· US

Clearlake

Clearlake, California, United States

Located in Northern California, Clearlake is a picturesque city surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Clear Lake, the largest freshwater lake entirely within California. This charming destination offers a perfect …

#lakefront#scenic#outdoor activities#fishing#boating

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Clearlake.

Top Hotels in Clearlake

Top Flights to Clearlake

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Clearlake.

Tours

Explore Clear Lake State Park

Enjoy a relaxing day by Clear Lake with activities such as swimming, hiking, and bird watching in middle of nature.

Shopping

Downtown Clearlake Shopping

Explore various local shops and boutiques in Downtown Clearlake for unique finds and gifts.

Outdoor

Fishing at Clearlake

Enjoy a guided fishing tour on Clear Lake known for its bass fishing tournaments.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Clearlake.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

15.9 thousand

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Clearlake

Jan

12°3°

Feb

15°4°

Mar

18°5°

Apr

21°7°

May

25°10°

Jun

30°13°

Jul

34°15°

Aug

33°15°

Sep

31°14°

Oct

25°10°

Nov

18°6°

Dec

13°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Clearlake.

What people love

Clearlake, California, located in Lake County, offers several advantages for travelers looking to visit the area:

Beautiful Scenery: Clearlake is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the largest natural freshwater lake entirely within California. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and lush landscapes.
Outdoor Activities: The area provides a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Clearlake State Park and Mount Konocti are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wineries: Lake County is part of California's wine country, and Clearlake is surrounded by vineyards and wineries. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting tours and experience the local wine culture.
Fishing: Clearlake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass fishing. Anglers can try their luck at catching largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and more.
Relaxation: Clearlake offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and relax away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Local Cuisine: Visitors can savor delicious local cuisine at various restaurants and eateries in Clearlake. From fresh seafood to farm-to-table options, there is a diverse range of dining experiences to enjoy.

Overall, traveling to Clearlake, California, provides a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, culinary delights, and relaxation, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Clearlake, California, specifically to the city of Clearlake, may include:

Crime Rate: Clearlake has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, with the city experiencing higher rates of property crimes and violent crimes. Travelers should be cautious and take necessary safety precautions.
Limited Tourist Amenities: Clearlake is a smaller city with limited tourist amenities compared to larger tourist destinations. Visitors may find fewer dining options, accommodations, and entertainment choices in the area.
Environmental Concerns: Clearlake has faced issues with water quality due to algae blooms and pollution. This may affect recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing in the lake.
Weather Conditions: Clearlake can experience hot temperatures during the summer months, which may not be suitable for all travelers. Additionally, wildfires are a concern in California, and smoke from nearby fires may impact air quality and visibility.
Remote Location: Clearlake is located in a more rural area of California, which means that access to major cities and attractions may require longer travel times. Public transportation options may also be limited.
Limited Cultural and Entertainment Offerings: Clearlake may have limited cultural attractions, museums, and entertainment options compared to larger cities. Travelers seeking a bustling nightlife or diverse cultural experiences may not find as much to do in Clearlake.

Please note that these potential cons are based on general information and may not apply to every traveler's experience. It's always a good idea to research specific travel destinations thoroughly before planning a trip.

Clearlake, California, is a city located in Lake County, in the north-central part of the state. Its history is closely tied to Clear Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake entirely within California, which the city is named after. Here's a detailed history of Clearlake:

Early History

Indigenous Peoples: The area around Clear Lake has been inhabited for thousands of years by Native American tribes, primarily the Pomo people. The region was rich in natural resources, providing fish, game, and plant materials for the indigenous population.

19th Century

European Exploration and Settlement: European settlement began in the mid-19th century. The discovery of gold in California brought an influx of settlers looking for new opportunities.
Kelseyville and Lower Lake: Nearby areas such as Kelseyville and Lower Lake were more prominent in the early days of settlement, serving as centers for agriculture and commerce. Clearlake itself was slower to develop compared to these towns.

20th Century

Development and Incorporation: Clearlake began to grow more significantly in the mid-20th century. It was incorporated as a city relatively late, in 1980, to better manage the services and infrastructure needed by its growing population.
Tourism and Recreation: The city and the surrounding lake area have long been popular for recreation and tourism, offering activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Clear Lake is known for its bass fishing, which attracts anglers from around the country.

Significant Events

Fires: Like much of California, the Clearlake area has been affected by wildfires. The city has had to contend with the challenges of fire management and recovery.
Environmental and Conservation Efforts: Over the years, there have been efforts to maintain and restore the natural beauty and ecological health of Clear Lake and its surroundings. This includes managing the water quality of the lake and protecting local wildlife habitats.

Important Landmarks

Clear Lake: As the largest natural lake in California, Clear Lake is the central geographic and recreational feature of the area. It is a key habitat for wildlife and a major attraction for visitors.
Anderson Marsh State Historic Park: Located near Clearlake, this park offers insight into the region's natural and cultural history, with trails that explore both the marshland and historic sites.
Redbud Park: A local park in Clearlake, it offers facilities for picnics, sports, and lake access, serving as a community hub for recreation.

Notable Figures

Konocti: While not a historical figure, Mount Konocti is a significant natural landmark in the region, with cultural importance to the Pomo people and offering a notable hiking destination.

Overall, Clearlake's history is intertwined with the natural environment of Clear Lake and the surrounding areas, with a cultural heritage that includes both indigenous and settler histories. The city continues to develop as a community that balances growth with the preservation of its natural surroundings.