Lakeport Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Lakeport with our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink options, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Lakeport

Nestled in the North Coast region of California, Lakeport is a picturesque small town in Lake County that offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its stunning natural beauty, abundance of outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage, Lakeport is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Lakeport

Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s cultural landmarks, enjoying its natural beauty, or simply indulging in some recreational activities, Lakeport has plenty to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top places to visit in Lakeport:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lake County Museum showcases the history and culture of Lake County through its extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits.
  • Tallman Soda Works is a historic soda factory that has been beautifully restored and converted into a museum. Visitors can learn about the history and production of soda and sample some of the factory’s delicious sodas.
  • Lakeport Historic Courthouse Museum is a 19th-century building that has been renovated to house a museum and cultural center. Visitors can learn about Lake County’s rich and varied history and attend art exhibitions and events.

Natural Attractions of Lakeport: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Clear Lake is a magnificent freshwater lake that is perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, and water sports. The lake is surrounded by stunning scenery and offers several public access points and facilities for visitors.
  • Mount Konocti is a dormant volcano that is a popular hiking destination in Lakeport. The mountain offers several trails of varying difficulty levels and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Anderson Marsh State Historical Park is a 1,200-acre park that offers visitors an opportunity to explore a diverse range of natural habitats, including wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography in the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lakeport

Lakeport offers several hiking and biking trails that take visitors through some of the most scenic parts of the town. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Clear Lake State Park Hiking Trails: A 9-mile-long loop trail that offers hikers stunning views of Clear Lake.
  • Lampson Field Hiking/Biking Trail: A 1.2-mile-long trail that offers visitors a scenic stroll through Lakeport’s Lampson Field.
  • Mount Konocti Trails: A network of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels that take visitors to the summit of the 4,299-foot Mount Konocti.

Best Things to Do in Lakeport: Activities and Tours

From wine tasting to fishing, Lakeport has plenty of activities and tours to offer visitors. Some of the best options include:

  • Wine Tours: Lakeport is home to several award-winning wineries, and visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings at several of them.
  • Fishing: Clear Lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and visitors can enjoy fishing for bass, catfish, and other species in the lake.
  • Boating and Water Sports: Clear Lake is the perfect destination for visitors who enjoy boating and water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lakeport

If you’re planning to spend a week in Lakeport, here’s a sample itinerary that will allow you to make the most of your visit:

Day Activity
1 Explore downtown Lakeport, visit the Lake County Museum, and attend a local art show or concert.
2 Take a wine tour and enjoy lunch at one of Lakeport’s many restaurants.
3 Hike or bike the Mount Konocti trails and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
4 Spend the day fishing or boating on Clear Lake.
5 Visit Tallman Soda Works, enjoy a picnic lunch at the Anderson Marsh State Historical Park, and finish the day with a sunset cruise on Clear Lake.
6 Go on a guided wildlife tour and enjoy a campfire dinner at one of Lakeport’s many campgrounds.
7 Visit a local farmers’ market, explore the town’s local shops and boutiques, and end the day with a relaxing soak in one of Lakeport’s natural hot springs.

Food and Drink Scene of Lakeport

Lakeport is home to a vibrant food and drink scene that offers visitors a variety of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for upscale dining or casual cafes, Lakeport has something for everyone.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lake County Lamb: This local specialty is a must-try for visitors who enjoy savory meat dishes. The lamb is raised locally and prepared in a variety of delicious ways.
  • Freshwater Fish: Clear Lake is home to a variety of freshwater fish like bass, crappie, and catfish, which are often prepared in local restaurants in delicious ways.
  • Olive Oil and Wine: Lakeport is known for its high-quality olive oil and wine, which can be sampled and purchased at several local wineries and markets.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Lake County is home to several craft breweries that produce high-quality beers in a variety of styles. Some of the best breweries to check out in Lakeport include Kelsey Creek Brewing Company and Wildhurst Vineyards.
  • Wine: Lakeport is known for its high-quality wines, which can be sampled and purchased at several local wineries like Chacewater Winery and Olive Mill and Langtry Estate Winery.

Where to Stay in Lakeport: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lakeport offers several accommodation options for visitors of all budgets and preferences, including boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Some of the best places to stay in Lakeport include:

  • Tallman Hotel: A boutique hotel located in downtown Lakeport that combines historic charm with modern amenities.
  • Konocti Harbor Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort that offers stunning views of Clear Lake and a wide range of amenities, including a full-service spa and marina.
  • Lakeport English Inn: A charming Victorian-style inn that offers comfortable accommodation and a range of amenities, including a swimming pool and hot tub.

What to Buy in Lakeport: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lakeport is known for its wide range of locally produced goods and souvenirs that make for great gifts for friends and family. Some of the best souvenirs to buy in Lakeport include:

  • Olive Oil: Lakeport is known for its high-quality olive oil, which can be purchased at several local markets and wineries.
  • Handcrafted Jewelry: Several local artisans create beautiful handcrafted jewelry using natural stones and precious metals.
  • Lakeport-themed artwork and photographs: Several local galleries and art shows feature Lakeport-themed artwork and photographs that capture the town’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Local Culture and Customs of Lakeport

Lakeport is known for its friendly community and laid-back lifestyle. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, including:

  • Leave No Trace: Visitors are asked to respect Lakeport’s natural beauty by leaving no trace and taking their trash with them when they leave.
  • Respect the Outdoors: Visitors are encouraged to enjoy Lakeport’s outdoor activities responsibly and respect wildlife and natural habitats.
  • Support Local Businesses: Lakeport has a vibrant local economy, and visitors are encouraged to support local businesses by shopping locally and eating at local restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Lakeport

The best time to visit Lakeport is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. The summer months see a surge in visitors, and accommodation prices tend to be higher during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lakeport

Here are some basic Do’s and Don’ts that visitors to Lakeport should keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore Lakeport’s outdoor attractions and cultural landmarks.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Sample local food and drink specialties.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural habitats and wildlife.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals.
  • Neglect to research and prepare for your outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lakeport

Lakeport is a relatively safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate. Visitors are advised to take basic precautions like securing their valuables and locking their doors when they leave their accommodations.

Health in Lakeport

Lakeport has several medical facilities that offer medical assistance to visitors in case of any emergencies. Visitors are advised to take basic precautions and pack basic medical supplies like sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and first-aid kits.

Getting to Lakeport: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lakeport is serviced by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Lakeport

  • Sacramento International Airport: The closest major airport to Lakeport, located approximately 115 miles away.
  • San Francisco International Airport: Another major airport located approximately 125 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Lakeport

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Ukiah: The closest bus stop to Lakeport, located approximately 20 miles away.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Visitors can rent a car at the airports or in nearby cities like Santa Rosa or Ukiah.
  • Shuttle Services: Several shuttle services operate in the area, offering transportation to and from the airports and other nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Lakeport

Lakeport is a relatively small town, and visitors can easily explore the town on foot or by bike. Car rentals are also available for visitors who prefer to drive.

Where to Go Next from Lakeport: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lakeport is surrounded by several other beautiful destinations that are worth visiting, including:

  • Mendocino: A charming coastal town located approximately 70 miles away from Lakeport that offers stunning ocean views and a wealth of cultural activities.
  • Napa Valley: A world-famous wine region located approximately 60 miles away from Lakeport that offers visitors an opportunity to sample some of the best wines in the world.
  • San Francisco: A vibrant city located approximately 125 miles away from Lakeport that offers a range of activities and sights, including world-famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge.

Conclusion

Lakeport offers visitors a wealth of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and recreational opportunities. With its laid-back lifestyle and friendly community, Lakeport is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful escape. Plan your trip to Lakeport today and experience all that this picturesque town has to offer.