11 Most Beautiful Bodies of Water in the U.S.
Last Updated on August 16, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
When we think of travel full of fun activities, famous landmarks, and local charm, road trips often steal the spotlight. However, we know the wonder of experiencing the world around us from the water. Inspired by the allure of America’s most beautiful drives, we’ve set out to uncover the boating equivalent – the most beautiful bodies of water in the U.S.
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1. Weeki Wachee Springs
Weeki Wachee Springs in Florida is famous for its crystal-clear waters, live mermaid shows, and uniquely whimsical boating experience. Keep an eye out for manatees as you float along the lazy river or enjoy the thrill of winding water slides at Buccaneer Bay. Be sure to stop in for the famous underwater mermaid show.
2. Lake Tahoe
Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is a well-known boating destination in the US. Crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and panoramic views offer the perfect year-round setting for outdoor recreation. Enjoy boating, paddleboarding, scenic diving, hiking, skiing, and more.
3. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Sail to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, where you can navigate through a maze of 21 islands and explore some of the most spectacular sea caves in North America. Boat to Grand Island near Munising, Michigan, to witness the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore from the water, featuring colorful sandstone cliffs towering up to 200 feet above the lake’s surface.
4. Snake River
The Snake River is a major river in the interior Pacific Northwest, known as one of the longest anadromous journeys on Earth. It runs through vast wilderness and roadless areas and provides boundless experiences such as fishing for Chinook and cruising through the Hells Canyon.
5. Rogue River
Rogue River touches many of Oregon’s several nationally recognized historical and cultural sites. From Rogue River Ranch to Zane Grey’s writing cabin, and tourist attractions such as Rainie Falls Overlook. If you’re interested in fishing in Oregon, keep in mind this is one of the few rivers in the U.S. where anglers can still catch wild salmon, not just hatchery-raised fish.
READ MORE: 10 Incredible Beach Camping Sites in the US
6. Lake Michigan
Carve out some time to explore Lake Michigan in your Chicago trip itinerary. Sail to the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, built in 1893 for the World’s Columbian Exposition, is the only remaining lighthouse in Chicago. Or, anchor at Schoolhouse Beach, known as the clearest beach in the US.
Thinking about camping along one of these bodies of water? Check out our friends at Outdoorsy:
7. Hudson River
There’s no better New York Tour Guide than The Hudson River. From Cold Springs, a charming riverfront town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, to historic sites like the Rockefeller Estate, the Hudson River gives you access to popular and lesser-known attractions of New York State. During the fall, many will take foliage cruises up the Hudson River to Bear Mountain.
8. Delaware River
The Delaware River is rich with history and scenic beauty, including Revolutionary War sites, historic towns, and outdoor activities such as smallmouth bass fishing and bird watching. It also has several waterfront restaurants to dock ‘n’ dine such as The Lambertville Station Restaurant, a restored 19th century train station turned into a waterfront restaurant.
9. Colorado River
The Colorado River courses across seven U.S. states. It touches several other bodies of water, National Parks, and tourist attractions such as Lake Mead, the Grand Canyon, and the iconic Hoover Dam.
10. St. Croix River
Designated a National Scenic Riverway, the St. Croix River’s diverse surroundings feature dramatic limestone bluffs, lush forested banks, and a series of scenic rapids interspersed with tranquil pools. It’s considered one of the best canoeing waterways in the US.
11. San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands is an archipelago in Washington State known for its rural landscape. Peaceful bays provide a beautiful setting for outdoor activities, like hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. Nearby waterways offer access to the Olympic National Park, Seattle, and Vancouver.
Ready to explore America’s most beautiful bodies of water?
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