.:A Desert Lifestyle Article:.
Lake Havasu
Where Fun is a Year-Round Event
By Lorie Harbough & Photos By Terry Mayes
In almost the same amount of time it takes you to get to the Westfield Mall in Palm Desert, you can be in a spot that has more then 400 miles of stunning coastline with exceptional water sports, including fishing, skiing, kayaking and houseboats. If you are looking for something out of the water, Lake Havasu has world class golf, birding and shopping. With beautiful beaches, campsites and hiking trails, this is a spot that should not be overlooked.
Lake Havasu is well known for its recreational fishing and boating, which brings in 3.5 million visitors each year. Fishing tournaments are often held on the lake, where bass and stripers are the main catch. Additional fish species; including largemouth and smallmouth bass, strip bass, crappie and catfish are just waiting for a juicy lure.
History abounds at Lake Havasu. I’m sure someone would consider it a sin if we did not mention the 130 year old world famous London Bridge that has called Lake Havasu its home since October 1971. In 1968, the old bridge went up for auction and Robert P. McCulloch, founder of Lake Havasu City, submitted the winning bid of $2.46 million. From the River Thames to the Colorado River, this bridge continues to be a rich part of history.
I’m not much of a birder, but when in Rome… Lake Havasu might be a little place, but because of the diverse desert, river, lake, marsh and mountain areas, it’s one of the most popular bird watching destinations in California and Arizona. With such a wide range of terrain, Lake Havasu offers bird watchers a spectrum of birds of prey, open country birds, land birds, smaller woodland birds, shoreline birds, ducks, special collection birds and endangered species. If you are lucky, you might just get to see a bald eagle.
If you have the time or just need a break from all your outdoor adventures, checkout the local shopping. Lake Havasu has a wide range of shops, from a quaint English village nestled under the London Bridge to the new Agave Retail Plaza set on the banks of the Bridgewater Channel. the Agave Retail Plaza has established the island entrance as one of the city’s most unique tourist destinations. The Island Mall and Brewery is also located along the Bridgewater Channel. This two story enclosed mall includes a quaint café and a variety of shopping and fine dining opportunities with breathtaking views of the London Bridge.
Lake Havasu offers visitors a world class adventure with a small town charm. Visit ITT (Information, Tickets and Tours) in the Main Exchange for additional information on events and Lake Havasu Vacation Rentals at the Crazy Horse Campgrounds.
