Lake Life is the Best Life

Summer on Greenwood Lake: Boating, Beauty, and a Little Slice of Heaven

There’s something magical about summer on the water—especially when that water is just a quick 20-minute drive from home. Greenwood Lake, New York, has become my go-to escape, a stunning nine-mile stretch of blue-green beauty that straddles the New York–New Jersey border. For me, nothing beats a warm summer day spent boating, with the wind in my hair and the sun sparkling on the surface of one of the most picturesque lakes in the region.

What’s even more fascinating is Greenwood Lake’s history. While the New York half of the lake is natural, the southern portion in New Jersey is man-made. Back in the 1830s, an earthen dam was constructed to expand what was once a smaller natural lake. The goal was to raise the water level and create a reservoir to supply the Morris Canal, which transported coal and other goods through New Jersey. The damming nearly doubled the lake’s size and transformed it into the sprawling boater’s paradise we enjoy today.

Located in the southern part of the Town of Warwick in Orange County, New York, the Village of Greenwood Lake feels like a timeless summer haven. Our own little slice of paradise is nestled in a serene area known as the East Arm, where our boat lives at Murphy’s Cove Marina. This part of the lake is tucked past a charming bridge where the speed limit drops to 5 mph—essentially “no wake.” That means smooth, quiet water and total relaxation, far removed from the hum of faster boats. It’s pristine, peaceful, and perfect for lazy days on the water.

We’ve been boating here for decades, aboard our trusty 1994 Stingray bowrider. We bought it brand new and have lovingly maintained it for over 30 years. They say BOAT stands for “Break Out Another Thousand,” and honestly, it’s not far off. Boats need constant care and the occasional costly repair, but once you’re out on the lake, every penny is forgotten. Gliding across the water with the breeze in your face and the horizon stretched out before you? That’s pure joy.

Greenwood Lake has long attracted not just locals but celebrities, too. Over the years, it’s been home to some truly iconic figures. Yankees legend Derek Jeter owned a stunning lakeside retreat here, and long before him, Babe Ruth was known to frequent the area—often seen fishing or entertaining friends on the lake. Even screen legend Greta Garbo sought refuge in the peaceful surroundings of Greenwood Lake. Maybe it’s the charm of the water, the scenic mountain backdrop, or the slower pace of life, but this lakeside village has always attracted those in search of beauty, privacy, and a little serenity.

If you work up an appetite while cruising, you’re in for a treat. Greenwood Lake is home to four waterfront restaurants: Emerald Point, The Breezy, Cove Castle, and the newest addition, D’Boathaus. Each one serves up delicious cuisine with gorgeous lake views. For me, there’s nothing better than docking the boat, grabbing a table right by the water, and enjoying a chilled shrimp cocktail or clams on the half shell—ideally with a frozen margarita in hand.

This summer has been especially memorable. My son earned his boating safety certificate, which means I’ve been able to enjoy my role as first mate while he takes the wheel. He’s getting quite skilled at driving, and we’ve even found a little “secret” spot to anchor and go for a swim—a hidden gem we return to again and again.

Another highlight of our weekends is the Saturday Night Concert Series at Thomas P. Morahan Waterfront Park and Beach, right in the heart of the Village. It’s one of those local treasures that makes Greenwood Lake feel like something out of a summer movie. Boaters drop anchor just offshore, creating a floating audience under the stars. We’ll pack a charcuterie board, a chilled bottle of wine, and drift while listening to live music echoing across the water. Each week features a different band—some nights it’s classic Elvis Presley covers, other nights it’s upbeat sets like the Ladies of the 80s. There’s truly nothing like it: music playing, water lapping against the boat, and a sunset sky overhead.

The annual Greenwood Lake Fourth of July fireworks are spectacular.

Some say owning a boat is like throwing money into a hole in the water. Maybe there’s truth to that, but I’d argue that the rewards far outweigh the costs. The memories we’ve made, the peaceful mornings and laughter-filled afternoons, the stunning sunsets mirrored on the lake’s surface—those are priceless.

Greenwood Lake is more than just a beautiful body of water. It’s a place where time slows down, worries fade, and summer comes to life. It’s our happy place—our floating backyard retreat. And if you’ve never spent a day on this lake, you truly don’t know what you’re missing.