WTF Las Vegas

Las Vegas travel story

Lake Mead in Summer: Water Sports, Boat Tours, and What's Worth Doing

Lake Mead is 30 miles from Las Vegas and one of the few places you can cool off in genuine open water during the desert summer. Here's the complete summer guide.

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Lake Mead National Recreation Area, 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas via Highway 93, is the summer escape that locals rely on when the desert valley becomes genuinely hostile. At 247 square miles, it's the largest reservoir in the United States by capacity.

Water Activities

  • Kayak and paddleboard rentals at Boulder Beach — $30–60/hour, calm water, beautiful canyon walls
  • Lake Mead Cruises — 90-minute sightseeing cruises departing Las Vegas Bay Marina
  • Houseboat rentals — Multi-day adventures for groups of 8–12
  • Jet ski rentals at Las Vegas Boat Harbor — $100–150/hour
  • Fishing — Striped bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish. Nevada license required ($15/day for non-residents)

Swimming

Boulder Beach is the primary swim beach — sandy entry, lifeguard on summer weekends. The water temperature in July is 82–86°F. Arrive before 9am for parking and a beach spot.

Confirm current hours, prices, access, age rules, and availability with the official venue before you go.