A boat is the most useful form of transport here — the lake's 1,150-mile shoreline means many restaurants, bars, and attractions have docks rather than parking lots. Most marinas rent pontoon boats, jet skis, and fishing boats by the day or half-day; reserve in advance during summer.
On land, a car is necessary. There is no public transit. The main commercial corridor along US-54 through Osage Beach can get backed up on summer weekend afternoons; side roads around the coves are mostly navigable but can be confusing without GPS.