Lake Okeechobee
Florida, FL
Most travelers visit Lake Okeechobee—Florida's largest freshwater lake—to fish, particularly for bass. Nature enthusiasts also come for bird-watching and hiking along the picturesque 110-mile (177-kilometer) Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail. With its vast, serene waters and surrounding wetlands, it’s a destination for outdoorsy getaways in southern Florida—a good alternative to the state’s beaches.
The basics
At Lake Okeechobee, fishing is the top activity. Book a guided half- or all-day trip from Fort Myers or West Palm Beach if you want to catch the trophy-sized largemouth bass that the lake is known for. The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail, part of the statewide Florida National Scenic Trail, offers great hiking and cycling opportunities around the lake’s perimeter. Bird-watching is also popular, as the lake and surrounding wetlands host a variety of species. Boating, kayaking, and picnicking are other ways to enjoy the setting.
Things to know before you go
You can set up camp in the town of Okeechobee.
If you’re interested in fishing but have limited time or are unfamiliar with the lake, book a guided excursion to make the most of your experience.
Keep in mind that blue-green algae is common in Florida’s freshwater areas; do not swim where there is a visible algae bloom.
How to get there
By car, Lake Okeechobee is accessible via US Highway 98 and Florida State Road 78. It's about 1.5 hours from West Palm Beach and 2.5 hours from Miami. You can also reach the lake by boat—there are various marinas and launch points along the shoreline, and the Okeechobee Waterway, which stretches from one coast to the other, runs through Lake Okeechobee along two routes. For extra convenience, join a tour that includes transportation.
When to get there
Overall, the best time to visit Lake Okeechobee is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is pleasant, with cooler temps and less humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and bird-watching. Avoid visiting during the summer months (June to September), when the area experiences heavy rain, high heat, and humidity.
Blue Cypress Lake
In Florida’s Indian River County, about an hour north of Lake Okeechobee, Blue Cypress Lake features cypress trees that rise up from the water, giving it a hauntingly beautiful look. The lake attracts visitors interested in fishing, kayaking, bird-watching, and wildlife photography, and it’s known for its large osprey population.
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