What to consider when moving for Waterskiing
Waterskiing isn’t just a sport. It’s a way of life. For many of us here at Learn Water Sports, it’s about the excitement when cutting through the water, the feeling of home you get when behind the boat and bonding with others who feel the same way and share your passion. If you’re thinking about moving to enjoy more of this lifestyle, finding a good place is key. Here are some tips to help you pick the right location before you decide to dive in headfirst.
Why Location Matters
Waterskiing isn’t the kind of a hobby you can pick up just anywhere. The ideal location has to provide more than just access to water. Factors like the right kind of climate, perfect water conditions and a fun supportive community of like-minded individuals can make your whole experience much more enjoyable. Picking the perfect place can mean the difference between dabbling occasionally and fully diving into this sport. Here are some key things to consider for picking a home location.
Key Criteria for Choosing the Perfect Waterskiing Destination
1.Climate
Try and picture this: sunny days, warm temperatures and endless summers. It’s what makes perfect waterskiing conditions. A milder climate means you can stay on the water year-round without long breaks during winter colds. Sometimes our friends up north get pretty jealous when they learn that Floridians are still carving glass well into the fall months. Also try to look for destinations with minimal rainfall or reliable weather, so your time on the water is as predictable as the sunrise.
2.Water Access
Let’s face it—convenience is everything. Practicing your hobby can be made so much easier the closer you live near lakes, rivers or private waterski parks. It means you can spend more time perfecting your skills and less time commuting. Some destinations even offer dedicated waterski parks with flat, calm water ideal for training. When the water is only a short drive away, it will never be too far to do what you love. If you’re an able bodied skier you want to check out a nationwide list to see where the most concentrated area of water-skiers live. If you’re an adaptive water-skier, check out our adaptive list by state.
3.Community
Don’t forget how waterskiing can be even more fun with friends who share your passion. When finding the right location, make sure it has an active waterski club, regular competitions and plenty of social gatherings. A strong community will also open doors to mentorship and skill-building opportunities. You might even find yourself competing and learning new tricks! There are many “lake communities” whose main selling points are top of the line slalom and jumping courses. These communities though can get pretty pricey.

4.Cost of Living
Dreaming of the perfect waterskiing spot shouldn’t come with financial nightmares. While some places are more expensive than others, some offer a better balance of quality and cost. To make sure your move will support your waterskiing lifestyle without breaking the bank, make sure to check housing costs, utilities, and everyday expenses.
5.Other Amenities
Life outside the water is also not to be overlooked. Outdoor activities like biking, fishing, hiking trails and picnic areas, that can be enjoyed by non-waterskiing family members, can play a big part in making or breaking the move. A well-rounded destination ensures you—and everyone you’re bringing along—can enjoy the new chapter. If you’re someone who does enjoy all four seasons, then you might enjoy a place like Wisconsin. It has a thriving waterski and snow ski scene.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect location is the first step towards embracing a waterskiing lifestyle. Warm weather, easy access to water, a sense of community, and affordability all combine to create the experience of your dreams. By taking all of these things into account, you may turn waterskiing into a way of life rather than just a sport.
Do you have an absolute favorite place to go waterskiing? Feel free to share recommendations in the comments section below – you never know who else you could encourage to make the change!