No matter the time of year, it’s never too early to start planning your summertime waterfront getaways! If you’re endlessly searching “beautiful lakes near me,” well you’re in luck, as Buffalo is surrounded by several beautiful lakes, and even though some might require a bit of travel time, they’re all well worth a visit. Here are our picks for the eight best lakes near Buffalo.

1. Chautauqua Lake
Chautauqua Lake, NY, USA
fiberglasslungs - Flickr




Chautauqua Lake is one of the larger Buffalo lakes, located in Chautauqua County. The lake is 17 miles long and reaches depths of 78 feet, making it a popular destination for boating and fishing in Western New York. In addition to plenty of activities to partake in on the water, there are also several restaurants and facilities nearby to add to your itinerary!
2. Darien Lake
Darien Lakes State Park, 10475 Harlow Rd, Darien Center, NY 14040, USA
Darien Lake Theme Park - Facebook
Most people think Darien Lake only consists of a loud and busy amusement park, but the lake itself is actually quite serene. Darien Lake is one of the Buffalo lakes that is a popular spot for camping, paddle boating, canoeing, and simply relaxing. You'll find it in the town of Darien, about 41 minutes from Buffalo.
3. Findley Lake
Findley Lake, NY 14736, USA
Findley Lake Nature Center - Facebook
We've mentioned Findley Lake before, and we'll say it again: This lake is one of the most beautiful lakes near Buffalo! Located in the tiny town of Mina, Findley Lake is picture-perfect any time of year, but especially during the summer. Enjoy a day of boating or swimming and be sure to check out nearby Peek'n Peak for some added adventure!
4. Finger Lakes
Finger Lakes, NY, USA
ckdalz - Trip Advisor




Spending a day at one of the Finger Lakes requires a bit more travel time, but we promise the reward is worth it. There are eleven Finger Lakes near Buffalo in total - all within a few hours' drive from Buffalo. Whichever lake you choose, be sure to take advantage of the wineries nearby! (Just don't booze and boat.)
5. Lake Erie
44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA
hope for gorilla - Flickr
We're stating the obvious here, but Lake Erie is the most popular of the Buffalo lakes. Whether you want to stay near downtown and enjoy the views from Canalside, would rather walk the paths at the Outer Harbor, or want to get further away from it all in the south towns, we're blessed with beautiful beaches and plenty of water activities to enjoy!
6. Lake Ontario
Hamlin Beach State Park, Hamlin, NY 14464, USA
Keith Ewing - Flickr
Another obvious choice: Lake Ontario! We have not one, but two Great Lakes near Buffalo that touch our shorelines - how lucky! Lake Ontario is the 14th largest lake in the world, and it's a popular body of water for fishing, boating, sailing, swimming, and more!
7. Lime Lake
Lime Lake, NY, USA
Facebook/Lime Lake Snack Bar




Small but mighty, Lime Lake is located just outside the town of Machias in the southern tier. The entire lake is one mile in diameter, surrounded by homes that comprise the hamlet of Lime Lake. This is one of the great places to swim near Buffalo when the weather gets hot!
8. Rushford Lake
Rushford Lake, New York, USA
Freaktography - Flickr
Rushford Lake is a personal favorite, and chances are if you've ever been, you have fond memories of it, too. The lake is mainly in the town of Rushford, about an hour south of the city of Buffalo. This is one of the Buffalo lakes stocked with several types of fish, making it a popular spot for anglers. During the day, you'll find speed boats, jet skis, and party boats navigating the waters - but at night is when the real magic happens. If you're fortunate enough to have a pontoon boat, turn on the lights and head out onto the lake for beautiful stargazing!

 

Which of these lakes near Buffalo is your favorite? Did we leave any of the best Buffalo lakes off this list? Let us know! Are you more of a sunbather or a swimmer? Leave your favorite waterfront summer pastimes in the comments!

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More to Explore

Lakes Near Buffalo

Libby Monson | June 01, 2022

Where can I rent a boat in Buffalo?

 

Paddling around a lake is so much fun! Don't worry if you don't have your own boat because there are lots of spots to rent a boat in Buffalo. Hoyt Lake in Delaware Park is one of the Buffalo lakes with a whole flotilla of rental boats to make your day on the lake perfect. You can ret a rowboat and recreate the boat scene from the Notebook. Or, if you're feeling more silly than romantic, you can rent a Floatmingo. A Floatmingo is a pedal boat shaped like a pink Flamingo that'll have you floating around the lake in style!

Are there any lake resorts near Buffalo

 

There is something to be said for spending a weekend or, better yet, a week at a lake resort near Buffalo. A stay at Geneva On The Lake combines a luxury resort and some magical lake time. Located at the Finger Lakes near Buffalo, you'll be in wine country on the shores of Seneca Lake. Stroll through the formal fairytale gardens and swim in the lakeside pool. You'll enjoy a cozy wood-burning fireplace and a relaxing jacuzzi. Then dine at the Lancelloti Dining Room, and don't forget to order one of the famous desserts. Of course, the best thing about Geneva On The Lake is the fantastic lake sunsets you'll enjoy each evening.

Are there any lighthouses near Buffalo?

 

Barcelona Lighthouse is an hour south of Buffalo on Lake Erie. Lake Erie is one of the Great Lakes near Buffalo and a great chance to see a lighthouse close to home. The Barcelona Lighthouse was built in 1829 and stands 40 feet tall. You can stop at the visitors center in the Keeper's Cottage to learn about the lighthouse's history. Barcelona might not be the tallest lighthouse on Lake Erie, but it is easily seen from Canada, so don't forget to wave to our neighbors to the north when you visit.

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