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Whether you want to fish, boat, explore the unique plant and wildlife of the Central Coast, or just relax and snap off some pictures, you'll find any of these lakes will make your photo album a completed treasure.

Lopez Lake

This meandering lake is nestled in the hills behind Arroyo Grande, just below the wineries of Edna Valley. Waterskiing and jetskiing are popular, but there are also plenty of secluded spots for canoeing, pleasure boating, and swimming. If you bring your fishing pole, you’ll find bluegill, crappie, catfish, trout, and large and smallmouth bass. Trout are also stocked during the cooler months. Numerous trails surrounding the lake make for great hiking and mountain biking.

For more information on Lopez Lake, call (805) 788‑2381.

Santa Margarita Lake

With thousands of acres of unspoiled open space, countless species of plants and wildlife, fishing and boating, Santa Margarita lake is a nature lover’s dream.

Santa Margarita Lake is located 21 miles NE of San Luis Obispo, just 10 miles east of quiet Santa Margarita. Expect great fishing, including red ear sunfish, catfish, crappie, and striped and largemouth bass. Trout are stocked through the cooler months.

The pool is open for the whole family, Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends.

For more information on Santa Margarita Lake, call (805) 788‑2397.

Lake Nacimiento

With over 165 miles of tree lined shoreline and hundreds of small, secluded coves to explore, you and your family are sure to enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Nacimiento. Lake Nacimiento sits 62.5 miles north of the SeaVenture. It offers a full service marina and general store featuring everything you may need for your fun-filled day on the Lake.

For more information on Lake Nacimiento, call 1-800-323-3839 or (805) 238-3256.

Map route from SeaVenture to Lake Nacimiento

Lopez Lake, photo courtesy of Pismo Beach Visitors & Conference Bureau