Places to Stay on Lake Winnipesaukee

Best Places to Stay on Lake Winnipesaukee: Your Guide to Lakeside Lodging

Planning a trip to Lake Winnipesaukee? Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy cabin on the water, a luxury lakeside resort, or a charming inn in a historic town, this New Hampshire gem offers something for every traveler. With more than 240 miles of shoreline and towns like Meredith, Wolfeboro, and Laconia dotting its perimeter, finding the perfect place to stay is part of the fun.

Here’s a guide to the best places to stay on Lake Winnipesaukee, including resorts, inns, vacation rentals, and unique lodging options.

🏨 1. Lakeside Resorts

For travelers who want amenities like pools, restaurants, and water access all in one place, a resort is the way to go.

✅ Mill Falls at the Lake (Meredith)

• A beloved lakeside resort complex offering four separate inns, from the luxurious Church Landing to the family-friendly Bay Point.
• Guests enjoy lake views, indoor/outdoor pools, a spa, and walking access to Meredith’s shops and restaurants.
• Ideal for romantic getaways, weddings, and family trips.

✅ The Margate on Winnipesaukee (Laconia)

• Set on a private beach near Weirs Beach, this resort features an indoor pool, sauna, outdoor pool, and direct lake access.
• Perfect for summer fun with kayak rentals, boat docks, and lakeside fire pits.

✅ Wolfeboro Inn (Wolfeboro)

• A charming inn near downtown Wolfeboro, blending historic charm with modern comforts.
• Private beach, boat rentals, and walking distance to shops and the town dock.

🏠 2. Vacation Rentals & Lake Houses

If you want more space—or plan to stay longer—a vacation rental might be ideal. From rustic cabins to luxury waterfront homes, options abound.

Popular websites like Airbnb, Vrbo, and local rental agencies offer homes with:

• Private docks
• Fire pits and grills
• Kayaks or paddleboards included
• Pet-friendly options

Notable rental areas:

✅ Alton Bay (southern end; quieter, family-friendly)

✅ Meredith (central, close to dining and attractions)

✅ Moultonborough (many private lakefront estates)

✅ Wolfeboro (walkable downtown with charming rentals)

👉 Many island cottages are also available for rent—but note that some require a private boat or water taxi for access!

🏕️ 3. Campgrounds and Cabins

For nature lovers, camping by Lake Winnipesaukee is an unforgettable experience.

✅ Ellacoya State Park (Gilford)

• Offers camping right on the southern shore of the lake.
• RV and tent sites with easy beach access and mountain views.

✅ Long Island Bridge Campground (Moultonborough)

• Known for waterfront campsites, docks, and boat access.
• Great for families and fishing enthusiasts.

✅ Gunstock Mountain Resort (Gilford)

Not on the lake’s shore but a short drive away, offering cabins and campsites with access to adventure activities like ziplining, hiking, and skiing.

🏘️ 4. Boutique Inns & Bed-and-Breakfasts

Prefer a more intimate experience? These smaller inns offer personalized service and cozy charm:

✅ The Inn at Mill Falls (Meredith)

• Set inside a restored 19th-century mill, blending rustic architecture with modern comforts.
• Walkable to Meredith Bay and the Mill Falls Marketplace.

✅ Pickering House Inn (Wolfeboro)

• A luxury boutique inn ranked among New England’s best.
• Elegant rooms, gourmet breakfast, and walking distance to Wolfeboro’s shops and lakefront.

✅ Tuckernuck Inn (Meredith)

• A friendly, family-run B&B nestled in a quiet spot but close to the action in Meredith.

🚤 5. Unique Stays: Island Lodging and Boat Rentals

For the truly adventurous, staying on one of Lake Winnipesaukee’s 264 islands is a memorable option. Many private cottages are available for weekly rental—but you’ll need a boat to get there!

Alternatively, some visitors choose to rent a houseboat or sleep aboard their own vessel at one of the lake’s marinas.

🎯 Tips for Booking Your Stay

👉 Summer is peak season, especially July and August—book lodging months in advance for best selection.

👉 Consider shoulder seasons (late spring, early fall) for lower rates and smaller crowds.

👉 Look for properties offering boat docks or moorings if you plan to bring a boat.

✨ Final Thoughts: Where to Stay at Lake Winnipesaukee

Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly resort, a peaceful cottage by the water, or a rustic campsite under the stars, Lake Winnipesaukee offers diverse accommodations for every traveler.

Stay in Meredith for upscale dining and shopping, in Wolfeboro for small-town charm, or Weirs Beach for nightlife and action. Wherever you stay, you’ll wake up to the beauty of New Hampshire’s largest lake, with endless opportunities for boating, swimming, and exploring.