Get to Know North Carolina’s Wake Sports Hideaway

Filled with equal parts Southern charm and splashing fun, North Carolina’s wake-loving lakes are a lesson in balance, on board and off!

Though it may not be as big as water sport hotspots like California or the Great Lakes, North Carolina overflows with a passion for the water—and, of course, plenty of places to embrace that passion.

Today, we’re exploring the one-of-a-kind lakes that make North Carolina the wake sports hidden gem you never knew you needed. Just read on to learn more!

Lake Norman

Nothing pairs better with a night out in Charlotte, than a day spent in Lake Norman! This local reservoir is beloved by boarders for its choice, wake-friendly waters. Its leaf-like shape offers plenty of surface to explore in addition to the main channel, so you can craft your adventure to your tastes—spend some time wakeboarding or hop into a kayak and see Lake Norman’s twisting side creeks and channels with ease.

Keep your eyes open for the lake’s resident wildlife—namely, a legendary lake monster called Normie! While stories have likened Normie to everything from a large, dino-like alligator to a whopper catfish, he’s said to be a friendly monster, so see if you spot him on your Lake Norman adventures.

Lake Wylie

For a quieter adventure—where you can still enjoy some seriously fun wake action—head to Lake Wylie! The smaller reservoir straddles the border between North and South Carolina, and offers sportsters from each state the chance to enjoy a natural escape. Here, rich blue water runs up to tree-lined shores and lush lake islands, creating the perfect backdrop for all sorts of on-the-water fun. Or just kick back and relax with a leisurely cruise!

While Lake Wylie provides a relaxing experience, it’s also got plenty of room for social fun if you know where to look. The lake’s sandbar, for example, is perfect for rafting up with friends, listening to music and soaking up the sun on long weekends, holidays and just-because outings.

Lake Lure

Considered by many to be the crown jewel of North Carolina lakes, Lake Lure is a boater’s paradise. Nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a cruise around Lake Lure offers stunning views of the hazy blue ridges all around—they surround the lake with a sense of serenity and back-to-nature bliss, the kind that invites you stick around and stay as long as there’s a wake to ride.

Speaking of wakes—this is the place to make them. Lake Lure’s smooth, glassy surface is perfect for working up a memorable, custom-tailored ride. Before your ride, take a few moments to soak in the view of Lake Lure’s lush, forest-lined shores reflected in the surface below. You can enjoy the same tranquil stillness as you wind down at the end of a thrilling day, enjoying the view as you prepare your campsite for the night ahead. After all, come morning, you’ll want to be the first one back out on the water! 

Ready to indulge your aquatic appetite in North Carolina? Hop onto your Vortex and enjoy! There’s plenty to see and do while you’re in town.