Hey there, water wanderers! It’s your Lakecation Vacations crew here—and if you’re planning a summer trip to Lake of the Ozarks, we’re going to let you in on one of the best ways to experience it: by boat.
Boating at Lake of the Ozarks isn’t just an activity, it’s a way of life. Whether you’re cruising for lunch, fishing at dawn, or pulling a tube with squealing kids in tow, boating gives you front-row access to everything that makes this place unforgettable.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get on the water—from renting a boat to navigating mile markers, plus real guest tips, safety essentials, and can’t-miss routes.
Why Boating is a Must at Lake of the Ozarks
The Lake isn’t a small pond—we’re talking about more than 1,100 miles of shoreline and endless coves, channels, and open water to explore. It’s the heart of the action, and being on a boat means you can:
- Access waterfront restaurants and bars (dock-and-dine FTW!)
- Find quiet coves for swimming or paddleboarding
- Get unbeatable views of sunsets, fireworks, and nature
- Create unforgettable moments with friends and family
“We spent more time on the water than in the house—and we loved every second. Sunsets, swimming, snacks on the boat—it was the best family vacation we’ve had.” – The Morrison Family, June 2023
Step 1: Choose the Right Boat for Your Crew
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to boats at the Lake. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Pontoon or Tritoon:
- Best for families, casual cruising, and large groups
- Plenty of seating, shade, and stability
Speedboat (Bowrider or Runabout):
- Perfect for tubing, water skiing, and fast rides
- Sleek, sporty, and great for thrill-seekers
Jet Ski:
- Best for couples, teens, or quick explorers
- Zippy and fun for solo or two-person lake rides
Fishing Boat:
- Ideal for anglers wanting a quiet morning out
- Equipped with rod holders, depth finders, and live wells
“We rented a pontoon and it was the best decision of the trip. Easy to drive, lots of room, and perfect for an afternoon swim-and-snack cruise.” – Maria L., July 2023
Step 2: Rent Smart and Book Early (or Last-Minute Like a Pro)
Summer is peak boating season, so rentals go fast. The good news? We can help.
- Plan early if you’re coming around holidays like July 4th or Labor Day
- Last-minute? We know local marina partners that often have surprise openings
- Ask us about boat delivery to your rental dock
Most marinas offer:
- Hourly, half-day, or full-day rentals
- Safety gear included (life jackets, emergency kits)
- Add-ons like tubes, skis, or lily pads
Step 3: Navigate Like a Local
The Lake uses Mile Markers (MM) to help you find your way—kind of like street signs on the water. Major landmarks, marinas, and restaurants use their MM to help you find them.
- MM 0: Bagnell Dam
- MM 21: Redhead Lakeside Grill
- MM 31: Larry’s on the Lake
- MM 34: Captain Ron’s
We recommend printing a mile marker map or using a boating GPS app (like Navionics).
“Having a map made our day so much easier. We hit four stops, swam in three coves, and made it back in time for dinner.” – Josh & Eliza, August 2023
Step 4: Stay Safe and Be Smart
Boating is fun, but it comes with responsibility. Here are our top safety tips:
- Designate a sober driver (just like on land)
- Know the rules: observe no-wake zones, speed limits, and right-of-way
- Wear life jackets: especially for kids and weak swimmers
- Watch the weather: summer storms can pop up fast—head for cover if clouds roll in
“A quick thunderstorm blew in, but we were close to a marina. Having that plan helped us stay safe and dry.” – Thompson Family, July 2023
Step 5: Plan a Boat Day Itinerary
Here’s a sample full day on the Lake:
9:00 AM – Pick up your rental boat, load the cooler, and head out
10:00 AM – Anchor in a quiet cove for a morning swim and paddleboard session
12:00 PM – Dock at a lakeside restaurant like Coconuts or Larry’s for lunch
2:00 PM – Cruise to Party Cove (or a quieter spot if that’s not your speed)
4:00 PM – Tube or ski a bit, or just relax on the deck
6:00 PM – Sunset cruise back to your Lakecation rental
Final Thoughts from the Lakecation Team
You don’t need to be an expert boater to enjoy Lake of the Ozarks. With the right plan, a little local knowledge, and a vacation mindset, you’ll be on the water in no time—laughing, cruising, and soaking up the sunshine.
Still have questions? Want help lining up a boat rental or planning your perfect day? We’re here to help!
Call us at 573-658-1941 or visit lakecationvacations.com to learn more.
Your Lakecation starts with the turn of a key—or the twist of a throttle. Let’s go!
