The hype
A beautiful, relaxing lakeside getaway with great staff and plenty of activities for all ages.
Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge
$200-$350/ night
Book this if You want a family-friendly, activity-packed lakeside retreat with easy access to golf, boating, and water parks.
Why People Love It
- Spectacular views of Lake Lanier from almost everywhere on the property
- Endless on-site activities from an 18-hole golf course to indoor axe throwing
- The heated saltwater pool and private white-sand beach access
Quick Take: The grounds and lake views are stunning, but the room decor and furniture are showing their age and desperately need a modern refresh.
Reviewed by @sweetlori123: Our family stay at Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge was exactly the relaxing holiday escape we needed. The festive decorations in the lobby were so nostalgic, and I loved sipping my coffee on our balcony while looking out over the peaceful lake. Highly recommend for a cozy getaway!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The rooms are clean but feel a bit rustic and dated for the premium resort prices they charge.
- You are traveling with kids and want water parks, snow tubing, and games nearby
- You are a golfer looking for a scenic, challenging lakeside course
- You want a nature-filled escape without driving hours from Atlanta
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally thorough and reliable, though some guests wish they wouldn't knock too early on check-out day.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean and functional, with ADA roll-in showers available, but fixtures feel dated.
- Maintenance: The biggest weak point—guests frequently report stiff sliding doors, older mattresses, and worn furniture.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality; clean and fresh, but not ultra-luxurious.
- Odors & scents: Mostly fresh lake air, though a few older villas can have a slight rustic or musty cabin smell.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Summer crowds and music near the Margaritaville water park
- Occasional live concerts or wedding events on the property
Before you book
Good to know
- Breakfast is not included in standard rates and the buffet costs around $24 per adult.
- The property is pet-friendly for dogs under 80 lbs, but there is a $100 fee.
- You can rent golf carts to easily navigate the large resort grounds.
What to pack
- Comfortable walking shoes for the hilly terrain and nature trails
- Swimsuits year-round for the heated saltwater pool
- Bug spray for summer evenings by the lake
Room Genie
Best picks
- Lodge King Rooms for easy walking access to the saltwater pool and main restaurants
- Lake Houses for large families wanting privacy, full kitchens, and direct water views
Rooms to avoid
- Older Villas if you are sensitive to musty smells or want modern amenities, as they are the most frequently cited for needing updates
- Rooms directly overlooking the parking lot if you want the true lakeside resort experience
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, I'd love to request a Lodge room on a higher floor with a direct lake view, away from the elevators. If any recently refreshed rooms are available, that would be wonderful!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a resort fee or parking fee?
Yes, there is a $20 per night gate/parking fee per vehicle to enter the islands.
Is the pool open year-round?
Yes, the outdoor saltwater pool is heated and open year-round.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, up to two dogs (under 80 lbs) are allowed for a $100 flat fee per stay.
How far is it from Atlanta?
It's about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive north of Atlanta, depending on traffic.
Do I need to leave the resort for food?
No, there are multiple on-site options including Sidney's, Bullfrogs Bar & Grille, and LandShark Bar & Grill.
Is Margaritaville included in the room rate?
No, access to the Margaritaville water park and winter snow tubing requires separate admission tickets.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book tee times for the golf course well in advance, especially in the spring and summer.
- ✨
Visit the Game Changer venue on-site for indoor axe throwing and virtual sports if it rains.
- ✨
Take advantage of the free shuttle service to get to Margaritaville without losing your parking spot.
5 things to know before you go
💡The terrain is surprisingly hilly; walking between venues can be a serious cardio workout.
💡The $20 gate fee applies every time you bring a new vehicle onto the island.
💡There is no late-night food available on the property after the main restaurants close.
💡The lake has a fascinating (and slightly spooky) history, as an entire town was submerged to create it.
💡Winter is actually a huge draw here due to the 'License to Chill Snow Island' snow tubing hill.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge is located and what's nearby.