Waterfront Activities
Open waters of Lake Erie
The lakefront provides the ideal setting for a variety of water activities at Lakeside Chautauqua. Explore opportunities in sailing, kayaking, swimming and fishing, or simply enjoy the beautiful shoreline. A kiddie pool and splash pad overlooking the water’s edge provide hours of enjoyment for children. Whatever your preference, Lakeside has water activities for all ages.
Enjoy The Open waters of Lake Erie
Watercraft Rentals
Rent a sailboat, kayak or paddleboard and enjoy the beautiful Lake Erie shoreline. Whether on your own or together with a partner, boat rentals offer a unique water experience for all ages.
Lakeside has an inventory of 35 watercraft within the rental fleet. They’re identified with “LS” for those provided directly by Lakeside or “S.O.S” if donated by the Society of Old Salts. The fleet is owned and managed by Lakeside and is available for the enjoyment of all guests and residents. S.O.S members may rent only one watercraft at a time per membership, at no cost; a two-hour maximum applies. Rental rates apply for a second watercraft rental in the same timeslot.
Sailboats
Kayak
Paddleboard
Book Your Rental Online
Watercraft rentals have a 2-hour maximum time limit and must be reserved in advance.
Sail The Open waters of Lake Erie
Sailing on Lake Erie
We offer affordable sailboat rentals and all the equipment you need for a fun and safe adventure. For beginners and seasoned sailors alike, our sailing lessons help build confidence and skills, while our friendly competitions and regattas add excitement for those looking to test their abilities.
Sunfish Sailboat
Laser Sailboat
Opti Sailboat
Book Your Rental Online
Watercraft rentals have a 2-hour maximum time limit and must be reserved in advance.
Swim The Open waters of Lake Erie
Lake Swimming
The Lakeside Dock is the ideal location on Lake Erie to relax, catch some rays and make a splash on hot summer days. The small beach area and swimming on the west side of the Dock are permitted in the summer. Swim at your own risk.
Splash Pad & Kiddie Pool
Visit the Kiddie Pool & Splash Park on the Lakefront. Open Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.
Safety, Rules, and Policies
For your safety, please review our waterfront policies before swimming.
Lifeguards are not on duty; swim at your own risk. Stay within the swim lines at the beach and between the I and L Docks. Those with inflatables should use the roped-off swim areas between the I and L Docks.
More places to swim!
Check out the pool at the Grindley Aquatic & Wellness Campus
Cruise The Open waters of Lake Erie
Experience Lake Erie’s History with Lakeside Wooden Boat Society
Step back in time this summer with the Lakeside Wooden Boat Society. Cruise the scenic waters of Lake Erie and take in the charm of Lakeside, Ohio, aboard beautifully restored historic wooden boats.
Choose from a variety of voyages on our classic wooden boats. Relax on a gentle 30-minute ride or unwind with an hour-long sunset cruise. Feel the Lake Erie breeze, watch the sun dip below the horizon, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Reserve Your Ride
Reserve your unforgettable wooden boat ride today and experience the timeless beauty of Lake Erie.
Fish The Open waters of Lake Erie
Lake Erie Fishing
Reel in the fun and experience great fishing on one of the Great Lakes. Catching a Lake Erie perch, walleye or other freshwater fish is sure to make your trip to Lakeside a memorable one. All anglers in Ohio, ages 16+, require a valid fishing license. Fishing licenses are available at the Lakeside Sailing Center, located at the Pavilion.
From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, join Dave Kintner for Fishing 101 from 8-10 a.m. Friday and Saturday, weather permitting. For details, visit lakesideohio.com/calendar.