Texas offers houseboat vacations both luxurious and economical. The variety of lakes in Texas has something to please both the avid fisherman and scuba enthusiast and then there's always the pleasure of scenic beauty in a National Recreation area while floating on a serene lake.
Lake Amistad is one of the largest lakes in Texas and boasts 850 miles of shoreline. Lake Amistad is approximately two hours from San Antonio. It's also a National Recreation area featuring Native American archeological sites, canyons, rock shelters and pictographs. The lake is calm with two natural springs, Indian Springs and Good Enough Springs adding spring water to the lake. Lake Amistad features bass fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling. There are a variety of houseboats for rent from 50' to 70.' The 50' Forever can accommodate 2-4 people and has two private bedrooms with queen beds, a full galley, one bathroom, a salon, BBQ grill, and deck with canopy. The 70' Silver Millennium has four private bedrooms with queen beds, two baths, flat screen television with satellite, GPS tracking system, and a full kitchen. The outdoor deck includes a hot tub, sundeck and deck chairs on the patio.
Lake Amistad Resort
4121 Veterans Blvd
Del Ro TX 78840
800-255-5561
lakeamistadresort.com
Lake Buchanan is located in the Texas Hill Country and was formed by the Buchanan Dam. It is located northwest of Austin, approximately 60 miles away. Fishing for Stripper Bass is a popular activity as well as viewing the waterfalls on the Colorado River, which feeds the lake. The Fall Creek Vineyard is on the west side of the lake and offers wine tastings. Houseboat rentals are available from Silver Creek Rentals and feature 36 and 46 foot boats. Both boats feature full kitchens and one bath. The 36' boat has three sofas that convert to beds and can accommodate up to six people. The 46' boat can accommodate up to eight people and has one bedroom.
Silver Creek Rentals
1400 CR 128
Burnet TX 78611
512-756-4854
highlandlakes.com
Lake Travis is located approximately 30 miles from Austin and was formed by a dam in 1937. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and playing on the beach. The lake is very calm and popular with jet skiers and water skiers. The lake also boasts the only clothing optional beach in Texas---known as Hippie Hollow. The Volente Beach water park is also on the lake and is accessible by boat or car. Houseboat rentals are available from Just for Fun rentals at the Emerald Point Marina. They offer two luxury houseboats: the 64' Lakeview and the 87' Stardust. The Lakeview features four bedrooms with queen beds, a full galley and a waterslide on the top deck. The Tango features four bedrooms plus a stateroom with private bath and a waterslide from the top deck. Both boats require a captain.
Just for Fun
5373 Hillne Road
Austin TX 78734
512-266-9710
Jff.net/austin
