Simpson Cove is the boat ramp park on the north side of town. Free parking, free admission, free sunset. That’s why it’s packed every night.
The ramp means boats are coming and going until dark. You’ll see a $200,000 Wakeboard boat next to a 1970s pontoon with duct tape on the seats. Everyone waves. The pier goes 100 feet out and it’s standing room by 7pm.
The sun drops behind the trees on the far shore. The lake goes orange, then pink, then purple. Phones come out, but the real shot is with your eyes. The light hits the water tower and the lighthouse at the same time. Somebody will say “we’re lucky” and nobody will disagree.
After the sun is gone, the boats put on nav lights and head in. The golf carts start humming. The cove empties in 20 minutes. It’s the most democratic place in town. Million-dollar lake house owners and apartment renters share the same view.
Local Tip: Bring a chair and bug spray. Sit on the grassy hill, not the pier, if you hate crowds. And don’t propose here unless you want 40 strangers clapping. It happens monthly.