Lake Okeechobee Tours and Activities

Lake Okeechobee featuring a lake or waterhole and landscape views
Lake Okeechobee featuring landscape views, a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes
Lake Okeechobee
Lake Okeechobee featuring a lake or waterhole and landscape views
Lake Okeechobee


Florida’s largest freshwater lake is a popular spot to fish and hike.

Lake Okeechobee, meaning “Big Water,” is an important recreational destination for boating, fishing, bird watching and hiking. The massive lake covers 730 square miles (1,891 square kilometres). It measures 38 miles long by 29 miles wide (59 by 48 kilometres), and has an average depth of nine feet (three metres). The lake and surrounding wetlands drain into the Florida Everglades, making this a vital part of the local ecosystem and South Florida’s freshwater supply.

Book a fishing charter at Clewiston, a town on the southwest corner of the lake. Trips cater to every skill level, from beginner to experienced angler. The area is renowned for largemouth bass fishing, and both commercial and recreational fishermen use the lake. The best time to fish is from December through March.

The 110-mile (177-kilometre) Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail runs around the lake along the Herbert Hoover Dike. This is a beautiful route for hiking or cycling year-round. Take in views of the lake and surrounding agricultural area from the top of the embankment. Hike as much or as little of the trail as you like, and stop for a rest at picnic tables along the way. Expect to see herons and egrets around the edge of the lake, and huge flocks of a wide variety of birds during the migratory seasons.

Visit the nearby town of Belle Glade, on the south end of the lake, to play a round of golf at the Sugar Cane Golf Club. The city of Okeechobee, on the north end of the lake, hosts regular events at the Rodeo Arena. Check the arena’s website for a schedule of events.

The lake is about 70 miles (111 kilometres) northwest of Fort Lauderdale. You’ll need a car if you plan to visit on your own as a day trip from Fort Lauderdale. Tour companies run hiking trips to the lake from Fort Lauderdale and Clewiston.

Plan a trip to see Lake Okeechobee

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Palazzo Lakeside Hotel
Pelican Grand Beach Resort - A Noble House Resort
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Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Lake Okeechobee

Days Inn Lake Okeechobee

Days Inn Lake Okeechobee

2.5 out of 5
2200 US Highway 441 SE, Okeechobee, FL
Days Inn Lake Okeechobee
Best Western Lake Okeechobee

Best Western Lake Okeechobee

2.5 out of 5
3975 Highway 441 South, Okeechobee, FL
Best Western Lake Okeechobee
Cabin with Boat Dock

Cabin with Boat Dock

Okeechobee
Cabin with Boat Dock
Americas Best Value Inn Historic Clewiston Inn

Americas Best Value Inn Historic Clewiston Inn

2.5 out of 5
108 Royal Palm Avenue, Clewiston, FL
Americas Best Value Inn Historic Clewiston Inn
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Clewiston by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Clewiston by IHG

2.5 out of 5
1024 W Sugarland Hwy, Clewiston, FL
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Clewiston by IHG
Hampton Inn Okeechobee - Lake Okeechobee

Hampton Inn Okeechobee - Lake Okeechobee

2.5 out of 5
1200 State Road 70 East, Okeechobee, FL
Hampton Inn Okeechobee - Lake Okeechobee
Tru by Hilton Port St. Lucie Tradition

Tru by Hilton Port St. Lucie Tradition

2.5 out of 5
11560 SW Village Pkwy, Port Saint Lucie, FL
Tru by Hilton Port St. Lucie Tradition
WoodSpring Suites Port St. Lucie

WoodSpring Suites Port St. Lucie

2.5 out of 5
11600 SW Village Parkway, Port Saint Lucie, FL
WoodSpring Suites Port St. Lucie
Courtyard by Marriott Port St. Lucie Tradition

Courtyard by Marriott Port St. Lucie Tradition

3 out of 5
10251 SW Innovation Way, Port Saint Lucie, FL
Courtyard by Marriott Port St. Lucie Tradition
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Okeechobee

Lake Okeechobee offers an array of activities for visitors, including excellent fishing opportunities, scenic trails for nature walks, and a picturesque golf course. Explore the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail for breathtaking views or enjoy a trip to the local casino for some entertainment. Don’t miss out on the chance to shop and experience the vibrant local culture during your visit.

Recreation

At C. Scott Driver Recreation Area, immerse yourself in nature with tranquil trails and serene picnic spots, ideal for relaxation. Clewiston Country Club offers a refreshing round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes, while Okeechobee County Sports Complex features various recreational activities that promote wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Big 'O' Airboat Tours, located 25.7km from Lake Okeechobee, where you can glide across the waters while spotting wildlife in their natural habitat. For breathtaking views, visit Florida Ridge AirSports Park, 48.3km away, offering scenic flights that showcase stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Seminole Casino Brighton, located 30.6km from Lake Okeechobee. Enjoy the excitement of gaming amidst a romantic atmosphere while soaking in the lively city vibes. It's the perfect spot for entertainment and a touch of glamour on your vacation.

Find the best attractions near Lake Okeechobee

Lake Okeechobee offers a diverse array of attractions, including marinas, monuments, and beaches, perfect for those seeking adventure and outdoor experiences. Explore the scenic shores of Lake Okeechobee, visit the local marinas, and enjoy activities that highlight the beauty of this natural wonder. With its stunning landscapes and recreational opportunities, it's an ideal getaway for visitors looking to immerse themselves in Florida's outdoors.

  • Port Mayaca Locks: Located 17.7km from Lake Okeechobee, this fascinating monument offers a glimpse into the area's rich cultural history. Witness the impressive engineering of the locks and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Roland Martin Marina: Situated 25.7km away, this vibrant marina is perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Engage in a variety of outdoor activities, from fishing to boating, while soaking up the sun and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
  • DuPuis Reserve: Just 22.5km from Lake Okeechobee, this stunning preserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Explore diverse ecosystems, hike scenic trails, and observe local wildlife in a tranquil environment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Okeechobee

When visiting Lake Okeechobee, take advantage of the free public access and consider travelling during the cheaper months of August, September, and November to save on accommodation costs. Tuesdays are the best days for lower hotel rates, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. For further savings, explore Expedia for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities, and filter your search by price to find the best deals. This way, you can enjoy the beauty of Lake Okeechobee without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Okeechobee are August to September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January to March, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Okeechobee is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Okeechobee is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For the best rates and special offers, be sure to arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at Lake Okeechobee with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.