The platonic ideal of a vacation lake. Its east side location makes for consistent sunshine, and the rolling hills around the southern end of the 50-mile lake are dotted with orchards and wineries. The young-at-heart town has plenty of boat, Jet Ski, even surf opportunities, plus a few sandy beaches.

Some lakes are national park icons. Both wooded areas boast a historic inn, each with a grand lawn that abuts their respective lakeshore. And both are close to spectacular hiking in Olympic National Park. How to choose between them? Lake Crescent is ideal for paddling—though the water is pretty dang cold year-round—while Lake Quinault is for anyone who wants a taste of forest (record-setting giant trees grow nearby) and a splash of beach (the Pacific beaches and Tree of Life are just a half hour away).

Though one end sticks into Olympic National Park, this body of water feels markedly different from Quinault and Crescent. This is the spot for a vacation rental house and a blissfully empty itinerary, though hikers with dogs will find trails outside the national park that allow pets. Weather can be unpredictable among the wooded Olympics foothills that surround Cushman, so pack the Uno deck and extra whiskey.

Consider these the next-door brand of lake. Both are suburban, though Whatcom has a more natural feel; both are water reservoirs for their surrounding communities. And both are surrounded by big, expensive Airbnbs for a family reunion. Still waters are ideal for Jet Ski and waterskiing activities, but given that both spots are popular for all forms of boaters and swimmers, careful motorized operation is essential.

The waters in the southern half of Washington tend to be a bit less crowded, though that also means fewer rental homes and hotels. Located on State Route 12—the highway that links Yakima to I-5—Riffe Lake is mostly served by campgrounds, with nearby town of Morton housing some motel rooms. (Mayfield Lake, just up the road, has a state park with simple cabins). Year-round fishing is available, both by boat and from a fishing bridge, and the waters hold smallmouth bass, coho, Chinook salmon, and trout.

Don't be confused; Lake Wenatchee is not particularly close to the city that shares its name. Instead it's a bit northwest of Leavenworth, surrounded by the eastern flank of the Cascades. With a massive state park comprised of campgrounds, playgrounds, trails, horseback riding, boat rentals, and more, it's a one-stop shop for outdoor recreation. Plenty of rental homes line the lake, too.