Havasu Daytrippin': Pirate Cove Resort

Looking for a great boating destination while you play on the water? Then you're in luck! I've talked about several different major locations that anyone can visit, play for the day (Laughlin, Las Vegas, the Hualapai Mountains), and then head back in time to sleep in your Lake Havasu bed. But somewhere a little closer to home that offers all the water fun you could possibly want is Pirate Cove Resort.

Head approximately 12 miles up the Colorado River just north of the I40. There, on the California side of the river, you'll find Pirate Cove Resort. Dock your boat in the marina or beach it at the restaurant or right in the channel. Then, head inside for food, drinks, and general good time! When you're ready to leave, fuel up at the Pirate Cove gas dock and be on your way.

Don't want to tool up the waterway to play at Pirate Cove Resort? Head out by car, truck or RV. It's just a 35-40 minute drive by land from Havasu. Rent your water toys once you get to the resort. Or tow your sandrail, ATV or other offroad vehicle so that you can trek through over 3200 miles of trails in the surrounding BLM land. Don't own an offroad vehicle? No problem. Rent a RZR XP4 1000 for a half or full-day.

Feel just like relaxing? Let the kids roam free at the water playground while you and your significant other lounge at the beach, sipping mai tais or an ice-cold beer. What's a water playground? Well, take all of the amenities a regular playground does (slide, monkey bars, swings, etc.). Then, toss in a nice water spray to keep you cool. There you have it. Oh, and they also include a rock climbing wall for added fun.

When you get hungry, visit the fun pirate-themed restaurant on-site. They're open from 8 am to 10 pm and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a full kids menu available. Misters cool you off out on the open patio. And the DJ keeps things hoppin' with great music played throughout the day.

The free water taxi ferries guests and visitors across the channel for full access to the entire Pirate Cove Resort grounds. If you want to celebrate a special occasion like a bridal shower, bachelorette party, birthday, anniversary or wedding, charter a yacht. Take up to 40 people on a two-hour tour of the river, customized specifically to fill all of your party's needs. You must make your reservation well in advance, though.

If you decide you don't want the party to end once the sun goes down, reserve yourself a campsite. Didn't bring your RV? Then rent a trailer for the night or weekend. Pirate Cove Resort partners up with JR RV Rentals to bring resort guests exclusive deals on 20' to 32' camper rentals. JR RV sets up and tears down the trailer for you. You just need to contact JR for the rental reservation ahead of time. Let them do the rest.

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Kiwanis 7th Annual 5 Iron Golf Tournament

• What: Kiwanis 5 Iron Golf Tournament
• When: September 7th @ 7:30am
• Where: Lake Havasu Golf Club, 2400 Clubhouse Dr. - Maps & Directions
• Registration at www.LakeHavasuGolfClub.com or call Armando Contla: 928.486.2234

A golfer usually carries 12-14 clubs in their bag (including a putter). Up to eight of these are irons. Anyone can potentially hit under par on every hole with a complete set of clubs. For the truly adventurous, try sticking to just one: the 5 iron. That's what the Kiwanis Club challenges you to do at their 2019 Lake Havasu 5 Iron Tournament.

On Saturday, September 7th, the Kiwanis of Lake Havasu City invite all golfers to Lake Havasu Golf Club's Desert West Course for a four-person scramble. If you're not part of team, that's OK. They can match you up with others. You won't need a caddy because you'll only be carrying your 5 iron. And don't try to be sneaky. No hybrids allowed. You must use your 5 iron for putting, driving, and chipping. Nothing else!

The tournament begins with a 7:30 am shotgun start. First and second place receive a cash award. Other awards include closest to the pin, longest putt, and long drive for both men and women. Yes, the Kiwanis welcome co-ed teams. And don't forget to enter the 50/50 drawing for even more fun and prizes.

Your $50 registration fee includes a golf cart during the tournament, green fees, and lunch afterward. If you would like to market your company or services to the players, sponsor a hole. It costs just $100 to do so. Contact Ginger Thornton at (928) 486-6836 or via email ginger.thornton@grarate.com or Armando Contla at (928) 486-2234 or via email atp.broker@gmail.com for more information about sponsorship.

Proceeds from the 2019 Lake Havasu 5 Iron Tournament help fund the Kiwanis Club's philanthropic efforts with the local community. They offer programs that help our children feel empowered to stretch their creative muscles as well as be an integral part of our Lake Havasu community. When you donate time and money to the Kiwanis Club, you are really helping our children and their future.

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Lake Havasu City Farmers Market

When you hear "desert lifestyle", a farmer's market probably doesn't necessarily spring to mind, does it? Yes, we live in a desert community. And we're surrounded by thousands of acres of desert landscape. However, this summer, we also experience our very own Lake Havasu farmer's market. As an added bonus, it's indoors!

• When: July 20th, August 24th and September 21st - 8am - Noon
• Where: 2144 McCulloch Blvd N (Old Schlotsky's Building) - Maps & Directions
• Lake Havasu Farmer's Market at (928) 235-8105 or via email at lakehavasufarmersmarket@gmail.com

Once a month throughout the summer, artisans, vendors, and farmers converge on the KAWS building to hawk their wares. KAWS (the Kitchen Art Work Space) took over the old Schlotsky's building on McCulloch Blvd. At the farmer's market, you'll find fresh produce (yes, I said "fresh") as well as amazing baked goods, seasonings, handmade candles, soap, jewelry, clothing, and more. Purchase pasta and dessert items as well. Basically, anything you need to make a great meal for your family with a delicious dessert kicker can be found here.

Fresh produce depends on what's in season at the moment. So, don't be shocked if the pickings are slim to start off. As the summer wanes, we should see a wider selection of fruit and vegetables available.

While you shop, let the kids play. Each month, the kids' zone offers new, fun activities to keep the little ones occupied. When you get hungry, visit one of the food vendors. Live music makes shopping all that more fun. 

The Lake Havasu summertime indoor farmer's market takes place on July 20th, August 24th, and September 21st. Vendors sell their wares between 8 am and 12 pm on those days. Most take credit/debit cards. However, cash remains king. So, you might want to visit the bank before you come just to be safe.

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4th of July Fireworks in Lake Havasu City

In just over a week, we celebrate our nation's independence. That's when the skies above Lake Havasu light up in a kaleidoscope of color. But the fun doesn't stop there. Continue the celebration with some musical mayhem at Havasu Landing over the weekend. When you fill in the gaps with time out on the water, you're never without something to do over the long Independence Day weekend!

First up, the 4th of July. Since it hits on a Thursday this year, I'd expect huge crowds out at the lake from mid-week to Sunday. Make sure to practice some of the safety tips I gave you last month. Be aware of your surroundings. Don't drink and operate a boat. And practice good safety at all times. When the sun goes down, you can either tie up with other boaters in Thompson Bay or bring the boat in and head to one of several viewing locations around the lake to watch the show on land. If you choose to stay in your boat, make sure you anchor early. The Bay fills up pretty quickly. 

If you choose to watch the fireworks on land, Rotary Park, the Nautical Beachfront Resort, and London Bridge Beach provide prime locations for viewing. Parking is free. Coolers are allowed at Rotary Park and London Bridge Beach. But I highly suggest you leave your pets at home. The bright lights, loud noises, and large crowds scare most animals. Their hearing is much more sensitive than ours. It's best for their sake and the safety of others if you leave them at home.

Fireworks are set to begin at dusk (around 9 pm). The staging area is on Spectator Point, directly across from Lookout Point in the bay. They'll be simulcast on 980AM. Tune in for a nice musical accompaniment set specifically to coincide with the fireworks above. If you do stay out on the water, you may be met with long delays at the boat ramps. Just be aware of that before you drop anchor in the bay.

On Saturday, July 6th, enjoy some musical mayhem at Rockin' the Dock 2019.

Littletown Band rouses the crowd with their free live concert out on the water at Havasu Landing Resort and Casino. Listen from the comfort of your lawn chair or blanket on the beach or inner tube out on the water. There's a sandcastle contest from 9 am to noon. Sign-ups take place from 9 am to 10 am at the resort's administration office. Food and drinks are available for purchase in the resort when you get hungry and thirsty. Come out for a day of fun at the water!

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42nd Annual Parker Tube Float Down the Colorado River

Yep! It's that time of year again, folks. Time for the great Parker Tube Float 2019. Lazy days on the river never felt so good. Not a bad way to beat the triple-digit heat either. 

• What: Parker Tube Float 2019
• Where: Pirate's Den Resort at La Paz County Park - Maps & Directions
• When: Saturday, June 8th, 8 am to 4 pm
• Admission: $20/person, $25/PWC or boat
• Contact: Parker Chamber of Commerce (928) 669-2174 or via email: info@parkeraz.org

Participants of the Parker Tube Float must arrive at La Paz County Park with their floats and gear (including life jackets) in tow. Floats need to be deflated as everyone will be shuttled to the Buckskin Mountain State Park start line.

You're allowed one boat or PWC to accompany your group of floaters. They should drop in at Buckskin Mountain State Park. From Buckskin Mountain, you'll float your way down the Colorado River to Pirate's Den Resort. Once there, let's party the afternoon away with music, prizes, and more.

Children under 12 years old cannot participate. Everyone must sign a waiver to participate. Waivers for children ages 12-17 must be signed by a parent or guardian. No more than 10 floats can be tied together. Inflation stations will be available at the start line to get your floats ready for the river. Once you reach the finish line, deflate your floats and put them in your car/truck. If you're not keeping them, dispose of them in the trash receptacles provided. 

DO NOT: 

• bring kegs, alcohol of any kind (including jello shooters) or unlawful substances with you
• float on homemade floats, including those made out of plywood, barrels or docking material
• bring anything in glass or styrofoam
• bring water balloons
• litter (pack it in, pack it out)

DO:

• stay hydrated with water or sports drinks
• wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
• bring snacks with you
• keep your ID and cash on you at all times in a waterproof container (put phone in there, too)
• choose water shoes over flip-flops since the latter is easily lost while floating
• bring C-clamps to hook floats together (paddles or oars are optional but do make navigating the river a little easier)

Online registration has ended. Organizers strongly suggest that you pick up your wristbands early to avoid long lines on the day of the event. They'll be available for purchase at the following locations in Parker through the end of business on Friday, June 7th:

* Parker Chamber of Commerce (1217 California Ave) - available until 5 pm

* The Bar on the Parker Strip (10172 Riverside Dr) - available until 2 am

* Spanky's RV & Marine (400 Riverside Dr) - available until 6 pm

* Sundance Saloon on the Parker Strip (5920 Riverside Dr) - available until 2 am

If you don't manage to nab your wristbands beforehand, don't worry. You can still show up early on Saturday morning to register.

Grab your floats. Gather your buddies. Splash on some sunscreen and make your way to the Parker Tube Float. You won't be sorry.

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Boating Rules and Regulations on Lake Havasu

Boating is one of the many activities Havasu residents and visitors enjoy the most. The lake is a major draw for thousands of people all year long. We're already seeing an uptick in traffic out on the waterways. So, I thought this would be a good opportunity to remind everyone about Lake Havasu boating rules and regulations. 

Two of the biggest causes of accident and injury while out on the lake are alcohol and operator error. With a big holiday like Memorial Day coming up, you can be sure to see an increase in police patrolling the water. Just like on dry land, you can receive a ticket for a DUI. In addition, you may receive a fine and even spend some time in jail. It's not worth it. If you're the one driving the boat, don't drink. 

Boat drivers must keep an eye on the waterways at all times while the boat is in operation. Look around in all directions to make sure the coast is clear before turning around. Check for raised flags on other vessels. That indicates that a person is in the water. They can be difficult to see. Therefore, continually scan the area in front, on the sides, and behind you (when possible). 

When towing water skiers, inflatables or inner tubes behind your boat, you should always have at least two people on board. One person drives while the other watches the person(s) being towed. When someone falls off their skies or inflatables and goes into the water, the second person needs to raise their flag high above them to signal to other watercraft that a person is in the water. And anyone on a towable (including skies) must wear a life jacket. Same goes for anyone onboard a vessel that is 12 years of age or younger. Even if they aren't wearing them, you must provide one appropriately-sized life jacket for each passenger aged 13 years or older.

All non-motorized vessels have the right of way on the water. Smaller boats and PWC must give the right of way to larger boats. Any vessel towing another vessel has the right of way as well. Always pass on the right and allow plenty of room to pass.

Federal law requires that each watercraft carry certain equipment at all times. For most boats, this includes life jackets for all passengers, a throwable personal flotation device, a fire extinguisher, navigation lights, a horn, a visual distress device, a blower, a muffler, and a flame arrestor.

It is highly recommended that you take a course in boating safety to stay abreast of all current rules and regulations on the Lake Havasu waterways.

Arizona Game & Fish offers links to several online classes you can take. Visit www.azgfd.com/Education/Boating to sign up today.

Also, once a month, Apex Arms hosts a physical class at their facility. You can register for one of their classes here: www.register-ed.com/programs/arizona/11

Heed these Lake Havasu boating rules and regulations to ensure a fun yet safe time out on the waterways.

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Southwest Kayaks Hosts Lake Havasu Big Bass Bash 2019

Do you love to fish? Whether largemouth, smallmouth or striped bass are your forte, you'll find them all living below the surface of Lake Havasu. Southwest Kayaks wants to entice anglers of all ages and skill levels to cast a line for fun and cash prizes. That's why they host the month-long Lake Havasu Big Bass Bash 2019. And it all starts next week. 

• What: Lake Havasu Big Bass Bash 2019
• Where: Any lake, anywhere!
• When: May 6th to June 6th
• Admission: $10 (+ $2.24 service fee from Eventbrite) per person. Register
• Contact: Southwest Kayaks (928) 680-9257 or via email (info@swkayaks.com)

Follow along with updates on the Southwest Kayaks Facebook page

Unlike many other tournaments that only allow you to fish a day or two on one specific lake, the Lake Havasu Big Bass Bash 2019 permits fishing from any lake...ANYWHERE! That's right. While Lake Havasu offers plenty of prize-worthy fishing, you can submit your entries from any lake you choose. Those fish just need to be caught between May 6th and June 6th to qualify. 

First, register for this unique tournament at www.eventbrite.com. You will be sent an official ID card once you register. All fish must be measured using a Hawg Trough. No live bait allowed. Take a photo of the fish on the Hawg Trough with weight, your ID card and yourself clearly visible. Then, email your photo to alex@cactuswrenoutdoors.com at the end of your fishing day. Prizes will be handed out each week for the largest fish caught. Southwest Kayaks offers 100% payback each week of the tournament. All anglers MUST wear a personal flotation device at all times. No exceptions.

Participation in this tournament does not qualify you for Southwest Kayak's Fishing Open Championship nor does it qualify you for any AOY points. This is just for fun and the enjoyment of fishing. 

Remember, the Lake Havasu Big Bass Bash 2019 allows you to fish anywhere you please. Whether you travel to California's Lake Mead, Colorado's Blue Mesa Reservoir, Utah's Starvation Reservoir, Lake Powell... or stick close to home here in Havasu, any bass you catch can be eligible for a weekly prize. Register today!

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Desert Storm is Back in Lake Havasu for 2019 with a Street Party, Poker Run and Shootout!

While other areas around the country are digging themselves out of the winter doldrums, Lake Havasu City boasts sunny skies and 80-degree weather. And in April, we welcome one of the most anticipated boating events of the year: the Desert Storm Poker Run and Shootout 2019. Performance boats from all over the country converge on Lake Havasu to compete for fun and prizes. You won't want to miss a minute of the action!

• What: Desert Storm Poker Run and Shootout 2019
• Where: Lake Havasu Channel & Site 6 Docks, McCulloch Street Party - Maps
• When: Street Party on the 25th - Poker Run April 26th & Shootout April 27th
• Visit the official website for complete schedule of events: www.stormpokerruns.com

The weekend's events kick officially kick off with a street party in downtown Havasu on Thursday, April 25th. This is where Desert Storm participants put their high-performance beauties on display. The public is invited, of course. Last year, over 10,000 hit the streets to see these boats up close. When you get hungry, slip inside one of the restaurants or bars for a bite to eat. Or visit one of the food vendors set up along the street.

The Desert Storm Poker Run starts off with a huge parade through the Channel at 11 am on Friday, April 26th. Get there early, though, to secure a good vantage point along the Channel or at London Bridge Beach. After the parade ends, the run begins. Each team races around to various points along the lake to pick up a playing card. All hands must be turned in between 5 pm and 8 pm to be considered for a prize. The top three hands win 15% (3rd place), 25% (2nd place) or 35% (1st place) of the pot. 

Click Here to see the Card Stops

Visit www.StormPokerRuns.com for complete event info and schedule of events

On Saturday, all drivers race around a pre-set course on the lake, starting at the Site Six Launch Ramp. To watch, set up your lawn chairs anywhere along the bluffs between Site Six and Spectator Point. See map. Another area providing an awesome vantage point is at the Nautical Beachfront Resort. Racing starts at 10 am.

If you plan on being out on the lake on April 26th or 27th, make sure you heed the racers as well as the course. Expect extra traffic on the lake those two days. And they'll be fast, too. Keep a heads up, especially when you have kids on board or are on a PWC, as these are harder for boat drivers to spot. And, please, for your safety and the safety of others, avoid jumping the wakes.

All spectator events are provided absolutely free of charge, including the street party and parade. 

Visit www.StormPokerRuns.com for complete event info and schedule of events

Event Map Overview - Click to Enlarge

Land Spectator Map

Water Spectator Map

Visit www.StormPokerRuns.com for complete event info and schedule of events

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Rounds 1 & 2 of the 2019 Hydro-Turf JetJam Racing Tour at Lake Havasu's Nautical Inn

Hundreds of thousands of people flock to our desert oasis each year. As a popular destination location for spring breakers, we start to see things on the lake jumping in March. They don't slow down until late in the year. Whether you come to play on the lake or watch others race around it, you won't be disappointed. In fact, the Lake Havasu JetJam PWC Racing 2019 takes place later this month and is always fun to watch.

• What: Lake Havasu JetJam PWC Racing 2019
• Where: Nautical Beachfront Resort - Maps & Directions
• When: March 30th & 31st, 8 am to 5 pm
• Admission: Free for spectators

Lake Havasu JetJam PWC Racing series kicks off with a season-opening social on Friday, March 29th. The racer and one guest have the opportunity to meet with other competitors for pizza and salad. But then, it's race time! That's when you'll see some high-intensity competition, aquatic acrobatics, and skilled twists and turns out on the closed race course.

The first two rounds of Lake Havasu JetJam PWC Racing for 2019 take place at the Nautical Beachfront Resort on March 30th and 31st. You must be a member of the AWSA (American Water Sports Association) in order to participate. Racers can participate in several different classes if they'd like. If you decide to race in more than one class, each additional class fee is reduced by 25%. Online registration closes at midnight on March 26th. A $20 per class late fee will be applied if you sign up after that. Register online here: www.jetjam.racing/rounds-1-2

Lake Havasu JetJam comes back to the Nautical Inn on April 13th and 14th for Rounds 3 and 4. If you'd like to compete then, you must register before midnight on April 9th in order to avoid the $20 per class late fee. Registration for Rounds 3 and 4 can be completed here: www.jetjam.racing/rounds-3-4

Spectators are welcome to watch the competition at the Nautical Beachfront Resort for free. Bring a beach towel and/or chairs for your comfort. But, rest assured. You won't be sitting for long while the racing takes place. Jump up and shout your support for your favorite riders as they whip the lake up into a frenzy. And, if you happen to be out on the lake during any of the Lake Havasu JetJam PWC Racing heats, stay out of the fray and far away from the designated race course. We want everyone to stay safe out there.

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The 2019 Lake Havasu Boat Show Back at Windsor Beach for the 28th year!

Lake Havasu City is an oasis in the middle of the desert. With temperatures beginning to warm up, expect to see more and more watercraft out on the lake each weekend. If you're in the market for a new boat, kayak, paddleboard, PWC or other water vessels, you're going to want to make the Lake Havasu Boat Show 2019 your destination of choice.

• What: Lake Havasu Boat Show 2019
• Where: Lake Havasu State Park - Windsor 4 / Maps & Directions
• When: April 5th, 12 pm to 6 pm, April 6th, 9 am to 6 pm & April 7th, 9 am to 3 pm
• Admission: $8 per person, kids ages 6 & under are free

www.LakeHavasuBoatShow.com

The Lake Havasu Boat Show 2019 takes place over the first weekend in April. Whether you want a party barge for when out-of-town guests visit or need a quiet fishing boat to catch the throngs of bass and catfish living in the lake, the boat show has it all. Many vendors include "show only" discounts that weekend as well. Take it out for a spin on the lake (kick the tires, as it were) before you buy with a dockside demonstration.

The Lake Havasu Boat Show will feature over 150 exhibitors and more than $50 million in boats and marine accessories including fishing boats, pontoons, family runabouts, wakeboard/ski boats, personal watercraft, jet boats, and the hottest high performance sport boats the country has to offer.

Arizona law requires that each boat provide at least one size-appropriate life jacket for each person on board. If your kids have outgrown last year's USCG-approved jacket, it might be time to pick a new one up at one of the vendors on-site. Also, check out the latest and greatest in safety gear and watercraft accessories.

For a bit of fun, the Lake Havasu Boat Show includes a poker run. But this one's for landlubbers! The run is open to everyone. Simply visit various vendors and exhibitors at the show to pick up a card. Winning hands receive cool prizes. And, if you're up for it, try your hand in the cornhole championships on Saturday or Sunday. Compete in either the "social" (new to the game) or "experienced" (more competitive) categories.

Tickets for Lake Havasu Boat Show 2019 cost just $8 per person per day (cash only). All kids under the age of seven who are accompanied by a paid adult get in for free. Park for free in any of the designated parking spots at Lake Havasu State Park. Boat owners can park on the beach during boat show hours as well. This event allows pets in as well. But, they must be on a leash. Please pick up after them as well.

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