Lake with whispy clouds

Lake Havasu Vacation Rentals

Swim the cool, sparkling water with your family and boat near the iconic London Bridge at Lake Havasu City.

Arizona's Party Lake with a London Address

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Lake Havasu
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Why Rent On Lake Havasu

Lake Havasu stretches across 19,000 acres of the Colorado River along the California-Arizona border in Mohave County, its deep blue water set against a backdrop of red desert hills and the improbable sight of London Bridge, transported stone by stone from England in 1968 and reassembled over a canal connecting the lake to the English Village commercial district. The bridge is at once a genuine historical artifact and a wonderfully absurd piece of desert theater, and the community built around it has grown into one of Arizona’s most vibrant and accessible lake destinations.

Vacation Rentals on the Water: The Right Way to Do Havasu

The vacation rental market on Lake Havasu is one of the strongest in Arizona, with waterfront homes, lakeside cabins, and full-service vacation houses available throughout the Lake Havasu City shoreline. A rental with a private dock, hot tub, and lake views gives your family something no resort hotel in the area can match: the ability to launch a kayak before breakfast, host a lakeside dinner on your own deck, and end the evening watching the desert sky darken over the water. Pet-friendly properties are easy to find, and the city’s walkable waterfront makes keeping a dog well-exercised effortless.

Jet Skis, Houseboats, Striped Bass, and Channel Catfish

Lake Havasu’s recreation menu is as comprehensive as its scale allows. Jet skis, houseboats, kayaks, and pontoon boats all share the water in a summer atmosphere that is energetic, sun-drenched, and specifically designed for families who want variety from their lake time. Anglers pursue striped bass, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish with equal enthusiasm, and the lake’s warm, well-oxygenated water supports healthy fish populations throughout the year. The Lake Havasu Marina provides the full range of services, from slip rentals and fuel to equipment and guide connections.

English Village, Barley Bros. Brewery, and the London Bridge

English Village is a retail and dining district built around the London Bridge’s Arizona landing, combining genuine architectural history with waterfront restaurants, boutique shops, and the particular charm of a destination that does not take itself entirely seriously. Barley Bros. Brewery, positioned with views of the water and the bridge, serves craft beer and lakeside cuisine in an atmosphere that makes afternoon drinks feel like a deserved conclusion to a productive morning on the water.

Desert Water at Its Most Accessible

Lake Havasu City is served by its own regional airport with connections to Phoenix and Las Vegas, making arrival straightforward for families traveling from multiple directions. The combination of the lake’s size, the city’s service infrastructure, the London Bridge’s enduring novelty, and the warm desert climate that keeps the water inviting from March through November makes Lake Havasu one of the most complete lake vacation destinations in the American Southwest. For families who want the full Arizona lake experience with zero logistical friction, Havasu delivers from the first morning on the water.

Best time to go
Visit Lake Havasu between late September and early November, when golden leaves dance on gentle breezes. Enjoy water sports in balmy weather, fish without the summer crowds, and savor serene sunsets. Capture the annual Boat Show in October for an unforgettable experience.
Water Quality
Lake Havasu's waters are predominantly turquoise, with hues ranging from deep blue to jade, reflecting the dissolved minerals and suspended calcium carbonate that give the lake its distinctive color. The water clarity is crystal-clear, allowing visibility up to 16 feet deep, providing an ideal environment for fishing and recreational activities.
Surface area (mi)
48.47
Max depth (ft)
88.58
Elevation (ft)
1200.79
Shoreline length (mi)
450

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Marinas on Lake Havasu

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Havasu has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, there are health risks associated with swimming in Lake Havasu. The lake has experienced harmful algal blooms, which can produce toxins that can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and other health problems. These toxins are often more concentrated in sheltered areas like coves and beaches.

  • Lake Havasu is a popular destination because of its extensive water activities and scenic shoreline. The city offers year-round swimming, fishing, and boating on Lake Havasu, along with 400 miles of coastline and various state and local parks with beach access. It also features historic landmarks like the London Bridge and numerous outdoor trails for hiking and off-roading.

  • Yes, you need a fishing license to fish in Lake Havasu, Arizona, if you are 10 years or older. Youth under 10 and blind residents are exempt. Licenses can be purchased online or at various local shops and are required to be in your possession while fishing.

  • London Bridge Beach is best for families. It has calm, shallow waters for safe swimming, a playground, and picnic areas with plenty of shade trees and grassy areas. Rotary Community Park and Beach is another good option with a large sandy beach, playgrounds, and easy access to restrooms and shade structures.

  • The nearest towns to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, are Bullhead City, Arizona, and Kingman, Arizona. These towns are within a short driving distance, with Bullhead City being just across the Colorado River and Kingman about 75 miles away. Other nearby towns include Blythe, California, and Twentynine Palms, California.