This North Carolina Lake Town Among Most ‘Mesmerizing’ And Its Not Where You Think

There is a huge difference between ocean life and lake life. At the beach you might have to compete for space in the middle of the summer but lake life is much more laid back. This North Carolina lake town named among the most mesmerizing and it's not where you think.

When I first saw this story, I thought of Lake Norman immediately. It's huge, it's beautiful and it's popular. But it didn't make the list. The Travel chose 13 most mesmerizing lake towns across the United States. And I was super excited that this North Carolina lake town is among the most mesmerizing and its not where you think.

The Travel had high standards in their quest to find the most mesmerizing lake towns. They considered destinations that are peaceful, are picture perfect, and have an abundance of water activities with programs for both kids and adults.

The Travel really went for lake towns near mountains and have a look and feel of summer resorts. The Travel also looked at the way residents combined history and local culture. When you consider everything that was criteria in this study it is easy to see why this North Carolina lake town is among the most mesmerizing and it's not where you think.

According to the report from msn.com. our very own Lake Lure, North Carolina made the list. As many of you know I have a long and storied history with Lake Lure. I spent my summers there growing up and even unofficially named "Miss Lake Lure" back in nineteen hundred and never you mind.

Not only is Lake Lure, North Carolina absolutely gorgeous it is like stepping back in time.  You won't find a commercial franchise there.  It is mostly locally owned and operated restaurants and shops. And of course you know "Dirty Dancing" was filmed there. With it's beautiful location, rich history and easy access to Asheville it is easy to see why it got the recognition it deserves. For more information and to get the whole list, check it out right here from msn.com.

Summer is here, and with it comes the opportunity to enjoy America's beautiful lakes. One of my favorite summer activities is going to a pristine lake. Whether I just hang out on the beach or take a ride in a pontoon, it's always a summer highlight. So, what are some fun things to do at the lake this summer?

Before we get to that, did you know that there's actually a Lakes Appreciation Month? It's true. The North American Lakes Management Society (NALMS) has named July the official Lakes Appreciation Month. The designation is to "focus attention on the value of lakes and reservoirs to society and the threats they face." NALMS also states that their mission is to "forge partnerships among citizens, scientists, and professionals to foster the management and protection of lakes and reservoirs...for today and tomorrow."

One fun fact about lakes is that the lowest lake in the world is the Dead Sea, on the edge of Israel and Jordan. The surface level is 418 m below sea level. That's incredible. Also, the Great Lakes, which are shared between the U.S. and Canada, contain roughly 21% of the world's freshwater supply.

So, what are some engaging activities that you can do on the lake this year? Read on for a list of 10 fun things to do on the lake this summer.

I grew up a swimmer, but some lakes are just too cold for my taste. That said, many people love a refreshing dip into crisp, cold water at their local lake. Just check temperatures before you jump in, because if it's too early in the season, those temperatures could be dangerously cold.

Water often attracts special wildlife that you won't find anywhere else. That makes camping near a lake a very special experience and different from the typical campground. When you're camping, make sure you check out the nature that blossoms around the lakes and wetlands, too.

When I was a little kid, I wanted to go fishing. My dad was not a fisherman by any means and was pretty clueless about it. So, he had a friend of his take us fishing, and it was so fun, even though I didn't catch anything. That said, fishing is a great summer activity on the lake.

If you're looking for an activity to help keep you in shape, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are all great exercise. All of those activities are harder than they look, too, so they can be challenging. But, in the end, you'll have a good time and get in a real workout. Many lakes have places were you can rent a paddleboat, kayak or canoe, too.

One of my cousins absolutely loves jet skiing. It's always fun to hear him talk about the experience. I'm not much of a water sports enthusiast, but I can appreciate those who do partake. You don't even have to have your own boat or jet skis, as they are often available for rent nearby.

It's always a charming activity to have a picnic by the lake. Invite some friends or family over and bring some delicious food to enjoy while looking at the water. Oh, and make sure to have ice cream. That's a must.

Hiking near a lake can be extra lovely, as the water can offer glorious scenery to really make your hike memorable. As aforementioned, lakes often attract nature that you don't find anywhere else, so hiking around the water can be a unique experience.

Parties by the lake are always fun. So, get out a grill and invite a bunch of friends down to the beach to enjoy a day or night of partying by the water. But, don't get wasted, because drinking and swimming can be a deadly combination.

Here's my top choice, even though you'll likely find me doing it in the shade: sunbathing. If the water is too cold of you're just not up to more challenging activities, you can get some sun and lay on the beach. But, remember the sunscreen.

Lakeside games are definitely a thing, and there are many quirky games that you can play by the lake. A few enjoyable lake games include water balloon fights, bean bag tosses, horseshoes and more. Pick a game and dig in.