Sothwest Lake Adventures

Looking for a fun end of summer vacation spot? Head out to one of the amazing lakes in the desert south west. It may not be the first vacation that comes to mind, but it’s a fun one that you should check out. I ventured out to Lake Mead and Lake Havasu to get the scoop on where to stay, what to do and where to eat.

Lake Havasu

On the Arizona and California border, Lake Havasu has been a spring break destination for years. Over 750,000 people flock here in the summer each year. After visiting the lake for 3 days, I fell in love with this area and the laid back attitude of the people here. A great place to spend a weekend getaway at the end of Summer.

Where to stay:

Island Inn is the place to stay in Lake Havasu. Just steps from the famous London Bridge and the channel where the boats line up to party. To be honest, the hotel is a little outdated, but that adds to the charm. When you walk in the front doors you feel as if you walked in to the 1985 MTV spring break. The rooms are spacious, includes free continental breakfast and there’s a pool if you’re not planning on getting in the lake (but really, who would not go to the lake?)

Where to eat:

Javelina Cantina is a must try when you visit Havasu. Fairly authentic Mexican food that is full of flavor. The chicken flautas are mouth watering and delicious. A perfect pairing with their Havarita, a mix of reposado tequila, orange juice, sweet-n-sour and Cointreau.

Where to play:

Kokomo’s bar and dance club is the place to party into the wee hours in Havasu. The bar is right on the lake. So dry off from the lake and walk up to order another round. This fun venue also has a pool that is always a party and a backyard area with beer bong and taco truck. Try their $5 drink specials and their Havasu Punch (Long Island doesn’t know how to party like Havasu!)

Lake Mead

Southeast of Las Vegas, Lake Mead flows between Nevada and Arizona. This national recreation area hosts outdoor activities year round. From boating, jet skiing, hiking, fishing, BBQs and more.

Where to stay:

Lake Mead is only a 40 minute drive from Las Vegas. So you have many options on where to stay. You can stay on the Vegas Strip and plan a day trip to the lake or you can stay out at the Lake. The Westin Lake Las Vegas is on the water. This 5 star hotel and spa has everything your heart desires. You can rent a boat right there at the shore or book a tour. Or if golf is tour thing, the concierge there can book you a round at one of the local golf courses.

Where to eat:

Boulder City, the city the dam built is on the hilltop just outside the Lake Mead national recreation area. Built for the workers of the Hoover Dam, Boulder City is a historic place full of things to see. Many great restaurants line the main street in town. Tony’s Pizza is delicious, and being from NY I swear they have the best pizza in the West. Jack’s Place Bar & Grill has ice cold beer and juicy burgers that’ll leave you happy. If you need a pick me up, the Coffee Cup has you covered, they also serve traditional American breakfast.

Get in your car or book a flight and experience one or both of these amazing lakes. It’s the perfect end of summer getaway. Get a floatation raft and dive in the lake and go for a float downstream. Don’t forget the beer!

I’d love to see your summer vacation photos. Tag me on Instagram @NakedBoyNews and Twitter at @GayTravelGuy. And send me ideas on where I should travel to next. Till next time enjoying your travels AbOUT the Globe. And visit AbOUTtheGlobe.com for videos of my lake adventures.