lake Havasu — and this moment is a big part of it.
Family Fun
13. Turtle Beach Bar & Waterpark at the Nautical Beachfront Resort
The Nautical Beachfront Resort's Turtle Beach Bar and Waterpark is one of the best family destinations in the city. With a waterpark, beachfront access, and a lively bar scene for the adults, it's the kind of place where every member of the family finds their happy place. Summer is prime season here — arrive early to snag the best spot.
Learn more about Lake Havasu Waterpark
14. Sunset Cruise on the Lake
Few things in life are as good as a Lake Havasu sunset — and experiencing one from the water is even better. Evening boat cruises are a popular way to wind down after a busy summer day, and they make for an especially memorable experience with a group.
15. Rubba Duck Safari
One of Lake Havasu City's most unique and memorable family experiences, Rubba Duck Safari lets you actually captain your own tour boat across the lake to the California shore and back to the Arizona coast. Before you set off, the enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff walks you through everything you need to know — making it completely accessible for first-timers and kids alike. It's equal parts adventure and education, and the kind of only-in-Havasu experience that becomes the highlight of the trip for families. Book ahead — this one fills up fast.
Plan Your Summer Trip To Lake Havasu City
Ready to experience everything Lake Havasu has to offer this summer? From the water to the trails to the table, this is a destination built for making memories — and no two trips are exactly alike.
Start planning your getaway at GoLakeHavasu.com — your official guide to lodging, dining, events, and everything in between.
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