[citation needed] Since that time, West Lakes Shore has become a thriving community of 8,800 people enjoying sporting, shopping, educational and recreational facilities in a fully planned development renowned nationally for its excellence in planning and design.

Due to polluted stormwater runoff into the lake, it's recommended to avoid prolonged contact with the water (e.g. swimming) for 2–3 days after rain.

Fully cabled with an independent kevlar rope system, a starting pontoon and buoyed lanes, it is suitable for rowing, canoeing and dragon boat racing.

[11] The rowing course also hosts the annual Head of the River race, having been conceived on the Torrens Lake in 1922.

[13] The major landmarks in the suburb include: West Lakes Shore R-7 School is located on Edwin Street and caters for children from Reception to Year 7.

[citation needed] RowingSA and the West Lakes Aquatic Centre are based on the lakefront, alongside Military Road.