Swimming in Lakes

[Quinny]

A bit off topic, but don't know where else to ask.

We are looking at a place in Florida, kids would probably prefer Orlando/Kissimmee, but I love the gulf coast. Is there any lake swimming/beaches where you can swim/snorkel/dive in natural surroundings?
It might provide a compromise (where dad can play as well as the kids).

[orlandobabe]

I don't know of any lakes off the top of my head in the Kissimmee area-as always you have to be watchful of alligators-but you can swim in the Blue Springs-north of Orlando on the I4

[Mr G]

I believe there may be a man-made "beach" on a lake at Lake Berkley. I remember our realtor mentioning it when we were looking for a resale. Maybe an owner with a home there can assist, if I'm right or wrong.

[Pikey1999]

Lake Louisa permits swimming and is just west of Kissimmee.

[Pikey1999]

Lake Louisa link:
http://www.floridastateparks.org/lakelouisa/default.asp [msnwink]

[Sanje]

Lake Berkley does have a small beach BUT on NO ACCOUNT should you swim in the lake or indeed anywhere not specifically designated for swimming as there are ALLIGATORS in most natural ponds in Florida.

[Quinny]

Thanks

Seems like the gulfs gonna win then. Kids might be fed up but better that than the alligators being fed up!

[Quinny]

BTW when I stayed in Kissimmee I never even saw a lake (apart from the small ones in the community). What roads do you take to get to them.

[steph_goodrum]

Quinny Why not do a week in each so everybody is happy?

[Quinny]

Struggling to afford one at the moment! If we can make one work for us though we'll probably try that.