Erwin Riverfront Marina

Just downstream in downtown Chattanooga, Erwin Riverfront Marina blends boating convenience with urban flair. This marina is ideal for those who want the flexibility of city access without sacrificing the serenity of a well-maintained docking experience. With easy walkability to Chattanooga’s riverfront attractions, guests can step off the boat and into a world of shops, galleries, and upscale dining. Boaters also enjoy access to the Tennessee Aquarium and walking trails along the Bluff View Art District. With Erwin Marine’s trusted service team on-site, this marina is as practical as it is picturesque—making it a perfect destination for the modern boater.

Gold Point Marina

Gold Point Yacht Harbor offers a relaxed, residential marina experience. With a quiet location off the main channel, it’s a haven for seasonal boaters and weekenders who want a slower pace and a sense of community. The marina includes covered slips, gas dock, pump-out station, and clean restroom facilities. Many long-time boaters call Gold Point their home port thanks to the shaded surroundings, calm waters, and personable service. Whether you’re taking your boat out for a Saturday morning cruise or settling in for a summer of sunsets, Gold Point delivers dependable, laid-back lake life.

Island Cove Marina

Tucked away near Harrison Bay, Island Cove Marina is a premier full-service facility that combines top-tier amenities with a resort-like atmosphere. It features covered slips, an on-site service department, and a well-stocked marine store for boaters in need of gear or repairs. Island Cove is particularly family-friendly, with an inviting vibe and a convenient location for access to some of the lake’s most scenic waters. Whether you’re launching, lounging, or just fueling up, Island Cove stands out as a top destination.

Lakeside Restaurants to Savor

Steve’s Landing Waterfront Grill

Located near Soddy-Daisy, Steve’s Landing is one of Chickamauga Lake’s most popular dock-and-dine spots, offering Southern-style comfort food with a view that’s hard to beat. Accessible by boat via a private dock, this lakeside eatery is known for hearty portions, friendly service, and an atmosphere that welcomes everyone from families to first dates. Signature dishes include grilled catfish, shrimp and grits, and slow-cooked ribs, all prepared with a local touch. Diners can enjoy their meals on a covered patio that overlooks the water, making it the perfect place to wind down after a long day of cruising. With live music on weekends and an ever-evolving menu, Steve’s Landing is more than a restaurant—it’s a lakeside tradition.

Amigos on the Water

A lively and colorful addition to Chickamauga Lake’s dining scene, Amigos on the Water delivers a fiesta of flavor in a boater-friendly setting. This Mexican-inspired restaurant is easily accessible from the lake and offers ample boat parking, making it a go-to destination for boaters craving tacos. The menu features all the classics—fajitas, enchiladas, and house-made guacamole—paired with icy margaritas and entertainment. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Amigos lets you enjoy lakeside views while digging into spicy, satisfying fare. It’s the perfect stop for a group gathering, date night, or casual lunch in the sun. Expect vibrant flavors, a festive ambiance, and a dock that’s always bustling with energy.

Lakeshore Grille

Positioned near Chickamauga Marina, Lakeshore Grille offers upscale lake dining with panoramic views of the water. Known for its polished service and chef-driven menu, the restaurant delivers everything from fresh seafood to expertly prepared steaks. It’s a top choice for special occasions, but also a welcome retreat for any evening on the lake. Guests arriving by boat can dock nearby, enjoy a cocktail on the patio, and relax as the sun sets over the marina. Inside, the décor is modern yet warm, matching the elevated but approachable feel of the cuisine. Whether you’re after a gourmet dinner or just a glass of wine by the lake, Lakeshore Grille doesn’t disappoint.

Must-See Boating Spots

Cruising Chickamauga Lake wouldn’t be complete without exploring its standout locations. Harrison Bay is a favorite among families and solo cruisers alike, offering calm waters, shaded shorelines, and abundant wildlife. It’s ideal for anchoring, swimming, or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon afloat.

MacLellan Island, situated just off downtown Chattanooga, presents a unique escape into nature. The island is accessible only by boat and features walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and scenic views of the city skyline from the water’s edge.

Further north, Booker T. Washington State Park offers boat-accessible picnic shelters, fishing piers, and open water perfect for pontoon cruising. It’s a welcoming stop for lunch breaks or stretching your legs after a few hours of navigating.

And just beyond the lake’s southernmost stretch lies the gateway to the Tennessee River Gorge—an awe-inspiring canyon that adds dramatic elevation and geological beauty to your boating itinerary. The cliffs, wooded slopes, and clear water create an unforgettable cruising experience, perfect for photography or a scenic slow ride.

Chickamauga Lake is where natural beauty, luxurious marinas, and culinary gems come together to create a boating lifestyle that’s both relaxing and enriching. From the trusted service at Erwin Marine Sales to dockside dinners at Steve’s Landing and Amigos on the Water, every part of this lake has been designed with the boater in mind. Whether you’re charting a day-long excursion or anchoring at your favorite cove, Chickamauga Lake is the destination where memories are made—on the water, at the table, and everywhere in between.