If you’re tempted to try out a pontoon boat, one of the best ways is to hire one from one of many stunning locations around the United States.
Or you might already own a pontoon boat and what to trailer up and take it somewhere for a summer boating trip.
We are so lucky in this country to have such a wide range of diverse lakes and inland waterways. You could quite happily take pontoon boat vacations every single year, and never have to go back to the same location.
However, some are better than others and I’ve compiled just a selection of them below having seen this original list on the Bennington website, which I wanted to expand upon.
In no particular order, here are the best pontoon boat vacation locations, with a few additional links you might find interesting, particular if you want to hire a boat when you get there.
1. Lake of the Ozarks (Missouri)Â
Pontoon Rental Company: Iguana Watersports
The Lake of Ozarks was the setting for Brad Rowland to break the pontoon boat speed record back in 2013… it’s a pontoon boat hotspot that’s for sure!
In fact, it’s renowned as being the pontoon boat party capital, particularly the party cove area (Anderson Hollow Cove). It’s mile long cove and every weekend over the summer sometimes up to 3,000 leisure boats including pontoons will congregate for a huge celebration.
It’s quite raucous fun as you can see from the video below, so if that’s a bit too much for you, you’re sure to find a more peaceful spot with over 200 square kilometres of lake.
2. Lake Cumberland (Kentucky)
Pontoon Rental Company: Wolf Creek Marina
Lake Cumberland is also home to another world record, this time for the largest ever boat tie-up: 1,651 in case you were wondering.
With nearly 5 million visitors a year, it can get very busy, but it’s even bigger than the Lake of the Ozarks, so you will find a peaceful spot or a great place to fish with no interruptions should you wish.
In fact, it’s a great place for a fishing vacation with brown trout, lake trout, rainbow trout, sauger, striped bass, sturgeon, and walleye all in plentiful supply.
It’s steeped in history too as you can see from the video below.
3. Lake Tahoe (California and Nevada)
Pontoon Rental Company: H20 Craft
For guaranteed sun this summer, head on to Lake Tahoe which is one of the most popular pontoon vacation spots in the United States.
And it’s easy to see why too as it’s simply awesome if you love water sports, with plenty of space, great climate, and beautiful views.
If you want some time off the boat, you can also take advantage of some of the amazing hiking trails, or even pack up your skis and head off into the mountains for some snow.
4. Lake Havasu (Arizona)
Pontoon Rental Company: Sandbar Powersports
This lake regular features in the popular Spring Break MTV series, and there’s a load of great reasons for that, as it’s one of the country’s most popular boating destinations.
With 45 miles of lake, you are bound to find a great spot, but if you do need some inspiration, then I really do recommend checking out the reconstruction of the London Bridge. You can drive your pontoon straight under it and for one fleeting moment imagine your floating down the Thames River in England.
Alternatively beach your pontoon boat up on The Sandbar or drive down to Topock Gorge for longer day trip with stunning views.
5. Lake Norman (North Carolina)
Pontoon Rental Company: Lake Effects
Lake Norman is a great place if you’re in mood for a party, with almost constant parties and boat tie-ups taking place across the summer.
It’s still great for families too, with lots to explore in nearby Uptown Charlotte including art, history, food, culture, shopping, and frequent events – you should never be stuck for something to do.
6. Lake Martin (Alabama)
Pontoon Rental Company: Russell Marine
If a lake has a nickname of “floating trailer park party”, you should know what you’re going to be getting yourself into – it’s perfect for the pontoon boat party lifestyle.
It’s a massive 41,000-acre lake which is a popular destination with college kids and those that want to let their hair down.
Handy Hint: If you have never driven a pontoon boat before and are worried about, don’t be. You can read this guide to driving for the first time which include pictures and a step by step guide on how you can do it for the first time.
