May 11. By Tripp Liles. From the beginning of time we’ve been drawn to water. It provides us with inspiring views and nearly endless sustenance. It’s no different today in our lake town.

We thought it would be fun to take a look at the restaurants that offer great parking for boats, not just cars.

How ever you go, it’s best to make reservations. Some restaurants are not taking walk-in diners during high volume times.

• Hello, Sailor is a local favorite with a cool retro vibe on the inside and easy boat access. These guys take food seriously with an eclectic seafood menu offered by chef Joe Kindred who also has a namesake place in Davidson. They offer a wide patio with great views of the lake and a bar that features several tiki-inspired cocktails. Hello, Sailor is located at 20210 Henderson Road in Cornelius.

Reader feedback: Hello Sailor is by far our favorite. Gorgeous view, exceptional service with a relaxed, friendly vibe, and wonderful food! — Paula K.

• North Harbor Club is in Davidson and is visible from I-77 south. They have nine boat slips for parking and offer a fun innovative seafood menu. The dining room is nautical; there’s a fun patio that is great for drinks and views. On weekends they feature a brunch that runs from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm with an emphasis on seafood. North Harbor Club is located at 100 N. Harbor Place in Davidson and reservations are suggested.

Reader feedback:  North Harbor Club has consistently been my favorite restaurant on the water for 25+ years!  Always perfectly turned out meals every time, and they pour a good pour from the bar every time.  LOVE LOVE LOVE North Harbor Club EVERY TIME! — Patti M.

• Port City Club is the southern-most restaurant on Lake Norman with boat access. It has ample docking and nearly 500 seats inside. They offer a wonderful outside beach area with great views and a scratch-made menu with an emphasis on seafood. Port City Club is located at 8665 Harborside Drive in Cornelius and reservations are required.

Reader feedback: Port City. Excellent food, fair value, boat friendly, nice wait staff. — Bob L.

• Queens Landing extends the boat docking concept one step further and actually takes you onto the lake. Located at 1459 River Highway in Mooresville, Queens Landing has two vessels, the Lady of the Lake and the Catawba Queen, which cruise the lake whilst you enjoy a wonderful dinner cruise. Lady of the Lake is a more elegant approach with a luxury yacht feel while the Catawba Queen is a homage to the great old Mississippi River Boats. For schedules and reservations visit their site at www.queeslanding.com.

• The Landing Restaurant, T4491 Slanting Bridge Rd., Sherrills Ford, is known for its homemade meatballs and fabulous ribs. There’s a varied menu with starters, sandwiches, entrees and pizza. Fun for the family.

• Eddie’s On Lake Norman in Mooresville at 643 Williamson Road excels at good times. They offer live music on weekends and a menu stacked with fresh seafood, steaks and pastas. The interior has a very relaxed beach vibe and the deck offers great views of the lake. They’re open for lunch and dinner with the highlight being a Sunday brunch that runs from 11 am to 2 pm. Reservations are not required.

• Toucan’s is another Mooresville spot on the lake. Located at 167 Pinnacle Lane, Toucan’s has fresh seafood, tacos, a wide array of sandwiches and  bar. You can enjoy all of this on their deck and bring your dog. This is one of the more relaxed places around. Reservations are not required.

Reader feedback: Toucan’s is my favorite, despite their docks. Great food, service, and view. — Allen H.

Toucan’s in Mooresville. Great view and a huge menu! Barbara A.

•  Blue Parrot Grill, 169 Pinnacle Ln., Mooresville, offers seafood, steaks and drinks on the lakeside patio.

Restaurants aren’t the only way to enjoy lakefront dining

• Jetton Park has 104 acres with picnic sites, gazebos and a hall that may be reserved for special events.

• Ramsey Creek Park has more than 40 acres of waterfront and picnic shelters.

• Blythe Landing is a 26-acre park with volleyball courts and lakefront picnic tables.