Visit Lake Lanier Islands in Georgia

Lake Lanier, a massive (over 35,000 acres) manmade lake situated in the northern portion of Georgia was originally built to provide hydroelectricity to metro Atlanta and flood control for the Chattahoochee River. But since it's creation in 1956, after the completion of construction of the Buford Dam, it has become much more than that.

The lake is now a recreation lover's paradise offering much more than the standard picnic tables. There is something for everyone, young or old, to do with a lot of the facilities open year round. As you would probably guess, water sports make up a large chunk of the recreation and you are able to rent everything from jet skis to speedboats all the way up to houseboats that you can take out into the lake and spend the weekend on. These behemoths comfortable accommodate 10-12 adults and are a fun way to spend a few days.

For the kids there is a beach and water park that operates throughout the summer months and if you are visiting from out of town they offer a great family package that gets your family a 2 day pass into the water park, accommodations to the Emerald Pointe hotel, situated inside the park, or you can upgrade and stay at one of the lake house right on the waterfront. Or if you are feeling really adventurous then skip the lavish accommodations and bring along your camping gear as there are a large number of campgrounds situated around the lake.

If you choose to stay at Emerald Pointe then you should really bring your golf clubs as they have an excellent course attached to their property and there is also another full course (Pine Isle) located inside the park. The two courses combined have 21 waterfront holes that will challenge even the most seasoned of golfers. I know all too well from personal experience. Bring plenty of extra balls.

Looking for something a little more relaxing? Then why not spend a day at Tranquility Spa and treat yourself to a massage, nail treatment or one of the many other beauty packages that they offer. My wife has gone there on a couple of different occasions and just loves the place.

There is also a full equestrian center that offers trail rides around the lake, pony rides for the kids, riding lessons and a great package for two that includes a 45 minute private trail ride to a private location overlooking the lake and a custom made picnic. Makes for a perfect romantic day out.

One of my favorite things at Lake Lanier though is the Christmas lights display that they have each year. Hop in the car and drive around the park taking in all the displays. The kids love it but be warned, if this is something you are interested in doing, be prepared to put in some time. It gets very busy and when you do actually get into the park its slow moving and there is no way to turn around and get out. You have to follow the road all the way around and that can take a couple of hours.