4 Great Ways to Spend a Day at Lopez Lake
The beautiful rains brought us more than May flowers. They filled our lakes and replenished our spirits, encouraging us to flee the hamster wheel and make a beeline for the outdoors. Just 10 miles outside of Arroyo Grande lies our own scenic sanctuary filled with trees, waterfalls, trails, and the beckoning tranquil waters of Lopez Lake.
A popular playground for kids and adults alike, Lopez Lake’s 22 miles of shoreline and warm waters are often teeming with people enjoying a vast array of water sports and activities. Whether your idea of paradise is finally cracking open that book you’ve meant to read on a sandy beach or swimming in the coves of a crystal-clear lake, opportunities abound to disconnect from the world and soothe the soul.
Fishing
In the mood for a peaceful, reflective day of fishing? Look no further than freshwater angling. No need to pack up the car and haul your gear. Let the Lopez Lake Marina take care of everything for you. From bait and tackle to fishing licenses, from fishing boat rentals to a fish cleaning station, the Marina makes it easy to forget about your cares and relax on the dock or a boat while you wait for that tug on the other end of your line.
While catfish are available year-round, the reservoir also hosts crappie, red-ear sunfish, and both largemouth and smallmouth bass in the warmer months. Regardless of the time of year, before you set out to catch the big one, it is recommended that fishing enthusiasts check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for complete fishing regulations as well as taking a look at the Fishing Lopez Lake page.
Water Activities in the Marina
Fishing isn’t the only game in town at this gorgeous lake. Anyone interested in more of a rush? Try your hand at jet skiing, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and even hydro bikes. Or maybe let life’s chaos float away as you recline on a tiki or patio boat, pontoon, or even a waterslide boat! The Marina has everything you need from equipment to safety gear, although watercraft rentals are limited, so reserve early.
Vista Lago Adventure Park
Not enough adventure you say? Check out Lopez Lake’s on-site Vista Lago Adventure Park. For those looking to fulfill their inner Tarzan, soar across the park on more than 2,100 feet of zip lines! Immerse yourself in nature with a birds-eye view of the lake as you take on four zip lines, two of which are high-speed lines. Adrenalin still coursing through your veins? Brave-hearted warriors can toss fate to the wind with Quick Jump, a 40-foot freefall, or take on a high-elevation ropes challenge with courses ranging from beginner to double-black diamond.
Eating by the Water
With all this activity, one thing is certain—massive appetites! Head to the Marina Bar & Grill for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and feast on breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads, and burgers or pop over to the snack bar for a quick bite. For those adults feeling parched after spending a day in nature, venture into Fish Tales, the Marina’s full bar, and grab an ice-cold beer or a mixed drink.
Whether seeking to unplug or channel your Indiana Jones alter ego, you should have no problem finding your “Zen” at this picturesque nirvana. Explore the trails, glide among the treetops, or take a dip in the inviting blue waters. Lopez Lake awaits, ready to restore your senses. With the Marina tending to your needs and desires, all that’s standing between you and a gorgeous day of sun and fun is YOU!
