Things to Do at Smith Mountain Lake
From world-class fishing and championship golf to waterfront dining and Blue Ridge hiking, Smith Mountain Lake offers a lifestyle unlike anywhere else in Virginia.
On the Water
With over 20,000 acres of pristine water and 500 miles of shoreline, Smith Mountain Lake is the centerpiece of outdoor recreation in Central Virginia. Whether you prefer the roar of a ski boat or the quiet glide of a kayak, the lake delivers year-round.
Boating, Skiing & Wakeboarding
Open channels and sheltered coves make SML ideal for powerboating, water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. The lake accommodates everything from pontoons to performance boats.
Fishing
Smith Mountain Lake is legendary for striper fishing, with trophy-class striped bass regularly exceeding 30 pounds. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and catfish round out a year-round fishery. Multiple tournaments draw anglers from across the Southeast.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Explore hidden coves, quiet inlets, and wooded shoreline at your own pace. Flat-water conditions make SML perfect for stand-up paddleboarding and recreational kayaking.
Swimming
Community beaches, Smith Mountain Lake State Park's sandy beach, and private waterfront docks provide swimming access from spring through fall.
Marinas & Boat Rentals
Full-service marinas offer slips, fuel, boat rentals, and repair services throughout the lake.
Four PGA-Caliber Courses
Smith Mountain Lake is home to four exceptional golf courses, each offering a distinct character set against mountain and lake views.
The Waterfront Country Club
George Dillon PGA Championship course stretching 7,000 yards. Dramatic elevation changes and lake views on nearly every hole.
The Water's Edge
18-hole PGA Championship layout winding through hardwood forests and rolling terrain with Blue Ridge Mountain vistas.
Copper Cove at Westlake
Russell Breeden-designed 6,511-yard course known for its challenging par-3s and accessible layout for golfers of all skill levels.
Mariners Landing
Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed 18-hole course, one of his final Virginia commissions. Meticulous conditioning and strategic bunkering.
Dining & Restaurants
Lakeside dining is a way of life at Smith Mountain Lake. From casual dockside grills to refined Southeastern cuisine, the restaurant scene has grown steadily and now rivals much larger resort destinations.
Mango's Bar & Grill
Lakeside casual dining with Caribbean-inspired flavors, outdoor seating, and live music on weekends.
The Landing Restaurant
Southeastern cuisine at Mariners Landing with panoramic lake views. Known for fresh seafood and craft cocktails.
Napoli by the Lake
Waterfront Italian dining at Bernard's Landing. Wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and an extensive wine list.
Bruno's at Mariners Landing
Relaxed lakeside atmosphere with American fare, burgers, and a popular outdoor patio.
Cafe del Lago
Eclectic menu blending Mediterranean and American dishes in a cozy lakefront setting.
The Pointe Dining Room
Upscale dining experience with chef-driven seasonal menus and elegant lake views.
Westlake Towne Center
A cluster of restaurants and shops anchoring the Westlake community, offering everything from pizza to fine dining.
Wineries & Breweries
The Smith Mountain Lake region sits at the edge of Virginia's wine country, with award-winning vineyards and a growing craft beer scene within easy reach.
Outdoor Recreation
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Over 1,500 acres of protected parkland with hiking trails, a sandy beach, campgrounds, and a visitor center. The park's Chestnut Ridge loop trail is a local favorite.
Peaks of Otter
Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 135. The Sharp Top summit trail rewards hikers with 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge. A moderate 3.2-mile round trip.
Blue Ridge Parkway
America's favorite drive runs just minutes from the lake. Scenic overlooks, wildflower meadows, and fall foliage that draws visitors from around the world.
Community Trails
Walking and jogging trails wind through all 13 lakeside communities. Many are paved and family-friendly, ideal for morning runs or evening strolls.
Equestrian Center
The Water's Edge maintains a full equestrian center with boarding, lessons, and trail rides through mountain terrain.
Family Fun
Smith Mountain Lake Community Park
Public park with playgrounds, picnic shelters, sports courts, and lake access. A gathering spot for families and community events year-round.
Crazy Horse Marina
Mini golf, arcade games, and family-oriented water activities alongside a full-service marina. A popular stop for families with kids.
SML Pirate Days
Annual lakeside festival with pirate-themed activities, treasure hunts, live entertainment, and fireworks. A highlight of the summer calendar.
Fourth of July Fireworks
One of the region's largest fireworks displays launched over the lake. Hundreds of boats raft up for the show, creating a floating celebration.
Holiday Flotillas
Decorated boat parades during the holiday season, lighting up the shoreline from Thanksgiving through December. A cherished SML tradition.
Nearby Attractions
Smith Mountain Lake's central location in Virginia puts historic sites, mountain resorts, and vibrant downtowns within easy driving distance.
National D-Day Memorial
Bedford · 30 minutes
The only national memorial dedicated to the Allied forces who stormed the beaches at Normandy. Bedford lost the most soldiers per capita of any American community on D-Day.
Roanoke Star & Mill Mountain
Roanoke · 45 minutes
The world's largest freestanding man-made star overlooks downtown Roanoke. Hike or drive to the summit for sweeping valley views, then explore the city's thriving food and arts scene.
Appomattox Court House
Appomattox · 45 minutes
National Historical Park where General Lee surrendered to General Grant, ending the Civil War. Preserved buildings and ranger-led programs bring history to life.
Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest
Lynchburg · 30 minutes
Jefferson's personal retreat and architectural masterpiece. A quieter, more intimate experience than Monticello, with guided tours of the restored octagonal home.
Wintergreen Resort
Nelson County · 1.5 hours
Year-round mountain resort with skiing and snowboarding in winter, championship golf and hiking in summer, and a spa open all seasons.
Downtown Lynchburg
Lynchburg · 45 minutes
Historic downtown with Amazement Square children's museum, local restaurants, craft breweries, and a revitalized riverfront along the James River.
Events & Festivals
The lake community comes alive with seasonal events that draw residents and visitors together. From spring wine festivals to holiday boat parades, there is always something on the calendar.
SML Wine Festival
Annual celebration of Virginia wine featuring tastings from regional vineyards, live music, artisan vendors, and lakeside views.
Chili Cook-Off
Community-wide competition bringing together amateur and seasoned chefs. Tastings, live entertainment, and family activities.
Antique & Classic Boat Show
Beautifully restored wooden boats and vintage watercraft on display at the lake. A must-see for boating enthusiasts and history buffs.
SML Charity Home Tour
Annual tour showcasing the lake's finest homes, with proceeds supporting local nonprofits. A rare look inside private waterfront estates.
Farmers Markets
Seasonal markets featuring local produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and Virginia-grown specialties. Multiple locations around the lake.
Living the Lake Life
Smith Mountain Lake is not just a vacation destination. It is a year-round community where neighbors become friends and every season brings a reason to be outdoors.
Spring brings bass tournaments and blooming dogwoods. Summer means long days on the water, concert series, and dock parties. Fall delivers some of the most spectacular foliage in the Blue Ridge. Winter is for cozy fires, holiday flotillas, and planning next season's adventures.
With 13 distinct communities, four golf courses, dozens of restaurants, and a calendar packed with events, it is no wonder that families who visit Smith Mountain Lake often decide to stay.
Ready to Make Smith Mountain Lake Home?
Whether you are drawn by the water, the golf, the wine, or simply the pace of life, The Realty Group can help you find the right community and the right home at Smith Mountain Lake.
Lake Office
Moneta / Smith Mountain Lake
14662 Moneta Road, Suite 200, Moneta, VA 24121
(434) 546-3202