Lake Lanier is a famous resort in Georgia, just north of Atlanta that draws around 12 million visitors every year, and it’s no wonder why. There’s a ton of stuff to do on the shores of Lake Lanier, from events like cruises and fireworks to such activities as hiking, kayaking, and even ice skating!

Because Lake Lanier is truly massive, it can be hard getting a handle on everything you can do. To make things easier, we’ve compiled this list of awesome Lake Lanier activities.

Enjoy Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Resort

Inspired by the lyrics and laid-back attitude of renowned songwriter Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Resort is a huge beach resort complex that offers pretty much everything you could want from a vacation spot.

Make a Splash at Lake Lanier Islands Water Park

Looking to keep cool this summer? The water park at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands has got you covered. With water slides, a wave pool, and tons of specialty rides to get your blood pounding, everyone in your family is guaranteed to have a blast no matter their age.

Eat Your Fill at Chill Zone Restaurants & Bars

If you’re craving a snack or drink, have no fear. Margaritaville’s Chill Zone Restaurants and Bars are right around the corner. You’ll have plenty of food options to choose from, including Frank & Lola’s Pizzeria, Feeding Frenzy Fried Shack, and the always popular Tiki Bar!

Glamp It Up at the Margaritaville RV Resort

For RV fans, take the stress out of finding a place to park your home away from home and check out the Margaritaville RV Resort! You’ll be surrounded by island vibes and the beautiful countryside, and you’ll even have access to nearby amenities like a pool recreation area, fire pit, and more.

Get Some Sun on LandShark Beach

LandShark Beach, located at LandShark Landing, is the perfect place to catch some rays. Probably the best Lanier Islands beach, LandShark Beach boasts a built-in bar and grill, a live entertainment stage, and plenty of other fun activities.

Rent a Kayak at Energy Watersports

For something a little more active, you can rent a kayak at Energy Watersports and hit the water! It’s the perfect way to grab some exercise while soaking up some sun and getting up close and personal with your beautiful surroundings.

The Best Things to Do at Lake Lanier Islands

Schedule Tee Time at The Legacy on Lanier Golf Course

Georgia is known for having some of the best golf courses in the world, so it’s no surprise you’ll be able to get in some solid tee time when you’re visiting Lake Lanier. The Legacy on Lanier Golf Course is a classic 18-hole course that takes you back in time to the golden era of golf.

Treat Yourself at Tranquility Spa

The best part of vacation is getting the most out of your relaxation time, and what better way to do that than to check out Tranquility Spa on Lanier Islands. They cater to every spa need, offering treatments including standard massages, couple’s massages, and hot stone therapy.

Explore Nature on Hiking and Walking Trails

Whether you’re looking to commune with the woods or catch a view of the beautiful lake, you’ll be able to find a hiking and walking trail on Lanier Islands that fits the bill. With five gorgeous trails ranging from 1 mile to almost 3 miles, casual strollers and cardio buffs alike will be satisfied.

Rent a Boat, Dock a Boat, Float Your Boat on Lake Lanier

If you’re not getting out on the water when visiting Lake Lanier, you’re simply not getting the full experience. Fortunately, Lanier Islands makes it easy to access the lake’s stunning expanses, with plenty of options for renting boats or docking your own. Visit Lanier Islands’ boating page for more information.

Go Ice Skating on Snow Island

In the mood for snow tubing, ice skating, or just a good old-fashioned snowball fight? Starting in November, you can visit Margaritaville’s Snow Island, a real winter wonderland located right on the shores of Lake Lanier.

Camping and Glamping at Lake Lanier Islands

Guests staying at Lake Lanier Islands have a truly impressive variety of accommodation options to choose from, including top-tier beach hotel rooms, private villas with stunning lake views, lowkey lake houses, and the gorgeous lakeside Shoal Creek campground.

Stay and Dine at Legacy Lodge

If you’re planning on staying at Legacy Lodge, which offers classic, cozy accommodations in the true Southern spirit of hospitality, you’ll also have easy access to some fantastic dining options.

Head on over to Bullfrog’s Bar and Grille for some casual American cuisine or grab a cocktail of your choice at L Bar before you hit the water. You can keep things simple at Butler’s Pantry, a grab-and-go joint offering salads, sandwiches, and more, or enjoy spectacular views of the lake and a true fine dining experience at Sidney’s.

Parking at Lake Lanier Islands

For the most part, Lake Lanier Islands charges a $20 daily parking fee for any vehicles that are entering the resort. However, there are a few ways to avoid this fee, including:

  • Being a guest. If you’re planning to stay at the resorts overnight or longer, you’ll get one car parking fee waived.
  • Attending an event. If there’s a conference, wedding, or general event at the resort, including holiday celebrations, your parking fee will be included in the price of attendance.
  • Playing golf. If you’ve reserved a tee time at the golf course, your parking fee is included.
  • Eating at Sidney’s. If you have a confirmed reservation at Sidney’s Restaurant, your parking fee will be waived.

There are a few other ways to snag a parking spot, but the easiest is probably reserving a parking spot ahead of time with ParkMobile.