18 Aug NH Lakes Region Public Beaches
The Summit Resort is centrally located in the NH Lakes Region within close proximity to a few amazing public beaches. Each location offers unique features that appeal to different vacationers. Weirs Beach, less than two miles from the resort, is one of the more popular spots on Lake Winnipesaukee. Ellacoya State Park, part of NH Parks and Recreation, offers many amenities so your family can stay for a full day of fun. Opechee Park, located in Laconia, offers a more relaxed and quiet setting to enjoy the day.
Weirs Beach:
Weir’s beach is located in the heart of Laconia just a mile and a half from Summit Resort. This is one of the most popular spots in the lakes region. With a boardwalk, pier, and many restaurants the Weirs always attracts a crowd. There is a small fee to park at the beach, but once you’re in, a beautiful lakeside afternoon awaits. If you sit towards the right side of the beach you can watch a variety of boats drive up the channel into Paugus Bay which is fun viewing for the kids. Although the beach does not have grills, they do allow beachgoers to bring their own charcoal grills and picnic tables are located throughout the lawn area of the beach. The pier is currently undergoing a major revitalization project which is such an exciting time, check out our blog for more information on the project here.
Ellacoya State Park:
Ellacoya is located in Gilford, NH on the southwest side of Winnipesaukee. This beautiful, sandy stretch of beach offers views across the lake towards the quaint town of Sandwich and the Ossipiee Mountains. With a wide variety of activities and amenities, you can spend a fully day of family fun at Ellacoya. One of the defining feature of this beach is the shallow sandy bottom that stretches far out into the lake. If you are looking to let your kids play in the lake without the concerns of deeper water, this is the perfect beach for you. There is a small fee to access the park. You can check out the park hours and fees here. Ellacoya also includes a concession stand, picnic tables, a picnic pavilion, playground, and bath houses. There is also a boat ramp available and canoeing and kayaking access.
Opechee Park:
Opechee Park is located on Main St. in Laconia. The park includes beaches at Opechee Cove and Point, both of which are about 1400 feet. The park is also home to a field hockey field, soccer field, a 400M track, little league baseball fields, and two playgrounds. With all the amenities, there is plenty of space to run around for the little ones. The park also features a concession stand and picnic tables that can be found throughout the area. The beach itself isn’t very big, but it packs a lot of extra amenities without the crowds you would see at the other locations. Opechee is the perfect place to read a book while the kids splash around near the shore. If you are looking for a more low-key spot away from the tourist areas, this is the beach for you.