Lake Hamilton is the destination for summer fun and year-round fishing! An angler’s paradise and a pleasure boaters playground, this 7,200-acre lake boasts deep waters, private coves, and 200 miles of breathtaking shoreline. Check out the itinerary below for lake activities that are sure to float your boat!
Friday Evening
Check in! If you’re bringing or renting a boat, look for lakefront accommodations with boat parking and lake access. The DoubleTree by Hilton Hot Springs has a boat ramp and dock for guests. The Baymont by Wyndham Hot Springs on the lake, The Hamilton, Edgewater Resort, and multiple privately owned vacation rentals all have boat docks with public boat launches located nearby.
Settled in and enjoy the views, then head out for dinner – by car or boat! Lakefront restaurants include Fisherman’s Wharf Steak & Seafood, Back Porch Grill, Sam’s Pizza Pub, Trejo’s Del Lago, and Bubba Brews On Lake Hamilton.
Saturday Morning
Grab a quick bite from Java Primo, a small cafe serving espresso drinks, fresh squeezed
orange juice, and a wide variety of breakfast options. It’s located near the Highway 7 bridge over Lake Hamilton and is convenient to several lakefront hotels and condos. If you’re staying on the other end of Lake Hamilton, try Greg’s Rise & Dine Cafe, a local favorite on Airport Road near the Highway 70 Bridge.
Hit the water! If you didn’t BYOB (bring your own boat), visit one of the local marinas to rent one! Rentals include pontoons and tri-toons, as well as skis, kneeboards and tubes. Boat rentals are available from Hot Springs Marina, Kahuna Bay, Gregg Orr Marine & RV, Great White Rentals, and Salty Dog Boat Rental. It’s best to book several weeks in advance.
If you want to get on the water without the hassle of captaining a boat, consider chartering a boat. Captain Jack’s Lake Cruise and JD’s Pontoon Charters both offer private group tours of the lake. There are also multiple fishing guide services available, including Cookie’s Fishing Guide Service, Xtreme Strike Guide Service, Family Fishing Trips Guide Service, John T Hall Striper Guide, and Hamilton & Bearden Guide Service.
Saturday Afternoon
Pack a picnic and take the whole family to visit Electric Island, where you can hike a little known two-mile loop trail. Boat or kayak up to this 118-acre island managed as a nature preserve and explore the wooded shoreline. Or head to Garvan Woodland Gardens and explore this award-winning botanical garden located along the shoreline of Lake Hamilton. Garvan Woodland Gardens offers amazing sights around every corner, from the 4 story treehouse, to the glass Anthony Chapel, the 5th best Asian garden in North America, and even a magical Fairy Garden. Other destinations that can be reached by boat include Entergy Park, Hill Wheatley Park, and the Andrew H. Hulsey State Fish Hatchery.
Saturday Night
After a day on the lake, boat or drive up to enjoy dinner with a view at Bubba Brew’s On Lake Hamilton, a three-story restaurant and bar overlooking Lake Hamilton. Bubba Brew's is a great spot for catching the sunset over the water with an ice cold, locally brewed beer in hand! Enjoy a variety of pub snacks as well as burgers, salads, seafood options, and more.
Sunday Morning
As your trip comes to a close, end the weekend on a peaceful note with some early morning fishing before the water gets too active. If you're still tired from a busy weekend, take it easy and relax on your private balcony overlooking the lake, enjoying the views until it’s time to check out and head back home.
