Known for its diverse landscapes and southern charm, Georgia offers some of the most beautiful and desirable lakeside living experiences in the country. Its lakes are not just recreational hubs but also home to some of the most vibrant residential communities. These communities provide a unique blend of natural beauty, luxury living and abundant amenities, making them perfect for those seeking a tranquil yet active lifestyle. Whether you’re an avid boater, a golf enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the peace and serenity of lakeside living, Georgia’s lakes have something to offer everyone.
From the bustling shores of Lake Lanier to the serene waters of Lake Rabun to the popularity of Lake Hartwell, there are a number of lakes that provide a lifestyle combining the best of both worlds – the beauty of nature with the convenience and luxury of modern living. If you’re considering a move to a lakeside community or simply looking for a weekend retreat, here are some of the top lakes with residential communities that epitomize lakeside living at its finest.
Lake Lanier – Lake Lanier, located in northern Georgia, is arguably the most famous and popular lake in the state. It spans over 38,000 acres and boasts nearly 700 miles of shoreline, offering a wide range of recreational activities and some of the most sought-after real estate in the region.
- Harbour Point Yacht Club – This gated community offers stunning lakefront properties, a private marina and a yacht club. Homes here range from luxurious lakefront estates to charming cottages. Activities: Sailing, boating, fishing, tennis and a vibrant social scene with community events and clubs.
- Cresswind at Lake Lanier – Designed for active adults, Cresswind offers a resort-style living experience with amenities including a clubhouse, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts and walking trails. Activities: Fitness classes, arts and crafts, social clubs and various outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
Lake Oconee – Located between Atlanta and Augusta, Lake Oconee is known for its crystal-clear waters and luxurious living. The lake covers 19,000 acres and is surrounded by beautiful forests and rolling hills, making it a picturesque setting for residential communities.
- Reynolds Lake Oconee – As one of the most prestigious communities on Lake Oconee, Reynolds offers a range of properties from custom-built homes to spacious villas. It’s a haven for golf enthusiasts with six championship golf courses designed by legendary architects. Activities: Golf, boating, fishing, tennis, spa services and a variety of dining options.
- Cuscowilla – This gated golf community offers stunning lake views, a Coore & Crenshaw-designed golf course and an array of amenities including a clubhouse, a swimming pool and a fitness center. Activities: Golf, boating, swimming, fitness classes and social events.
- The Landing at Reynolds Lake Oconee – This community within Reynolds Lake Oconee offers a more relaxed atmosphere with access to all the main amenities of Reynolds. It features an 18-hole golf course, a marina and beautiful homes. Activities: Golf, boating, fishing, hiking and community gatherings.
Lake Burton – Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Burton is known for its clear, cool waters and stunning mountain scenery. The lake covers 2,775 acres and is a popular spot for water sports, fishing and outdoor recreation.
- Waterfall at Lake Burton – This private, gated community offers luxury lakefront homes and access to Waterfall Club, which features a championship golf course, clubhouse, fitness center and dining. Activities: Golf, boating, fishing, tennis, hiking and social events.
- Anchorage Boat Dock Community – A smaller, close-knit community that offers charming lakefront homes and easy access to Anchorage Boat Dock for all boating and water sport activities. Activities: Boating, fishing, water skiing and community barbecues.
- Lake Burton Club – This community is centered around a private club with amenities including a golf course, tennis courts, swimming pool and clubhouse. The homes are luxurious and offer stunning lake and mountain views. Activities: Golf, tennis, boating, swimming and fitness classes.
Lake Sinclair – Lake Sinclair is a man-made reservoir located near Milledgeville, Georgia. Covering 15,300 acres, it offers a variety of recreational opportunities and a range of residential communities that cater to different lifestyles.
- The Country Club Estates – This community offers a blend of luxurious lakefront homes and access to the Milledgeville Country Club, which features a golf course, tennis courts, a swimming pool and a clubhouse. Activities: Golf, tennis, boating, fishing and social events.
- Holiday Shores – A relaxed community that offers affordable lakefront and lake access properties. Residents enjoy a community center, a boat ramp and several picnic areas. Activities: Boating, fishing, kayaking and community gatherings.
- Scenic Mountain – Nestled in a quiet, wooded area, this community offers beautiful homes with scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Activities: Hiking, boating, fishing and bird watching.
Lake Allatoona – Located northwest of Atlanta, Lake Allatoona is a popular destination for boating, fishing and camping. Covering over 12,000 acres, it offers a range of residential communities that provide a mix of suburban convenience and lakeside living.
- Allatoona Yacht Club – This exclusive, members-only community offers luxurious lakefront homes and access to a private yacht club with a marina, dining and social events. Activities: Boating, sailing, fishing and social gatherings.
- Bridgemill – A large, master-planned community that offers a variety of home styles, a golf course, tennis courts, swimming pools and a clubhouse. Activities: Golf, tennis, swimming, fitness classes and community events.
- Harbor Town Marina Community – This community is centered around the Harbor Town Marina and offers charming lakefront and lake access homes. Residents enjoy easy access to boating and water sports. Activities: Boating, fishing, water skiing and marina events.
Lake Hartwell – Straddling the Georgia-South Carolina border, Lake Hartwell is one of the largest and most popular lakes in the Southeast. It covers over 56,000 acres and offers a range of residential communities that cater to different lifestyles.
- Currahee Club – This luxurious community offers stunning homes with lake and mountain views, a championship golf course, clubhouse and a range of recreational amenities. Activities: Golf, boating, fishing, tennis and social events.
- Hartwell Shores – A family-friendly community that offers a variety of home styles, lake access and a range of amenities including a swimming pool, tennis courts and a marina. Activities: Boating, fishing, swimming and community gatherings.
- Heritage Shores – A quiet, upscale community that offers luxurious lakefront homes and access to private docks. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat. Activities: Boating, fishing, kayaking and bird watching.
Lake Blue Ridge – Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Lake Blue Ridge is known for its clear blue waters and stunning mountain views. The lake covers 3,290 acres and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a serene lifestyle.
- Blue Ridge Lake Estates – This community offers a mix of rustic cabins and luxurious lakefront homes, with access to private docks and community amenities including a clubhouse and picnic areas. Activities: Boating, fishing, hiking and community events.
- Necowa Cove – A peaceful community that offers charming lakefront homes and easy access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation areas. It’s perfect for nature lovers. Activities: Hiking, boating, fishing and bird watching.
- Morganton Point – This community is located near the Morganton Point Recreation Area and offers a range of home styles with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Activities: Boating, fishing, swimming and picnicking.
Lake Rabun – Lake Rabun, located in the northeastern part of the state, is a hidden gem known for its tranquil waters and beautiful scenery. The lake covers 835 acres and is surrounded by charming communities that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Rabun Beach – This community offers a mix of lakefront cabins and homes with easy access to Rabun Beach Recreation Area, which features a swimming beach, picnic areas and hiking trails. Activities: Swimming, boating, fishing and hiking.
- Lake Rabun Estates – A luxurious community that offers stunning lakefront homes, private docks and a range of amenities including a clubhouse and tennis courts. Activities: Boating, fishing, tennis and social events.
- Lakemont – A quaint community that offers charming homes with lake views and easy access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation areas. It’s perfect for those seeking a quiet, nature-focused lifestyle. Activities: Hiking, boating, fishing and bird watching.
- Lakeside Living in Georgia (1/4)
- Georgia’s Top Lake Communities (2/4)
- Explore Georgia’s Lakes by Boat (3/4)