Just like visiting the beach, Lake Anna has its signature “hot spots” – places people go to be around other like-minded vacationers. Here at Lake Anna, there are specific businesses and locations that cater to crowds for specific reasons – boaters go to well known local spots on the water called “Cocktail Cove” or “The Sandbar”… while beer lovers go to The Lake Anna Taphouse for the widest variety of beer on tap available here at Lake Anna.

In this bucket list, we’ll give you some insight into Lake Anna’s most popular hangouts and what makes them so special. Remember, enjoying these places comes with the responsibility to care for them. Lake Anna regulars take pride in preserving these areas, ensuring they remain pristine for everyone to enjoy.

1. Take a Boat Tour (or Excursion)

Life is just better on a boat! Whether you rent one, buy one, or hop aboard with a friend, cruising around Lake Anna with a packed cooler is the perfect way to experience the lake. Dock at a lakeside restaurant, drop anchor in a secluded cove, or just float and soak up the sun. Rentals are available at Duke’s Creek Marina, Shipwreck Boat Rentals, Mid-Atlantic Watersports, LKA Watersports, Boat-O, Anna Point Marina, and Sturgeon Creek Marina.

Not comfortable in a rental? Get a captain, instead! You can rent an excursion from Cruise Rusty or Sunshine Swan Excursions.

Here is a snapshot of boat services from our guide to marine services:

2. Savor Ice Cream at Moo Thru or DKs

Indulge in homemade ice cream at Moo Thru, located at The Boardwalk (underneath Tim’s at Lake Anna). Voted Best Ice Cream and Best Dessert in ‘Best of Lake Anna 2024‘, Moo Thru will give you a gorgeous view of Lake Anna while treating your pallet to a frozen delight of flavor. Also winning favorites in the ice cream category are DK’s Coffee & Ice Cream in Mineral, and Frosties Rail Stop in Louisa.

Here’s a list of Ice Cream shops near Lake Anna:

3. Enjoy Live Music and Beer at The Lake Anna Taphouse

Visit this waterfront beer garden to choose from dozens of beers and ciders, savor pub grub, and catch live performances. With indoor, deck, and lawn seating, you can dock your boat or drive your car… plus, enjoy a wide variety of lawn games, designed for both kids and adults!

See a list of live upcoming events here at Lake Anna.

4. Visit Coyote Hole Craft Brewing/Mineral Brewing

This venue, tucked away in the woods off Rt. 208, offers a range of refreshing ciders and beers, along with food trucks and live music. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a drink in hand and embrace a country vibe.

Learn more about Coyote Hole, or look through other beer, wine and cider options here at Lake Anna:

5. Sip Wine at Lake Anna Winery, Everleigh Vineyards or Award Winning Beer at the Cooling Pond

Check out Everleigh Vineyards, where you can enjoy locally crafted wines, beers, and ciders in a picturesque two-story venue overlooking the vineyard. Add in live music and stunning sunset views, and it’s clear why this spot is a favorite.

Click here for a list of ‘Best of Lake Anna 2024’ favorites.

6. Gear Up at ‘Best of Lake Anna Retail’ at Lake Anna Outfitters

Stop by Lake Anna Outfitters at Anna Point Marina, voted Best Retail Store in 2024 Best of Lake Anna Readers’ Choice, for all your lake essentials, like apparel and drinkware! For custom-made apparel, check out 208 Apparel – although not always open on weekends, you can see an update in The Lake Anna Breeze here.

7. Discover Cocktail Cove

This “secret” spot in the clear mid-lake area is where locals and visitors come to relax. Beach your boat, set up a picnic, and enjoy your surroundings. You can find Cocktail Cove south of the 208 Bridge, on the starboard side across from the Islands – Just remember not to leave any trash behind!

8. Dine at Callie Opie’s Orchard Restaurant & Event Barn

A top dining destination at Lake Anna, Callie Opie’s features a talented chef, creative cocktails, and a beautiful venue. With a stunning patio and event space, it’s a great spot for a memorable meal, whether you’re dining indoors or outdoors.

Take a look at all of Lake Anna Restaurants here:

9. Join the Fun at The Sandbar

The Sandbar, another popular on-the-water hangout located North Lake Anna – past Tim’s at Lake Anna and Christopher Run Campground, is a lively spot where boats gather on summer weekends. Enjoy water activities like volleyball and people-watching on this 150-yard stretch of soft sand, which is just beneath the water’s surface.

10. Shop at Home Point or Ole Roosting Box

For a unique shopping experience, visit Home Point, where you’ll find a curated selection of home furnishings and decorative items. This boutique is a treasure trove for anyone looking to bring a touch of Lake Anna style home with them.

Here are some more Lake Anna shopping hot spots.

11. Hang Out at The Cove at Lake Anna

Located on Rt. 719 at Dillard’s Bridge, The Cove is a one-stop destination with a marina, convenience store, restaurant, and bar. Dine indoors or outdoors with views of the lake, and enjoy a drink at the outdoor bar, complete with cooling misters. The Cove always has live music, DJs, karaoke or cornhole.

12. Relax (with a View) on The Patio at El Gran Patron

Lake Anna’s newest restaurant, El Gran Patron, offers a massive lakeside patio with incredible sunset views. Sip on giant margaritas and savor a diverse menu while soaking in the festive atmosphere. Arrive early to secure a spot!

El Gran Patron won Gold for Best Sunset Spot in 2024 Readers’ Choice.

13. Play Volleyball on the Water at The Islands

If you love water volleyball, head to the down-lake past the 208 Bridge on your port side. This family-friendly hotspot features clear, clean water and is a great place to spend a sunny day on the lake.

14. Dine on Crabs with a View at The Deck at Tim’s

Known for some of the best seafood around, Tim’s at Lake Anna is located in the North Anna arm of the lake, is a great spot to enjoy steamed crabs, shrimp, and cold beverages while watching boats pass by. With free dockage, it’s an ideal pit stop during your lake adventures.

15. Relax on the Beach at Lake Anna State Park

No visit to Lake Anna is complete without a trip to the beach at Lake Anna State Park. This sandy spot is perfect for a family day out, with lifeguards on duty and plenty of space for the kids to splash around. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot!

Other great beaches available for a vehicle or per person fee include Rocky Branch Campground, Christopher Run Campground, and Lake anna Marina, just to name a few!