Best lakes around Delavan Lake offer a blend of natural beauty and historical significance in Walworth County, Wisconsin. Delavan Lake itself spans 1,906 acres and has a maximum depth of 52 feet, providing a range of activities. The area is historically known as the "Circus Capital" and features Victorian architecture. Significant restoration efforts have contributed to the lake's condition, with 11 miles of shoreline offering various recreational opportunities.
Last updated: August 9, 2026
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Popular around Delavan Lake
It's one of the four (4) restroom locations on the Geneva Lake loop.
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Lake Geneva Shore Path leads all around the lake and is almost 26 miles long. You can start the hike at different points of the path, as there isn't a 'start' or 'end'.
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Black Point Estate, on the south shore of Lake Geneva, is an old mansion of Beer Baron Conrad Seipp. It was built in 1888 and still remains a magnificent piece of architecture. In the summer, they offer guided tours through the estate.
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Williams Bay Beach, in the northwest of Lake Geneva, is a sandy beach with grassy areas. It's located in the town of the same name, which lies very close to the bay and offers multiple restaurants, coffee shops, supermarkets and hotels.
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Fontana beach lies on the western shore of Lake Geneva. It's a sandy beach, but there is a grassy area right next to it. Some restaurant and coffee shops are available a few minutes walking to the north of the beach.
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Lake Geneva has plenty to keep you entertained from zip lines to hot air balloons and spas. You can walk around the perimeter on the shore path. There's also plenty of shops and restaurants.
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On the banks of Lake Geneva, Fontana Beach is a wonderful place to relax. There's lots of grass in case you don't want to sit on the sand. The water is rocky so you might want to bring some beach shoes along. Pick up a beach pass from the beach house from 9am until 9pm.
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Delavan Lake offers a wide range of water activities. You can enjoy motorboating, water-skiing, and para-sailing. Rentals for pontoons, fishing boats, speedboats, tritoons, paddleboats, paddleboards, kayaks, and wave runners are available from local providers like Lakeside Bait & Tackle and Lake Lawn Resort. Leisurely cruises are also offered on Lake Lawn Resort's 'The Queen'.
Yes, Delavan Lake is considered one of Wisconsin's finest fishing lakes. It's home to Musky, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye. Catch-and-release fishing for bass is open year-round.
For swimming, Community Park on Delavan Lake offers a dedicated beach area, along with playgrounds and picnic spots. Additionally, Williams Bay Beach, located on Lake Geneva, is a popular sandy beach with grassy areas and amenities.
The town of Delavan itself has a rich history as the 'Circus Capital' of the 19th century, with Victorian architecture and historical murals. On the south shore of Lake Geneva, you can visit Black Point Estate, a magnificent mansion built in 1888, which offers guided tours in the summer.
Absolutely. Besides swimming at Community Park, the area around Delavan Lake and nearby Lake Geneva offers various family-friendly options. Williams Bay Beach is a great spot for families, and the broader Lake Geneva area provides activities from zip lines to spas. Many parks, like Kirkpatrick Park and Cummings Park, also offer amenities for families.
You can find several hiking opportunities in the area. The Lake Geneva Shore Path is a notable trail that circles Lake Geneva for almost 26 miles, with various access points. For more options, explore the 'Hiking around Delavan Lake' guide, which includes routes like the Kishwauketoe Loop and the White River State Trail. You can find more details on these routes at komoot.com/guide/3698723/hiking-around-delavan-lake.
When Delavan Lake freezes over, it becomes a hub for winter activities. You can enjoy ice fishing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling on the lake.
Yes, the area boasts world-class golf courses. You can play at Majestic Oaks at Lake Lawn Resort and Delbrook Golf Course, which together offer 45 holes of golf.
Delavan Lake is often highlighted as a quieter, more relaxed alternative to the bustling Lake Geneva. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue (as the 'Circus Capital'), and abundant recreational opportunities, all within a peaceful ambiance and strong sense of community. Its significant restoration efforts have also contributed to its pristine condition.
The town of Delavan features a charming downtown with historic brick streets, boutiques, and specialty shops. You'll also find a variety of dining options, including those available at Lake Lawn Resort.
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse offerings, from sandy beaches like Williams Bay Beach to historical sites such as Black Point Estate. The extensive trails, like the Lake Geneva Shore Path, are also highly appreciated for their scenic views and accessibility.


Still not found your perfect lake around Delavan Lake? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.