As the rumble of motorcycle engines fades into the background, the Lakes Region of New Hampshire transitions from the adrenaline-fueled excitement of Bike Week to the laid-back charm of summer. The kids are out of school, and with the official start of the season upon us, the area buzzes with a different kind of energy—one filled with sunshine, lake breezes, and the promise of endless summer fun.
With summer officially in full swing, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy in the Lakes Region. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the area offers something for everyone:
The Lakes
The crown jewel of the region, Lake Winnipesaukee, beckons with its sparkling waters, numerous islands, coves, and towns to explore. Boating, jet-skiing, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are just a few ways to cool off and soak in the stunning views. But quieter lakes like Squam, Waukewan, Merrymeeting, and Ossipee offer tranquil beauty and less boating activity. Newfound Lake is known for its pristine waters and laid-back atmosphere. Check out Winnisquam’s famous sandbar on New Hampshire’s third-largest lake, or lay back and enjoy one of the many smaller lakes throughout the region. Whatever your speed, there’s a lake to fit your needs. Also, don’t forget to visit one of the many restaurants, shops, and ice cream stands accessible right from many of the lakes at the town docking facilities.
Hiking and Biking Trails
From the scenic trails of Mount Major and the Belknaps to the bike-friendly paths of the WOW Trail, outdoor enthusiasts can explore the natural beauty of the region at their own pace. For excitement, try the ziplines/adventure park or mountain coaster ride at Gunstock. Looking for a more challenging hike? Just a bit north, you will find the White Mountains with over 1,200 miles of trails, with some that challenge even the most avid hikers. If you’re into mountain biking, we’ve got you covered. There are hundreds of miles of trails throughout the state, including several parks here in the Lakes Region. Check out Trailforks.com and Highland Mountain Bike Park.
Beach Days
With numerous public beaches, like Weirs Beach, Ellacoya State Park, Wellington State Beach on Newfound Lake, Wentworth State Park on Lake Wentworth, and White Lake State Park in Tamworth, there’s plenty of sandy shorelines to spread out a towel and enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. My kids love going to the Kancamagus Highway and stopping along the way to jump in the river and frolic in the waterfalls. It’s cold but really refreshing on a hot summer day. How about miniature golf go-carts or other attractions in the evenings?
What do we do when it rains?
There are plenty of indoor activities as well. Theatres, restaurants, and several arcades, including the world-famous Funspot, home of the Guinness Record holder for the largest collection of Classic Arcade Games. The Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, the Colonial Theatre, Lakeport Opera House, Winnipesaukee Playhouse, and several indoor movie theatres are popular choices. There are also a host of indoor play areas like Altitude in Concord or Jump N Joy in Laconia.
Real Estate Market: Heating Up with the Summer Sun
As temperatures rise, so does the real estate market in New Hampshire. And as you can see, the Lakes Region, with its combination of natural beauty and vibrant community life, is particularly appealing to homebuyers and investors.
The demand for lakeside properties is at an all-time high, driven by the desire for second homes and vacation rentals. Properties with lake views, beaches, private docks, and proximity to outdoor activities are especially hot commodities. There are so many water-access communities to choose from.
Buyers are not only drawn to the region for its summer allure but also for its year-round charm with Gunstock Ski Area in your backyard. From cozy cabins to luxurious estates, there’s something for every taste and budget. While every season has its charm in the Lakes Region, Summer is when the Lakes Region shines its brightest.
So, as the summer heat continues to climb, dive into all that the Lakes Region has to offer.
From its pristine lakes and lush trails to its welcoming community and booming real estate market, there’s no better place to celebrate the joys of summer. Grab your sunscreen, your fishing pole, or maybe even a real estate brochure, and join us in the Lakes Region for a season to remember!
Cheers!
This article was written by Randy Miller. Randy is a Realtor® at Roche Realty Group located in Meredith, NH, and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.
