Lake on the west coast

Santa Margarita Lake Vacation Rentals

Santa Margarita Lake

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Santa Margarita Lake
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Why Rent On Santa Margarita Lake

Just 8 miles east of San Luis Obispo, Santa Margarita Lake (officially Salinas Reservoir) is a serene 1,100-acre lake surrounded by rolling oak-dotted hills. Though it serves primarily as a municipal water source, recreation is well-integrated with hiking, kayaking, boating (electric and 10-hp max), and bass and trout fishing. Swimming is not permitted. The lake’s Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park includes quiet campgrounds and trailheads like Blinn Ranch Trail, perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. For a small-town vibe, grab a meal at The Range, a rustic-chic steakhouse in Santa Margarita.

Best time to go
Golden autumn, from late September to mid-November, enchants Santa Margarita Lake. Crisp air invigorates adventurers, while vibrant foliage mirrors tranquil waters. Weekdays invite solitude amidst stunning vistas, perfect for fishing and kayaking. Savor October's Wine Festival, enhancing this serene escape.
Water Quality
Santa Margarita Lake's water exhibits a range of colors from deep blue to emerald, with clarity varying from crystal-clear to murky, depending on seasonal and environmental conditions.
Surface area (mi)
1.96
Max depth (ft)
129.92
Elevation (ft)
1305.77
Shoreline length (mi)
22

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing
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Marinas on Santa Margarita Lake

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Santa Margarita Lake. It is the drinking water reservoir for the City of San Luis Obispo, and human contact with the water is prohibited.

  • Santa Margarita Lake is a popular destination for outdoor activities because it offers a wide range of recreational options. The lake and its surrounding natural area provide opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and boating, along with picnic areas and trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. The area is also home to abundant wildlife.

  • There are size and catch limits for fishing at Santa Margarita Lake in California. The limit is ten fish, and there is no minimum size limit. This applies to lakes like Santa Margarita under the 2025 freshwater sport fishing regulations.

  • There is no public beach at Santa Margarita Lake. The lake is part of a nature reserve and recreation area, accessible for hiking, bicycling, and equestrian activities, but it does not have a public beach. Motor vehicles are not permitted in the natural area.

  • Towns near Santa Margarita Lake include Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, and Morro Bay. These towns are located in San Luis Obispo County, with Santa Margarita Lake situated several miles southeast of the town of Santa Margarita. The lake is also known as Salinas Reservoir.