8 Best Places in Arizona To Take Out Your Boat

Our research is editorially independent but we may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.

Whether you’re trying to beat the heat or missing being on the coast, Arizona has some great bodies of water to take advantage of on a boat. Despite living in the desert, residents of this warm state aren’t as bad on aquatic vessels as one might think! Here are some of the best places to float, paddle, or row in the Grand Canyon state!

Lake Powell
Lake Powell

Lake Powell

Lake Powell sits on the Arizona-Utah border and is an ideal spot to cook-off from the desert heat. Fishing boats, kayaks, houseboats, and rowboats are just a few of visitors’ favorite vessels at this popular vacation spot. Want to stay longer? Book a night at one of these top hotels near Lake Powell.

Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu State Park

Lake Havasu

This eastern lake is not only home to the world-famous London Bridge, but it’s also one of the top spots in the west to fish and hang out on the water. It’s located in the eastern part of Arizona.

Tempe Town Lake
Tempe Town Lake

Tempe Town Lake

Just north of Tempe Butte is the Tempe Town Lake, which is a reservoir located on the Salt River Bed. Even though it might not be fancy, it’s definitely considered a body of water in the Phoenix area!

Saguaro Lake Marina
Saguaro Lake Marina

Saguaro Lake Marina

Just a short drive out of Marana, Arizona is the Saguaro Lake Marina which is located within the Tonto National Forest. The beautiful mountain scenery in combination with its deep blue waters makes it a fine place to go boating.

Roper Lake
Roper Lake

Roper Lake

Roper Lake is the perfect place to get in touch with Mother Nature, especially during the summer months. There are cabins to rent, campsites, and plenty of space on the water to do some fishing and paddle around.

Patagonia Lake
Patagonia Lake State Park

Patagonia Lake

Southern Arizonans love to visit Patagonia Lake, as it is one of the state’s best-kept secrets. They have plenty of campsites to spend a few nights at, but spots to boat and fish are all over the place.

Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant, Arizona

Lake Pleasant

Lake Pleasant is the biggest lake in the Phoenix area and is a haven for people who love to rev the engines of their boats and party on the water. It’s also ideal for kayaking, sailing, and even house boating.

Lake Mead
Lake Mead

Lake Mead

A short distance south of Las Vegas is the largest reservoir in the United States, Lake Mead. With almost 760 miles of shoreline, there’s no doubt that it’s an awesome spot to take a boat out for a day.

Travel Deals

Park Lane New York w/ Breakfast On Arrival

$325+

Air & 7-Day Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way Self-Drive Tour

$2043+

7-Day Italy Guided Tour w/ YourChoice Excursions

$2279+

Air & 8-Day Dubai & Abu Dhabi Tour | Save $300

$1299+

Air & 25-Day Incredible Around the World Tour

$9199+

Air & 4-Day Cartagena City Vacation Packages

$505+

7-Day Iceland w/ All-Inclusive Upgrade

$2999+

Washington, D.C. | Car Rentals for Your Road Trip

$9+

Viceroy Los Cabos | Up To 20% Off

$200+

Sale Extended! Round Trip Flights to Fiji - Book by 6/14

$609+

10-Day Self-Drive Ireland Adventure w/ Castle Stay

$1529+

Los Angeles Car Rentals

$6+

7-Day Venice to Mantua River Cruise | Up to 50% Off

$1406+

Atlanta | Car Rentals for Your Next Road Trip

$7+

The Elser Hotel Miami | Up To 20% Off

$200+