As a cornerstone on Lake Hopatcong, we’ve had the pleasure of welcoming thousands of visitors to Lake Hopatcong on our luxury boat rentals and top-notch Boating Club fleet boats. Our Boat Rental guests and other boating visitors often look to us for suggestions on what to do during their visit, and we’re thrilled to help our guests plan their perfect day on the Lake!
Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing in New Jersey or a unique get together with friends, there’s so much to do and see on Lake Hopatcong! Here are just a few suggestions on where to go and what to do during your boating experience with Bridge Marina on Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey’s largest lake!
Go Cruising and Sightseeing on Lake Hopatcong
There are miles of beautiful landscapes dotted with gorgeous waterfront homes along the shores of Lake Hopatcong. One popular suggestion we often share is for boaters to do a loop on the north end of the lake (the side of Brady Bridge where Bridge Marina is located) to soak in the scenery. From there, pass by Bridge Marina and go under Brady Bridge and do a counter-clockwise loop around the “larger” side of the lake. Please do not attempt to go beyond Hopatcong State Park; the state park is the end of your loop. Wherever you decide to cruise and explore, please be careful of shallow coves and stay a safe distance offshore.
Enjoy Waterfront Dining on Lake Hopatcong
Lake Hopatcong has a host of waterfront dining options to choose from that offer “dock and dine” service. On Nolan’s Point, enjoy the iconic Windlass Restaurant or the laid-back vibe of the Jefferson House. You can also head to the north side of the lake and enjoy casual pub fare at Mason Street. Other dining options on the lake include Italian fare at Pavinci’s in Riverstyx or Tex-Mex at Lola’s in Henderson Cove.
Looking for a “grab and go” meal? Head over to Main Lake Market for “to go” sandwiches and the like, along with hand dipped ice cream in their parlor.
When choosing a waterfront restaurant for “dock and dine” on Lake Hopatcong, please be mindful of the condition of any docks you approach, and use fenders, lines, and bumpers correctly. Make sure you are comfortable with docking the boat on your own. Finally, please note that reservations may be required at waterfront establishments; we suggest calling ahead, especially on weekends.
In the mood for a swim on Lake Hopatcong?
Byram Cove is a popular spot for anchoring and swimming; an eclectic crowd typically gathers each weekend. Please note that we do not recommend inexperienced boaters attempt to navigate this cove during busy times, as Byram Cove experiences heavy traffic on the weekends and the ability to navigate close quarters is required. “Tying up” with other boats/boaters, is not permitted on Bridge Marina boat rentals; please anchor safely, away from other boaters.
Boaters can also enjoy a quieter vibe in a cove on the north side of the lake. Located on the northwest side of Liffy Island with depths that are typically around 10-15 feet deep, many boaters enjoy this quieter, less busy area for anchoring and swimming. Plus, it’s location is ideal as it is close to Bridge Marina. When exploring by boat, please do use caution, as the water level depths decrease as you approach the shoreline. In addition, there is NO ACCESS on the backside of Liffy Island; do not attempt to access the waters of these shallower areas.
If you choose to drop anchor on Lake Hopatcong, please remember to anchor safely, away from other boaters, and do not “tie up” with other boats/boaters.
Experience Lake Hopatcong This Summer on a Bridge Marina Luxury Boat Rental
We would love to welcome you to Lake Hopatcong on a Bridge Marina boat! A TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence recipient, we’re proud to offer Lake Hopatcong’s finest boat rental experience. Our boats, team, and genuine interest in ensuring you have a safe, pleasurable and memorable experience on Lake Hopatcong sets us apart from the rest… we are not your typical boat rental experience! Book Your Boat Rental on Lake Hopatcong with Bridge Marina here.
Want to enjoy Lake Hopatcong all summer long on a boat?
You can of course buy a boat (or hop a ride with a friend), but you also may want to consider joining Bridge Marina Boating Club on Lake Hopatcong! We’re Lake Hopatcong’s original boating club, offering our members exclusive access to an entire fleet of gorgeous boats, with watersports gear, training and more included! We own the boats, you own the boating experience! Enjoy boating all summer long without the hassles or costs of boat ownership as a Boat Club member! Find out more about joining Bridge Marina Boating Club on Lake Hopatcong here.
Learn to Boat on Lake Hopatcong
If you’re brand new to boating – or are interested in becoming a better, safer boater – our on-water Build a Boater training program is for you! Our Build a Boater program gets you out on a beautiful Bridge Marina boat on Lake Hopatcong with a professional instructor, learning how to boat! Learn boating fundamentals, precision docking skills and more! Sessions are held on Fridays on Lake Hopatcong in the summer. Learn more about our On-Water Training programs here.
Whatever Boating Adventures You Choose on Lake Hopatcong, Boat Safely
Regardless of the activities you choose to enjoy on Lake Hopatcong, please remember to always practice boating safety and be courteous to other boaters on the lake. And, if you’re looking for more boating safety tips and videos from Bridge Marina, check out our blog post here and Bridge Marina’s YouTube Boating Safety and Education Channel here.