Lakefront Activities

The Osthoff Resort offers the finest lakeshore setting in southeastern Wisconsin with 500 ft. of sand beach on beautiful Elkhart Lake. Formed by retreating glaciers, Elkhart Lake has a natural sand bottom that keeps our water clear year-round. Our lakefront features picnic areas complete with watersports, grills, a bonfire area, playground, and a concession stand.

Wristbands are given to The Osthoff Resort’s guests to enjoy the private lakefront/swimming area with a limited number of beach lounge chairs available.

The Lake Deck and Watersport Rentals are open to resort guests and the general public. Pets are NOT allowed down at the lake front area.

Lakefront activities opening May 24th, 2024!

The Osthoff Resort
  • Osthoff Lake Deck

    Serving traditional fun food, refreshments, and specialty drinks - Memorial Day thru Labor Day on our 500-foot beachfront.

    Bar and patio areas are open to the public.

  • Watersports

    Experience Elkhart Lake with Osthoff watersports.

    • Hydro-Bikes
    • Swan Paddleboat
    • Dragon Paddleboat
    • Aqua Cycle
    • Kayaks
    • Two-Person Kayaks
    • Kid's Kayak
    • Pedal Kayak
    • Paddle Boats
    • Stand-Up Paddle Board
    • Canoes
    • 7-Passenger Electric Pontoon
    • Pedal Pontoon (Accommodates 8 people)
    • 21' Pontoon (Accommodates 10 people)
    • 21' Pontoon with Driver (Accommodates 9 people)
    • 25' Pontoon (Accommodates 15 people)
    • 25' Pontoon with Driver (Accommodates 14 people)

    On Sundays, June 12 - September 11, only electric and man-powered watercraft are permitted on Elkhart Lake.

    All rentals must be returned five minutes prior to the end of the scheduled rental time.

    A 18.5% Tax and Gratuity charge will be added to all reservations.

    Watersport Rental Requirements

    A person at least 21 years old may operate a motorboat only if he or she has completed a boating safety course that is accepted by the Wisconsin D.N.R.

    Temporary Boating Licenses can be obtained online at www.boat-ed.com/wisconsinrental.

    Full Boating Licenses can also be obtained online at www.boat-ed.com/wisconsin.

    Operators must be 21 or older to operate a motorboat or pontoon.

  • Cruises

    If you'd like to enjoy a panoramic tour of Elkhart Lake by water, The Osthoff Resort offers two cruises per day, seasonally (open to the public).

    • 10-passenger boat: $150/hour
    (plus $30/hour for Osthoff Captain)
    • 14-passenger boat: $225/hour
    (always includes Osthoff Captain)
    Minimum of 2 people
    • Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day
    weekend. Other dates are available with
    advance notice.

    A 18.5% Tax and Gratuity charge will be added to all reservations.

  • Bonfires

    Join us for a complimentary beachfront bonfire with s'more ingredients available for purchase at the Splash Shack, 7-9 PM nightly, weather permitting, through Labor Day.

The Osthoff Resort

More Information

For more information on listed activities, contact Watersports at ext. 5862.

Ready to book your stay on the lake?