15 Best Lake Destinations for Airbnb Investors in 2025

Looking for the most profitable Airbnb markets in 2025? Lakeside destinations continue to outperform, offering investors a powerful mix of drive-to demand, year-round booking potential, and premium pricing power.

This list features the 15 best lake destinations for Airbnb investors in the USA—spanning high-altitude hideaways, wine-country escapes, and booming Southern STR hubs. Whether you’re buying your first short-term rental or scaling a luxury STR portfolio, these markets stand out for:

• Strong occupancy rates
• Seasonal and multi-season revenue
• Favorable local regulations
• Guest appeal and lifestyle value

Each lake is evaluated based on investor-friendly factors like average daily rate (ADR), short-term rental laws, and long-term appreciation potential.

Top Airbnb Lake Markets in the Western U.S.

These Western lakes are known for high guest turnover, strong ADRs, and outdoor lifestyle appeal. If you’re an investor targeting year-round occupancy or luxury weekenders, these markets deliver.

1. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada

Lake Tahoe is one of the top Airbnb destinations in the U.S. for both summer and winter short-term rentals. With skiing in the winter and water sports in the summer, it boasts some of the highest occupancy rates in the western Airbnb market.

Investor Highlights:

• Average Daily Rate (ADR): $350–$600+ (seasonal)
• Occupancy Rate: 65%–80% in peak months
• Regulations: Vary significantly between counties and cities. South Lake Tahoe and Incline Village both require permits.

Pro Tip:
Focus on mid-luxury to luxury cabins with hot tubs and lake views to stand out in this high-demand, high-regulation market.

2. Big Bear Lake, California

A mountain-lake hybrid, Big Bear draws travelers for both skiing and lakeside escapes — making it a rare four-season short-term rental market.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $275–$450+
• Occupancy: 60%–75%
• Regulations: City permit required, with annual cap on licenses in some zones.

Pro Tip:
Cabins with fireplaces, decks, and hot tubs are top performers. Add pet-friendly features to boost occupancy.

3. Lake Havasu, Arizona

Lake Havasu offers high rental demand during snowbird season and spring break. It’s a party-friendly market with strong appeal for boaters and winter travelers.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $200–$400
• Peak Season: Nov–April
• Regulations: STR-friendly, but be aware of HOA-specific restrictions.

Pro Tip:
Multi-bedroom homes with boat parking or garage space are highly desirable in this market.

4. Flathead Lake, Montana

This underrated Montana market is gaining traction with Airbnb investors thanks to its size, scenery, and proximity to Glacier National Park.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $300–$500 (luxury cabins)
• Occupancy: Strong in summer; shoulder season opportunity growing
• Regulations: STRs allowed in many zones; check county-level details

Pro Tip:
Target higher-end properties with uninterrupted views or lake access — especially near Bigfork or Polson.

5. Crater Lake, Oregon

While technically a national park lake, Crater Lake’s nearby towns offer low-competition entry into a market with intense seasonal demand.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $225–$375
• Season: May–September
• Regulations: Nearby towns vary; most require registration

Pro Tip:
Invest in eco-lodges or nature-focused STRs within 30–60 minutes of the park entrance. Market to photographers, hikers, and road-trippers.

Top Airbnb Lake Destinations in the Midwest

The Midwest offers some of the most affordable lakefront investment properties with surprisingly strong seasonal demand. These lakes draw guests from major metros like Chicago, St. Louis, and Minneapolis, creating high occupancy during peak months and solid ROI for Airbnb investors.

6. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Just 90 minutes from Chicago, Lake Geneva is a top Airbnb destination in the Midwest. Its charming downtown, walkability, and steady tourist flow make it a strong performer—especially for luxury short-term rentals.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $275–$500
• Occupancy: Peaks June–September
• Regulations: STRs are allowed, but some neighborhoods have zoning caps.

Pro Tip:
Historic homes near the lakefront or downtown command the highest rates. Add fire pits or bikes to boost reviews and repeat bookings.

7. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

With over 1,100 miles of shoreline, Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most active Airbnb markets in Missouri. Known for boating, events, and nightlife, it attracts weekenders and summer vacationers alike.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $200–$400
• Occupancy: High in summer; event-based spikes
• Regulations: Generally STR-friendly, but some coves may be over-supplied.

Pro Tip:
Focus on homes with dock access and parking for guests towing boats. Proximity to marinas boosts both visibility and occupancy rate.

Top Airbnb Lake Destinations in the Northeast

Lakes in the Northeast are known for strong seasonal performance, fall foliage tourism, and a mix of luxury and heritage properties. They’re ideal for Airbnb investors targeting family travelers, wedding parties, and weekenders from NYC, Boston, and DC.

8. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

A premium New England Airbnb destination, Lake Winnipesaukee offers high-end appeal, with strong summer bookings and foliage-driven fall demand. It's a favorite among second-home buyers and multi-gen vacationers.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $350–$600+ for waterfront
• Occupancy: Strong June–October
• Regulations: Vary by town; Moultonborough and Wolfeboro are STR-friendly.

Pro Tip:
Waterfront cabins with docks and modern amenities like kayaks, EV chargers, or screened porches command premium nightly rates.

9. Finger Lakes, New York

One of the best short-term rental markets in New York, the Finger Lakes region blends natural beauty with wine tourism, weddings, and seasonal events. Seneca, Keuka, and Cayuga Lakes offer the most consistent returns.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $275–$500
• Occupancy: High from May–October
• Regulations: STR-friendly in most counties, with growing support for luxury rentals.

Pro Tip:
Target 3–4 bedroom homes near wineries or lakefront trails. Homes with hot tubs and patios do especially well with wedding guests and group stays.

10. Lake Champlain, Vermont & New York

This cross-border lake combines small-town charm with dramatic views. Less saturated than other Northeast markets, it’s a rising option for Airbnb investing.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $225–$400
• Occupancy: Summer & early fall
• Regulations: Mostly STR-permissive; check with local town zoning.

Pro Tip:
Cottage-style homes near Burlington or Plattsburgh see strong bookings, especially when marketed for foliage, kayaking, or romantic getaways.

11. Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

A true four-season Airbnb market, Deep Creek Lake offers lake fun in summer and skiing in winter. It’s a weekend staple for DC and Baltimore families.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $300–$525
• Occupancy: Year-round demand; peaks in July and Jan
• Regulations: Generally STR-permitted, with registration required

Pro Tip:
Large group-friendly homes with hot tubs, game rooms, and fireplaces perform exceptionally well, especially on holiday weekends.

Top Airbnb Lake Destinations in the South

The Southern U.S. is home to some of the most profitable Airbnb lake markets, thanks to favorable regulations, affordable property prices, and long rental seasons. These lakes draw steady traffic from major cities like Atlanta, Austin, and Orlando.

12. Lake Travis, Texas

Located just outside Austin, Lake Travis is a top Airbnb market in Texas for waterfront rentals. It attracts groups, weddings, and weekend getaways year-round.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $300–$550+
• Occupancy: Peaks March–October
• Regulations: STR-friendly in most areas; check Travis County and HOA rules

Pro Tip:
Homes with pools, decks, and sunset lake views are best-sellers. Bonus: proximity to Austin nightlife increases midweek bookings.

13. Lake Norman, North Carolina

This upscale lake community near Charlotte offers a rare mix of residential stability and vacation rental demand. It’s ideal for investors seeking consistent revenue and long-term appreciation.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $275–$500
• Occupancy: Strong year-round
• Regulations: STRs allowed, but HOA restrictions may apply

Pro Tip:
Modern, dock-access homes in Mooresville or Cornelius perform well with families, wedding parties, and business travelers.

14. Lake Lanier, Georgia

Only 45 minutes from Atlanta, Lake Lanier is one of the most booked lakes in the Southeast for short-term rentals. It’s known for boating, fishing, and weekend retreats.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $250–$475
• Occupancy: High in spring, summer, and fall
• Regulations: Some counties (like Hall) are tightening permits — confirm before buying

Pro Tip:
Invest in properties with dock access and water toys. Fire pits and game rooms help boost shoulder-season bookings.

15. Lake Dora (Mount Dora), Florida

Lake Dora is a charming Central Florida Airbnb market with a historic downtown, festivals, and strong weekend tourism. It benefits from proximity to Orlando without theme park pricing.

Investor Highlights:

• ADR: $200–$400
• Occupancy: Year-round demand
• Regulations: STR-friendly with light registration

Pro Tip:
Cottage-style homes within walking distance to downtown Mount Dora are consistently booked. Event weekends (antiques, arts festivals) see spikes.

How to Choose the Right Lake for Airbnb Investing

With so many attractive options, narrowing down the best lake Airbnb investment depends on your goals, budget, and risk tolerance. Use the framework below to compare markets based on key investment metrics.

1. Occupancy Rate & Seasonality

Choose lakes with demand that matches your income goals.

High-seasonal markets:

• Lake Geneva, Lake Winnipesaukee, Finger Lakes
• Strong summer and fall bookings, winter dip

Year-round markets:

• Big Bear, Deep Creek, Lake Travis, Lake Norman
• More consistent cash flow, especially with large or amenity-rich homes

2. Average Daily Rate (ADR) vs. Property Cost

High ADR is great—but only if property prices make the investment viable.

Luxury/high-ADR markets:

• Lake Tahoe, Lake Norman, Lake Winnipesaukee
• Higher entry cost, but strong per-night returns

Budget-friendly, high-yield markets:

• Lake of the Ozarks, Lake Havasu, Flathead Lake
• Lower prices, strong cash-on-cash returns

3. STR Regulations & Local Laws

Airbnb-friendly lakes with low restriction risk:

• Lake Travis, Lake Havasu, Finger Lakes, Mount Dora

Regulated/limited-license areas:

• Lake Tahoe, Lake Geneva, Lake Lanier
• Check county or HOA rules before making an offer

4. Target Guest Profile

Match your listing to the travelers that frequent each lake.

• Luxury family retreats: Lake Norman, Lake Champlain, Flathead Lake
• Event travelers (weddings/festivals): Finger Lakes, Lake Dora, Deep Creek
• Adventure/outdoors: Crater Lake, Big Bear, Lake Havasu
• Party/weekender markets: Lake of the Ozarks, Lake Travis

 5. Top Features That Maximize ROI

Properties with the following features consistently outperform:

• Lake access or private dock
• Hot tub or pool
• Fire pit and game room
• Pet-friendly amenities
• EV charger, high-speed WiFi, smart home tech

Final Thoughts: Where Will You Invest in 2025?

Whether you're chasing peak ADR or building long-term equity, these 15 lake markets offer exceptional opportunities for Airbnb investors in 2025. From high-demand destinations like Lake Tahoe and Lake Travis to rising markets like Flathead Lake and Mount Dora, each location offers a unique balance of:

• Rental income potential
• Occupancy rate performance
• Short-term rental regulations
• Property appreciation outlook

Choosing the right Airbnb investment property starts with understanding your target guest, seasonality preferences, and regulatory tolerance. And with the rise of experience-driven travel, waterfront homes continue to outperform in nearly every region.

 Ready to Build or Expand Your Lake STR Portfolio?

At Home Team Luxury Rentals we help investors:

• Identify high-yield Airbnb markets
• Analyze occupancy rates, ADR, and ROI potential
• Acquire and launch luxury lakefront properties
• Manage listings and optimize for long-term growth

If you're serious about scaling a short-term rental portfolio that performs like a business and lives like a lifestyle, let’s talk.

👉 Get in touch to request a  custom market report or  schedule a 1:1 investor strategy session.