In the alluring landscape of New Hampshire resides one of its gems, Lake Winnipesaukee. Notable for its stunning beauty and overflowing options for leisure activities, its charm captivates visitors from all corners of the globe. The captivating shimmer of its untouched waters and the warm embrace of its sandy shores are indeed a sight for sore eyes. As the summer sun smiles upon us, individuals and families are drawn irresistibly to this majestic haven.
We’re setting sail on a voyage to explore the crown jewels of Lake Winnipesaukee’s beaches. We’ll steer you to idyllic locations where you can soak up the serene ambiance, indulge under the golden sun, and experience the bliss of a quintessential beach day. Allow us to guide your journey to the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation sites, enveloped by the awe-inspiring scenery that only Lake Winnipesaukee can offer. So grab your beach gear, put on your favorite sunglasses, and get geared up for an unforgettable adventure through New Hampshire’s splendid wonders.
1. Waukewan Beach
Located in the heart of New Hampshire, Waukewan Beach is renowned and favored for its convenient handicap accessibility, shaded picnic spots, and an on-site bathhouse. Waukewan Beach shares its space with admirable attractions, five mesmerizing arcades, and a nostalgic drive-in theater that is impossible to overlook. A rustic wooden boardwalk flanks the sparkling water, running adjacent to train tracks frequented by the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad.
Waukewan Beach revels in the summer sun from Memorial Day through to Labor Day. The nearby amusement attractions include an exhilarating go-kart track and an intriguing adventure course. Not to forget, the world’s largest video game museum is just around the corner. Weirs Beach, in Weirs, New Hampshire, ups the excitement with its yearly Motorcycle Week extravaganza. However, swimming here calls for caution as there are no lifeguards on duty.
2. Weirs Beach
Weirs Beach, a fascinating spot in New Hampshire, is perfect for swimming, basking in the sun, and fishing. The gastronomic scenes around this location include popular spots like Weirs Beach Cafe and the Big Dipper Ice Cream Stand, making it just right for a delicious pick-me-up.
The surrounding area is immaculate and well-maintained, providing visitors with a bathhouse and a playground to keep the little ones entertained. Lovely picnic spots, where you can relax and watch boats glide by, add to its magnetism. Its shallow waters make it an excellent spot for families with young children who can safely enjoy a fun day at the beach.
During the sunny season, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, the beach is accessible from 8:00 am to 10:30 pm and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm during the off-season.
3. Albee Beach
Albee Beach is a serene paradise, perfect for a swim or to laze around beneath the sun. The beach slopes gently into the lake’s tepid waters, creating a secure environment for youngsters. The amenities here include picnic spots and ample parking.
With restroom facilities and a serving corner doling out snacks and drinks, Albee Beach ensures comfortable convenience. Located adjacent to the New Hemosphare Boat Museum, you can reach this tranquil spot via Route 109. Lifeguards are present from Memorial Day until Labor Day, ensuring safe enjoyment of the beach’s various recreational options like fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
4. Brewster Beach
Significantly appealing to picnic-goers and swimmers alike, Brewster Beach hosts lifeguards throughout the day. Nestled south of downtown Wolfeboro, this beach offers free parking. The site boasts a modest playground for children, picnic tables, barbecue grills, bathrooms, and changing rooms.
For the stayers at Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, taking a dip or having some fun by the beach is just what Brewster Beach offers. The sandy ground here is soft under your feet, and the crystal-clear water is sure to be tempting. It’s a perfect spot for a family picnic.
5. Ellacoya State Park Beach
Situated on Lake Winnipesaukee’s southwest shore, Ellacoya State Park homes a sandy beach, an RV park, and 38 campgrounds. Along with boat launching, picnic spots, and children-friendly playgrounds, it offers a wholesome package to its visitors. Lakeport State Park, on the Lake’s northwest shore located in Glendale, New Hampshire, provides a sandy beach, a boat launch facility, a picnic area, a playground, a bathhouse, and hiking trails to its adventurers.
6. Long Island Beach
Newfound Lake graces Long Island with one of its most frequented beaches. The beach buzzes with activity during the summer, so it’s best to arrive early. Here, you’ll find several shady picnic spots and a plethora of activities including hiking and fishing.
Hampton Beach bustles with lifeguards on duty every day. Multiple bathhouses offer comforts, and the preferable parking spots are in the private lots along Ashworth Avenue. During the busiest time between Memorial Day and Labor Day, businesses along Ocean Boulevard, including restaurants, arcades, candy stores, and gift shops, come to life. As a grand spectacle, Long Island Beach hosts public fireworks displays each Wednesday night.
7. States Landing Beach
States Landing Beach is acclaimed as one of the top-rated beaches on Lake Winnipesaukee. It offers breathtaking views, calm waters, and soft sand that presents a perfect setting for sunbathing and swimming. Set in close proximity to other attractions such as fishing and boating spots, it is an excellent location for family outings or group visits.
8. Allen Albee Beach
Allen Albee Beach, exclusively open to town locals for now, offers an excellent space to unwind with a book or take a refreshing dip. Wentworth State Beach, open to the public from May to September, is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The beach also hosts a playground, pavilions, and lifeguards on duty actively from 9 am to 6 pm.
9. Sandwich Town Beach
Located at the heart of Rye, New Hampshire, Sandwich Town Beach is famous for its family-friendly atmosphere, playground, restaurants, arcades, candy shops, and gift stores. The beach swarms with excitement when sand art masters from across the globe arrive to participate in the popular sand sculpting competition. With the Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown at a stone’s throw, the location offers a convenient stay. Rye and Portsmouth abound in places worth visiting.
10. Carry Beach
Found at Hampton Beach in New Hampshire, Carry Beach is staffed with lifeguards and offers a playground as well as an annual Seafood Festival in September. Accessible throughout the season without any gate restrictions, Carry Beach opens its doors from the end of May till September from 9 am to 5 pm.
With a sizeable parking lot and amenities, including restrooms and showers, the beach provides convenience and comfort. It’s located within the vicinity of Hampton Beach State Park on the southern end of Lake Winnipesaukee.
11. Gilford Beach
Gilford Beach is particularly enjoyed for its spectacular views and extensive facilities. The beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking opportunities, along with exceptional maintenance and a bevy of facilities, making it a popular pick for a summer afternoon.
Nestled on Lake Winnipesaukee’s eastern shore, this public beach has far-reaching appeal due to its shallow and clear waters, making it an excellent spot for children. The facility includes a large parking lot, several restrooms, and a snack bar to satiate any mid-day hunger pangs.
12. Suissevale Beach
Sunapee State Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. The beach offers swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, with food and drink facilities ensuring a comfortable stay.
Wellington State Park is known for its wide array of amenities, like a large beach and recreational activities. However, this beach tends to get crowded on the weekends and holidays, so checking in early might save you a spot. The park is dotted with shaded spots to relax, and a snack shop offers cold drinks and summer treats.
Why should you visit a public beach on Lake Winnipesaukee?
Lake Winnipesaukee’s Grand Scale
Lake Winnipesaukee is one of New Hampshire’s largest lakes, and it is an exciting hub for swimming, fishing, and boating. The 182-mile shoreline and 258 islands promise plenty of choices for activities and attractions around Lake Winnipesaukee, NH. The vicinity around Lake Winnipesaukee is well-equipped with comfortable accommodations and entertainment options. Meredith Bay, a public beach in Lake Winnipesaukee, is an ideal place for leisure and enjoyment.
Numerous Public Beaches
Lake Winnipesaukee has a plethora of excellent public beaches for a day of relaxation. Weirs Beach is a prominent beach located in the Laconia town, perfect for a calming swim or a laid-back lounge. These public beaches around Lake Winnipesaukee are ideally set up for recharging and rejuvenation. Several state parks in the vicinity offer limited amenities during off-season reduced hours, but nevertheless provide an opportunity for a tranquil retreat.
Multiple Amenities at Hand
If you seek a family day out at the beach, Lake Winnipesaukee’s offerings are just about perfect. Its beaches come loaded with amenities like picnic tables, barbecue grills, and playgrounds. Weirs Beach, in particular, pulls in families and groups due to its extensive sandy beach and serene waters.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Many of Lake Winnipesaukee’s beaches serve more than just sun and sand, extending scenic hiking trails and views of the picturesque mountains. Alongside fitness centers, saunas, hot tubs, grille-equipped locations, and rental opportunities for paddle boards and kayaks, it’s a fabulous summer spot, with the winter opening up lovely mountain views from several rooms.
Ideal for a Day with Family and Friends
Lake Winnipesaukee beaches are a brilliant choice for spending a day out with your companions, whether you’re in for a day trip or an entire weekend. With such a variety of beaches surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee, we’ve selected and listed some of the outstanding options in the frame of popularity and scenic beauty for your convenience.
FAQs
What is the average water temperature of Lake Winnipesaukee?
The average water temperature of Lake Winnipesaukee is 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The Lake is the busiest during the summer, so it’s a great time to visit. The weather is warm, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
What is the best time of year to visit Lake Winnipesaukee?
The best time to visit Lake Winnipesaukee is in the summer. This is when the weather is warm and the Lake is busiest, with people enjoying various outdoor activities. The state parks offer reduced hours during the off-season, so visiting in the summer ensures you’ll have plenty of time to explore all the different attractions.
What are some popular activities to do at these beaches?
You will find various entertainment options at the beach, including restaurants, arcades, gift shops, and more. The main season for beaches is from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Sea Shell Stage features live music nightly and fireworks every Wednesday night.
The last two weeks of June are the best time to visit beaches because of the sand sculpting artists. Mid-August is the best time to visit beaches because family-friendly activities are available. The beach has a playground that is open all season long. In September, the beach hosts the Seafood Festival.
The beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the summer weather. The Ashworth by the Sea is an excellent option if you want to be just steps from the beach and close to all the attractions. There are many activities to do at the beach, including swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand.
What are some famous tourist attractions near these beaches?
Weirs Beach is the most popular beach in New Hampshire and is an excellent spot for picnics and swimming. The Weirs Beach Drive-In is one of the best tourist attractions in the area and offers a great range of activities, including an arcade, bumper cars, and a boardwalk. The train tracks nearby are still used by the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad and can be visited for a fee.
Are there any restaurants or bars located near these beaches?
Almost all the beaches on the Lake have restaurants nearby, but one of the best ways to enjoy a day at the beach is to bring your own food and drinks. If you plan on going out for dinner afterward, ensure you have a cooler with ice.