By Havasu Adventure Company
Lake Havasu is one of the premier boating destinations in the Southwest United States. With over 400 miles of stunning shoreline, crystal-clear waters, and endless sunshine, it’s a dream for anyone looking to enjoy a day—or a whole week—on the water. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a family traveler, or just out to relax, there’s something magical about boating in Lake Havasu.
Here are the Top 10 Things to Do on a Boat in Lake Havasu—brought to you by your local watercraft experts at Havasu Adventure Company.
1. Cruise Under the Historic London Bridge
No trip to Lake Havasu is complete without passing under the London Bridge—the real one from England, relocated stone-by-stone in 1968. It’s not just a photo opportunity; it’s a moment that connects you to history while enjoying modern-day fun.
Best Time to Go: Early morning or late afternoon for less traffic and stunning light.
Pro Tip: Approach slowly and snap a picture from the waterline with the mountains in the background. It’s Instagram gold.
2. Anchor at the Famous Bridgewater Channel
Once you cruise under the bridge, you’ll enter the iconic Bridgewater Channel, where boats anchor in shallow water, and the party begins.
This is the ultimate hangout for:
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People-watching
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Floating with drinks
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Playing music
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Meeting fellow boaters
The Channel is like a floating social club—spring break, summer weekends, and holiday events often turn it into one giant boat party.
Safety Tip: Always anchor properly and watch for swimmers.
Local Tip: Grab takeout from nearby restaurants and enjoy a floating picnic!
3. Sandbar Hangouts and Shallow Water Parties
Just north of the main lake is the Thompson Bay Sandbar—a top destination for sandbar parties. Shallow, warm waters make this the perfect stop for:
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Tossing a football
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Sunbathing
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Floating on inflatables
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Drinking and dancing with other boaters
It’s one of the most relaxed yet vibrant boating experiences in Havasu.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, shade canopy, waterproof speaker, and your best playlist.
Boat Rental Tip: At Havasu Adventure Company, we offer boats with built-in coolers and Bluetooth stereo systems—perfect for sandbar days.
4. Tubing, Wakeboarding & Waterskiing
If you’re into adrenaline-pumping fun, Havasu is your playground. The open water areas outside of the Channel are ideal for tubing, wakeboarding, and waterskiing.
Best Spots: Thompson Bay and Copper Canyon.
What You’ll Need:
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Tow rope
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Life jackets
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Water sports gear (rentable from Havasu Adventure Company)
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A boat with a ski tow bar or tower
Group Tip: Take turns spotting and driving. Safety is always the top priority.
5. Explore Hidden Coves and Private Beaches
Lake Havasu has dozens of hidden coves and beaches only accessible by boat. These quiet, scenic hideaways offer a break from the crowds and a chance to truly relax.
Top Hidden Gems:
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Steamboat Cove
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Skiers Island
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Copper Canyon’s calm edges (before the party starts)
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California side’s lesser-known beaches
Bring With You: A hammock, picnic lunch, snorkel gear, and a trash bag (always leave no trace).
This is your chance to connect with nature, away from the hustle.
6. Sunset Cruises with Drinks and Music
There’s something deeply peaceful about cruising Lake Havasu at golden hour. The reflection of the setting sun over the desert mountains while floating gently on calm waters is an experience you won’t forget.
Ideas to Elevate It:
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Bring a charcuterie board and chilled wine
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Play relaxing tunes
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Dress up for fun sunset photos
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Stop at a mid-lake point for panoramic views
Havasu sunsets are often painted in fiery oranges, pinks, and purples. It’s a romantic way to end your day—or kick off the evening.
7. Cliff Jumping at Copper Canyon
For thrill-seekers, Copper Canyon is the place to be. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, this cove has become famous for its cliff jumping.
Heights vary from 5 to 40 feet, so there’s something for every comfort level (but only jump if you’re confident and the water is clear and deep).
Caution: Jump at your own risk and always check the depth first.
Other Fun: If jumping’s not your thing, float nearby and watch others take the leap. It’s still a blast!
8. Fishing and Wildlife Watching
Believe it or not, Lake Havasu is also a fantastic fishing lake. It’s home to:
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Largemouth bass
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Smallmouth bass
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Catfish
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Stripers
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Panfish
Fishing from a boat lets you access deeper channels and quiet zones for the best catch.
Early Mornings Are Best: The water is still, and the fish are active.
Wildlife You May See:
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Bald eagles
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Great blue herons
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Wild burros along the shoreline
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Desert bighorn sheep in the distance
Bring binoculars if you’re a wildlife enthusiast!
9. Dock & Dine at Waterfront Restaurants
One of the best perks of boating in Havasu is the ability to dock and dine. Several lakeside restaurants have boat slips, allowing you to pull right up, hop off, and enjoy a meal with lake views.
Top Spots to Check Out:
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Barley Bros Brewery
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Shugrue’s
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Javelina Cantina
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Blue Chair
Vibe: From casual drinks and burgers to upscale seafood and margaritas with a view.
Make a loop: start your day with breakfast, anchor for a while, then dock again for dinner!
10. Stargazing on the Open Water
When the sun goes down and the crowds go home, a magical transformation happens over Lake Havasu. With minimal light pollution, the desert sky becomes a blanket of stars.
Drop anchor in a quiet cove or float in open water, shut off the lights, and look up.
What to Bring:
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Blanket or towel
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Stargazing app
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Hot drinks if it’s chilly
Romantic Idea: Surprise your date with a bottle of wine and a playlist of slow jams under the stars.
It’s moments like these that make boating in Lake Havasu unforgettable.
Bonus: Holiday Events & Seasonal Boat Parades
Havasu hosts holiday-themed boat parades and events throughout the year:
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4th of July Fireworks on the Lake
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Christmas Boat Parade of Lights
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Memorial & Labor Day Weekend Parties
Join the celebration or anchor in a quiet spot to watch the show.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Havasu Boat Rental
Boating in Lake Havasu offers something for everyone—from thrill-seekers to chill-seekers. Whether you’re tubing with your friends, anchoring for a floating BBQ, or simply enjoying a peaceful sunset, the memories made on the lake will last a lifetime.
Why Rent with Havasu Adventure Company?
✅ Clean, modern boats
✅ Full safety and gear included
✅ Friendly, local staff
✅ Optional add-ons: tubes, water skis, wakeboards
✅ Pet-friendly options available
✅ Affordable packages for half-day, full-day, and multiple days
We make sure your time on the water is stress-free, safe, and packed with fun. Book your boat today and experience Lake Havasu the way it was meant to be—by water.