Life On the Water: Must-Do Lake Keowee Activities

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Cliffs luxury communities provide easy access to several of the region’s best lakes, most notably Lake Keowee. Located in Upstate South Carolina, Lake Keowee’s shoreline expands for more than 300 miles and is well-known for its array of watersports and exciting recreational activities it offers residents and visitors alike. 

At The Cliffs, the lake lifestyle we have created for our members offers a combination of relaxation and serenity while offering private access to Lake Keowee’s recreational activities. As the seasons begin to change, Lake Keowee only becomes more breathtaking! Together, let’s learn about the best ways to fully experience lake life at The Cliffs this fall. 

1. Lakeside Bon Fires

As the vibrant colors of fall paint the landscape in warm hues of red, gold, and orange, there’s no better way to savor the crisp evenings than by gathering around a lakeside bonfire on the shores of Lake Keowee. The flickering flames cast a mesmerizing glow, creating a cozy ambiance that perfectly complements the autumn chill in the air. The scent of burning wood mingles with the earthy aroma of fallen leaves, creating an intoxicating perfume that lingers in the night air. With the tranquil lake reflecting the starlit sky above, lakeside bonfires on Lake Keowee in the fall become magical moments, weaving memories that last a lifetime. 

2. Experience Watersports

Gather your loved ones and experience The Cliffs’ many watersports. Due to its plethora of coves, Lake Keowee is perfect for motor water activities, including wakeboarding, wake surfing, and water skiing. Long canals and several inlets reduce wakes from other boats, allowing for a safe time spent on Lake Keowee. 

During the fall season, you must provide your own vessel to navigate our waterways. However, you still may venture out on the calm waters with a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. As you wander through miles of shoreline, make sure to take in the scenic views of Lake Keowee. Keep a live look at the fall foliage as the green starts to fade away and vibrant oranges and reds start to peek through the trees. Whether you’re a beginner or an aficionado, Lake Keowee activities are for everyone. 

3. Relax on a Boat

Boat owners and renters alike take sail on Lake Keowee all year long. If you choose to spend your time on the water relaxing, take advantage of renting a boat for the day. The crisp breeze as you coast along the mild waters in the autumn season makes for ideal weather that tropical climates could only dream of. Boating on Lake Keowee gives you the opportunity to make lasting memories outdoors with friends and family while observing the lake’s natural surroundings. 

Our marina facilities at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards allow members to conveniently fuel their boats, conduct routine maintenance, and replenish their supplies before setting out on the lake. If you don’t own a boat, the marina leases vessels. You may also reserve a boat at The Cliffs at Keowee Springs Beach Club, allowing you to enjoy boat life without the hassle of boat ownership. 

4. Cast a Line

The rivers and streams that encircle Lake Keowee provide some of the most outstanding fishing in the Southeast. State records have been broken in these waters, and fishers have access to the finest opportunities to enhance their sport at The Cliffs. 

The evolving shades of the leaves, the distant mountain peaks, and the glistening waters of Lake Keowee combine to create the most breathtaking autumnal view. Contrary to popular belief, the fall months are some of the greatest times of year to go fishing. As they prepare for the cooler temperatures, the fish become more active and frequently congregate, setting you up for a successful day of fishing. Take advantage of our turquoise waters to find your perfect catch!

5. Explore Waterfalls

The area is home to many gorgeous waterfalls. Twin Falls, also known as Eastatoe Falls, is located in the Jocassee Wilderness Area and is only a few minutes from the gates at The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards. This 75-foot-tall waterfall is only a fifteen-minute walk from the trailhead and offers stunning scenery. The mountain waters are refreshing and rejuvenating, a necessity after an active day on Lake Keowee. 

Falls Creek Falls, also known as Party Cove, is located on Lake Keowee. The waterfall is only accessible by boat, although it is worth the journey as the captivating, crystal-clear water leaves you in awe. Spend an unforgettable day experiencing South Carolina’s natural splendor by docking your boat and enjoying your time in the mystical waterfalls. During the fall, a kaleidoscope of orange, yellow, and crimson leaves appears through the descending water — can you imagine anything more beautiful?

Lakeside Elegance and Refined Living in The Lake Region at The Cliffs

The Lake Region at The Cliffs makes every day a lake day! This region is comprised of three exclusive luxury communities, each offering a distinctive blend of elegance, natural beauty, and unparalleled amenities. Here is a detailed look at each of these communities and what they have to offer members. 

1. The Cliffs at Keowee Springs

Near Clemson, SC lies The Cliffs at Keowee Springs, a haven of lakeside elegance where architectural brilliance meets the tranquility of Lake Keowee. This exclusive community offers meticulously designed homes with panoramic views, serene beaches, and access to the community’s new clubhouse. Here, members revel in the harmony between luxurious living and the natural landscape, creating a serene environment for a sophisticated lakeside lifestyle.

2. The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards

The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards, surrounded by rolling vineyards and the shimmering waters of Lake Keowee, beckons to wine enthusiasts and those who appreciate life’s finer pleasures. This community offers private access to a Tom Fazio-designed golf course, inviting members to indulge in leisurely rounds of golf amidst breathtaking scenery. The Keowee Vineyards Clubhouse is a sanctuary of wine-tasting events, gourmet dining, and spectacular views, making it a paradise for connoisseurs and a retreat for those seeking refined living by the lake.

3. The Cliffs at Keowee Falls

The Cliffs at Keowee Falls captures the essence of adventurous living, embracing the rugged beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the tranquility of Lake Keowee. Members here enjoy an active lifestyle with access to outdoor amenities, a newly-renovated fitness facility, a resort-style pool, and racquet sports facilities.  This community is a perfect blend of adventure and refinement, offering members the thrill of mountain living alongside the comforts of luxury, creating a unique and dynamic living experience.

Find Your Home on Lake Keowee

With exclusive access to Lake Keowee, secluded shorelines, and unique amenities, our luxury homes at The Cliffs make spending time on the lake even more delightful. 

If you are interested in making the most of lake living in the Carolinas, explore what The Cliffs lifestyle has to offer in our online catalog! Here, you can take a look inside the many turn-key homes or our many generous homesites, ready to build a customized home that is entirely your own! 

To browse available listings in our Lake Region, simply click the button below.

This post was originally published in October 2022 and rewritten in October 2023.