Rancho Santa Margarita Lake

I love this lake! Enjoy beautiful mountain and lake views while walking around the lakeside sidewalk or much on some food and sip a cocktail at one of the lakeside restaurants. I recommend the Sushi place, Yamame (Best sushi in town, in my opinion) or Pizza e Vino (delicious pizza but a bit pricey) for dinner, Blind Pig for small appetizers, craft cocktails and live music, and Carmelitas for their dessert caramel-stuffed churros or flan or maybe even a uniquely flavored margarita. The Blind Pig and Carmelitas have the best lakeside views. The lake is not very well lit at night so if you are by yourself I recommend visiting during the day or at least visit with another person at night to be safe. This area is generally safe and family friendly but it doesn’t hurt to be cautious. There are small paddle boats available to rent at the lake clubhouse, but whatever you do, don’t touch or swim in the water, it’s not sanitary or safe for human consumption. There are many ducks and geese in the area so watch out for their droppings, it gets everywhere. Also, the lake and the walking path is pet-friendly. There is a large Christmas tree during the holiday season and a popular fireworks show for the city’s 4th of July/ Independence Day celebration. The lake can get very crowded on the weekends as it is a popular leisure spot for locals. Parking is free in the lake shopping center, just a few steps from the lake. I recommend this little man-made lake to locals and tourists alike. It is a wonderful place for grabbing a meal, enjoying beautiful views, taking a walk or working out.