Lake Travis: North Shore Guide
Everything to do on Lake Travis: boating, sailing, swimming, fishing, marinas, and waterfront activities. Hill Country Lakes Rentals, Jonestown TX.
Lake Travis is one of Texas’s premier destinations for water recreation: a reservoir that winds about 65 miles up the Colorado River, with dramatic limestone cliffs and plenty of Hill Country sunshine.
About Lake Travis
Lake Travis is the largest of the Highland Lakes by storage capacity, formed in 1942 by Mansfield Dam on the Colorado River and managed by the LCRA. At full pool (681 feet above sea level) it covers roughly 19,000 acres with about 270 miles of shoreline. The North Shore (Jonestown/Lago Vista side) is less crowded than the South Shore while still offering full lake access.
On the Water
Boating
- Multiple marinas surround the lake and may feature amenities like boat rentals, fuel, and launch ramps. See Marinas on the North Shore below.
Sailing
- Sail Austin Charters offers skippered charters, sunset sails, and sailing lessons
- The Austin Yacht Club on Lake Travis runs sailing races and regattas through the year
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
- Stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals available near the waterfront
- Calm coves in the early morning are ideal for flatwater paddling
Swimming
- The lake is generally clear and swimmable (check current conditions and algae advisories)
- The Hollows has a lakeside Beach Club with three pools including an infinity pool, plus two Kayak Clubs where rental guests can launch kayaks and paddleboards and swim in the lake
Fishing
According to Texas Parks & Wildlife, Lake Travis is fished mainly for largemouth bass, Guadalupe bass, white bass, catfish, and sunfish, with a small striped bass fishery at the lower end of the lake. Fishing guides operate from launch points around the lake.
Anyone 17 or older needs a Texas fishing license with a freshwater endorsement to fish Lake Travis, and that includes out-of-state visitors. You can buy one online from Texas Parks & Wildlife.
Marinas on the North Shore
- Northshore Marina: inside The Hollows at 6612 Lantern View Drive, Jonestown. Covered boat slips, fuel, and a ship’s store. Call 512-267-6222. It is the closest marina to our homes.
- Lago Vista: boat rental operators work from docks in Lago Vista, a short drive west.
- Point Venture Marina: further west, with a fuel dock, ship’s store, and the floating Captain Pete’s Boathouse restaurant.
Ready to Visit?
Browse our vacation rentals near Lake Travis: North Shore Guide and book your stay direct.
Browse Properties →