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Get to Know The Lakes

Posted on June 17, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Rob Kachelriess

Rob Kachelriess

Homes sitting next to the water at The Lakes in Las Vegas.

There’s water in the Las Vegas desert. (benedek/Getty)

The Lakes was one of the first master-planned communities in Las Vegas and continues to be a rare waterside retreat in Southern Nevada. Developed in the 1980s, the desert oasis is nestled within two square miles between the borders of Sahara, Durango, Desert Inn, and Hualapai in the West Valley.

🚣 Boating and Fishing

The community is best-known for Lake Sahara, a 30-acre, man-made body of water surrounded by homes. It’s common for those on the shoreline to have their own docks and boats. The lake is well-stocked with fish, ready to catch.

🌳 Beautiful Scenery

Originally, two lakes were planned — which is why the neighborhood was named The Lakes — but developers changed course and decided to stick with one. However, the entire community is a lush oasis with mature landscaping, parks, and tree-lined pathways for jogging and biking.

🏡 Homes by the Water

There’s a wide variety of housing at the Lakes, from condos under $300,000 to custom estates worth millions. Some parts are gated. Most single-family homes follow the desert Mediterranean style that flourished in the ‘80s and ‘90s, although it’s not unusual to see extensive interior renovations. Many properties enjoy large lots, including one modeled after an Irish castle.

☕ Shopping and Dining

Lake Town Center Plaza is the main shopping destination at The Lakes. Homeowners can even zip over on the water and dock their boats outside. The Lakes Lounge is a 24-hour restaurant and gaming parlor that’s been a community staple since 1987. You can also shop at a mini-market for groceries and choose between pizza and cheesesteaks at Those Guys Pies or coffee and brunch at Baby Birds Cafe.

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