Texas' Premier Lake - Lined With Resorts, Restaurants, and Vibrant Activities
Posted: Sat, 30 May 2026 01:03 PM - 63 Readers
By: Ben M Stower
Lake Travis, just 20 miles outside Austin, Texas, is a premier reservoir destination offering a vibrant mix of resorts, dining, and outdoor activities. Created in 1942 by damming the Colorado River, the 63-mile-long lake serves as a popular summer escape with its resort-style atmosphere. Upscale properties like Lakeway Resort & Spa provide family-friendly amenities, adults-only pools, swim-up bars, spas, and waterfront dining, making it ideal for both relaxation and lively getaways. The surrounding area features vacation homes, marinas, and scenic spots that blend luxury with natural beauty.
The lake shines with its dynamic dining scene and abundant water-based recreation. Iconic spots like The Oasis on Lake Travis, the state's largest outdoor restaurant perched high on a cliff, offer stunning sunset views, live music, and classic bar fare. More casual options include floating eateries like Captain Pete's Boathouse and The Lighthouse Restaurant & Lounge with its popular weekend brunch. On the water, visitors can enjoy scuba diving at wreck sites, party boats, boat rentals, swimming at natural springs like Krause Springs, hiking, and seasonal events. Whether staying lakeside or day-tripping from Austin, Lake Travis delivers a lively, water-focused Texas getaway.