A Perfect Weekend in Lakeway for Water and Golf Lovers

You want a weekend that blends lake breezes with crisp tee shots. Lakeway gives you both, with easy access to Lake Travis and a cluster of quality golf options minutes from home. Whether you live nearby or you are exploring Lakeway as a second-home base, you can plan two days that feel like a true escape without a long drive. This guide gives you a simple, flexible plan plus local tips so you can make the most of every hour. Let’s dive in.

Why Lakeway fits a weekend escape

Lakeway sits on the south shore of Lake Travis in western Travis County, about 30 to 45 minutes from Austin depending on traffic. The lake is the region’s primary playground for boating, paddling, and waterfront dining. At the same time, you have golf variety close by, from public and resort-style play to private clubs with championship layouts. The mix makes Lakeway ideal for a quick reset or a trial run if you are thinking about living here.

Lake Travis playbook: boats, coves, and safety

Marinas, ramps, and rentals

You can enjoy the water without owning a boat. Local marinas and resort operators around Lakeway commonly offer pontoon boats, personal watercraft, and wake-sport lessons. The City of Lakeway manages public facilities like ramps and docks in select areas, and day-use parks provide shoreline access for picnics and swimming. Weekend demand spikes in warm months, so reserve rentals and launch windows early, and arrive ahead of mid-morning crowds.

Lake safety, water levels, and rules

Lake Travis levels change with seasons and reservoir management. Check current conditions and any boating advisories from the Lower Colorado River Authority before you head out. Each person on board should have a properly fitted life jacket, and boats need required safety gear and navigation lights after dark per U.S. Coast Guard guidance. If you plan to fish, most adults need a valid Texas fishing license through Texas Parks and Wildlife. Summer afternoons can bring pop-up storms, so keep an eye on the forecast and have a return-to-dock plan.

Shoreline parks and family tips

Look for protected coves and designated swim areas if you have younger kids. Confirm restroom and parking availability at marinas or city parks before you go. Pack out trash, idle through no-wake zones near docks, and avoid damaging shoreline vegetation. A little planning keeps your day smooth and the lake healthy.

Golf in and near Lakeway: how to play

Course types and access

You will find a mix of golf experiences in and around Lakeway. Resort courses often pair well with a weekend stay and may offer spa and dining on site. Public and semi-private courses welcome visitors and provide online tee times, lessons, and practice areas. Private clubs typically limit access to members and their guests, though some allow limited outside play or reciprocal programs. When in doubt, call ahead and ask about guest access and dress codes.

Booking tips and seasonality

Spring and fall are prime golf seasons in Central Texas, with comfortable morning tee times and firm conditions. Summer play is common but hot by midday, so book the earliest slots you can. Check each course for current green fees and cart policies, and plan for a collared shirt and soft spikes at private or resort venues. Hydration and sunscreen are essential even on cooler mornings.

Dining, lodging, and wellness

Where to stay

Lakeside resorts in the Lake Travis corridor are weekend-friendly, with on-site marinas and spa options that make logistics easy. If you prefer extra space or privacy, vacation rentals are plentiful and work well for multigenerational groups. Boutique hotels and additional lodging options nearby give you flexibility on budget and style. Ask about packages that bundle golf, spa time, or boat rentals to simplify planning.

Where to eat

Lakeway’s food scene spans from upscale dining with water views to casual spots that welcome boaters and families. Lakeside patios are a highlight for sunset dinners after a day on the water. In nearby Bee Cave, Hill Country Galleria concentrates restaurants, cafés, and dessert stops, which makes it a convenient choice for groups with varied tastes. Make reservations on warm-weather weekends, especially for sunset hours.

Spa and recovery

Plan a massage or a simple steam-and-soak session after your round. Day spas, resort spas, and yoga studios in and around Lakeway help you reset so you can be back on the water or the tee box early the next morning. A short stretch or guided yoga class is also a smart add-on if you are easing into the golf season.

Practical planning tips

• Travel time: Expect about 30 to 45 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to Lakeway, depending on traffic.
• Parking and fees: Summer weekends and holidays are busy. Arrive early at marinas and parks, and budget for possible day-use or parking fees.
• Budget basics: Boat and jet-ski rentals vary by season and vessel size, with half-day and full-day options. Green fees range widely by course and time of day. Dining spans casual lakeside to luxury resort menus. Check current rates directly with providers.
• Pets: Confirm pet policies for parks, marinas, patios, and lodging before you go.
• Safety: Bring a charged phone, required flotation devices, and a simple weather plan. Follow LCRA guidance on water levels and advisories, and review Texas Parks and Wildlife requirements if you plan to fish.

Your 48-hour Lakeway itinerary

Day 1: Lake day and sunset dinner

• Morning: Pick up your pontoon or launch your boat early. Cruise quiet coves while the lake is calm, then anchor for a swim and a quick paddleboard session.
• Midday: Dock for a lakeside lunch at a marina-front spot. If you are with kids, choose a patio with shade and easy access to restrooms.
• Afternoon: Try tubing or a guided wakeboard lesson. Anglers can swap in a catch-and-release outing. Return to the dock by late afternoon and rinse off.
• Evening: Book a table for a sunset meal with lake views or fire up a grill at your rental for a relaxed BBQ. Cap the night with a shoreline stroll.

Day 2: Golf, brunch, and a wellness finish

• Early morning: Tee off at a local public or resort course. If it is warm, aim for the first wave of tee times.
• Late morning: Settle into brunch at the clubhouse or a nearby café. Keep it light if you plan to spa after.
• Midday: Unwind with a massage or a yoga class to loosen tight shoulders and hips.
• Afternoon: Browse shops and grab a coffee at Hill Country Galleria in nearby Bee Cave, or take a short hike in a local greenbelt. Head home refreshed.

Pro tip: You can swap the order based on weather or tee-time availability. Many visitors hit the lake in the morning and schedule 9 holes before dinner when temps ease.

What to pack for a water-and-golf weekend

• Valid ID, credit card, and any rental confirmations
• Boat documents if you are bringing your own vessel
• Life jackets for kids and any specialty gear you prefer
• Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, hat, and polarized sunglasses
• Quick-dry swimsuits, towels, and a light cover-up or UV shirt
• Water shoes or sandals with good grip
• Refillable water bottles, snacks, and a small cooler
• Lightweight golf apparel, soft-spike shoes, glove, tees, and balls
• Collared shirt and a light layer for early tee times
• Portable phone charger and a dry bag for valuables

Ready to make Lakeway your every weekend?

If this sounds like your ideal two days, you may be picturing a life here. From lakeside neighborhoods to golf-course homes and Hill Country retreats, you have great options in and around Lakeway. I help you compare communities, weigh commute times, and understand local amenities so your next move fits your lifestyle today and five years from now. For tailored guidance and a friendly, no-pressure plan, connect with Shavonne Martin.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Lakeway for water and golf?

• Spring and fall offer mild weather and prime golf conditions, while summer is warm and lively on the lake with the biggest crowds on holiday weekends.

Do I need to own a boat to enjoy Lake Travis in Lakeway?

• No. You can rent pontoons, personal watercraft, or paddle gear, enjoy marina dining, and use shoreline parks without owning a boat.

Are Lakeway-area golf courses open to non-members?

• Many public and resort courses welcome visitors. Private clubs may limit access to members and guests, so call ahead to confirm guest play and dress codes.

What safety rules and licenses should I know before boating or fishing?

• Follow LCRA and Coast Guard safety guidance, carry required equipment, and check weather. Most adults need a Texas fishing license through Texas Parks and Wildlife.

Is Lakeway family-friendly for a weekend trip?

• Yes. Choose protected coves and designated swim areas, look for patios with shade, and consider golf clinics or 9-hole rounds to keep the day relaxed for all ages.