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GA has 4 of the best lakes for a ‘restful’ Labor Day weekend, Southern Living says

Lake Oconee in Georgia.
Lake Oconee in Georgia. Lake Oconee website

Nothing is better than a lake day in the South. From fishing, boating or just relaxing on a dock, lake days are the perfect way to unwind.

And in Georgia, there are endless lakes to enjoy all over the state. But which ones are the best for a relaxing weekend getaway?

Southern Living recently compiled a list of the best lakes across the south for a “restful weekend away,” and four Georgia lakes are on the list. Here’s what to know:

Best GA lakes for a restful Labor Day weekend

Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee in Georgia.
Lake Oconee in Georgia. Lake Oconee website

Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Georgia is the place “where time drifts by,” full of family fun, natural scenery and cool waters.

“At this luxurious resort, plan your entire stay around the water, which seems to be everywhere you look. From the glorious lakeside infinity swimming pool to the indoor pool in the spa to the waters of Lake Oconee, you can spend your entire vacation staying cool and wet,” said Southern Living writer Tara Massouleh McCay.

Lake Rabun

Lake Rabun in Georgia.
Lake Rabun in Georgia. Explore Georgia website

“Known for its classic style, this is the perfect lake for old-fashioned family fun,” McCay said.

Lake Rabun is located in the southeastern corner of the state, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The lake is spread over 835 acres and is a great place for boating, fishing and scenic picnics.

Lake Lanier

Although it is rumored to be haunted, Lake Lanier made Southern Living’s list of “restful” lakes because of its newly renovated hotel, beautiful cottages and unique houseboats.

“Breathe deeply, and let yourself unwind. Lake Lanier Islands, a lovely resort just 30 minutes north of Atlanta, has everything you’ll need for a cool summer getaway,” McCay said.

Pine Mountain Lakes

Pine Mountain in Georgia.
Pine Mountain in Georgia. Southern Living, Getty Images

“Nestled in the pines a little more than an hour southwest of Atlanta, spots of tranquility such as Lake Martin and Mountain Creek Lake spread like mirrors across the valley,” McCay said.

With Callaway Gardens nearby and fun activities like a bird show, golf courses and plenty of places to dine and shop, this area is sure to be a relaxing choice for a weekend getaway.

Which Georgia lakes are your favorite for a weekend getaway? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com

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Chelsea Madden
The Telegraph
Chelsea is a service journalism reporter who began working for McClatchy in 2022. She was born and raised in Middle Georgia and lives in Forsyth. She attended Wesleyan College for undergrad and a few years after that, went to SCAD for an MFA in writing. Outside of work, Chelsea likes to watch Netflix, read books in the thriller genre and chase her toddler around.
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