Best Places to Go Boating in Apopka, Florida
While Apopka itself is surrounded by water, many of the area’s best boating destinations are just a short drive away, making it easy to carve out a quiet morning for fishing, planning a scenic cruise, or packing in a full day of paddling. There are dozens of lakes around the city of Apopka where you can enjoy a day on the water. The key is knowing which lake matches your weekend goals and schedule.
It’s probably no surprise that boating in Florida is as good as it gets. With the Atlantic to the east and the Gulf of Mexico on the west coast, no matter where you live or vacation in Florida, the thrill of deep-sea fishing is within easy reach. Or if boating on the open sea isn’t on your radar, there are endless miles of coastline and inland waterways where you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, scuba diving, sailing, and freshwater fishing.
It’s no wonder Florida is considered the "Boating Capital of the World”. So, if your weekends revolve around getting outside—but your weekdays are packed—this guide breaks down the five best lakes for boating near Apopka, designed to help you spend less time planning and more time actually getting on the water.
Lake Apopka
What is Lake Apopka best known for? Wildlife-focused boating, freshwater fishing, and expansive open water rather than recreational watersports.
What types of boats are commonly used on Lake Apopka? Fishing boats, skiffs, Jon boats, and airboats are designed for shallower waters.
If your idea of boating leans more toward quiet mornings of fishing or unforgettable wildlife encounters, Lake Apopka is located in Central Florida and is approximately 12 miles long and 10 miles wide. As the fourth-largest lake in the U.S. state of Florida , this expansive body of water sits about 15 miles northwest of Orlando and takes its name from the city of Apopka.
Lake Apopka isn’t a high-speed watersports destination due to its shallow water, which makes it ideal for Bass fishing boats, pontoons, and skiffs. And with hundreds of species of migratory birds, it’s a haven for bird watching. Lake Apopka North Shore offers public access for paddling, while the West Marsh Launch is a good put-in point for canoes and kayaks.
Lake Beauclair
What makes Lake Beauclair unique? Its quieter atmosphere is ideal for fishing and small watercraft.
Is Lake Beauclair good for kayaking and paddleboarding? Absolutely—it’s one of the calmest lakes near Apopka for paddling.
If you’re looking to get outdoors and enjoy nature to unwind after a long work week, Lake Beauclair’s calm waters and close-to-shore exploration make it the perfect choice for boating near Apopka. Whether your favorite water sport is kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, or motoring the waters in a pontoon, Lake Beauclair is known for being quieter than its neighboring lakes. This also makes it a favorite destination for those early weekday mornings when you want to get on the water quickly and without a fuss.
Lake Harris
What kind of boating is Lake Harris known for? High-energy recreational boating, social cruising, and watersports.
What boats do people use most on Lake Harris? Pontoon boats, Jet Skis, deck boats, and fishing boats.
Lake Harris is the largest of the Harris Chain of Lakes, covering approximately 14,000 acres. So if your ideal boating day includes jet skis and pontoons or kayaks and canoes, Lake Harris has something for everyone. It’s also a haven for fishing and Bass tournaments. Largemouth bass and other fish species, such as crappie and bluegill, are found in Lake Harris.
During the height of tourist season, visit Lake Harris during weekdays if possible, as the weekends can get busy. And be ready to snap some photos of the picturesque landscape featuring cypress trees and sandhills.
Lake Dora
What is Lake Dora best for? Scenic cruising, sailing, and relaxed pontoon boating near waterfront towns.
Is Lake Dora good for casual boaters? Yes—calm waters and easy marina access make it ideal for stress-free outings.
Lake Dora, a stunning 4,500-acre lake, is located 20 minutes north of Apopka. If your perfect day on the water involves relaxed cruising and Instagram-worthy views, Lake Dora is sure to become your favorite place to boat in Central Florida . Ideally situated near the charming town of Mount Dora, the lake is known for sailboats, pontoon boats, and leisurely motor cruising, with routes that connect you to waterfront dining, marinas, and sunset views.
The picturesque town of Mount Dora offers an array of antique shops, art galleries, and delightful restaurants nestled along tree-lined streets adorned with palms and majestic oaks draped in Spanish moss.
Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho)
Is Lake Toho a good place for weekend watersports? Yes, at 35 square miles, Lake Toho offers plenty of open water for high-octane water sports while still accommodating fishing and more relaxed boating.
Can I Jet Ski on Lake Toho? Jet Skis are allowed and popular on Lake Toho, especially in the wide, open stretches where you can enjoy speed and waves safely without interfering with fishing or smaller watercraft.
Located 45 minutes south of Apopka, Lake Tohopekaliga is one of Central Florida’s most iconic lakes for boating and freshwater fishing. If your weekend plans include trophy largemouth bass fishing , open-water cruising, or a mix of both, Lake Toho delivers. Bass boats, airboats, and pontoons are popular choices here, giving you flexibility depending on whether you want high-energy watersports or a peaceful day on the water. Jet Skis and wakeboarding are also common on open stretches, but the lake remains a top destination for anglers competing for trophy Largemouth Bass.
Choosing The Best Central Florida Lake for Your Lifestyle
No matter what kind of day you have in mind—whether it’s a quiet morning fishing, a relaxing cruise, a peaceful paddle, or an action-packed outing—living near Apopka, Florida makes it easy to get out on the water. Storing your boat close to home means you can spend less time managing logistics and more time doing what you love.
[h2]Covered RV and Boat Storage Near Apopka, FL
StorQuest understands that properly storing your boat between trips and seasons is the best way to protect your investment. Our Apopka boat storage features wide, paved drive aisles designed to accommodate boats and recreational vehicles of all sizes. Additional state-of-the-art features include:
- Vehicle Parking
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Located directly on FL 429, our secure, modern parking facility makes it easy to access Orlando, Tampa, and Central Florida’s top boating destinations whenever adventure calls. Reserve your space today!