Where to go on a vacation away from the heat

I just want to hear if anyone has favorite spots to go to to get away from the heat that is not a major hassle to get to. So I am talking like a direct flight and not too far to drive. I like water sports, so ideally with a swimmable lake or river nearby.

I was thinking somewhere in Colorado, as that is not too far away, but I want to hear other ideas. Also Colorado is good for hiking and such, but not as many water activities there from what I can see. But maybe I am wrong.