Lake of the Ozarks has a reputation as a full-throttle boating vacation destination. And there are plenty of activities (waterskiing, tubing, biking or going for a zoom in a speedboat) that will get you buzzing on this massive reservoir near the center of Missouri. But that doesn't mean there aren't quiet places to drop a fishing line or just dangle your feet in the water. The lake itself is vast: more than 1,100 miles of shore and coves snaking out in all directions, which means that even on summer weekends, you can find elbow room.
You can also find a huge variety of lodgings: rustic cabins, newer condos, fully equipped houseboats, family-oriented resorts and luxurious, pampering retreats. The restaurants around the lake offer the same range.
What to do
Bagnell Dam Strip Save one afternoon for posing for old-time photos and riding bumper cars near Bagnell Dam in Lake Ozark. Bonus: You’ll find some cute shops that don’t feel touristy. (800) 451-4117; lakeareachamber.com
Bridgeport Boat Rental Choose from speedboats, pontoons, fishing boats and more. In Osage Beach. (573) 348-2280; bridgeportboatrental.com
Ha Ha Tonka State Park A cool relief map near the gift shop illustrates the park's topography and geography, including more than 15 miles of varied trails and the striking ruins of an early-20th-century-castle. Near Camdenton. Free. (573) 346-2986; mostateparks.com
Hook’em Guide Service Friendly fishing guides happily teach newbies how to bait up, but they also show experienced fishermen the best spots on the lake. (573) 216-2409
Lake of the Ozarks State Park Sandy beaches, 12 hiking trails, horseback riding, boat rentals and lantern-lit tours of Ozark Caverns attract visitors to this leafy park in Osage Beach. Free. (573) 348-2694; mostateparks.com
Spa Shiki Sign up for a soothing mani-pedi or massage at The Lodge of Four Seasons’ high-end spa, and then relish the extras—comfy chaises, spa whirlpools and fabulous three-head showers. In Lake Ozark. (573) 365-8108; spashiki.com
Willmore Lodge When you swing by Lake Ozark’s historic visitors center for maps and brochures, leave time to explore the museum exhibits highlighting Bagnell Dam’s construction. (800) 451-4117; willmorelodge.com
Where to eat
Baxter’s Lakeside Grille By the toll bridge in Lake Ozark, Baxter’s has one of the best sunset spots. Pair a swordfish Caprese sandwich with the signature Baxter’s Sunset: part mango margarita and part raspberry daiquiri. See reviews and ratings. (573) 365-2669; baxterslakesidegrille.com
Blue Heron A long-standing favorite, Blue Heron offers fine dining and a panoramic view of the lake. Arrive early to avoid the dinner rush. (573) 365-4646; blueheronpottedsteer.com
Grandma’s Candy Kitchen Give your sweet tooth what it wants: penny candy, hand-dipped chocolates, homemade fudge and saltwater taffy. On The Strip in Lake Ozark. (573) 365-2624; grandmas-candy.com
J. Bruner’s Restaurant An upscale dining option in Osage Beach, Bruner’s delights with hand-cut steaks and hand-battered onion rings. See reviews and ratings. (573) 348-2966; jbruners.com
Old Kinderhook Resort Two classy dining options await guests at Camdenton’s golf resort, part of the Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trail. The Hook Cafe serves breakfast and lunch; the Trophy Room serves casual dinners. (888) 346-4949; oldkinderhook.com
On the Rise Bakery and Bistro A cafe tucked amid Osage Beach’s big-box stores serves gourmet lunches with pepper-Parmesan potato chips. See reviews and ratings. (573) 348-4224; ontherisebakery.com
Shorty Pants On a quieter part of the lake near Osage Beach, you’ll find authentic Cajun cuisine in a sophisticated setting. (573) 302-1745; shortypantslounge.com
Sunrise Cantina Enormous chipotle burritos make the drive to Sunrise Beach, on the lake’s west side, worthwhile. (573) 374-8185; sunrisecantina.net
Where to stay
Bass Point Resort A relaxed atmosphere and affordable cabins have kept this family-run resort on the lake’s quieter west side in business for more than 40 years. From $95. See reviews and ratings. (573) 374-5205; basspoint.com
The Lodge of Four Seasons Beyond its Rat Pack-Era lobby with a sunken fireplace, you’ll discover a polished retreat with 359 rooms and suites, a large marina, restaurants and a dance club. On Horseshoe Bend. From $119. See reviews and ratings. (888) 265-5500; 4seasonsresort.com
Tan-Tar-A Resort On a sprawling lakefront resort spread over 420 acres, guests enjoy an indoor water park, horseback riding, water sports and a game room. Couples can do dinner at the Windrose restaurant. From $99. See reviews and ratings. (800) 826-8272; tan-tar-a.com
For information: Lake of the Ozarks Convention and Visitor Bureau (800) 386-5253; funlake.com
