• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Genuine Kentucky

Kentucky Pictures, Events, Restaurants

  • Home
    • About
    • Contact
      • Advertise
    • Facts About Kentucky
      • Kentucky Geography 101: Where is Kentucky?!
      • Kentucky’s Lakes (Listed Alphabetically)
    • Famous Kentuckians
    • Kentucky Birds
      • Joys of Bird Watching
      • Bird Watching: Keeping a Journal
      • Backyard Birds Love Water!
      • Create a Backyard Bird Watching Haven
      • How to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Yard
    • Kentucky Food
    • Kentucky History
    • Sitemap
  • Pictures
  • Restaurants
    • Best Catfish Restaurants
    • Best Pizza in Ky
    • Best BBQ in Ky
    • Bowling Green Restaurants
    • Gluten Free in Kentucky
    • Kentucky Lake Restaurants
    • Off the Beaten Path
    • Owensboro, Gluten Free
    • Owensboro Restaurants
    • Where to Eat Lunch in Owensboro
  • KY State Parks
    • Carter Caves State Resort Park
    • Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
    • Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
    • Kenlake State Resort Park
    • Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
    • Lake Barkley State Resort Park
    • Rough River Dam State Resort Park
    • Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
    • Pine Mountain State Resort Park
    • John James Audubon State Park
    • Lake Cumberland State Resort Park
    • More Kentucky State Parks
  • Things to Do
    • Grand Rivers Variety
    • Kentucky State Parks
    • Kentucky Lake
      • Kentucky Lake Pictures
    • Land Between the Lakes
      • Elk & Bison Prairie
      • Golden Pond Planetarium
      • The Homeplace
      • The Nature Station
      • LBL Pictures
        • Elk and Bison Prairie Pictures
    • Windy Hollow Campground and Speedway
    • Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
    • Smothers Park and Owensboro’s Riverfront
    • The Hitching Post
  • Events
You are here: Home / Archives for Kentucky Lakes

Review: The Condos at Green Turtle Bay in Grand Rivers, KY

April 11, 2013 by Mike Leave a Comment

Green Turtle Bay Condo

I recently had the great fortune to stay in one of the condos at Green Turtle Bay Resort in Grand Rivers, Ky.

3 friends and I went on a little mid-week golf vacation. We wanted to stay and play in one area, so we chose one of my favorite locations on the planet – the Kentucky Lake / Lake Barkley area.

The first place, really, the only place we even considered staying was Green Turtle Bay.

Think about it. 4 big guys, golf bag, golf clubs, suitcases. Ain’t no way we could cram into two, much less, one hotel room or suite.

But we could fir easily into a 2 bedroom house and that’s basically what the condo was … a big, nice, ultra clean, ultra nice, ultra well equipped house.

Anything less and we’d never left that vacation as friends. Heck, we’d probably not even been talking to one another.

The condo was:

  • Sparkling clean
  • Spacious
  • Ultra modern
  • Comfortable
  • Relaxing

Basically, it was a smile generator!

I got there first, checked us in and ran up to our condo to get some pics, because I knew that if I waited until my friends got there and dropped their bags in the middle of the floor, I’d never be able to show you how nice this thing was.

Remember, this is a condo. It’s not a hotel with folks running in and out of their rooms slamming their doors, leaving their TVs up loud when they leave, banging on the walls and all those other horrible things that happen to you in hotels.

None of that happened to us in out super clean, super nice, super well equipped condo. In fact, my three friends all thanked me multiple times for being the first one to find this little jewel of a place many, many moons ago.

Green Turtle Bay Condo

When you first walk in, you’ll notice the bright, beautiful, tastefully done colors. Then you see an enormous flat screen TV and a great looking fireplace. Then you’ll see the comfortable furniture and see the carpet is so clean that you’ll wonder if you’re the first one’s to ever stay in this particular condo.

Then you’ll notice that not only is it clean, it’s immaculate! There’s not a speck of dust on the blinds. Heck, there’s not a hint of dust on the ceiling fan way up there in the vaulted ceiling! And the arched windows bring in beautiful light all day, but especially in the early mornings and early evenings.

Green Turtle Bay Condo

Turning the corner you’ll come to the kitchen and see a stainless steel fridge and dishwasher. I mean, really, who has fixtures like this, appliances like this, in a rental?!

Green Turtle Bay Condo

And look at how sparkling clean everything is. Shiny! Not even a water spot in the sink. Way cleaner than any hotel room I’ve ever stayed in. Clean smelling, fresh smelling.

It was almost too bad we had no plans to cook or eat in there. C’mon on … 4 guys on a golf vacation? Not a chance, baby! We’re eating every meal out. Breakfast and lunches were at Dockers Bayside Grille and dinners were at the Commonwealth Yacht Club. Both are right there on the property, so it was easy and dang fine food.

The omelets and biscuits and gravy for breakfast were beyond big and beyond good. The coffee was fresh and piping hot!

The Turtle Burgers we had for lunch we fine eatin’ and the fries and onion rings were classics.

At night, we’d head over to the Commonwealth Yacht Club for some great steaks, grilled Mahi tuna and pastas. All of them were 5 stars and the service was just as spectacular.

Then it was back to the condo and hit the back deck, put our feet up on the railings and tell lies about our golf games as the water lulled us into the nicest state of relaxation you can find in the Land Between the Lakes area.

Green Turtle Bay Condo

Just so you can see how amazingly clean and shiny everything was, I’ve included some pics of the bathrooms that were fresh smelling and had plenty of towels. Could not ask for more.

And look at the bedrooms, especially the Master bedroom upstairs. I mean, really, who has a staircase like this in a rental?! And look at the Master bedroom and the enormous bed in there, with a good size flatscreen TV on the wall. And the view from up there just makes you feel like a King.

Green Turtle Bay Condo Bedroom

Do yourself, your family and your friends a favor and don’t cram them into a hotel room this year. Head over to Green Turtle Bay Resort in Grand Rivers, get yourself and condo and create memories that will last long after you’ve gone back home.

Really. Do you wanna argue over the one TV in a hotel room? Do you wanna fight over not having enough towels? Do you wanna listen to the neighbor watch his TV all night? Do you wanna get woke up at 6 am as someone slams their door 4 or 5 times as they try to get packed up and leave?

No?! Me neither. That’s why we go to Green Turtle Bay.

 Green Turtle Bay Condo

 The Condo Review above was written by my husband, Michael. He also took the beautiful pictures. – Joi

Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo Bedroom
Green Turtle Bay Condo Bedroom
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo Bedroom
Green Turtle Bay Condo
Green Turtle Bay Condo

 

Filed Under: Grand Rivers, Green Turtle Bay Resort & Marina, Lake Barkley, Places to Stay, Reviews Tagged With: Grand River, Grand Rivers, Green Turtle Bay Resort, Kentucky, Kentucky Lakes, Lake Barkley, Lake Barkley lodging

The Best Lakes for Houseboats Are in Kentucky!

July 21, 2012 by Joi Sigers 1 Comment

Kentucky Lake Houseboat
Houseboat on Beautiful Kentucky Lake

Kentucky has a lot of things to be proud of. From Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace to the most exciting college basketball programs in the country, we have plenty of reasons to feel good about the beautiful state we call home. One of the most obvious reasons for great pride is our lakes. Fishermen and women, houseboat owners and renters, and boaters flock to Kentucky’s many beautiful (and loaded) lakes each year. Many fall so deeply in love that they basically call friends back home and tell them they’ve found a new home!

Fact is, I believe Kentucky’s lakes are one of the primary ways we lure (excuse the pun) new neighbors.Ã?  In fact, did you know that Kentucky (not just Lake Cumberland) is often thought of as the houseboat capital of the world? I’ve always heard this and came across it recently in a bit of research I was doing for Genuine Kentucky.Ã?  As a web publisher, I often use “web tools” that help determine what words are most often searched-for on search engine giants like Google.

When I began this article on houseboat living and houseboat rentals, I turned to my trusty little web tool to see what the top search engine searches were relating to houseboats, house boats, houseboat rentals, etc. Amongst the top searches related to houseboats (or house boats as most people actually type in, oddly enough) were Kentucky Houseboats and Houseboat Rentals in Kentucky. I dug a little deeper (out of sheer nosiness) and found that houseboats are searched for more in conjunction with Kentucky than Florida, California, or… for that matter… any state I snooped into!

Apparently when Kentucky is referred to as the ââ?¬Å?Houseboating Capital of the U.S.,ââ?¬ÂÃ?  there’s ample justification for it.

When you think about it, it all makes perfect sense. Kentucky is full of lakes that lend themselves to the pleasant pastime of houseboating.Ã?  Of course, it’s more than just a pastime for a lot of people, it’s a lifestyle.

Many of Kentucky’s beautiful lakes offer a vast number of coves and fingers that allow houseboats to tie up or anchor away from the main channel and provide boaters with a peaceful, secluded atmosphere.

Then there�s the ease with which visitors can rent houseboats from marinas operating on the lakes. Lake Cumberland boasts multiple marinas that specialize in renting these commodious craft to vacationers who crave laid-back quality time on the water with family and friends. When you add other popular waters like Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and Dale Hollow Lake, more marinas rent houseboats of various sizes and degrees of luxury in Kentucky than almost anywhere else.

USA Today once didÃ?  a piece on “10 Great Places to Float Your Houseboat.”Ã?  The story opened with the following:

Whether you own a houseboat or want to rent one, it’s a great way to get together with family and friends ââ?¬â? or just get away. North America’s most popular (and therefore populated) houseboating waters are Lake Powell in southern Utah and Lake Cumberland in Kentucky. Consider these recommendations from Houseboat magazine’s managing editor, Brady Kay, who spoke with Anne Goodfriend for USA TODAY.

The story went on to mention other lakes which were excellent for houseboating. Another Kentucky Lake was mentioned along with Lake Cumberland. Read on!

Overshadowed by the nearby, popular Cumberland Lake, Dale Hollow Lake is “huge, and great for cruising or entertaining,” Kay says. “There are plenty of places to rent a houseboat, and they usually have the latest models” because most houseboats are manufactured in these two states (Kentucky and Tennessee). Fishing rods lure crappie and smallmouth bass. “It might be the best lake in (this area) that no one has ever heard of.”

A great place to locate information on the stateâ��s major lakes or marinas offering houseboat rentals is the Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourismâ��s Official Visitorâ��s Guide, which has detailed listings for facilities in nine separate regions of the state. The guide is available online at www.kentuckytourism.com.�  A printed guide can be ordered online or by calling 800-225-8747.

And don�t forget that Kentucky is a leading houseboat manufacturing center. Buyers from all over the world order custom-built craft to match their particular desires. In Monticello, Somerset, Russell Springs and other towns around Lake Cumberland, you�ll find some of the world�s best-known houseboat builders eager to provide the craft of your dreams. Many vacationers who�ve gotten their feet wet with a rental eventually decide to become owners.

In the early 1950s, a Somerset native, Jim Sharpe, began building small houseboats at a facility on the banks of the newly impounded Lake Cumberland. Sharpe got the idea for the business when he realized that visitors to the lake had few options for accommodations close to the water. As the business grew, the size and luxury of the boats he built grew with it. The company�s reputation spread, and Sharpe became known as the Henry Ford of houseboats. Although Sharpe is now retired, his company is still run by second- and third-generation family members.

For those who aren�t looking to buy, renting is an enjoyable alternative. The time of year and size of the boat determines the rental cost. A boat that sleeps 12 with six private cabins and amenities like kitchen, wet bar, central air conditioning and outdoor grill can rent for about $4,000 for Monday-Friday during peak season. Because of the pastime�s popularity, make arrangements for your Kentucky houseboat vacation as far as possible in advance.

Learn More About Houseboat Rentals and Houseboat Vacations:

Lake Cumberland State Dock

Green Turtle Bay Houseboat Rentals (Resort and Marina on beautiful Lake Barkley. You will not find friendlier people.)

Kentucky State Parks (a wealth of information)

Kentucky Tourism (endless information about all things Kentucky!)

If you’re in Kentucky, have houseboat rentals, and would like to be included in the list above, please contact me and I’ll “hook” you up.

 

Lake Cumberland:

Lake Cumberland Marina
Lake Cumberland
Lake Cumberland
Lake Cumberland
Lake Cumberland Marina
Lake Cumberland Marina
Kentucky Lake Houseboat
Houseboat on Beautiful Kentucky Lake

Filed Under: Dale Hollow Lake, Green Turtle Bay Resort & Marina, Kentucky Lake, Kentucky's Lakes, Lake Barkley, Lake Cumberland, Lake Cumberland State Resort Park Tagged With: Dale Hollow Lake, houseboat rentals, houseboats, Kentucky Lake, Kentucky Lakes, Lake Cumberland

Welcome to Genuine Kentucky!

Genuine Kentucky is a Kentucky Blog and online magazine celebrating the beautiful Bluegrass State. We shine the spotlight on Kentucky with pictures, restaurant reviews, news, tourism, Things to Do in Kentucky, and more.

We’re proud Kentuckians and the non-profit effort you see before you is a labor of love.

E-mail me anytime! ~ Joi (“Joy”)

Kentucky Blog Updates

The Pond Grilled Shrimp and Baked Potato.

Delicious Grilled Shrimp at The Pond in Aurora, Kentucky If you're anything like me, you LOVE to get out in all the hustle … [Read More...] about Enjoying all Kentucky Has to Offer in Cold and Flu Season…

Beautiful Cardinal in Ice Covered Tree

Cardinal Riding Out the 2014 Ice Storm Can you believe it's been 8 years since the famous 2014 ice storm (well, it was … [Read More...] about Throwback to 2014 and the Kentucky Ice Storm… Even Then, There was Beauty

The Pond Catfish and Baked Potato

Baked Potato and Grilled Catfish at The Pond One of my favorite Kentucky restaurants is The Pond in Aurora, Kentucky. I love … [Read More...] about The Pond at Kentucky Lake: Always a Relaxing and Wonderful Place to Dine

Kentucky Lake - Winter at Lighthouse Landing

Lighthouse Landing at Kentucky Lake If you were a regular reader of Genuine Kentucky, you know all too well that we've been … [Read More...] about Genuine Kentucky… Recovering from a Whirlwind of Changes!

The Kentucky Legend Cafe

Photo Credit: The Owensboro Convention Center My youngest daughter, Stephany, often talk about squeezing as much joy out of … [Read More...] about Hot Dog Days of Summer at the Kentucky Legend Cafe in Owensboro (Located in the Convention Center)

Golden Pond Visitor's Center and Planetarium

The Golden Pond Visitor Center Planetarium and Observatory International Astronomy Day is Saturday, May 7, 2022 and The … [Read More...] about Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory: Activities for Astronomy Day (May 7, 2022)

Smothers Park Owensboro

Some of the more popular posts we've done on Genuine Kentucky have been the ones under the category "Where to eat in … [Read More...] about Kentucky Legend Café: Delicious Place to Enjoy Lunch in Owensboro, Kentucky

Gorgeous owl at the Nature Station

Owl at Woodlands Nature Station As I said in my last post, everything is coming back to life around Kentucky... everything … [Read More...] about A Sensational Spring Break at Woodlands Nature Station in the Land Between the Lakes April 2-10, 2022

Follow Genuine Kentucky on Twitter!

Tweets by @GenuineKentucky


"When reading about a Kentucky event, please be sure you check the date. Old events are not always deleted from the website. If you have an event you'd like to see on Genuine Kentucky or a 'Made in Kentucky' food or product you'd like reviewed, please contact us! " ~ Joi ("Joy")

Flowering Tree in Bowling Green
Fraley Music Festival
Maddox

Kentucky News and Events

  • Enjoying all Kentucky Has to Offer in Cold and Flu Season…
  • Throwback to 2014 and the Kentucky Ice Storm… Even Then, There was Beauty
  • The Pond at Kentucky Lake: Always a Relaxing and Wonderful Place to Dine
  • Genuine Kentucky… Recovering from a Whirlwind of Changes!
  • Hot Dog Days of Summer at the Kentucky Legend Cafe in Owensboro (Located in the Convention Center)
  • Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory: Activities for Astronomy Day (May 7, 2022)
  • Kentucky Legend Café: Delicious Place to Enjoy Lunch in Owensboro, Kentucky
  • A Sensational Spring Break at Woodlands Nature Station in the Land Between the Lakes April 2-10, 2022

Kentucky State Parks

We have a special passion for Kentucky State Parks, so you'll find many articles and reviews centered around the beautiful state parks in Kentucky.

A personal goal is to visit, photograph, and enjoy each and every one of our state parks and eat at each of the state resort parks. Make no mistake about it, we're well on our way!

Bird Watching in Kentucky!

One of our greatest passions is birds and bird watching is an absolute favorite pastime. If you love our feathered friends and want to learn more about bird watching and attracting birds to your own backyard, be sure to check out our section dedicated entirely to Kentucky birds.

Kentucky Restaurants and Reviews

Kentucky Restaurant Reviews

Where are the best Kentucky restaurants?! Find out in our Kentucky Restaurant Reviews.

Also See: Best Fried Catfish in Kentucky
  • Email
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Kentucky Events

The pandemic has crushed many activities, events, and normalcy – not just in Kentucky, but all around the world. As we creep back toward normal, I want desperately to highlight any and all events going on around Kentucky. Please E-mail me any information you’d like shared about your Kentucky event! ~ Joi (“Joy”)

Kentucky Pictures

Kentucky Pictures
Check out the beautiful Pictures of Kentucky in our photo albums!

Advertising & Reviews

If you are interested in advertising on Genuine Kentucky, please contact us: e-mail Joi Sigers.

Also, if you have a resort, condo, golf course, restaurant, or even a cup of coffee (LOVE coffee!) you'd like for us to review, please contact us at joi@genuinekentucky.com.

Genuine Kentucky Disclaimer

We do not work for any Kentucky service or organization. We are simply proud to have been born and raised in the greatest state in the country and are thrilled to call it home. This site serves as our tribute to Kentucky and its warm and wonderful people. Our mission is to bring more travelers to Kentucky and keep more Kentuckians home! See our Privacy Policy.
Copyright Genuine Kentucky 2022