Bridgewater Marina

Bridgewater Marina is the largest and most well-known marina on Smith Mountain Lake, and for good reason. Sitting at one of the lake's most accessible points along Booker T. Washington Highway, Bridgewater has been the gateway to the water for generations of lake residents and visitors. Whether you own a home on the lake or you are visiting for the weekend, this is the place where your time on the water begins.

What Makes Bridgewater Special

Bridgewater is more than a place to park your boat. It is a full-service operation that covers everything a boater could need: fuel dock, boat rentals, covered and uncovered slips, dry storage, boat sales, and a complete service department staffed by certified marine technicians. The marina handles pontoons, ski boats, fishing rigs, and personal watercraft with equal professionalism.

What truly sets Bridgewater apart is the on-site restaurant. Bridgewater Plaza has become a social hub for the lake community, drawing crowds for lakeside dining, live music, and casual gatherings all summer long. Pull up by boat or drive in from the highway; either way, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

What to Expect When You Visit

If you are renting a boat, expect a well-maintained fleet that ranges from fishing boats and pontoons to ski boats and personal watercraft. The rental staff walks you through operation and safety before sending you out, so even first-timers feel comfortable. Rentals book up fast during summer weekends, so reserve ahead whenever possible.

For slip holders, the marina offers both covered and open slips with seasonal and annual contracts. The fuel dock is conveniently located and typically has short wait times, even on busy holiday weekends. The ship store carries essentials like sunscreen, fishing tackle, snacks, and boating accessories.

The restaurant and surrounding shops at Bridgewater Plaza make it easy to turn a quick fuel stop into an afternoon. Grab lunch on the deck overlooking the water, browse the shops, or just sit and watch the boat traffic roll by. On weekends, live bands play on the outdoor stage, and the energy is contagious.

Insider Tips

Arrive early on summer Saturdays. By 10 a.m., the parking lot fills up and boat launch wait times increase significantly. If you are renting, a weekday rental gives you a quieter lake with better availability and often lower rates.

For dining, the outdoor deck tables closest to the water go first. If you want one, plan to arrive before the lunch rush or come for an early dinner around 4:30 p.m. The sunset views from the deck are outstanding, especially in late summer when the sun drops behind the mountains.

If you are new to the lake and want to get your bearings, Bridgewater is the best starting point. The staff can point you toward the best coves for swimming, the quietest fishing spots, and the scenic routes that show off the lake's 500 miles of shoreline.

Nearby Communities

Bridgewater Marina sits in close proximity to The Waterfront, the lake's most expansive luxury community, as well as The Boardwalk with its distinctive Nantucket-style design. Homeowners in these communities enjoy easy access to the marina for fuel, dining, and boat services without a long drive.

Practical Information

Parking is free but limited during peak summer weekends. There is overflow parking available but it fills up quickly on holidays like the Fourth of July. The marina is open seasonally, typically from April through October, with the restaurant operating on an extended schedule. Call ahead for exact opening dates and rental availability, as these can shift year to year depending on weather and water levels.

The fuel dock accepts all major credit cards, and the ship store is stocked with last-minute boating essentials. If your boat needs service, the marina's repair shop can handle everything from routine maintenance to engine overhauls, though turnaround times are longer during peak season.