Let's get one thing straight. When you hear "Lake Havasu," you probably think of one thing: that London Bridge plopped in the Arizona desert. It's a weird, wonderful image. But after spending over a decade visiting and writing about Arizona's hidden gems, I can tell you that focusing solely on the bridge is the biggest mistake first-timers make. Lake Havasu City is a full-blown, sun-drenched waterfront playground. It's 45 miles of sparkling Colorado River water, framed by rugged Sonoran Desert mountains. The bridge is the headline, but the lake is the story.Lake Havasu Arizona

This guide isn't just a list of attractions. It's the blueprint you need to plan a trip that mixes iconic sightseeing with secret coves, adrenaline-pumping water sports, and quiet desert hikes. We'll cover everything from where to park your car at the London Bridge to where to find the best fish tacos after a day on the water.

What You'll Find in This Lake Havasu Guide

How to Experience the London Bridge (Beyond the Photo)

Yes, you have to see it. Purchased, dismantled, shipped, and meticulously rebuilt between 1968 and 1971, the London Bridge is an engineering marvel and a testament to one man's wild vision. But just snapping a selfie and leaving? That's a missed opportunity.

The bridge itself is free to walk across, 24/7. Park in the large free lot on the north side (the city side) near the English Village. The walk gives you a close look at the original granite blocks, each numbered during the move from England.

Here's what most tourists miss: the south side. Cross the bridge and explore the small park area on the other side. You get a fantastic, less crowded view back towards the channel and the city. The English Village on the north shore is a cluster of shops and restaurants designed to look like, well, an English village. It's touristy—think fudge shops and souvenir t-shirts—but it's part of the charm. Grab an ice cream and watch the boats pass under the bridge.London Bridge Arizona

Pro Tip: Visit the bridge twice. Go once during the day for the classic photos. Then, go back after sunset when the bridge is lit up. The colors reflecting on the water are spectacular, and the evening crowd has a different, more relaxed vibe. Also, the Bureau of Land Management visitor center nearby has great info on the surrounding desert if you need a break from the water.

The Lake Itself: Beaches, Coves & Water Sports

This is why you came. The water. Lake Havasu is a reservoir, but you'd never know it. It feels like a natural oasis.

Finding Your Perfect Beach Spot

Not all shoreline is created equal. Your choice depends on your crew.

  • Windsor Beach State Park: The gold standard for families. It's a huge, sandy beach with picnic ramadas, restrooms, showers, and a designated swim area. You pay a day-use fee (around $15 per vehicle), but you're paying for amenities and peace of mind. Address: 699 London Bridge Rd. It gets packed on weekends—arrive early.
  • Lake Havasu State Park: Similar to Windsor, with great facilities and multiple beach areas. Also has a campground. A solid, reliable choice.
  • Site Six or Mesquite Bay: These are the local's choice for a more casual, free beach day. They're farther from the bridge, have limited facilities (maybe a porta-potty), but offer great sand and water access. Perfect for launching kayaks or paddleboards.
  • The "Channel": This isn't a swimming beach. The area under and around the London Bridge is a constant parade of boats. It's for people-watching, grabbing a dockside drink, and feeling the energy of the place.Lake Havasu boating

Getting on the Water: Rental Breakdown

You haven't really done Havasu until you're on a boat. The rental scene is vast. Here’s a quick comparison of the main options:

Boat Type Best For Avg. Full-Day Cost (Peak) Key Consideration
Pontoon Boat Families, large groups, relaxing cruises, picnics. $350 - $650 Book weeks ahead for weekends. Check the fuel policy (you usually pay for gas used).
Ski/Wakeboard Boat Water sports, younger crowds, speed. $500 - $900+ Requires some boating knowledge. More expensive to operate and fuel.
Personal Watercraft (Jet Ski) Thrill-seeking, exploring coves quickly. $300 - $400 for 2 Rentals are often for 2-hour blocks. Great for adding excitement to a trip.
Kayak / Paddleboard Solo or duo exploration, exercise, quiet time. $50 - $80 / day Launch from a calm beach like Site Six. Perfect for morning or evening paddles.

I recommend Action Boat Rentals or Lake Havasu Boat Rentals. They have good reputations and large fleets. My personal rule? If you're new to boating, stick to the pontoon. It's forgiving, has shade, and is essentially a floating patio.

Crafting Your Perfect Lake Havasu Itinerary

Let's put this all together. Here’s a sample 3-day itinerary that balances must-dos with downtime.Lake Havasu Arizona

Day 1: Bridge & Channel Vibes
Morning: Arrive, check into your hotel or campground. Head straight to the London Bridge. Walk across, explore the English Village, grab lunch at a patio restaurant overlooking the channel (try Barley Brothers).
Afternoon: Drive to Windsor Beach. Swim, sunbathe, and relax.
Evening: Return to the bridge area for dinner and to see the lights. The atmosphere is electric on summer nights.
Day 2: Lake Day
Full day on a boat rental. Pick up your pontoon by 9 AM. Cruise the main body of the lake, find a secluded cove to drop anchor, swim, and have a picnic lunch you packed. Cruise under the bridge for the classic photo op. Return the boat by 5 PM, exhausted and happy.
Evening: Keep it low-key. Order pizza or hit a casual spot like Mudshark Brewery for good pub food and local beer.
Day 3: Desert & Departure
Morning: Before it gets too hot, take a short hike. The SARA Park Crack in the Mountain trail is a unique, moderate hike through a narrow slot canyon. It shows you the desert beauty that frames the lake.
Late Morning: One last swim or a final stroll along the channel. Grab a coffee and hit the road.

Where to Stay, Eat & Local Secrets

Accommodation: Hotel vs. Camping

You have two distinct vibes here.

Hotels/Resorts: For convenience and comfort. The Nautical Beachfront Resort is right on the water with its own beach—pricey but a true destination. More budget-friendly chains like Holiday Inn Express are reliably clean and close to everything.

Camping/RVing: This is a huge part of the Havasu culture. Lake Havasu State Park Campground and Craig's RV Park are top-tier but book months in advance. BLM land around the lake offers dispersed camping (free, no facilities) for a more rugged experience.

Eating Well: Beyond Bar FoodLondon Bridge Arizona

The food scene has evolved. Sure, there's plenty of standard bar grub, but you can find great meals.

  • Juicy's River Cafe: A local institution for a big, greasy-spoon breakfast. Get there early.
  • Shugrue's: The fanciest option in town, right on the bridge. Stellar views, steak and seafood. Make a reservation.
  • College Street Brewhouse: A personal favorite. Creative gastropub food, excellent beers brewed on-site, and a cool, relaxed atmosphere away from the channel chaos.
  • Taverna Greek Kitchen: A surprising and fantastic find. Fresh, flavorful Greek food. A welcome change of pace.
The Local Secret: Need groceries, ice, or a last-minute cooler? Skip the crowded supermarkets near the bridge. Drive to the Safeway on Swanson Ave. It's less chaotic, better stocked, and you'll feel like a local navigating the aisles.

Your Lake Havasu Questions Answered

How much does it cost to rent a boat for a day at Lake Havasu?
Boat rental prices swing wildly based on season, boat type, and rental length. For a standard pontoon that fits 8-10 people, budget $350 to $650 for a full day (8 hours) in peak season. Prices are lower in fall and winter. Ski boats start around $500 per day. Always ask what's included—fuel (you usually pay for what you use), safety gear, and insurance are the big variables. Booking for a Tuesday or Wednesday, or for multiple days, can save you a chunk of change.
What is the best time of year to visit Lake Havasu to avoid crowds?
Aim for the shoulder seasons. Late September through October and April through early May are the sweet spots. The brutal summer heat or spring break crowds are gone, but the water is still warm enough for swimming (the lake holds heat well into fall). Winter has the fewest people, but bring a jacket for the desert evenings and maybe a wetsuit if you plan to be in the water a lot. Just avoid holiday weekends at all costs if you dislike crowds.
Lake Havasu boatingCan you walk across the London Bridge in Lake Havasu, and is it free?
Absolutely, and it's completely free. Park in the free public lot on the north side near the English Village. Walk across the sidewalks on either side. Don't just do an out-and-back. Spend time poking around the English Village shops on the north side and the small park on the south side for the full, quirky experience. The bridge is the anchor, but the surrounding area is what makes the visit memorable.
Where are the best public beaches in Lake Havasu for families?
For families with kids, Windsor Beach State Park is the top choice, hands down. It has a large, gradual sandy entry, picnic areas with shade, clean restrooms, and a designated swim area. The day-use fee (around $15 per vehicle) is worth it for the amenities and peace of mind. Lake Havasu State Park is a close second with similar features. If you're okay with fewer facilities for a free, more natural spot, check out Site Six or Mesquite Bay—just get there early on weekends as the good sandy spots go fast.