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Lake Excursions

Lake Excursions

The Villages Recreation & Parks Department offers a variety of programming on Lake Okahumpka, Lake Sumter, and Central Lake. Choose from boat rides, kayaking, guided nature pontoon tours, and fishing tours.

Select outdoor excursions may have limited availability from June through August.

  • At least one participant must be a resident of The Villages 
  • Residents may bring up to three guests 
  • Residents must present their Villager ID card 
  • Guests must present a valid guest ID card and photo ID 
  • Participants must be at least 13 years old 
  • Outdoor excursions require a reservation and payment in advance 
  • Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes before your scheduled time 
  • Please cancel at least 24 hours in advance to avoid charges 
  • Weather conditions may impact excursion timing or availability 
  • Anglers 65+ may fish without a license 

Boat Cruises

Cruise with friends and family on the Lake Sumter Line and learn the legend of how the lake came to be. You’re sure to spot wildlife and see breathtaking sights, so cameras and binoculars are encouraged!

Special themed cruises are also available throughout the year.

  • October-March: 1 PM-Sunset
  • April-May: 4 PM-Sunset
  • June, July & September: 6 PM-Sunset
  • August: Closed for Maintenance
  • Guests under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult
    • Children six years of age and under must wear an approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) (provided by Recreation)
  • Tours are approximately 25 minutes 
  • Tickets can be purchased in person at the dock and are first come, first service unless otherwise noted
  • Departure times may vary based on weather and lake conditions 
  • Private rentals available
  • $3 per ticket (cash only, tax included)
  • Specialty cruise fees as advertised

Kayaking

Enjoy kayak experiences all while taking in the wildlife and beauty of the natural Florida landscape.

Introduction to Kayaking

This option starts with classroom instruction and ends out on the water for hands-on experience.

  • September – June:
    • Thursdays: 8AM – 10AM
  • Sessions are approximately 2 hours 
  • Reservations are required in advance 
  • Groups limited to 1–8 participants 
  • Tours are led by an experienced guide 
  • Single and tandem kayaks available 
  • Paddles and life jackets provided 
  • Non-alcoholic beverages, small coolers, and light snacks permitted 

Guided Kayaking

In this experience you will paddle the perimeter of the lake and enjoy the beautiful nature around you guided by one of our experienced tour guides.

  • September – June:
    • Thursdays: 8AM – 10AM
  • Sessions are approximately 2 hours 
  • Reservations are required in advance 
  • Groups limited to 1–8 participants 
  • Tours are led by an experienced guide 
  • Single and tandem kayaks available 
  • Paddles and life jackets provided 
  • Non-alcoholic beverages, small coolers, and light snacks permitted 
  • $25 per person (tax included)

Open Paddle

Bring your own kayak or canoe and enjoy a self-guided experience.

  • October – December:
    • Lake Sumter:
      • 2nd Tuesdays: 9AM – 10:50AM
      • 3rd Wednesdays: 4PM – 5:50PM
    • Central Lake:
      • 2nd Fridays: 9AM – 10:50AM
      • 4th Fridays: 4PM – 5:50PM
  • Sessions are approximately 2 hours 
  • Reservations are required in advance 
  • All participants must bring their own Kayak, Paddle(s), Personal Flotation Device, Whistle
  • Participants are responsible for transporting, loading, unloading, carrying, and launching their own kayaks
  • Non-alcoholic beverages, small coolers, and light snacks permitted 
  • Free if you bring your own Kayak or Canoe
  • Resident: $10; Guest: $15: If space is available, recreation department Kayaks can be rented on a first-come, first-served basis

Other Opportunities

Guided Nature Pontoon Tours

Take to the water with a guided nature pontoon tour on Lake Sumter. Led by a knowledgeable guide, these tours take a deeper look at the area’s ecology, wildlife, and natural surroundings.

  • September – June:
    • 3rd & 5th Fridays: 8AM – 10AM
  • Tours are approximately 2 hours 
  • Reservations required in advance 
  • Boats accommodate up to 4 guests 
  • Smaller groups may be combined with other groups 
  • Tours are led by an experienced guide 
  • Non-alcoholic beverages, small coolers, and light snacks permitted 
  • Remember to bring binoculars or a camera for an up-close look at wildlife along the way
  • $25 per person (tax included)

Fishing Tours

Cast a line on a small-group, catch-and-release fishing excursion at Lake Sumter. Led by an experienced guide, these tours are designed for all skill levels, from first-time anglers to seasoned fishermen. 

  • September – June:
    • Saturdays: 7AM – 9AM
    • 1st, 2nd & 4th Fridays: 7AM – 9AM
  • Sessions are approximately 2 hours 
  • Reservations required in advance 
  • Groups limited to 1–4 participants 
  • Tours are led by an experienced guide 
  • Rods, reels, tackle, and artificial bait provided 
    • You may bring your own equipment (pricing remains the same)
    • Live bait and equipment may be restricted for safety. Treble-hook lures are not permitted
  • Anglers 65+ may fish without a license 
  • Anglers under 65 must obtain a Florida freshwater fishing license prior to the excursion 
  • For everyone’s comfort and safety, please wear appropriate attire.
    • A shirt and bottoms are required, and we recommend protective eyewear, sunscreen, and a hat.
    • For safety reasons, bare feet, flip‑flops, and sandals aren’t allowed.
    • Thanks for helping us keep this a safe and enjoyable space for all!
  • Non-alcoholic beverages, small coolers, and light snacks permitted 
  • Bookings are non-transferable unless approved by The Villages Recreation & Parks Department 
  • $250 per tour (tax included)

Other Opportunities

Register Here

Online

View the calendar for lake excursions and register online in advance.

In Person

Visit any At Your Service location to register for a lake excursion.

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