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You’ve found the perfect buyer or seller. You’re happy with the price. All that’s left is an inspection and you’re ready to close on the property. However, this crucial step can derail a done deal if not handled correctly. Below are some mistakes that all buyers and sellers should keep an eye out for:

Choosing the Cheapest Inspector

A home purchase will cost you good money, so it’s tempting to cut corners and scrimp on your inspector. However, the cheapest inspectors often have the least experience, meaning they might miss or gloss over defects. Luckily, your real estate agent can give you a list of trustworthy inspectors they’ve worked with before.

Not Inspecting the Home Prior to Selling

You might choose to relegate the pre-sale inspection to the buyer, but doing so is not always wise. Should buyers find problems during the inspection, you’ll have to do repairs on the double or risk delaying the sale date. That’s why it pays to conduct an inspection before selling so you have more time to address issues.

Skipping the Actual Inspection

A typical home inspection takes at least half a day, which is why many buyers and sellers skip it. However, this is a golden opportunity to ask inspectors about problems as they’re spotted. For the seller, it’s a chance to better understand a defect and how it can be fixed. For the buyer, this is a chance to see the house up close and do your own visual inspection.

Being in the Way of the Inspector

On the flip side, don’t be overly involved that you become a hindrance. It’s perfectly fine to accompany the inspector during his rounds, but don’t be too chatty as he might get distracted and miss something. Moreover, resist the temptation to do their job for them; you’re paying for their expertise, so leave the inspecting to the certified inspector.

Expecting a Perfect Report

It’s hard not to feel affronted when an inspection uncovers flaws in your house, but don’t overreact. A typical report will contain as many as 100 problems, but a vast majority of them will be minor. Read the report thoroughly to understand the magnitude of each issue, and don’t hesitate to ask the inspector what can be done. Likewise, buyers shouldn’t interpret the report as a knock on the property, but rather as a guide for improvements.

Not Inspecting a New Construction

If it’s new, it’s problem-free, right? Surprising as it sounds, even a newly built house can have egregious defects and code violations like an uneven foundation or problematic wiring. In fact, you’d be wise to get two inspections. The first should be done before the walls are closed, and covers the framing and systems installation. The second one should be done after completion, and should cover all the points in a standard inspection.

If you hire a trusted professional and keep the results of an inspection in perspective, you should be well on your way to selling or buying a home. If you need professional advice on home sales, get in touch with Jane Sullivan Horne at 540.493.1690 or 800.858.4653 or via Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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The Waterfront Country Club is one of the premier golf communities in Smith Mountain Lake. It’s also an exclusive private club. There are, however, many opportunities available to join. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of a Waterfront Country Club membership and how you can become a member.

Membership Inclusions

Members of the Waterfront Country Club are entitled to a variety of perks, such as access to the country club’s premier golf course, fitness center, and other facilities. As a member, you are also guaranteed an invite to many of the club’s social events. The following benefits are included in the regular membership at Waterfront Country Club:

• Access to members-only golf tournaments
• Access to men’s and ladies’ golf associations
• Invites to social gatherings and functions
• Access to social committees
• Access to the fitness center and other facilities
• Access to personal account
• Four-time access to the Water’s Edge Country Club, which includes dining access, per year
• Weekly tee time schedules given in advance
• Golf classes from the Waterfront Country Club’s professional instructors
• Full service in the Waterfront Country Club’s amenities, including the clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool, golf course, and tennis/pickleball courts

2018 Membership Opportunities at the Waterfront Country Club

This year, the Waterfront Country Club extends its membership opportunities to interested individuals. Join the club now with zero initiation fee, which can lead up to savings of over $7,500. To learn more about this membership opportunity, visit this page.

To qualify for a membership at the Waterfront Country Club, you simply need to submit your payment for the application and prorated membership fees a month before the closing date of the property. Aside from gaining member status for yourself, your immediate family (spouse and unmarried children under 25) also get to enjoy membership rights.

Do take note that membership at the Waterfront Country Club is non-transferable.

Types of Memberships at the Waterfront Country Club

There are different membership classifications at the Waterfront Country Club, with their own respective fees and additional benefits:

• Family membership is for parents with unmarried children age 22 (or 25, if the children are still studying and residing with the parents).
• Single membership is strictly for single individuals only.
• Class III/IIIA Nonresident membership is open to both single people and families.
• Class IV/IVA Nonresident membership
• Social membership is open for families and includes access to the clubhouse, pool, and tennis courts only.
• Single social membership is similar to social membership, but this time for single individuals only.

You can view the classification map together with the application form, which you’ll need to download to submit your application.

To become a member, simply print out and fill up this form. Finished applications must be mailed along with the application and prorated membership fees to this address:

Once the Board of Directors receives and approves your application, you will be sent a membership package.

Become a member at the Waterfront Country Club. Learn more about this exclusive golf community at Smith Mountain Lake, contact me today at 540-493-1690 or [email protected].

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Great food and wonderful, warm ambiance is well complemented by breathtaking lake views. Fortunately, there are restaurants in Smith Mountain Lake that offer this kind of dining experience. Bookmark the following restaurants for the next time you eat out with family and friends.

The Landing Restaurant
Bernard’s Landing Resort
773 Ashmeade Road, Moneta VA

A unique lakeside fine dining experience is to be had at The Landing Restaurant in Moneta. Billed as the premier dining destination in Smith Mountain Lake, The Landing serves New American cuisine impeccably done by well-trained chefs. A twist is added to familiar flavors, with Andean Nuevo influences tastefully injected to the menu. As for drinks, The Landing’s lakefront bar is well-stocked with a wide array of spirits, liquor, and wine.

Ambiance-wise, The Landing Restaurant boasts stunning lake views from every corner of the house. Al fresco dining is very much possible, with a waterfront deck seating area available.

The Landing Restaurant is approximately a 40-minute drive away from Lynchburg or Roanoke. You can view their menus here.

King’s Point Irish Pub
15844 Smith Mountain Lake Parkway
Huddleston, VA
Water Buoy C2 (Craddock Creek)

After a fine dining experience, head to somewhere more casual but just as scenic. King’s Point Irish Pub is a Smith Mountain Lake institution, having been around for over 40 years. To this day, it is still operated by the same family that first opened its doors.

King’s Point Pub is particularly known in the area for its extensive menu of draft beers, all of which are served in wonderfully cold. In addition, the pub also offers an array of wines and appetizers. For the main course, King’s Point Pub’s hand-cut steaks and burgers are much loved.

By land or water, King’s Point Pub is highly accessible. The establishment is open Thursdays through Saturdays, from 5:00 PM in the evening to midnight. Visit their official website for more information.

Waller’s
1617 Crystal Shores Drive
Moneta, VA

Waller’s bar and grill is a great family-friendly option for lakefront dining in Smith Mountain Lake. Familiar comfort food, which includes pizza, burgers, and a variety of seafood dishes, are served here.

What truly makes people go back to Waller’s time and time again is the dining experience. Aside from the tasty fare, Waller’s oftentimes offer live music entertainment, with local artists and bands serenading the diners as they enjoy their food and the beautiful views of Smith Mountain Lake. Kids also find plenty to love at Waller’s, with the restaurant staff regularly hosting an array of games to keep their younger clientele entertained.

As with the other restaurants mentioned in this article, Waller’s is reachable by both land and water, although parking can be a slight issue. Additionally, if you can’t make it to the restaurant, you can order online and Waller’s will be happy to deliver it to your doorstep. View their menu here.

Smith Mountain Lake awaits. Discover the beauty of this region and the many real estate opportunities found here. Get in touch with me today at 540-493-1690 or [email protected] for more information.

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This beautiful rental home in Moneta, Virginia offers six bedrooms and three bathrooms, including a grand master suite. The main home can accommodate up to 12 guests, making it the perfect choice for families and large groups. A nearby wood cabin that can accommodate up to 5 guests may also be rented with the home.

Enjoy the best that Moneta has to offer. The property brings you close to hiking trails, bubbling creeks, and open spaces – perfect for nature lovers who want to relax in a peaceful environment. And for exhilarating water fun, the South Smith Mountain Lake boat launch is a mere 10-minute drive away.

Built in 2005, the home has all the modern conveniences you need to enjoy your vacation.

An Idyllic Getaway near Smith Mountain Lake

The home is situated on a wooded lot lushly vegetated with flowering plum trees and grape arbors. Guests will appreciate the scenic driveway, which commands stunning views of the surrounding greenery. The front porch opens into the upstairs living room.

The master sitting area features plush furniture and a stone fireplace. Here you’ll find a flat-screen TV and a DVD player for entertainment, and a ceiling fan to keep you comfortable. Venetian blinds have been installed on the windows to guard your privacy, as well as to provide shade from the sun.

In addition to satellite TVs and DVD players in both the downstairs and upstairs living rooms, there is also an excellent selection of books and board games to keep you and your company occupied for hours on end.

The master suite has its own living room complete with a couch and a chaise lounge. A large rock fireplace helps set the mood. The room also comes equipped with a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge, and an elliptical bike. It features a spacious viewing deck that overlooks a lush forest and the adjoining property, which spans roughly 160 acres.

The other bedrooms feature Queen Size Pillow Top Mattresses, with either twin beds or bunk beds, to ensure a good night’s sleep.

The full-sized kitchen comes with all the appliances necessary to prepare large elaborate meals.

The bottom floor of the home is accessible via wheelchair, as is the kitchen, a bathroom with plenty of space, a living room, and three of the bedrooms.

The home is within walking distance to the Pigg River access, where you can fish for crappie, rock bass, and smallmouth bass.

You also get access to over 12 miles of trails that meander along streams and fruit trees.

Things to Do in Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake is one of the cleanest bodies of water in the United States. Here you’ll find marinas that offer boat slips and rentals for your enjoyment. Bridgewater Marina, which boasts one of the largest fleets in SML, offers more than 100 boats for rent, most of which are 2017-2018 models. They’re conveniently found in five separate locations in and around SML.

Go swimming, fishing, and boating in your own time. Smith Mountain Lake State Park features well-maintained beaches, restrooms, and camping grounds.

There are also a number of restaurants that offer waterfront dining. Feast on delicious food while you take in scenic views of the lake.

This wonderful home-away-from-home is available for $95 a night – an incredible bargain given its size and location.

Check out this listing and contact me, Jane Sullivan Horne, to find out more. You may call me at 540.493.1690 or send me an email at Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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Buying a house can be stressful, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you manage stress during this challenging time.

1. Start your search early

   If you’re looking for a new home, it helps to target a move-in date early on. Be sure to start looking at homes in the months leading up to your target date. This will give you enough time to attend home viewings and decide which one is for you.

2. Take your lifestyle into consideration

   When it comes to luxury real estate, you’re buying more than just a house. You’re buying a lifestyle. The home you choose must possess qualities that will help enhance your lifestyle, as well as make it easier for you to pursue your interests. Whether you enjoy cooking, gardening, tennis, boating, or fishing, look for a home that lets you do more of what you love.

3. Know what you want

   Have a list of must-haves detailing what you want in a home. This may include everything from the number of bedrooms and bathrooms to finishes and amenities that you’d like to have. Knowing what you want will help you narrow down the search.

4. Prioritize listings

   Once you know what you’re looking for, you can start prioritizing listings that closely match your criteria. Make it a point to visit these homes first as this might help shorten the house-hunting process.

5. Work with a local expert

   Work with an agent who knows the Smith Mountain Lake area like the back of their hand. A well-connected agent can provide access to off-market luxury listings that you may not have access to otherwise. This helps you cast a wider net, increasing the chances of you finding the perfect SML home.

   The majority of luxury listings may only be viewed by appointment to help protect the seller’s privacy. Your agent can help set up viewings with the sellers and listing agents.

6. Make time to see the homes

   It’s worth taking the time to view the homes personally, especially if you intend to use the home as your primary residence. This could mean taking time off from work or leaving the kids with the nanny. Viewing the home in person will help you determine if it’s the right one for you.

7. Be flexible

   There might be last-minute changes to your schedule no matter how well you plan ahead. The seller may not be available, or something important may come up at work. When this happens, do your best to be flexible. Re-schedule the viewing if you really must.

8. Make an offer

   Be ready to make an offer as soon as you find the right home. You might not have enough time to sleep on it, especially when it comes to in-demand vacation spots like SML. Do the necessary preparations to be able to make quick decisions.

If you think SML should be your next home, let me, Jane Sullivan Horne, assist you. You may get in touch with me at 540.493.1690 or send me an email at Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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Visiting Smith Mountain Lake? Here’s a quick guide to boat rentals in the area.

1. Bridgewater Marina

   16410 BT Washington Hwy
   Moneta, VA

   The marina has been serving loyal customers for over 28 years, offering more than 100 rental boats in five convenient locations. From ski boats to wave runners, Bridgewater has everything you need for a memorable visit to SML. The majority of their boat rentals are 2017-2018 models, giving customers access to the latest models available.

2. Bernard’s Boat Rentals

   775 Ashmead Road
   Moneta, VA

   Located just below the check-in center at Bernard’s Landing on the southern end of the lake, this boat rental company will help you make the most of your SML holiday. They offer a vast selection of wakeboards, tubes, and skis for your enjoyment. All vessels and equipment undergo stringent inspections for customers’ safety.

3. Crazy Horse Marina

   400 Crazy Horse Drive
   Moneta, VA

   Located in a cove some distance from Blackwater Marker B-10A, this marina boasts well-maintained facilities, including a 24-hour gas dock, a boat launch ramp, clean restrooms, and ample parking. The marina’s on-site restaurant, Mexico Viejo, serves great margaritas and features scenic views of Black Water Cove in SML. While primarily offering topnotch dock rentals and boat and trailer storage, Crazy Horse Marina also rent out paddleboards and tubes.

4. Smith Mountain Lake Sailing School and Sailing Charters

   108 Hillcrest Heights Drive
   Moneta, VA

   Learn how to sail with the help of the Smith Mountain Lake Sailing School and Sailing Charters program, where students are taught the basics on a J/24 sloop. If you’re an advanced sailor, test your skills on their rental Laser Sailboats or the Tanzer 16. The school has trained hundreds of students from all over Virginia, as well as Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. They also offer sailing charters and host regattas and other sailing events throughout the year.

5. Smith Mountain Wake Company

   16440 Booker T. Washington Hwy
   Moneta, VA

   This family-owned and -operated company takes pride in having the biggest selection of water sports apparel and equipment in the SML area. They offer tubes, paddleboards, wakesurf boards, and other gear for sale or rent. They also offer wakesurfing lessons to first-timers.

6. Gills Creek Marina & Lodge

   790 Fox Chase Road
   Wirtz, VA

   This pet-friendly marina features a well-stocked ship store, a fuel dock, and a newly renovated waterfront lodge with queen-size beds, kitchenettes, bathrooms, and balconies.

   They offer daily pontoon, boat, and kayak rentals, as well as yearly slip rentals for boat owners. The marina is a one-stop shop for families who enjoy being out in the water.

7. Smith Mountain Lake State Park

   1235 State Park Road
   Huddleston, VA

   The park is located on the second biggest freshwater lake in Virginia and offers a wide range of water-based activities for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, pontoons, hydro bikes, paddle boards, jet skis, and jet boats. Their well-maintained facilities include a boat ramp, a fishing pier, and an amphitheater. On land, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking.

Live in SML and go boating in your own time. I, Jane Sullivan Horne, would be more than happy to assist you. Call me at 540.493.1690 or send me an email at Jane(at)JaneAtTheLake(dotted)com.

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The residence at Moneta is a top-floor condo on scenic Smith Mountain Lake. With one bedroom and one bathroom, it’s the perfect getaway for those who want an intimate space in a natural setting.

Your private Smith Mountain Lake getaway

The condo features cathedral ceilings and skylights, which create an airy, light-filled space that’s conducive to rest and relaxation. Oversized windows and a wraparound deck gives you breathtaking views of the lake and the wooded area from nearly every angle of the living room.

An indoor fireplace will keep you warm in the evenings, while a flat screen TV mounted just above it offers entertainment for when you feel like staying in.

The kitchen feature custom cabinetry, solid countertops, and stainless steel appliances to put you in the mood to cook. Whip up elaborate meals and watch TV while you wash the dishes. The kitchen area adjoins the dining area, which has a table for four.

Enjoy views of the lake while dining or cooking – glass walls and doors allow the indoor spaces to flow seamlessly into the outdoor living area, where you can sit back and admire the scenery.

The bedroom comes with a king-sized bed, which can accommodate a couple or a solo traveler. The room overlooks the lake, though the glass doors that lead to the deck have been outfitted with blinds and curtains to protect your privacy.

The condo offers self check-in with a smart lock, and a swipe with which to access to condo complex’s amenities can be found on the kitchen counter.

Click here for more information on the rental and the house rules.

Resort-style living

Those who stay here will enjoy privileged access to the resort-style amenities. Go swimming and sunbathing at the clean and well-maintained beach, where you can enjoy stunning views of the shoreline and the water’s calm surface. Relax at the clubhouse.

Get fit at the workout room. Enjoy a friendly tennis match. Lounge poolside with a drink in hand or get some much-deserved pampering at the sauna. The possibilities for recreation are endless.

Tenants will also have direct access to the lake, where they can go boating and fishing as they please.

Staying at Smith Mountain Lake

Anglers from all over the United States come to SML for largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing. High densities of largemouth bass in the two- to four-pound range can be found upstream, while smallmouth bass can be caught in the reservoir’s lower portion. Crappie and catfish also swim in the lake’s waters.

This 20,600-acre lake is known as Virginia’s premier fishing destination and has hosted the ESPN Bassmaster Elite Series, a professional bass fishing tournament, for several years. As such, private docks and marinas can be found throughout the lake.

Guests will find plenty to do on land as well. Bridgewater Plaza, a family-owned business that opened in 1986, has several shops and restaurants in addition to a marina with boat rentals and a miniature golf course.

Shop for clothes at Bridgewater Sportswear, have some crab cakes at Mango’s Bar & Grill, or play a few rounds of golf at the Wild West-themed course at Harbortown Miniature Golf.

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Whether you’re selling or buying a home, you’ll need the help of a dependable agent. Here are some tips on finding the perfect match.

1. Know the difference between a Realtor and a real estate agent

   A real estate agent is an individual who has taken all the required licensing exams and real estate classes in the state where she intends to practice.But keep in mind that not all real estate agents are Realtors – the term is a registered trademark under the National Association of Realtors (NAR), whose members must abide by the organization’s code of ethics in addition to state and federal laws that all agents must comply with.

2. Look for a professional agent

   It’s worth hiring a professional agent who can help you buy or sell a home full-time. Someone who is not a licensed agent, and who is only handling transactions part-time, might not be able to do enough to protect your interests during the transaction.A licensed, full-time agent is in a better position to help you achieve your real estate goals. An agent should ideally be accessible 24/7, taking calls and responding to messages as soon as possible. They should be able to devote their time to getting your listing or offer off the ground.

3. Do interviews

   Shop around for an agent. Real estate experts suggest that you talk to at least three agents in order to find the right one. Ask prospective agents for a list of references, and ask them how they intend to help you sell and buy a home.Note their response – if they can give you a prompt and thorough answer, then it’s likely that they can provide that kind of service when you hire them.

   Experts also suggest that you pay more attention to the agent’s list of recent sales instead of their sales volume, as it is more reflective of the service they currently provide.

4. Find the right buyer’s agent

   Look for a buyer’s agent who has a proven track record of closed deals. The average agent will just look at the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to help you find a home, but those who go above and beyond for their clients will present you with homes that have yet to be listed in the market.They’ll be more proactive with the search, contacting homeowners in your desired neighborhood or launching a mail campaign in the areas you’re interested in.

   The agent should also listen to what it is that you want in a home, and present you with listings that match your criteria to a T.

5. Find the right listing agent

   The right listing agent will do more than put up a “For sale” sign in your yard and wait for the calls to come in. Home sellers should hire a tech-savvy and proactive agent who will take full advantage of online tools and platforms.They should also produce high quality marketing collateral, since the majority of buyers start their search online. This means producing great photos and videos of your home.

Are you ready to enter the market? Call me, Jane Sullivan Horne, at 540-493-1690 or send an email to [email protected] for more information on Smith Mountain Lake homes and condos.

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Smith Mountain Lake boasts over 500 miles of shoreline, making it the perfect spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. But don’t let bad weather keep you from having fun. Here are some indoor activities and attractions to enjoy at SML.

1. Have ice cream at Homestead Creamery

   This locally-owned farm market features a traditional ice cream parlor that serves 18 different flavors, including classics like chocolate, vanilla, and double dark chocolate. The more adventurous ones can try the orange pineapple, pumpkin, or eggnog ice cream.The market also serves soups, salads, and sandwiches. They sell a variety of dairy products made with antibiotic- and hormone-free milk, and a range of locally-sourced meats and produce.

2. Go to Bridgewater Plaza

   Bridgewater Plaza has an array of shops and restaurants to where you can pass the time. Buy clothing at Bridgewater Footwear, which carries major brands like Columbia and Sanuk, or buy scented candles and personal care items at Gifts Ahoy. Book a table at Moosie’s Deli Restaurant and enjoy the nightlife at Mango’s Bar & Grill.The plaza is also home to Fun N’ Games arcade, which provides wholesome entertainment for the whole family to enjoy, and Harbortown Miniature Golf, which boasts a Wild West-themed mini golf course.

3. Browse the exhibits at The Little Gallery on Smith Mountain Lake

   This fine art gallery showcases original works of art and home décor. Shop for wall art, sculptures, paintings, jewelry, and specialty gifts during your visit. At 2,000 square feet, you’ll have plenty of ground to cover.The gallery has featured the works of over 200 Canadian and American artists. It is dedicated to serving new art collectors by offering a wide selection of fine art.

   Now and then the gallery holds special events like “Demo on the Deck”, with artists doing painting, pottery making, and jewelry making demonstrations.

4. Catch a movie at Westlake Cinema

   Watch the latest box office hits at Westlake Cinema, a 13,800-square-foot four-plex theater. It offers a unique and upscale movie-going experience through stadium seating, RealD 3D projection, and Dolby Digital surround sound. The theater’s sophisticated sound system can accommodate hearing-impaired individuals by way of its USL Infrared Hearing System.Westlake also features a full-service concession area where you can buy delicious food and drinks. Tickets can be purchased online, in advance.

5. Sample some beer at Sunken City Brewing Company

   This four-vessel, 25-barrel brew house features a pub, tasting room, beer garden, and retail store. Their flagship beers include Dam Lager, a malt-driven beer that has been brewed with three different kinds of malt and hopped with Tradition and German Magnum Hops. The drink is available year-round.Drop by and have a round of drinks with friends. It’s the perfect place to do some catching up after a long work week.

6. Go to Smith Mountain Dam & Visitors Center

   The center overlooks the dam and feature exhibits on the dam’s history and how it generates power. It’s open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Browse the exhibits and learn about the dam’s storied past and capacity for power generation. Admission is free.

Live close to all these wonderful attractions. Call me, Jane Sullivan Horne, at 540-493-1690 or send an email to [email protected]

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Smith Mountain Lake, or SML as we locals call it, offers family-friendly activities year-round. Here’s what you can do with your family this weekend:

Boating

Getting out on the water is the best way to explore the lake. There are several marinas in SML that offer dockage and slips, including:

• Bridgewater Marina
• Crazy Horse Marina
• Gills Creek Marina
• Mitchell’s Point Marina
• Parkway Marina

These marinas offer repair and maintenance services, along with lodging and waterfront dining. Annual events, such as the highly anticipated boat show and cardboard boat regatta, take place here throughout the year. You’ll also find recreational vehicle (RV) parks in and around SML for your convenience.

Don’t have your own boat? Rent one from any of the marinas mentioned above.

Fishing

SML is a renowned fishing spot. Bring some rods and spend the day fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass. Electrofishing surveys have found that largemouth bass in SML can weigh up to two to four pounds, depending on the season. Drop your bait in the coves for a chance to catch these beauties – shallower waters and low boating traffic will work to your advantage.The highest concentration of largemouth bass can be found upstream, as you go further away from the dam. Smallmouth bass can be found in the reservoir’s lower portion.Other sport species include catfish and sunfish.

Wakeboarding

If you’re feeling more adventurous than usual, try wakeboarding. One of SML’s most popular water activities, wakeboarding enthusiasts will enjoy the lake, which hosts amateur and professional competitions. Still learning to wakeboard? The Smith Mountain Wake Company offers age-appropriate lessons to kids and adults alike.

Kayaking

For something more laid-back, try kayaking. It’s a low-key workout that helps you burn calories and build muscle strength. Admire views of the surrounding mountains as you paddle out into the water.There are numerous kayak rentals in SML, some of which offer discounts if you visit during off-season. Crazy Horse Marina, for one, offers kayak rentals, in addition to tubes, floats, and slides.

Hiking

Your family will have plenty to do on land as well. Smith Mountain Lake State Park offers hiking and camping opportunities. Located on the northern shore of SML, the protected area is populated by creeks, rock shelters, and sandy beaches. Go on a guided hike and admire the scenery. Rough it up and sleep under the stars.

Golfing

You can also play miniature golf at any of these places around SML:

• Harbortown Miniature Golf at Bridgewater Plaza
• Hot Shots Family Fun Center
• Westlake Safari Miniature Golf
• The Westlake Public Course & Restaurant
• Mariner’s Landing Golf & Country Club

Picnicking

Enjoy the perfect picnic setting at Smith Mountain Lake State Park’s camping sites. Bring food to share and just bask in the peaceful surroundings. Smith Mountain Lake Community Park, located in the portion of SML that falls within Franklin County, is also a great spot for a picnic. Roll out a blanket and soak in the view.

Lakeside dining

Feast on steak, pizza, and fresh seafood right by the water. Waller’s brings you a varied menu and live music in a lakeside setting. Jack’s Place offers American-Italian fare and craft beer in a Caribbean-themed environment.The on-site restaurant at Mitchell’s Point Marina serves crab cakes and fish and chips. The best tables can found in the outdoor patio. Their tiki bar offers amazing drinks.

Heath’s Waterfront Grill serves crab legs and fried calamari, while The Landing Restaurant is known for excellent cuisine and stunning views of the lake.

Live in SML and enjoy these fantastic activities year-round. Call me, Jane Sullivan Horne, at 540-493-1690 for more information.

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