Vacation rentals in Lake Holiday

Lake Holiday is a friendly lake resort community that was established in the 1960s and hasn’t changed much since. Nestled between the small town of Sandwich and the village of Somonauk in a quiet region of northeastern Illinois, Lake Holiday comprises a private residential subdivision surrounding the 328-acre artificial lake for which it’s named. The lake is the center of activity here, with outdoor recreation of all stripes, from swimming, boating, fishing, and waterskiing in the warmer months to ice skating and snow mobiling when it’s frozen over. Because Lake Holiday is purely residential, it’s devoid of outside entertainment, and that’s by design. Fortunately, the community is in close proximity to neighboring towns, meaning that goods, services, and restaurants are just a short drive away.

Lake Holiday shines in the summertime, when locals take to the lake on boats, canoes, and kayaks or bike through the community to the handful of beaches. Sunshine and warm air are abundant from June through September, warming the lake to ideal wading temperatures. During the shoulder seasons, lake life mostly quiets down, as many residents shore their boats in preparation for winter. But the lake itself is still very much an attraction when temperatures drop to freezing. Ice skating and snowmobiling are popular during winter months, and the scenery is spectacular, with surrounding trees and foliage frozen into a wintry still life. Most businesses keep limited hours during these months, but it’s always best to call ahead to be sure.

Beaches

Lake Holiday has two beaches equipped with bathrooms and children’s play equipment. Thanks to the lake’s shallow waters (about 9 feet at its deepest), both beaches are ideal for wading and swimming. Located across from one another in the southwest region of the lake, they’re close enough that you could swim from one to the other if you’re a strong enough swimmer.

Sannauk Forest Preserve

Located just outside the Lake Holiday community, this small but beautiful plot of land is a quiet place to walk or hike in the woods. To get the lay of the land, start at the Somonauk Library and follow the 1.5-mile Sannauk Trail to the preserve, cutting through Dewey Farm for prairie views along the way.

Sandwich Flea Market

If you happen to visit Lake Holiday over a weekend during the warmer months, don’t miss the nearby Sandwich Flea Market, held on the second Sundays from May through October. Drawing antique lovers from hours away, Sunday at Sandwich is a popular all-day outing with locals and visitors who love the thrill of the hunt.