The Best Bodies Of Water Right In The Middle Of Austin

Austin has quite a few places to fish, kayak, or swim in and around town to help its citizens stay cool in the summer. In fact, it’s probably due to these bodies of water that Austin is an enjoyable place to be in the summertime. Despite being few in number, you’ll never get tired of these areas that don’t even require a day trip to visit them.

Lady Bird Lake

Smack in the middle of the city, dividing north from south, is Ladybird Lake. This inner-city waterway is beloved by all Austinites who use the 10-mile trail surrounding Lady Bird Lake for running, biking, and walking. In the water, you’ll find the University of Texas crew members, kayakers, paddle boarders, and fishermen all sharing the waterway that offers precious relief at the height of summer.

Lake Austin

Lake Travis

Lake Travis is the go-to destination for those looking to hangout on a party barge or go water skiing. One of the most coveted spots is Devil’s Cove where you’re sure to see everyone you know during Memorial Day, summer, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day. There is also a historic restaurant called The Oasis where you can eat on the porch and watch the sun set over the glittering water that you just spent the afternoon swimming in.

Quarry Lake

Quarry Lake is a local favorite for those in North Austin. This hidden gem used to be a quarry, but now is a lesser-known option for a day outdoors. Whether you want to fish, swim, or paddle board, this is an excellent family-friendly option. Pure Austin Fitness also uses Quarry Lake for it SUP class so don’t be surprised if you see a bunch of extra-fit people hanging around here.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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