Sure, we’re already surrounded by water, but who doesn’t love a good trip to any one of the lovely lakes near San Francisco, especially during the summer season. Swimmable San Francisco lakes are far and few between, so for a refreshing dip or just a serene waterfront getaway, check out the most beautiful lakes near the city.

1. Phoenix Lake
Phoenix Lake, California 94904, USA
Flickr/Bennett Honson
One of the lesser known lakes in San Francisco, Phoenix Lake is a small, serene oasis in Marin County.
2. Bass Lake
Bass Lake, CA, USA
Flickr/Niall Kennedy
A good spot to go for a dip on your way to Alamere Falls. And there's a rope swing, only adding to the reasons it's among the best of all San Francisco lakes.
3. Loch Lomond Reservoir
Loch Lomond Recreation Area, 100 Loch Lomond Way, Felton, CA 95018, USA
Flickr/Don DeBold
Nestled in a redwood canyon in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Loch Lomond Reservoir is an ideal destination for fishing (but no swimming allowed)!
4. Lake Merritt
Lake Merritt, Oakland, CA, USA
Flickr/Daniel Ramirez
One of the most beautiful of all San Francisco lakes, Lake Merritt is Oakland's glistening centerpiece. It is the perfect spot for a lakeside run or a romantic gondola ride.
5. Lake Anza
Lake Anza, California 94708, USA
Flickr/josh s Jackson
An East Bay gem with a beach, Lake Anza is one of the best swim spots near San Francisco.

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6. Lake Del Valle
Lake Del Valle, California 94550, USA
Yelp/Molly M.
When it comes to bodies of water, Lake Del Valle is an outdoor enthusiast's dream come true, and that's because it's an ideal locale to swim, fish, windsurf, or start (or end) your 28-mile backcountry hike along the Ohlone Wilderness Trail.
7. Lake Berryessa
Lake Berryessa, California 94558, USA
Yelp/Tiffany D.
Not just one of the most beautiful lakes near San Francisco, Lake Berryessa is also Napa's largest lake. It's a perfect retreat after all all that wine tasting.
8. Lake Merced
Lake Merced, San Francisco, CA 94132, USA
Yelp/Geraldine R.
You don't even need to leave the city to admire the lovely Lake Merced.
9. Lake Chabot
Lake Chabot, California, USA
Yelp/Hazel C.
An ideal East Bay escape for kayaking, fishing, or paddleboating, Lake Chabot is easily one of the best lakes in San Francisco.
10. Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe, United States
Flickr/Mirza Asad Baig
When it comes to lakes around San Francisco, this one is a bit further of a drive, but if you want the idyllic lake experience, this is it. But do beware: the water is frigid!

So, what do you think? Did you know about these lovely lakes near San Francisco? Ever visited any (or all) of them? Which of all the bodies of water in and around the city are your favorites? Where else should we be heading to this summer? Let us know!

Of course, lakes aren’t the only option for water-related fun. There are so many others, including going for a dip in the best swimming holes in San Francisco.

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Lakes Near San Francisco

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