MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina and recently received high praise for its beauty.

What You Need To Know

  • Insider ranked Lake Norman as the most beautiful lake in the state

  • Lake Norman is in four counties and has more than 520 miles of shoreline

  • Matt Ryan with Carolina Cruising Charters said there are activities for everyone at the lake

Insider, a global news and lifestyle publication, ranked Lake Norman as one of the most beautiful in the country and the most beautiful in the state. 

Matt Ryan owns Carolina Cruising Charters, an all-inclusive boat rental company with captains. 

“Our goal is to keep everybody safe and what we like to say is to 'make it your best lake day,’” Ryan said. 

This may include swimming, boating, wakeboarding and spotting celebrity houses. 

He agrees with the assessment from Insider. 

“There’s something for everybody, which is the biggest thing,” Ryan said. 

The lake has 520 miles of shoreline and more than 32,000 acres of surface area in four counties: Mecklenburg County, Iredell County, Catawba County and Lincoln County. 

“Everything you could really find is here,” Ryan said. 

Its proximity to Charlotte also attracts locals and out-of-state visitors.

“Lake Norman is very much becoming a destination for vacation,” Ryan said. 

When you are not on the water, you can also hike, bike and stop by restaurants and shops near the lake.