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8 Best Places to Jet Ski in Orlando

Last Updated on March 5, 2024

Did you know you can jet ski in Orlando? We have collected some of the best places to jet ski in Orlando.

Jet skiing is a recreational water sport that uses a personal watercraft to cruise through bodies of water.

Jet ski at sunset in Florida.

Florida is a great place to jet ski due to the varied bodies of water available throughout the state, including the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, and a huge selection of rivers, lakes, and waterways. 

Couple on a jetski in Florida.

Since Orlando is approximately an hour away from its closest beach, you might not think it to be a jet skiing destination. While in fact, there are many places that you can jet ski in the Orlando area.

In this article, we cover some fun options for a great time on the open water, like the watersports complex and beautiful lakes in Central Florida.

Jet ski couple having fun in Florida.

If you need to rent a jet ski, many rental companies in the area provide rental options at an affordable price to anyone 18 years old and older with a photo ID. Renting is a great option, as you don’t need to be an experienced rider.

Each facility has its own policies regarding rentals, costs, and licensing. Make sure you check for specific information beforehand.

Best places to jet ski in the Orlando area

Lake Conway – Belle Isle & Edgewood

Lake conway at sunset.
Source: Lake Conway

Lake Conway is a 1770-acre public lake located in Belle Isle and Edgewood. It is part of the Boggy Creek Watershed, which spans over 80 miles.

Conway Lake Beach area offers shallow, crystal clear waters and great conditions for jet skiing.

Red jet ski on Lake Conway.
Source: Lake Conway

The lake also has a sandbar, a popular destination for those who head out on the water. 

Lake Conway Address: Lake Conway, Belle Isle, FL 32809

Clear Lake – Orlando

Clear Lake in Orlando.
Source: Clear Lake

Clear Lake is a 357-acre public lake located near Downtown Orlando. It is part of the Shingle Creek Watershed, which spans approximately 80 miles.

Clear Lake Park Sign.

Three public parks border this lake, known for its series of canals that provide boat access to nearby houses. 

Clear Lake Adress: Clear Lake, Orlando, FL 32805

Butler Chain of Lakes – Lake Butler

Man on boat on lake.
Source: City of Butler

Butler Chain of Lakes comprises 13 interconnected lakes in Orange County, with over 5,000 acres of water. It is part of the Cypress Creek Watershed, which spans over 30 miles.

Because of the sheer amount of water available to explore, the Butler Chain of Lakes is a popular destination for boating and jet skiing.

Jet ski parked on Lake Butler Chain of Lakes.

You can travel canals that connect the lakes and appreciate up-close views of Florida wetlands and marshes.

Make sure to visit early in the day for access to parking, which often fills up during the day.

Lake Butler Address: Lake Butler, FL

Buena Vista Watersports – Orlando 

Jet skis parked on shore.
Source: Buena Vista Watersports

Buena Vista Watersports is a rental company in Orlando that is ready to offer thrill-seekers an alternative to theme parks – jet ski rentals.

The complex is conveniently located beside Lake Bryan, a 400-acre lake and a favorite spot for locals, especially Walt Disney employees.

Jet Ski Buena Vista Watersports.
Source: Buena Vista Watersports

They have over 30 years of industry experience. They offer top-of-the-line jet skis to rent that go up to 50 miles per hour.

Renters need a valid boating license to rent, though they offer temporary certificates after testing. Check out their website for more details if you are interested.

Buena Vista Watersports.
Source: Buena Vista Watersports

If you have never been jet skiing before, this is a great place to visit because first-time riders get a complimentary lesson prior to riding. You can also have a coach ride with you on a lap around the lake.

In addition to jet skis, the complex rents out other boats, paddleboards, and kayaks for a variety of water-based fun.

Buena Vista Watersports Address: 13245 Lake Bryan Dr, Orlando, FL 32821

Lake Ivanhoe – Orlando

Lake Ivanhoe near downtown Orlando.

Lake Ivanhoe is a 124-acre public lake located in Orlando. It is part of the Howell Branch Watershed.

The Howell Branch Watershed is located within Orange County and spans 23.3 square miles. The watershed contains 63 named lakes/ponds, and 5 named rivers/streams/canals.

Lake Ivanhoe.
Source: Lake Ivanhoe

The lake is known for its scenic view and calm waters, as well as the neighboring Lake Ivanhoe Park. It has a great view of downtown Orlando and the College Park neighborhood.

People practicing yoga on lake.
Source: Orlando Weekly

In addition to jet-skiing, it’s a great place to go paddleboarding in Orlando, too.

Address of Lake Ivanhoe: Lake Ivanhoe, Orlando, FL 32804

Lake Maitland – Maitland

Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour on Lake Maitland from Azalea Park.

Lake Maitland is a 449-acre lake located in the city of Maitland. Like Lake Ivanhoe, it is part of the Howell Branch Watershed.

Lake Maitland.
Source: Lake Maitland

There are many parks and other destinations in this centrally-located area to explore, including the city of Winter Park.

Dog Island sign in Lake Maitland.

One of the more unique experiences to be had at Lake Maitland is to venture over to Dog Island.

Dog Island in Lake Maitland.

Dog Island is an undeveloped “oasis” surrounded by lush wetlands and wildlife. It’s a local favorite, especially among the younger crowd.

Jet skis on Dog Island in center of Lake Maitland.

This popular spot located in the middle of the lake can only be accessed by boat or jet skis. 

Lake Maitland Address: Lake Maitland, Florida

Lake Tohopekaliga – Kissimmee 

View of lake.
Source: Orlando Escape

Lake Tohopekaliga (also known as Lake Toho) in Kissimmee is the largest lake in Osceola County, spanning 22,700 acres.

It is known as a premier fishing destination due to its large bass fish population.

Lake Tohopekaliga.
Source: Lake Tohopekaliga

The bordering Lake Tohopekaliga Park is situated at the lake’s end and is a popular birdwatching spot.

The park has walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground, making it fun to spend the day during your jet ski adventures.

Lake Tohopekaliga Address: Lake Tohopekaliga, Florida

Lake Apopka – Apopka

Lake Apopka.
Source: Susan Mohorcic

Lake Apopka is a 30,909-acre public lake in Orange County. It borders a few towns, including Apopka. It’s the fourth-largest lake in Florida.

Sign at the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive.

The area is one of the larger, more remote options on this list, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy native wildlife and area habitats.

The Lake Apopka North Shore is a preserve with many trails to hike and bike.

Lake Apopka.
Source: Lake Apopka

Enjoy the tranquil scenery of this large lake and the surrounding areas.

Lake Apopka Address: Lake Apopka, Florida

While in the area, don’t miss the Spotlight on Spectacular Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive.

Don’t miss these other great Orlando activities and places to eat:

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