Spend a Weekend Away in Lakeport

For nearly 150 years, Lakeport’s rested on the shores of the Clear Lake basin. In the 1880s, people were more likely to arrive by ferry than a car; to get there, they had to take the stage to Lower Lake, hop on a paddlewheel, and boat nearly thirty miles up the lake to reach Lakeport’s docks. Even though people still bring their boats to look around town, Lakeport’s now just a couple minute drive off Highway 29 and a great base to spend a weekend exploring Lake County.

Lakeport’s Main Street still has many original buildings, and it’s pedestrian-friendly and filled with shops. Pick up a bite to eat at the Gaslight Grill or some casual fare at 350 North, then spend the day shopping with a latte from Angelina’s Bakery in hand. If you’re looking for the perfect outfit, check out Style and Soul Boutique for quality fashion and accessories, then pop down the street to Campos Casuals for relaxed, hip styles. But Lakeport has more than just clothes. Scour one of the many antique shops for that perfect find, peek in the Main St. Art Gallery to see several local artists showcasing their fine art, crafts, and wares, or spend a couple of hours wandering through the Courthouse Museum.

Lake County has some of Northern California’s best vineyards, and Lakeport has two tasting rooms. First, visit Don Angel Cellars, located in the middle of downtown, and enjoy owner and winemaker Miguel Angel’s unique, handmade wines. Each bottle is created from small batches with skill, showcasing Miguel’s passion for making the perfect wine. A block down, you’ll find Wine in the Willows, which features several local wineries as well as a selection of crafts and gifts.

The crown jewel of Lakeport is Library Park. Surrounding the hundred-year-old Carnegie library, the park borders Clear Lake and has picnic tables, playgrounds, boat launches and docks. Visit on a Friday evening during the Summer Concert Series, and the park will be filled with people visiting with friends and enjoying live music. It’s a good place to grab an artisan pizza from Juicy’s, where you can kick back at a table on the roof with a local beer from O’Meara Bros Brewing and enjoy the view. If you prefer more formal dining, Park Place, located adjacent to the park, offers fresh California cuisine, often sourced with local ingredients.

But the best way to see the beauty of Lakeport is from the water. Rent a boat, kayak, paddleboard or jet ski from Disney Boat Rentals and spend the day exploring, or book a tour through Eyes of the Wild to see the abundant wildlife that calls the lake home.

After a day on the lake, book a room at Skylark Shores Resort, which offers spectacular views of Mt. Konocti as well as kayak and paddleboard rentals. For a more personal experience, try the Carriage House, located just a short stroll from downtown. After a full day of exploring, nothing’s better than kicking back, relaxing, and watching the sun set behind Mt. Konocti, turning the waters of Clear Lake brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple.