Phoenix to Lake Havasu: Day Trip Quick Facts
Planning your escape to Arizona’s “West Coast”? Get all the essential info at a glance before you hit the road. Here’s what you need to know for a perfect day trip from Phoenix to the surprising oasis of Lake Havasu.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Phoenix | Approx. 190 miles (305 km) one-way |
| Drive Time | 3 – 3.5 hours one-way |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Spring (March-May) & Fall (September-November) |
| Estimated Day Trip Cost | $100 – $200 per person (gas, food, basic activities) |
How to Get There from Phoenix
Getting to Lake Havasu is a scenic desert drive, but it’s crucial to pick the right transportation for a day trip. While a few options exist, one stands out as the clear winner for flexibility and value.
By Car (The Best Option)
Driving your own vehicle is, without a doubt, the best way to experience a Lake Havasu day trip. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, pack a cooler, and not be tied to a rigid schedule. The drive itself is straightforward: simply head west on I-10 from Phoenix and then take the AZ-95 N exit straight up to Lake Havasu City. The journey takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, cutting through beautiful Sonoran Desert landscapes that gradually transform as you approach the Colorado River.
By Shuttle
Several shuttle companies, like Havasu/Vegas Express, offer services from Phoenix. While comfortable, this option is better suited for an overnight stay. A one-way ticket costs approximately $75 to $100+ per person, and the limited return schedules often make a same-day round trip impossible.
| Method | One-Way Time | One-Way Cost (per person) | Day Trip Feasibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | ~3 hours | ~$25 (gas) | Excellent |
| Shuttle | ~3.5 hours | ~$85+ | Difficult |
| Bus (Greyhound) | 7+ hours | ~$40+ | Not Recommended |
Top 5 Things to Do in Lake Havasu on a Day Trip
You’ve arrived! With limited time, you’ll want to hit the highlights. Here are the five must-do activities that perfectly capture the unique charm of Lake Havasu City.
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Walk Across the Famous London Bridge
This isn’t a replica—it’s the real deal! In 1968, city founder Robert P. McCulloch famously purchased the historic bridge from the City of London for $2.46 million. It was meticulously dismantled, shipped to Arizona, and reassembled over a man-made channel. Walking across this piece of history is completely free. For the best photos, stroll the pedestrian walkway on the bridge itself or head down to the path along the channel below for a dramatic shot from the water level.
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Explore the English Village
Nestled at the base of the London Bridge, the English Village is a charming, slightly kitschy collection of Tudor-style shops and eateries. It’s the perfect place to grab a souvenir, enjoy an ice cream, or simply soak in the bizarre yet delightful atmosphere. You’ll also find the official visitor center here, where you can pick up maps and get local advice.
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Relax or Swim at Lake Havasu State Park
You can’t visit Lake Havasu without enjoying the lake! Head to Lake Havasu State Park to experience its beautiful white sand beaches—a rare sight for an inland lake. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, a refreshing swim, or just relaxing by the water. The park has excellent amenities, including picnic tables, shaded ramadas, and clean restrooms. The vehicle entry fee is $20 on weekends/holidays and $15 on weekdays.
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Take a Scenic Boat Tour
To truly appreciate the scale and beauty of the lake, you need to get on the water. A guided boat tour offers stunning views of the London Bridge from a unique perspective and often includes a trip into the dramatic Topock Gorge. Companies like London Bridge Jet Boat Tours offer fantastic excursions. Expect to pay around $40-$60 per person for a 90-minute to 2-hour tour—it’s worth every penny.
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Hunt for the Replica Lighthouses
One of Lake Havasu’s most unique quirks is its collection of 1/3 scale replica lighthouses. Scattered along the shoreline, these functional navigational aids are models of famous lighthouses from across the United States. A great place to spot several of them is from Rotary Community Park, which also offers lovely walking paths and green spaces.
Sample One-Day Lake Havasu Itinerary from Phoenix
Want a foolproof plan? Follow this timeline to maximize your day and experience the best of Lake Havasu without feeling rushed.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Depart from the Phoenix area. Grab coffee and hit the road! |
| 10:30 AM | Arrive in Lake Havasu City. Head straight for the London Bridge and walk across. |
| 11:30 AM | Explore the English Village, browse the shops, and visit the Visitor Center. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch with a view. Grab a bite at Shugrue’s or Turtle Grille. |
| 2:00 PM | Afternoon on the water. Choose between a relaxing 90-minute boat tour or swimming at Lake Havasu State Park. |
| 4:30 PM | Grab last-minute photos as the afternoon sun casts a golden glow on the bridge. |
| 5:00 PM | Begin the scenic drive back to Phoenix. |
| 8:30 PM | Arrive back in Phoenix, full of memories from your desert oasis adventure. |
Where to Eat: Best Bites in Lake Havasu
From quick bites to waterfront dining, Lake Havasu has plenty of options to refuel during your day trip.
- Casual & Quick ($): For a classic American diner experience with hearty breakfasts and lunches, head to Juicy’s River Cafe. If you’re in a hurry, you can never go wrong with a classic In-N-Out Burger.
- Mid-Range with a View ($$): For fantastic food with an even better view of the bridge and channel, book a table at Shugrue’s Restaurant and Brewery. Another excellent choice is the Turtle Grille at The Nautical Beachfront Resort, offering a relaxed vibe right on the water.
- A Nicer Meal ($$$): If you decide to extend your day into the evening, Cha-Bones is the top spot for tapas, steaks, and a more upscale dining experience.
Insider Tips for Your Trip
Make your day trip even better with these pro tips from seasoned visitors.
- Start Early: To make the most of your day, leaving Phoenix by 7 AM is non-negotiable. This gets you to Lake Havasu before the peak afternoon heat and crowds.
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: This cannot be overstated. You are in the desert. Bring more water than you think you will need, and keep drinking it throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Visit on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, a weekday trip means fewer crowds, less boat traffic, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Book in Advance: During the popular spring and fall seasons, it’s wise to book boat tours or watercraft rentals online a few days ahead of time to secure your spot.
- Don’t Forget Sun Protection: The Arizona sun is intense year-round. A hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are absolute essentials to avoid a painful sunburn.
What to Pack Checklist
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you have everything you need.
- Refillable Water Bottle (a large one!)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+ and water-resistant)
- Wide-brimmed Hat and Sunglasses
- Swimsuit and a Quick-Dry Towel
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Camera or Smartphone for photos
- Small Cooler with Extra Drinks and Snacks
- Light Jacket or Sweatshirt (for winter evenings or overly air-conditioned restaurants)
Estimated Day Trip Budget
Wondering what to budget for your adventure? Here’s a realistic breakdown of potential costs. Note that costs can vary based on your activities and dining choices.
| Expense | Cost for One Person | Cost for Two People |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (Round Trip) | $50 | $50 |
| Food & Drinks | $40 | $80 |
| Park Entry Fee | $20 (per car) | $20 (per car) |
| Activity (e.g., Boat Tour) | $50 | $100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~$160 | ~$250 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is a shuttle from Phoenix to Lake Havasu?
A one-way shuttle ticket typically costs between $75 and $100+ per person. Due to limited and inconvenient scheduling for a same-day return, driving your own car is a much more practical and cost-effective option for a day trip.
Is Lake Havasu worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely! Lake Havasu is a fantastic day trip from Phoenix. The bizarre and fascinating story of the London Bridge, combined with the stunning beauty of a vast desert lake and tons of recreational activities, makes for a truly unique and memorable experience.
How long does it take to drive from Phoenix to Havasu Falls?
CRITICAL CLARIFICATION: Lake Havasu City and Havasu Falls are two completely different destinations hundreds of miles apart. This guide is for Lake Havasu City, a town on the Colorado River that is easily accessible by car in about 3 hours from Phoenix. Havasu Falls is a remote waterfall located deep within the Grand Canyon on Havasupai tribal land. Visiting Havasu Falls requires a highly competitive, difficult-to-obtain permit and is a multi-day, strenuous hiking trip, not a day trip.
What’s the best time of year to go to Lake Havasu?
The best and most comfortable time to visit is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During these months, the temperatures are perfect for both sightseeing on land and enjoying activities on the water. Summer is extremely hot (often over 110°F), making it ideal only for those who plan to spend the entire day in the water. Winter is pleasant for walking around but usually too cold for swimming.
TL;DR: The Perfect Lake Havasu Day Trip
In a hurry? Here’s the short version:
- Getting There: Driving is the only practical way. It’s a 3-hour drive from Phoenix.
- When to Go: Spring and Fall offer the best weather. Avoid mid-summer unless you love extreme heat.
- Must-Do’s: Walk across the authentic London Bridge, explore the English Village, and get on the water with a boat tour or a swim at the state park.
- Key Tip: Start early and bring way more water than you think you need!
