5 best states for a water sports vacation

Under the wide-open skies of the Lone Star State, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater water sports. Lake Travis’ limestone bottom gives it crystal clear water, and makes it the most visited lake in Texas for swimming, paddling, fishing, wakeboarding, and boating. During your visit, try something new and course through the inflatable obstacles and trampolines at Waterloo Adventures’ floating water park. Further south, you’ll find the state’s only tropical island, where you can jet ski, paddleboard, parasail, or book a dolphin cruise to catch at sunset on South Padre Island.

Travelers and staycationers alike take advantage of Miami Beach’s ideal warm waters for jet skiing, sailing, kite surfing, and the gravity-defying flyboarding. Key West’s small island stretches out into the sapphire waters of the Gulf of Mexico and is best known for its coral reefs, so don’t forget to pack your snorkeling gear. In between beach stops, make sure to grab a picture at the Southernmost Point Buoy, a landmark of the farthest reach of the United States, resting just 90 miles from Cuba.

Water sports are the name of the game in Hawaii, where you can take your pick of snorkeling, scuba diving, or surfing lessons just about anywhere you choose. If you’d like to sprinkle in a little city sightseeing to your adventure, look no further than Oahu’s shimmering beaches for swimming or a sunset cruise. Head over to Maui’s many dive spots (Lanai Cathedrals and Honolua Bay, especially) if you’re looking for a chance to get closer to the island’s marine life and brightly colored fish—without the crowds.

Lake Tahoe is tough to beat when it comes to lakeside water sports—an outdoor paradise in and out of the water, you can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing. Find hours of fun on the southwest shore of Bliss State Park, where you can even rope swing into the water. In San Diego, you can explore the tide pools, windsurf (or even flyboard if you dare) and then wind down at the spa. Whether you dream of catching a wave at the ocean or cooling off after a hike, California has you covered.

Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a hidden gem when it comes to water sports destinations, with the perfect mix of gorgeous ocean coastline, state parks to paddle through, and beach towns with rental shops and all the equipment you need. Kayak or paddleboard on Little Lagoon near the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge in Gulf Shores and spot turtles and coastal birds bustling around their natural habitats. Orange Beach’s blue waters make it the perfect escape for jet skiing, boat cruises, parasailing, or fishing.