Cabins vs. Cottages vs. Suites in Okoboji: Which Fits Your Trip?
Lake Okoboji cabins are the perfect way to experience the stunning landscape of West Lake Okoboji, while still having plenty of room for family and friends. Experience the beauty of the Iowa Great Lakes Region with this travel guide for Okoboji, whether you decide to rent suites in Okoboji, or a cabin or cottage. Did you know that Lake Okoboji has received record levels of tourism in 2025? According to KCAU 9, the region is more popular than ever, rebounding nicely from floods that occurred during the summer of 2024. Are you thinking about spending your next vacation at Lake Okoboji? In this guide, we will explore the unique features of this region, as well as which type of accommodation will best suit your preferences. Is Lake Okoboji Worth Visiting? Absolutely. Whether you’re a native Iowan or visiting the Hawkeye State, Lake Okoboji and the Great Lakes region in general are essential to add to your travel itinerary. There are plenty of activities at Lake Okojobi that are suitable for visitors of all ages, including: Fishing: Due to its depth and size, Lake Okojobi offers plenty of fishing for all skill levels. Cast your line from the shore or from a boat. Boating: Lake Okojobi features a full-service marina on its east side, with boats available for purchase, rental, and storage. Water Sports: Enjoy popular water sports such as waterskiing and wakeboarding on the lake surface, with tips from the waterski clinic if you’re a beginner. Parks: The lake is home to several state parks, all of which have picnic and fishing areas, with plenty of room for all-day entertainment. Can You Swim in Lake Okoboji? Yes! Lake Okojobi boasts clear waters and good water quality, with plenty of beaches surrounding the area for swimming and relaxation. The water is typically warm enough for swimming in the late spring or summer months, a perfect time to soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip. What Types of Accommodations Does Lake Okoboji Offer? If you are planning a vacation to Lake Okoboji, you may be wondering what types of lodging are available for visitors. Whether you’re a large family or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, resorts such as Fillenwarth Beach offer plenty of different accommodations for every group size and price point, as well as a host of complimentary activities. Cottage Colony Perfect for couples, our cottage colony is in an ideal location, tucked away directly across the road from the Main Beach for easy access. Additionally, each cottage comes with exclusive amenities, such as: A full kitchen or kitchenette A full bath A private deck Cottages range in size from cozy studios that are ideal for one to two guests to Lake Okoboji cabins, perfect for larger families or friend groups. Cottage models also include duplexes and treetop apartments, each providing a unique experience of Lake Okoboji. Why Choose Lake Okoboji Cabins? Cabins are more spacious and allow travelers to have an authentic lakefront experience. You can also save money by shopping for groceries and preparing meals and snacks in your residence, rather than needing to eat out for every meal. Main Beach The Main Beach is located on West Lake Okoboji, houses a variety of guest accommodations. Its prime lakefront location is also a mere two blocks away from the amusement park, perfect for family entertainment. Main Beach options include apartments and lakefront chateaus. North Beach Located two blocks away from the Main Beach area, North Beach has two docks for lake access. Accommodations include: Lakefront cabanas Garden studios Lakeside cottages Lakeside duplexes North Beach chalets All units have full kitchens and private or shared decks, and most have views of Lake Okoboji. South Beach South Beach is easily accessible, two blocks south of the Main Beach, with proximity to one of the best natural sand beaches on Lake Okoboji. Models include: Studios Penthouses Lakeside cottages Frequently Asked Questions When Is the Most Popular Season to Visit Lake Okoboji? Summer is the best time of year to visit the Iowa Great Lakes region, particularly Lake Okoboji. Warmer temperatures make for pleasant daytime activities and cooler nights that aren’t uncomfortable, the perfect recipe for a wonderful summer vacation. While Lake Okoboji sees the most visitors during the summer, each season has unique benefits: Autumn: Lake Okoboji boasts stunning fall foliage, so visitors can see the leaves change colors. Winter: The University of Okoboji hosts the Winter Games, which include flag football, a chili cookoff, and more. Spring: Spring brings warmer weather but with fewer crowds, so visitors can enjoy the splendor without the peak tourism of summertime. Is Okoboji a Man-Made Lake? No. While many lakes in Iowa are man-made, the Iowa Great Lakes region, in the northwest part of the state, contains many natural bodies of water, including Lake Okoboji. Lakes in the northwest are more likely to be natural because of glaciation, a phenomenon that shaped the landscape of the state and formed the Great Lakes. Lake Okoboji is thousands of years old and formed naturally due to the melting of the Wisconsin Glacier. It is also the deepest natural lake in Iowa, with a maximum depth of 136 feet. How Can You Learn More About the Lake’s History? There are many resources available for locals and visitors alike to learn more about the unique region that is home to Lake Okoboji and other bodies of water in the Iowa Great Lakes Region. One standout is the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, which gives a thorough history of the lake on its website. It also provides links for volunteer opportunities and local conservation projects. Plan Your Lake Okoboji Getaway Today Lake Okoboji is an iconic landmark that represents the best of the Iowa Great Lakes region. Whether you choose Lake Okoboji cabins or a smaller option, such as a suite or a cottage, we have the right accommodation for your needs. Book your next lakeside vacation with Fillenwarth Beach, a family-owned premier lakeside resort on