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Top Lakeside Getaways Near South Florida

Whether you're an avid angler, a wildlife and nature lover, or just grateful for a little sunshine and blue water, south Florida's abundance of lakes provides a great place to look to for a relaxing lakeside getaway. While many think initially of Florida's miles of saltwater drenched coastline, its pristine lakes also draw visitors from around the world. From the largest of south Florida's lakes Lake Okeechobee to the aptly named Lake Alligator, there are an abundance of natural fresh-water lakes to visit. In true Floridian fashion, the hospitality-driven area has a variety of beautiful lakeside venues to go along with these natural attractions. Below, you'll find the top five of the many lakeside getaways in south Florida.
bluemartini
(Source: Blue Martini)

Magnolia Inn Bed & Breakfast
347 E. Third Ave.
Mount Dora, FL 32757
(352) 735-3800
www.magnoliainn.net

One look at the Magnolia Inn Bed & Breakfast's beautiful property and view of Lake Dora and you'll know why this is one of south Florida's top lakeside getaways. Nestled between shady oaks and blooming magnolias, this bed and breakfast offers southern hospitality in an intimate setting. For the hours not spent in the onsite hammock or snuggled in the well-appointed bedrooms, guests can enjoy world renowned bass fishing, quaint small town shopping, and a variety of fine dining restaurants located in the nearby community of Mount Dora. Each room at the inn is uniquely decorated and promises guests the patented old-world charm that is Florida's legacy.

playwright
(Source: Playwright Irish Pub)

Lake Blue Resort
735 S. Lakeview Road
Lake Placid, FL 33852
(863) 465-3371
www.lakeblueresort.com

Located along the west shore of Lake Clay, Lake Blue Resort offers the perfect little getaway apartments for visitors requiring both the comforts of home, along with great amenities and activities. The housing is compact at about 600 square feet per apartment but each comes complete with two double beds, a living room, a fully-equipped kitchen, and even a shady patio to relax on. If the scenic lake views and cozy housing wasn't enough, Lake Blue Resort is located in Lake Placid, named "America's Most Interesting Town" by Reader's Digest. That means there is no shortage of things to do for guests who'd like to spend some time out on the town.

bluemartini
(Source: Blue Martini)

Vista Vacation Rentals
4874 Cayview Ave.
Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 545-3653
www.vistavr.com

Some visitors want it all when it comes to their lakeside getaway, and Vista Vacation Rentals has that covered. Several of their rental properties feature stunning lake views and they can accommodate everything from a weekend couple's retreat to extended stays for groups of up to 10. Their location in Orlando makes it possible to spend one day by the lake and the next at Disney World or the Orange County Convention Center. Many of their properties feature amenities like swimming pools and walking trails that could keep any group busy when they aren't catching rays lakeside, and they all provide the comforts of home.

Related: Best Places To Get Outdoors With The Family In South Florida

(Source: lakegrassyinn.com)
Lake Grassy Inn And Suites
1865 US Highway 27 S.
Lake Placid, FL33852
(863) 465-2135
www.lakegrassyinn.com

Located in central south Florida, the Lake Grassy Inn and Suites offers visitors a home away from home at the lake. This pet friendly inn sits between two gorgeous lakes and, in addition to its number one Trip Advisor ranking, boasts amenities that range from an onsite laundromat to barbecue facilities. Selected rooms feature a patio that overlooks the lake. Though it would be hard to tire of spending time there, the property is within a short drive of several museums and a winery making it ideal for day trips. The inn offers both a boat slip and a boat dock, so guests can truly make the most of living lakeside during their stay.

vandyke
(Source: Van Dyke Cafe)

Lakeshore Resort
121 Sunset Terrace
Lake Placid, FL33852
(863) 465-2135
www.lakeshoreresortrentals.com

You can't get much closer to the lake than at Lakeshore Resort in Lake Placid, FL. Whether you're looking to get away for the weekend or for an extended stay, you'll find everything you need to enjoy life at the lake on this property. Lakeshore offers boat slips, docks, and ramps and 300 feet of scenic, white sand beach that brings guests right into the lake. They tout themselves as a great place for group functions like weddings, and after seeing the pristine beach and quaint cottages it's hard to disagree.

Related: Top Outdoor Gear Stores In South Florida

Emma Sledge is a freelance writer, executive recruiter, technophile, and social media maven with a penchant for spinning a yarn. She is a graduate of Flagler College and resides in Palm Coast, FL with her husband and a few too many pets. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
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