Summertime in the Empire State is great. Buffalo and Western New York are truly dynamic places when the weather gets warmer. There are many great things to do all over the region; it's also a great place to do nothing, especially considering New York's unique position on and near water.

From ocean sea water to fresh great lake water, you can find just about whatever you need in the Empire State.

This is why Buffalo is often one of the best places to be in the state due to our proximity to two great lakes, along with several other great inland lakes. But where does someone go if they want to be near the water?

Four Nice Lakes Around Buffalo To Check Out

If the urge to connect with the water hits you while you're in the 716, you have several great options to choose from:

Chautauqua Lake

Photo by Liz Caldwell on Unsplash
Photo by Liz Caldwell on Unsplash
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This 17-mile lake in Chautauqua County is a Western New York treasure. Being only around 1-hour away from Buffalo makes it one of the best places for a day trip. Chautauqua Lake is very popular for boating and other water activities.

Lake Ontario

Photo by Osama Saeed on Unsplash
Photo by Osama Saeed on Unsplash
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The smallest of the 5 Great Lakes, Lake Ontario is the last stop for water before it heads down the St. Lawrence Seaway before reaching the Atlantic Ocean. The lake has several spots on its shores that give you excellent access to the water, including a fan favorite, Fort Niagara.

Lake Erie

Intense Winter Storm Brings Multiple Feet Of Lake Effect Snow To Buffalo Area
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Sitting right on the City, Lake Erie is home to several great attractions in Buffalo. There is direct access to the lake at Canalside, along with just about every beach south of Niagara Falls.

Hoyt Lake

Credit: Yasmin Young
Yasmin Young / Townsquare Media
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It is a true hidden gem in the middle of the City. Hoyt Lakes is set inside what many consider the greatest park in New York State, Delaware Park. With an average depth of only 5 feet, Hoyt Lake has plenty to do around it, like the flamingo paddle boats.

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Gallery Credit: Canva, Wikipedia

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New York's 14 Best Lakes For Swimming

What makes a great swimming hole? Pristine waters, great beaches, mild temps, shallow waters, lifeguards, and more are many of the characteristics that are common in AZ Animals 14 best lakes for swimming in the state of New York. From just outside the city, to the Finger Lakes, to the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, these are your must-visit swimming holes for summer 2023!

Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff

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