This Arizona desert city has the original London Bridge, relocated stone by stone in 1971. Water sports on the lake and hiking trails draw visitors year-round.
Lake Havasu City stretches along the Colorado River in western Arizona, where you can walk across the original 1831 London Bridge, swim at white-sand beaches, or hike through rocky Mohave Desert trails. Water skiers zip across the bright blue waters while kayakers paddle past 27 working replica lighthouses that line the shoreline.
Water Activities on Lake Havasu
You can explore 60 miles of waterways from March through September. Rent powerboats from Bridgewater Channel Marina, jet skis from Beach Shack Rentals, or kayaks from multiple vendors along the shore. Bass fishing peaks in spring and fall, with regular tournaments drawing competitive anglers. The International World Jet Ski Final Races take place each October, turning the lake into a high-speed racing course.
Parks and Natural Areas
Walk the trails at Havasu National Wildlife Refuge to spot desert bighorn sheep and migratory birds. Lake Havasu State Park's beaches stretch along the shoreline, with camping spots nestled between saguaro cacti. Mountain bikers can tackle 1,100 acres of desert paths, while off-road vehicle drivers have access to 1,800 miles of desert trails winding through red rock canyons.
Desert Climate and Seasons
Summer temperatures regularly climb above 110°F (43°C), making water activities particularly refreshing. Winter days stay mild at around 70°F (21°C), bringing visitors from northern states and Canada. Spring break fills the beaches with university students, while autumn's cooler temperatures create perfect conditions for hiking and biking.
Annual Events and Festivals
Watch fireworks light up the desert sky during February's Western Winter Blast pyrotechnics show. Hot air balloons float over the Colorado River during January's Havasu Balloon Festival & Fair. Winterfest transforms McCulloch Boulevard into an outdoor market with 200 vendors selling crafts and food. Summer weekends often include boat races and regattas on the lake.
The Story of London Bridge
In 1967, businessman Robert McCulloch bought London's 1831 bridge for $2.5 million. Workers carefully numbered each stone before shipping it to Arizona, where they rebuilt it over a man-made channel. Since 1971, you can walk through the English-style village at its base, filled with shops and restaurants serving British and American food.
Getting Around
Fly into Lake Havasu City Airport, 6 miles north of downtown, for private and charter flights. Take the local transit buses within city limits, or catch the Vegas Airporter service to reach Las Vegas. A ferry crosses regularly to Havasu Lake, California, giving you access to both sides of the Colorado River.
