Summers in the Valley are scorching, and finding fun ways to cool off is key. In North Peoria, Lake Pleasant Regional Park is one of the coolest spots to hang out this summer.
Scorpion Bay Marina
During your visit, check out what’s happening at Scorpion Bay Marina (ScorpionBayAZ.com). You’ll find many activity options, including boat and kayak rentals.
Lynn Lovelady, general manager of the marina, says there is no better way to spend an afternoon. “Out on the water, people can get away and relax, enjoy the sunshine. It's wonderful,” she says.
At the marina, boat rentals include pontoons, fishing boats, and ski boats. There are also kayaks and other water toys available. Water toys include tubes, wakeboards, kneeboards, and water skis.
If you are interested in rentals, checking what is available before your visit is always best.
Lovelady shares that while they take walk-up reservations, you might be out of luck if you wait too long. “During the weekdays, Monday through Thursday, you’ll likely be able to find a rental. However, the weekends can be very busy, and the rentals go quickly.”
Adventure Rentals
Looking for adventure? You can rent jet skis if you want to up the adventure. Each jet ski holds two passengers. Rentals are available at Scorpion Bay Marina for one or two hours or by half or full day from Pleasant Water Sports (PleasantWaterSports.com).
Paqua Park
If you would rather stay close to the marina, you can have fun navigating the inflatable obstacle course at Paqua Park (PaquaPark.com). The inflatable on-the-water obstacle course is for ages seven and up. Sessions are 45 minutes long, and reservations are open on Saturdays and Sundays.
Float Under the Stars
The new floating cabins are among the coolest things you’ll find out at the lake. Five cabins are available, four of which have two bedrooms, two baths, and a loft. The fifth cabin is a bit smaller and has one bedroom with one bath and no loft. The larger cabins sleep up to eight people, and the smaller cabin sleeps four. Both can accommodate two additional day visitors for a max of ten and six passengers each.
The floating cabins are pet friendly. During the summer, the minimum stay is seven days and six nights. The off-season has shorter length stays available.
Grab Some Grub at Scorpion Bay Grill
Scorpion Bay Grill is a great spot to grab a bite to eat during your visit. The restaurant has an enhanced menu, and this summer, there are new menu options, including an Ahi Poke Tostada Bowl, Korean BBQ Chicken flatbread, breakfast burrito, and Tuna Niçoise Salad. During peak season, lunch is served seven days a week starting at 11 a.m. There is a chef’s special dinner menu on Friday and Saturday evenings. There is also live music on Saturday nights.
Throw a Party on the Water
Celebrating a special occasion? There are 53-foot charter boats available to rent. From weddings on the water to family reunions, chartering a boat is a great way to celebrate. Two luxury event boats are available, each carrying a maximum of 40 guests. If you have more than 40 people, it is recommended you reserve both boats. A captain and deckhand are included in your reservation and rental fees.
Camping at the Lake
Tent and RV camping are also available at Lake Pleasant. Reservations can be made on the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department website.
Whether you are looking for a few hours of fun, a full day of activities, or a longer vacation, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the lake and stay cool this summer.
“Out on the water, people can get away and relax, enjoy the sunshine. It's wonderful.”
