How to Plan a Day on Lake Wylie
Spend the day exploring this man-made reservoir by boat and relaxing amidst some epic lake views.
by Anders J. Hare Jun 10, 2022
Named for Dr. W. Gil Wylie in 1960, Lake Wylie is nestled between the South Point Township of North Carolina and South Carolina’s Tega Cay, Rock Hill and Fort Mill areas. Like its sister body of water Lake Norman, this man-made reservoir provides ample things to do including family activities, boat rides, and divine bars and eateries. Make your way down to Lake Wylie to explore on land or water, grab a bite to eat at various restaurants, or just take in the beauty of the marina.
Things to Do on the Lake
Grab your friends to take in the breathtaking lake views with Lake Wylie Boat Rentals. Rent a paddle board or kayak through Holley Watersports at Papa Doc's Shore Club for a relaxing day out on the water.
Head to the Pier 88 Yacht Club where you can rent a boat, explore the gift shop or have a bite at their lakeside restaurant.
If tubing down a lazy river is more your speed, cast off at the Lake Wylie Dam and float down the Catawba River to Riverwalk Carolinas. Plan for two to three hours for the trip and remember to plan transportation to and from the launch and end points in advance.
If tubing down a lazy river is more your speed, cast off at the Lake Wylie Dam and float down the Catawba River to Riverwalk Carolinas. Plan for 2 - 3 hours for the trip and remember to plan transportation to and from the launch and end points in advance.
Things to Do on Land
If you’re looking to see the beauty of the lake, Lake Wylie has several options to take in those scenic views. Ebenezer Park and Pitcairn Park feature activities of all kinds including active lake activities or serene walking trails that capture the essence of nature the lake has to offer. Plan a trip to the picturesque McDowell Nature Center and Preserve which offers over 56 reservable campgrounds and seven miles of walkable hiking trails. Get your feet wet with a plethora of things to do at Copperhead Island, a 14-acre park with direct boating access to the lake. It features four boat ramps, fishing piers, trails, kayaking, a picnic shelter, and other outdoor activities like beach volleyball and horseshoes.
Just across the water is the Buster Boyd area, a bustling boat landing and waterfront. The landing features unique shops and epic land activities on the lake including the eclectic Sweet Repeat Thrift Store and Lake Wylie Bowl n’ Bounce for bowling and bouncing fun that’s perfect for all ages. Stick around for the Lake Wylie Tournament Trails, an action-packed fishing tournament occurring every Thursday from April to August.
Eat & Drink
Buster Boyd Bridge provides a diverse selection of lakeside eateries. Start your day on the lake with a stop at Bagel Boat for bagels, sandwiches and specialty drinks including some of the best coffee on the lake four years and counting. Opt for newcomer Drift on Lake Wylie, a chef-driven chophouse with lakeside dining.
Experience bold flavors at the lauded Rey Azteca after a long day on the water. Opened in 2001 by the Garcia family, Rey Azteca is Lake Wylie’s go-to for authentic Mexican cuisine including some of the best fajitas on the lake. Head over to Cherry Sushi Bar for flavorful sushi and fan-favorites like General Tso’s chicken and Beef with Broccoli.
Keep the party going with great brews and cocktails at Copper Premium Pub. For a family-friendly dining experience, head down to Sweetwater Sports Bar & Grill, featuring signature American cuisine and bingo nights. If you have a taste for seafood, look no further than Papa Doc’s Shore Club. Complete with fried fish and shrimp plates, seafood boil options and even brunch, this lakeside restaurant is truly a seafood lover’s paradise.
If you’re feeling a little more sophisticated, head to The Shore Club at Tega Cay for delicious banquet-style dining with captivating lake views. Have a sweet tooth? End your day at Fast Frog Bakery and Cakes for cupcakes, muffins, cookies and other sweet treats.
