Living Around Lake Travis: A Guide to Lake Front Living
As a tenured real estate agent and native of the Austin area, I’ve had the privilege of watching the Lake Travis region grow into one of the most desirable destinations in Central Texas. Each area around the lake offers its own unique lifestyle, school districts, and attractions that make people proud to call it home.
School Districts
The majority of the Lake Travis region falls under the Lake Travis Independent School District (LTISD), which is well-regarded for its academic programs and extracurriculars. Some areas near Steiner Ranch fall under Leander ISD, while Lago Vista has its own ISD, and certain neighborhoods near Marble Falls feed into Marble Falls ISD.
South Shore: Developed & Lifestyle‑Driven
Steiner Ranch
• Vibe & Appeal: A 4,600-acre master-planned community nestled between Lake Travis and Lake Austin. Offers greenbelts, parks, and family-focused amenities.

• Schools: Leander ISD, feeding into Vandegrift High School.

• Attractions: Private lakeside club, extensive trail system, Steiner Ranch Steakhouse.

• Why Move Here: Resort-style family living with easy access to downtown Austin.
Rough Hollow (Lakeway)
• Vibe & Appeal: High-end community with yacht club, marina, and luxury amenities.

• Schools: LTISD, including Lake Travis High School.

• Attractions: Rough Hollow Yacht Club, upscale dining, lake access.

• Why Move Here: Luxury lake living with resort-style perks.
Other South Shore Neighborhoods
Communities like Bella Montagna, Lakewind Estates, The Coves, and Arbolago offer a mix of waterfront estates and hillside homes. These neighborhoods balance quiet hill-country charm with access to Hill Country Galleria, medical centers, and golf courses.
North Shore: Nature‑Bound & Peaceful
The Hollows (Lago Vista)
• Vibe & Appeal: A master-planned community on 1,400 acres of lakefront.

• Schools: Lago Vista ISD, with some sections in Marble Falls ISD.

• Attractions: Beach Club, NorthShore Marina, Kayak Club.

• Why Move Here: Peaceful, nature-driven living with modern amenities.
Lago Vista (Town Center)
• Vibe & Appeal: Independent lakeside town with festivals, parades, and a true small-town feel.

• Schools: Lago Vista ISD.

• Attractions: Local events like LAGO FEST and the Balcones Songbird Festival.

• Why Move Here: Community charm and authentic lakeside living.
Lake Travis Attractions
• The Oasis on Lake Travis: Famous sunset views and cliffside dining.

• Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark: Family-friendly fun on the lakeshore.

• Mansfield Dam Park & Pace Bend: Trails, camping, and water recreation.

• Shopping: Hill Country Galleria in Bee Cave serves as the area’s retail hub.

• Dining Favorites: Sundancer Grill, Shack 512, Canyon Grille, The Gnarly Gar (floating restaurant).
Why People Move to Lake Travis
• South Lake Travis: Luxury homes, master-planned communities, excellent schools, and easy access to Austin.

• Steiner Ranch: Family-focused, strong schools, parks, and trails.

• North Shore / Lago Vista: Small-town lakeside charm with festivals and close-knit community feel.

• Overall: A playground of water sports, dining, scenic views, camping, fishing, boating, and shopping—all wrapped in the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
