Explore Starnes Island and the Best Spots on Lake Travis
Starnes Island, a Lake Travis gathering point
As the light dances across the water and the booming echoes of party anthems are heard off in the distance, all seems right in the world, because it is. All you have to worry about is diving into the shock of the icy cold cooler to traverse the mountains of ice. After that, crack open a cold one, hold up a “cheers” to your neighbor, and bask in the Austinite’s escape that is Lake Travis, Texas.
Lake Travis isn’t known only among Texas locals but nationwide as one of the most iconic boating destinations in Texas. We’ve got it all, from lively party coves to serene swimming areas. Just minutes from VIP Lake Travis, the most famous spots on the lake are just waiting to be explored.
Starnes Island: The Legendary Party Island of Lake Travis
Let’s clear some things up: Starnes Island goes by many names such as Rattlesnake Island, Snake Island, or even Monkey Island (we’ll explain). This monumental destination has become a revolving door for any and all occasions on Lake Travis.
The days before Lake Travis existed, Starnes Island was nothing more than a hill in Travis County. But in the early 1940s, the construction of the Mansfield Dam caused the Colorado River to flood, creating the lake we know and love today.
Starnes Island is located within the Sandy Creek Arm of Lake Travis, and a site that is regularly dappled with a sea of tritoons, party barges, floating lily pads, and swimmers diving in and out of the water. Now, you’re probably wondering, “Is it called Monkey Island because of all the monkey business that takes place”? The answer is: Kind of, but there’s more to the story.
Why is Starnes Island called Monkey Island?
It all stems from a rather bizarre local campfire story, dating back to the 1970s. According to longtime Lake Travis locals, a visitor decided it was a good idea to bring a pet chimpanzee out to the island. Why? Who’s to say. But the monkey made its great escape into the impenetrable jungle (a few trees) and never returned.
Why is Starnes Island also known as Rattlesnake Island?
Yes, the infamous nickname dates back to when Lake Travis first filled after the dam was completed. As water levels rose, all the snakes escaped to high ground and set up camp.
Today Starnes Island remains one of the best spots on Lake Travis for social boating and friendly floating, all while the vibrant anticipation and tangible energy of a full summer day on the water hangs in the air.
Explore the Mystery of “Sometimes Island” Lake Travis
Sometimes Island is a unique landmark known among Lake Travis boaters as a disappearing landmass appearing like a distant archipelago from shore. Located next to the Mansfield Dam boat ramp, this small landmass of “islands” is only visible when the lake water levels drop.
When the island feels its time to reappear, visitors like to swing by, park their vessels, and mark their (temporary) territory with random things like flags or beach chairs, but also so as not to fill beautiful Lake Travis with flags and beach gear; others like to stand on the disappearing patch of land and snap a pic for the socials.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro Stock Images (Sometimes Island)
More of the Best Spots on Lake Travis
Devil’s Cove
Few places on Lake Travis have a ring to their name like Devil’s Cove. It’s widely known, locally and nationwide, as the party scene on Lake Travis.
Located on the north shore near Jonestown, the massive cove acts as a canvas spotted with boats, inner tubes, and floating mats throughout the summer. While Starnes Island remains one of the lake’s legendary social boating destinations, Devil’s Cove is often known for its sheer size, creating a vibrant floating city of music, boats, and spirited summer energy out on the water.
Pace Bend Park
If you’re looking to veer a little off the beaten path, less than an hour drive from VIP Marina Lake Travis lies the serene Pace Bend Park. Also accessible by water, it allows boaters to mix lake days with classic Texas Hill Country scenery; Pace Bend Park offers a completely different side of Lake Travis.
Here you’ll find a dynamic blend of jagged limestone cliffs tucked away in magical secret coves, off-grid-style camping, and scenic overlooks. Pace Bend is popular among locals who want to spend the day boating, hiking, biking, or relaxing by the shoreline. The park also features multiple boat ramps, waterfront camping areas, and miles of trails surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Arkansas Bend Park
For anyone looking for a tranquil escape a little closer to VIP Marina Lake Travis, Arkansas Bend Park offers a recently renovated 323-acre park featuring two public boat ramps, fishing and swimming areas, hiking trails, and campsites.
Located in Lago Vista, this pocket of peace is great for families, friends, or the solo traveler who wants to sprawl out with a good book. If you choose to enter this park by car, there’s even a playground for kids to run free under the luminous blue skies that Texas summers bring.
Start Your Lake Travis Adventure at VIP Lake Travis
VIP Lake Travis is an authoritative jumping-off point and home to a full fleet of themed 50-person party barges on Lake Travis, as well as rentals for tritoons and a brand-new selection of 2026 jet skis. Our party barge captains understand the topography, the islands, and provide you and your guests with an incredible experience as captain, chef, and Lake Travis island guide.
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