Parts of the 1987 film Dirty Dancing were shot around Lake Lure, and a narrated boat tour built around the film runs on the lake. The most useful thing to know about it is a logistics detail that catches people out.

Where It Actually Departs

If you've been looking at Washburn Marina, stop. Local sources confirmed to us that the tour leaves from Lake Lure Beach — not Washburn Marina, as of August 2026.

That's an easy mistake to make. The tour is run by Lake Lure Tours, whose pontoon rental side is marina-based, so people assume the tour leaves from there too.

Check the Schedule Before You Drive Out

The beach itself runs seasonally, as we explain in our beach guide. We haven't confirmed whether the tour keeps its summer schedule once the beach closes, so if you're coming outside summer, check with Lake Lure Tours rather than assuming it runs.

The Inn

Dirty Dancing is also tied to the Lake Lure Inn. According to the Inn's own materials, its Roosevelt Hall was used for filming, with eight chandeliers and a grand fireplace, and it's now bookable for events. We haven't independently verified the filming details beyond what the Inn states, so treat the specifics as the Inn's account.

The Inn's spa was listed as Temporarily closed when we last checked in early August, so check before booking a treatment.

More Around Lake Lure

Things to DoBoat RentalsPontoons, kayaks, and paddleboards on Lake Lure.Insider TipsLake Lure BeachSeason, fees, and the late-summer schedule.WeddingsLake Lure Inn WeddingsThe Inn's event spaces, including Roosevelt Hall.Insider TipsAll Insider TipsMore non-obvious advice for Lake Lure and Chimney Rock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Dirty Dancing boat tour leave from?

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From Lake Lure Beach, according to local confirmation in August 2026, not from Washburn Marina.

Who runs the Dirty Dancing boat tour?

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Lake Lure Tours, which also rents pontoons. Its site is the place to confirm the current schedule.

Last updated: 2026-10-16