When most individuals think of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, they tend to think of it as a spring break destination full of young adults who are partying through all hours of the day and the night. While this is a fairly accurate picture of the area during spring break, Lake Havasu is actually a wonderful vacation destination for individuals of all ages who are simply looking to kick back, relax, and have a good time with their friends and family. While the most obvious attraction is the lake itself, there are also numerous activities in the surrounding area, including the London Bridge, the English village, a state park, and a wildlife refuge.



During the spring, summer, and fall, visitors come to Lake Havasu in droves to enjoy the large, refreshing lake. Water sports abound as individuals take to boating, waterskiing, jet-skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and just about anything else you can think of doing on a lake. If you do not have a personal watercraft, you can actually rent a boat, a jet ski, or even a houseboat if you so desire, allowing you to participate in all the fun out on the lake. If you are looking for a less frenzied Lake Havasu vacation, you can usually find a quiet place to kayak or canoe, or you can simply hang out on the beach and enjoy a nice picnic under the sun. To learn more about the lake and to explore different areas, such as Copper Canyon and Topock Gorge, hop onboard one of the tour boats that leaves near the London Bridge.

One of the biggest tourist attractions in Lake Havasu City AZ is the London Bridge. The London Bridge was originally in England, but after it was discovered that it was sinking into the Thames, it was auctioned off and the individual with the winning bid decided to move it to Lake Havasu City. Here, this massive, granite bridge was reconstructed and now stands as a link between the mainland and a small island that is on the Colorado River.

Since the London Bridge was the focal point of the city, developers decided to play off of the theme and develop what is called the “English Village." This village sits below the Bridge and provides guests with a more English flavor of shopping and dining. Within this shopping center, you will find specialty shops and boutiques that carry items not likely to be found around your hometown.

The nearby Lake Havasu State Park is a great place to visit if you are looking for nature trails, boat ramps, or beautiful beaches. There is an easy, 1.5 mile trail that makes its way through the desert and along the shoreline, providing beautiful views and access to some of the nicest beaches along the lake. There is also a fishing dock if you feel like reeling one in but do not have access to a boat and a small interpretative garden that highlights the creatures that can be found throughout the park and within this particular area of the desert.

If it is some wildlife you seek, then look no further than the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge. Managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, this refuge protects 300 miles of shoreline of the Colorado River and is dedicated to preserving our wildlife for the future. Within this area is a section that consists of 13 miles and is known as Topock Gorge. Here, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and desert bighorn sheep are just some of the protected animals. In addition, you can find petroglyphs on the canyon walls that are estimated to be at least 1,500 years old.

If you are looking for entertainment, try the London Arms Pub and Playhouse with its traditional British pub atmosphere and appearance. The productions take place on Friday and Saturday nights along with a matinee on Sunday. In addition, there are numerous races, regattas, and fishing competitions that take place on Lake Havasu throughout the year so keep your eyes open for information about such events.

Considering you will be spending so much time out on the lake and in the sun, a great option for lodging is a Lake Havasu vacation rental. With a vacation rental, you can retire to your home away from home after a busy day and simply relax as you would within the comfort of your own home. You have more options in a Lake Havasu rental, as in you can either eat out at one of the area restaurants or stay in and cook the meal you are craving in your rental’s kitchen. Whatever you are looking for, check out Lake Havasu waterfront condos at HomeAway.com, and you may be delighted to discover your newfound freedom during vacation.