Swimming in lakes is a superb pastime in the Bay of Plenty and the regional council works to ensure lakes in the region are kept swim-safe.
Some top swimming spots in the region include:
- Lake Rotoiti - Okawa Bay and Gisborne Point
- Lake Tarawera - Rangiuru Bay
- Lake Rotoehu - Outlet at Waitangi Soda Springs
- Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) - main beach
- Lake Rotorua - Mourea