Phoenix, Arizona has a wealth of water real estate with lakes and rivers to delight the senses. White water rafting is perhaps the most popular Arizona water sport, you\u2019d be surprised at how much more Phoenix area lakes and rivers have to offer. You can find vacation rentals and guided tours in the area or just head out on your own.<\/p>\n
Rafting on the Salt River is an exciting family-fun adventure and one of the most thrilling Phoenix water sports. There are guided tours that run for half days, full-day trips, and even week-long camping expeditions just about two and a half hours outside of Phoenix. There\u2019s some world-class white water along this route, so this extreme adventure might not be for the faint of heart. With white water rafting, you have to work together with a crew to navigate the twists and turns of the Salt River. Peak times for white water rafting on the Salt River are during spring, so be sure to book your trip accordingly.<\/p>\n
You might not think that Phoenix is a premiere location for scuba diving, but you\u2019d be mistaken. There are several dive schools located near N. Black Canyon Hwy with dive pools and top-rated diving instructors on hand to help you get certified or simply enjoy the underwater sport of diving. Lake Pleasant has excellent lake diving available and the average depth is 70 feet. You can practice here for a Pacific Ocean dive or explore the underwater reservoirs and caves that make this area so mysterious and magical.<\/p>\n
Lake Pleasant is also a premier location for power boating. The lake is located 35 miles from downtown Phoenix and there are vacation rentals at the park if you need any gear. Power boating is super fun on Lake Pleasant because it’s the largest lake in the area and covers 10,000 acres of water surface to play on. You can crank up the speed on Lake Pleasant and launch from two different marinas. Memorial Day weekend is a particularly busy time on the lake, and it will most likely be too crowded for power boating. If you\u2019re looking to feed your need for speed, then try to venture out during off-peak hours. The park is open 24 hours so you should be able to find your ideal time for power boating.<\/p>\n
This might not be the most high-octane water sport, but paddle boarding sure is relaxing and fun. Otherwise known as SUP, for Stand Up Paddle-boarding, this puts you right on the water as you stand or kneel on a surf-like board and use a long paddle to calmly steer your way. Saguaro Lake is a fine destination for paddle boarding and you just might catch a glimpse of wild horses along the 22 miles of shoreline. It\u2019s all part of the Tonto National Forest where you can find restaurants, picnic areas, and plenty of adventure.<\/p>\n