Being on the water can be relaxing as well as exciting and fun. There are so many great activities to get involved in that it’s no wonder getting out on the water is a favorite pastime whether we’re traveling or close to home. The following describes some of the many things you can do while enjoying the waves or the pristine calming waters at your favorite lake get-a-way in the mountains.
Water Parks
There are dozens of water parks throughout the United States to enjoy. Some resorts feature water parks as the main attraction while others, such as Disney World and Cedar Point, offer water parks as an added attraction to their already abundant selection of rides and activities.
Most water parks have several things in common. Most have raft rides, wave pools, and several slides to choose from. There are also roller coaster style water rides and diving platforms for those who are more adventurous. There are even a few places that offer indoor beaches. Many water parks also offer activities for kids and a variety of restaurants.
Boating
There are several types of boats to enjoy and as many activities to take part in while boating. Power boats are fun simply to ride in while enjoying the wind on your face and the cool water splashing into the boat. Skiing, tubing, and wake boarding are all fun activities to do while boating.
Sailboats are not only relaxing but can provide a challenge for those wanting to maneuver a boat primarily using the wind. Rowboats are favorites for fishing or just spending hours floating along the water. Pontoon boats are a great way for a large group of people to enjoy the water at the same time.
Kayaking/Canoeing
Kayaking can be enjoyed in almost any body of water including rivers, lakes, and even the oceans. For those with more experience, kayaking in white water can be quite thrilling. There are kayaks made out of fiberglass, plastic, and even ones that can be inflated. You can even go tandem in a kayak.
Canoeing is an ideal way to take your time and connect with nature while gliding across the water. There are lots of guided tours as well as challenging courses to choose from when going canoeing. Canoeing is great exercise and something even younger children can enjoy.
Beach
There’s plenty of fun and relaxation to enjoy whether you’re on one of the coasts, down south, or exploring one of the gorgeous beaches in the Midwest along the Great Lakes. Depending on the beach and the weather, you can enjoy massive waves or relaxing ripples. Those with lots of energy can play Frisbee, volleyball, or even go surfing in some select spots.
For the less ambitious, the beach still provides plenty of options for a good time. There’s fishing off the pier, searching for seashells, or the artistic endeavor of building sandcastles. In the evening you can watch the sunset and then light up the bonfire.
Lakes
There are beautiful lakes throughout the United States to visit, particularly in the west and Midwest. Swimming, sunbathing, and participating in water sports are but a few activities to do when out on the lake. A lot of the same activities that are done in the ocean or on faster moving rivers can be learned by beginners on calmer lake waters first.
Fishing is one of the highlights of spending time at almost any lake. Walleye, yellow perch, and varieties of trout and sturgeon are just a few of the types of fish that can be found in American lakes. Other favorites found in lakes include bass, bluegill, and carp.
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