May 27, 2022
Tips on Top Nearby Lakes
Central New Hampshire is well known for its pristine lakes and the seasonal recreation opportunities they offer. From boating and swimming in summer, to skating and ice fishing in winter, find your lake vacation for all seasons. Each lake has its own characteristics and advantages. Local insight can be invaluable when you visit the area. Here are some local tips to get you started.
Lake Sunapee
With a length of over 8 miles and 70 miles of shoreline, Sunapee is the largest lake in the area. Great for all uses: swimming, boating, fishing, and more. The large State Beach is part of the state park system and has facilities and plenty of parking. Dewey Beach offers town access just north of Sunapee Harbor. Find public boat ramps in Sunapee Harbor and Georges Mills. Enjoy Dock and Dine access and ice cream runs at the Newbury town docks and Sunapee Harbor. Boat rentals, sunset tours and dinner cruises available at Sunapee Harbor.
Little Lake Sunapee
The New London Town Beach is known as Bucklin Beach and sits on the Eastern shore of Little Lake Sunapee. A quieter lake, it is great for non-powered boats, fishing, and sunfish sailing. Due to a peninsula that almost crosses the entire lake, it is twice as big as it appears from almost every shore. There is a small park and boat ramp access on the western end for smaller power boats, mostly used by fishermen and shore residents.
Pleasant Lake
Pleasant Lake is one of the more secluded lakes in the area. There is a small town park for picnicking with a beach, and boat ramp for access. Pleasant Lake holds 2 state fishing records. Blueberry Island on the Eastern shore is a popular destination. The bird sanctuary in Turtle Cove is home to loons, kingfisher, mergansers and more. Guests of The Inn at Pleasant Lake have private beach access with resort amenities like tennis, bocce, basketball, and more. You can dine with lake and mountain views at Oak & Grain.
Otter Pond
Lake fun does not stop when summer ends! While Otter Pond has a small beach for swimming in summer, it also is ideal for winter access. Otter Pond is relatively shallow and one of the earliest water bodies around to freeze. No wonder it is popular among ice fishermen, Nordic skaters, and other sporting enthusiasts. Check out Kitewing down in Newbury for outfitting. You might even catch an old fashion ice boat if conditions are right.
Kezar Lake
Bordering Wadliegh State Park, Kezar has very popular walking trails around the lake with views of its pristine shoreline. Wadleigh State Park is a peaceful and safe place for anyone to swim. It offers a roped off area for children, barbecue fireplaces, picnic tables and restrooms. The eagles are a common sight so bring your binoculars! Horse Beach near the town common is where the boat ramp is located.