Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, is home to some of the most popular ski lakes in the region. While natural lakes are scarce in this coastal area, man-made ski lakes offer excellent conditions for water skiing enthusiasts. The Cory Pickos World Ski Center Lakes stand out as the premier destination for water skiing near Santa Rosa Beach, providing world-class facilities for slalom, trick, and jump skiing. These purpose-built lakes offer smooth surfaces and optimal depths for various skiing techniques, attracting both beginners and professional skiers year-round.
What Makes Cory Pickos World Ski Center Lakes Special?
The Cory Pickos World Ski Center Lakes are the crown jewel of water skiing near Santa Rosa Beach. Located off Sugar Drive, at the end of Slalom Way on Jump Street, these man-made lakes are specifically designed to provide the best possible conditions for water skiing. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Purpose-built design: The lakes are engineered to create ideal conditions for slalom, trick, and jump skiing.
- Year-round accessibility: Boats run from sunup to sundown, allowing skiers to enjoy the sport almost every day of the year.
- Professional facilities: The center includes boat ramps, docking facilities, and a pro shop (The Ski Shack) for equipment rental and purchase.
- Competitive events: The lakes host tournaments and competitions throughout the year, attracting skiers from around the world.
What Activities Are Available at Cory Pickos World Ski Center?
The Cory Pickos World Ski Center offers a wide range of water skiing activities to suit all skill levels:
- Slalom skiing
- Trick skiing
- Jump skiing
- Lessons for beginners and advanced skiers
- Equipment rental and sales
- Competitive tournaments
Whether you’re a first-time skier or a seasoned pro, the center has something to offer. Lessons are available for all ages and skill levels, making it an excellent destination for families and individuals looking to improve their water skiing abilities.
How Can You Access the Ski Lakes?
Accessing the Cory Pickos World Ski Center Lakes is relatively straightforward:
- Location: Off Sugar Drive, at the end of Slalom Way on Jump Street, Santa Rosa Beach
- GPS Coordinates: Approximately 30.3333, -86.3333 (exact coordinates may vary)
- Distance from Santa Rosa Beach: About 4-6 miles from central Santa Rosa Beach
- Travel Time: Estimated 10-15 minutes by car
While public transportation options are limited, the lakes are easily accessible by personal vehicle or ride-sharing services. Parking facilities are available within the community for visitors.
What Are the Best Times to Visit the Ski Lakes?
The Cory Pickos World Ski Center Lakes offer excellent skiing conditions throughout the year. However, here are some factors to consider when planning your visit:
| Season | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild temperatures, less crowded | Possible occasional rain showers |
| Summer | Warm water, longer daylight hours | Peak season, may be busier |
| Fall | Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists | Shorter days as winter approaches |
| Winter | Less crowded, still skiable | Cooler temperatures, shorter days |
Remember that the lakes are maintained year-round, so water conditions remain consistently good regardless of the season.
What Equipment Do You Need for Skiing at These Lakes?
For those new to water skiing or traveling light, the Cory Pickos World Ski Center has you covered. The on-site pro shop, The Ski Shack, offers a range of equipment for rent or purchase:
- Water skis (slalom, trick, and jump skis)
- Life jackets
- Wetsuits (for cooler months)
- Ropes and handles
- Accessories (gloves, sunscreen, etc.)
Experienced skiers are welcome to bring their own equipment as well.
Are There Any Special Events or Competitions to Watch?
The Cory Pickos World Ski Center is known for hosting various events and competitions throughout the year. While specific dates may vary, here are some types of events you might encounter:
- Regional water ski tournaments
- National championship qualifiers
- Youth skiing competitions
- Exhibition events featuring professional skiers
These events are often open to spectators, providing an excellent opportunity to watch world-class skiers in action and learn more about the sport.
How Can Beginners Get Started with Water Skiing at These Lakes?
If you’re new to water skiing, the Cory Pickos World Ski Center offers several ways to get started:
- Beginner lessons: Professional instructors provide one-on-one or group lessons for first-time skiers.
- Equipment guidance: Staff at The Ski Shack can help you choose the right equipment for your skill level.
- Safety briefings: All new skiers receive comprehensive safety instructions before hitting the water.
- Gradual progression: Lessons are tailored to help you progress from basic skills to more advanced techniques at your own pace.
What Makes These Ski Lakes Different from Natural Lakes?
The man-made ski lakes at Cory Pickos World Ski Center offer several advantages over natural lakes:
- Controlled environment: The lakes are designed specifically for water skiing, with optimal depth and surface conditions.
- Consistent water level: Unlike natural lakes, these ski lakes maintain a consistent water level year-round.
- No obstacles: The lakes are free from natural obstacles like rocks, logs, or uneven bottoms that can pose risks to skiers.
- Specialized facilities: Purpose-built docks, ramps, and jump structures are available for different skiing disciplines.
These features make the Cory Pickos World Ski Center Lakes some of the most popular ski lakes near Santa Rosa Beach, attracting water sports enthusiasts from across the region and beyond.