Lake Lanier Islands Resort History and Future

History

The landscape that was formerly the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains has been transformed into what today is Georgia’s most visited recreational venue – Lake Sidney Lanier – attracting nearly 8 million visitors per year.  Lake Lanier Islands Resort, a 1,100-acre lakeside resort located on the southern most tip of lake, has become one of Georgia’s most popular destinations.

Shortly after the completion of the Buford Dam in 1956 the U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers leased the Lake Lanier Islands to the Georgia Department of State Parks. By 1958 the lake filled to its capacity at 1071 feet above sea level but it wasn’t until 1974 that Lake Lanier Islands began operations with attractions such as Harbor Landing, the campgrounds, stables and a beach area. PineIsle Resort and Golf Course also opened that year, run by Stouffer Hotels.

In 1987 the Beach and Waterpark expanded to include water slides and a wave pool – still the largest in the southeast. The following year Emerald Pointe Golf Club was completed. In 1989 The Lake Lanier Island Resort hotel opens; later renamed the Hilton Lake Lanier Islands Resort.

1993 saw the creation of the Magical Nights of Lights, one of the world’s largest animated light displays.

The late 1990’s saw a further expansion of the Beach & Waterpark, new docks at Harbor Landing, renovations and improvements to the Emerald Pointe Golf Club and the opening of lakehouse accommodations – thirty New England style lakeside villas.

More improvements, name changes and lease interest changes were made from the early 2000’s through 2008 when Phase I of a multi-million dollar ten year plan was completed with the opening of the new Legacy Lodge & Conference Center. Phase I also included major remodeling and improvements throughout the property and the addition of six executive villas along the lakefront. Also underway are improvements to traffic flow, bike paths and a redesign of Emerald Pointe Golf Club.

Future Plans

Conceptual ideas for future development and revitalization of Lake Lanier Islands Resort include a variety of lodging accommodations and price ranges. An upscale lodge will replace PineIsle Resort. Other accommodations being considered are a boutique hotel, harbor/beach club, small group conference hotel and family center and bed and breakfast inn. Eco-friendly transportation such as electric cars, Segways and electric and standard bicycles will be available for travel around the islands. Scenic paths, viewing stations, gardens and current roads will be created or updated to accommodate future transportation and complete the feel of the “natural sanctuary.”

Georgia Island

Currently housing Presentation Pointe and the Front Gate, Georgia Island will soon become Lake Lanier Islands Resort’s Island for the public to enjoy. Amenities to come include a family hotel and a completely new indoor/outdoor Beach & WaterPark.  Leaving Georgia Island, guests will pass through the new site of the entrance gates and pass over a new gateway bridge connecting Georgia Island to Legacy Island.

Legacy Island

Plans for Legacy Island include new golf side villas, hillside cottages and a scenic chapel.

Pine Island

From golfers at PineIsle Golf Club to boaters at Harbor Landing, Pine Island is the place for the adventurers who visit the Resort. Plans for this Island also include a beach club with restaurants, swimming pools and nearby accommodations at hillside cottages, golf side villas, and luxury guest villas.

The most significant difference on Pine Island currently is the absence of the well-known PineIsle Hotel.  After more than 30 years since its doors opened, the long standing hotel was torn down to make way for a new luxury four-star hotel with an opening date slated in the next two to three years.

Blue Ridge Island

Named for its superior view of the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountain range, this Island is planned for many harmonious venues.

There will be plenty of serene options of accommodations from which to choose. A quaint and cozy Bed and Breakfast Inn is in the plans and will be nestled away at the water’s edge. There are also plans for a luxurious Boutique Hotel with spa and wellness center for those looking for a tranquil getaway. Future plans also include beautiful hillside cottages, guest villas and restful retreat cabins.