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Man water skiing behind a boat with a blue water ski

Top 6 Places for Waterskiing in San Diego

What are the best places in San Diego to go water skiing? Water skiing is one of the most enjoyable summertime activities. There are many challenges, exciting moments, and fun times to be had, especially since you get to spend time out on the water. The sun, the sea, and the smell of the ocean all make the experience more enjoyable. Also, spending time with loved ones is always a pleasure. Most people make an entire day out of it and spend as much time on the water as possible!

The good thing about living in San Diego is that it's water-ski weather pretty much all year long. The days are sunny and bright, the ocean is warm and inviting, and the vibe is relaxed. Only one question remains; where are the best spots in San Diego for water skiing? If that’s a question going through your head, we’ve got six answers for you that will help make your choice much easier. Read on if you're looking for the best place to showcase your slalom and water skiing skills!

#1: El Capitan Lake

In San Diego, water skiing is available at many unique places, no doubt! Whether saltwater or freshwater, all of them are truly awesome. El Capitan Lake is one of the best for freshwater skiing. The reason for this is that El Capitan reservoir has the largest capacity of all the lakes in San Diego. El Capitan Lake is also close by, just 30 miles from downtown, making it easy to ski there! You should be aware that personal watercraft are only allowed at El Capitan Reservoir from Thursday to Sunday. Also, personal watercraft are only allowed on the lake on Sundays during the winter months. 

#2: San Vicente Reservoir

San Vicente Reservoir is located in the Cuyamaca Mountains. San Vicente Dam created this massive reservoir, which makes for great water skiing! Plus, it's just 25 miles north of San Diego! After 117 vertical feet of dam raising during its closure, the reservoir was reopened in 2016. As a result, it qualifies as the tallest dam rise in American history! In terms of water volume, it's now the largest reservoir in San Diego County, nearly twice as much as El Capitan! There is plenty of room for everyone to ski here!

#3: San Diego Mission Bay

Mission Bay Park was created after marshland was dredged in the 1940s. It was estimated that 75 million cubic feet of sand and silt were moved. The park offers access to the Mission Bay of San Diego, as well. Water skiing in Mission Bay is a fantastic experience. The water is so refreshing and the scenery is beautiful. On a daily basis, water skiers can take advantage of East Mission Bay and West Mission Bay (better known as Sail Bay). San Diego locals who love waterskiing say it is the best place in the county to do so!

#4: Imperial Lakes Waterski Club

Do you know what it's like to live in a waterskiing community? Imperial Lakes could be among the most impressive waterskiing locations you've ever seen. Located near El Centro, it's a private, gated community. A unique feature of this course is a tournament slalom course, which has a jump ramp as well. This is an excellent area for water skiers. There is one thing to keep in mind, though, which is that you must make reservations in advance since it is private. Additionally, there are no rental locations for water skiing gear, so you'll need to bring your own. If you do, you will discover the best skiable water you've ever experienced!

#5: Lake Miramar

The county of San Diego has many reservoirs if you haven't noticed already. Lake Miramar is one of them and is located in Scripps Miramar Ranch. Picnic sites are also available, which makes this a great place to ski. Additionally, there is a 5-mile hiking trail around the lake. When you're done water skiing, head to the hiking trail. Enjoy a picnic with the family or go for a leisurely walk. Water skiing is available seven days a week on Lake Miramar. 

#6: Lake Hodges

Lake Hodges, located south of Escondido, is another great place to water ski in San Diego. This lake has nearly 30 miles of shoreline and a depth of 115 feet, which is plenty of room! Additionally, there is a recreation area around the lake. As with most reservoirs and lakes in San Diego, there is a fee to launch your boat. 

With a wide range of water skiing equipment, Wakesports Unlimited has everything you need to ski the day away. From top brand water skis to ski vests, tow ropes, and more, we have it all. 

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