I am new to Charlotte. Last year, my fiancé and I moved from the beaches of Jacksonville, Florida to the beautiful Queen City. We love the people, restaurants, parks, theaters, bars, golf, trees, and hills of Charlotte. But, we are inland. And it is summertime. And we miss the water.
So, in order to combat our beach withdrawals, adult whining, and subsequent summer blues, we are planning a day trip to Lake Norman.
One way, and arguably the best way, for Charlotte folk to enjoy Lake Norman is to have and to hold a good and lasting friendship with a Lake Norman home- and/or boat-owner. If you do not have that luxury and good fortune (or if you did, but have since worn out the welcome mat, so to speak), you can still find ways to enjoy the Lake through a variety of different activities. Such activities include:
- Rentals;
- Fishing;
- Cruises; and
- Recreation.
Rentals. If a Day at the Lake means to you relaxing in the sun or feeling the wind in your hair, consider organizing a large group of your friends and/or family members for just that. Ask everyone to share the cost of a boat rental, pack your cooler and sunscreen, and spend the day on the water and in the sun at Lake Norman. For links and contacts regarding rentals at Lake Norman, please visit
http://www.visitlakenorman.org/things-to-do/lake-fun—activities/boat-jet-ski-rentals/
.
Fishing. Alternatively, if the words lake and water conjure thoughts of a rod and reel, consider finding time for a quiet morning on Lake Norman, where you can drop a line with a friend and fishing pro. For more information on fishing at Lake Norman, please visit
http://www.visitlakenorman.org/things-to-do/lake-fun—activities/fishing-fishing-guides/
.
Cruises. People, music, party, food. The more the merrier. If this is how you envision a day at Lake Norman, you are in luck. There are many different charters, price points, and experiences available to you. For links and contacts of companies that charter cruises on Lake Norman, please visit
http://www.visitlakenorman.org/things-to-do/lake-fun—activities/chartered-cruises/
.
Recreation. As home to the North Carolina Sailing and Rowing Center, Lake Norman offers a host of recreational boating opportunities. If you are looking for instruction, competition, and mental and physical challenges, Lake Norman is the place for you. For information about sailing and rowing on Lake Norman, please visit
http://www.visitlakenorman.org/things-to-do/lake-fun—activities/sailing-rowing/
.
Just remember, Lake Norman is not the beach, but in some ways, it is better. The Lake is in Charlotte’s backyard. It does not require hours of travel, pricy accommodations, or tanks of gas. Rather, it is just a short drive north. A perfect day-cation.
~Shannon Fitzpatrick~
