[1] It is located on the north shore of the southeast end of Clear Lake, just south of the village of Clearlake Park, 15 miles (24 km) east-southeast of Lakeport, at an elevation of 1348 feet (411 m).

Prior to settlement by Americans the area was inhabited by Pomo Indians.

Clearlake remained a farming and ranching community until the 1920s when it became a resort destination along with other areas in Lake County.

Most of the city lots are only 50' by 100' feet and none of the infrastructure was established at the time of subdivision.

Clearlake has historically depended on tourism as its main industry with the attraction being Clear Lake.