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What To Do At Lake Murray During The Summer

May 28, 2019

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Summertime means the days are longer and there’s even more time to pack in some fun with the family. The warm weather is the perfect excuse to head outdoors, take advantage of local events and celebrate the season’s patriotic holidays. Lake Murray has plenty to offer this summer and we’re sharing some of our favorites. Whether you’re planning as a local or traveling into the area, we’ve got you covered for summer fun!

We’re so lucky to have 650 miles of beautiful shoreline around Lake Murray that’s the center of many local events. It’s a gorgeous backdrop for dining, provides a great space for water sports and, for generations, South Carolinians have flocked to the annual 4th of July fireworks show.

In the water or around the water, these summer events should be on your family’s bucket list.

What to do in Lake Murray Country, South Carolina, during the summertime! Everything is better on the water. #LakeMurray #SouthCarolina #Fishing #BassFishing

What To In Lake Murray: Summertime

Go On A Guided Fishing Trip

One of the best daytime adventures is a guided fishing trip on Lake Murray. It’s home to world-class bass fishing and the location of many fishing tournaments. Get in on the action and plan an excursion with one of the many local fishing guide companies. Even young anglers can get in on the action and learn the ropes. You might even witness the Purple Martins returning to Lake Murray’s Dolittle Island, where thousands of the birds nest each summer. Call the Visitor Center, (803) 781-5940, to get a list of fishing guides ready to take you out. Hint hint: it’s also makes a great gift for Dad on Father’s Day!

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Rent A Boat

If you’re looking beyond fishing and want to take advantage of your own explorations, consider renting a boat for a day. Lake Murray offers many rentals options to accommodate your party. You can spend all day long doing everything there is to do on the water: tubing, swimming, exploring, birding, all fishing – all at your own pace. Thinking of something smaller? Jet skis are a great way to see the lake areas and jump along the water.  Call the Visitor Center, (803) 781-5940, for a complete list of boat rentals.

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Dine On Lake Murray

There’s nothing like enjoying a cocktail and watching the sunset along the lake. We’re lucky to have seven restaurants that are located directly on the water. Some of these favorite waterfront restaurants even let you dock and dine! Check out Lake Murray Country’s complete restaurant guide for more information about waterside restaurants.

Shop The Lake Murray Souvenir Shop

Stop by the Lake Murray Souvenir Shoppe, located inside the Lake Murray Country Visitors Center (2184 North Lake Drive, Columbia), and find some great treasures. From local finds to one-of-a-kind gifts, you can show your Lake Murray pride. If you have out-of-town guests traveling into the area, it’s the perfect place to find a commemorative item. My personal favorite is the wooden cutting board with the lake outline. Grab a sneak peek of merchandise or save time at the online Souvenir Shoppe.

Attend The Boat Parade & Fireworks Show

Get a head start on your 4th of July celebration with the annual Boat Parade & Fireworks Show taking place on June 29th. The boat parade is viewable from the SCE&G park sites at the Dam, the walking path on the Lake Murray Dam, and by boat. It’s fun to register your boat and decorate it. Participants get creative and it’s definitely a sight to see – kids love it! Best of all? It’s a FREE event. At the end of the day, watch the fireworks spectacular launched at Dreher and Spence Islands that provides entertainment set to patriotic music. Mark it on your family calendar and make it a tradition!

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