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Canandaigua Lake, the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes in New York, stretches 15.5 miles in length and 1.5 miles in width, offering a serene and pristine environment. This lake is renowned for its exceptional water quality, serving as the primary source of drinking water for the surrounding communities and boasting visibility of up to 50 feet, making it a paradise for fishermen and swimmers.
For adventure seekers, the lake invites boating, fishing, and swimming, while the surrounding landscape is perfect for hiking and biking. The Cumming Nature Center and Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area provide ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore.
Wellness seekers can find tranquility at Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, featuring diverse gardens, a Japanese teahouse, and an Italian garden. Families will delight in Roseland Waterpark, the largest in the region, and Roseland Wake Park.
Historical landmarks such as the Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum and the Ontario County Historical Society & Museum offer a glimpse into the past. The New York Kitchen is a must-visit for food and wine enthusiasts, with wine tastings, cooking classes, and local produce. The nearby CMAC Performing Arts Center and Bristol Valley Theater add a touch of culture to any visit. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Canandaigua Lake and its surroundings have something for everyone.
- Surface area (mi)
- 24.92
- Max depth (ft)
- 275.59
- Elevation (ft)
- 593.83
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 36.04
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
- Ice Fishing
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Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Canandaigua Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, it is not always safe to swim in Canandaigua Lake. The lake has experienced harmful algal blooms (HABs) and increased levels of blue-green algae, which can pose health risks. Monitoring efforts are ongoing to track water quality, especially for cyanoHABs.
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Canandaigua Lake is a popular destination because of its various attractions and activities. It offers places like Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, Kershaw Park, and the historic pier. Additionally, visitors can enjoy Roseland Waterpark, wakeboarding at Roseland Wake Park, and scenic sunset dinner cruises on the Canandaigua Lady.
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For fishing in Canandaigua Lake, New York, the daily catch limits and size restrictions are as follows: Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout, and Atlantic Salmon have a minimum length of 15 inches, with a daily limit of 5 in combination, but no more than 3 of any one species. Walleye have a minimum length of 18 inches and a daily limit of 3.
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There are no dog-friendly beaches on Canandaigua Lake. Dogs are not allowed in the bathhouse or beach area at Kershaw Park, and similar restrictions apply to other parks. You can walk your dog in other areas of the parks as long as they are leashed.
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Towns near Canandaigua Lake include Geneva, Penn Yan, and Naples. Geneva is about 16 miles away, while Penn Yan is approximately 23 miles from Canandaigua. These towns are situated around the Finger Lakes region, with Canandaigua located at the north end of Canandaigua Lake.
