3 Ways to Plan Your New Hampshire Summer Vacation

In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to put vacation planning on the back burner. But for many families, a summer getaway is more than just a break from the routine—it’s a cherished opportunity to reconnect, recharge, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Here at The NASWA Resort, we’ve spent nearly 90 summers welcoming families from all over the country who are seeking just that. Nestled along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, our lakeside resort isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy life together.

And while it may be winter outside, now is actually the perfect time to start planning your New Hampshire summer vacation. From mapping out must-do activities to choosing the right length of stay, a little thoughtful preparation now means a smoother, more joyful experience later. Here’s how to make planning your summer getaway not only easier, but something to look forward to.

1. Create a Family-Focused Activity List (With Room for Spontaneity!)

The first step in planning a memorable vacation? Knowing what you want to do—and what you’d love to discover.

Start by gathering your crew and asking, “What does your ideal summer day look like?” Maybe it’s paddling across Lake Winnipesaukee, savoring ice cream after dinner, or dancing to live music with your toes in the sand. Once you’ve got a general sense of everyone’s priorities, you can begin building a rough itinerary around them.

Great resources to jumpstart your planning:

• 🛶 Check out the Activities section on naswa.com to see what’s offered on-site (think complimentary kayaks, beach games, and boat rides!).
• 📍 Browse top local attractions like Weirs Beach, Mount Washington Cruises, and the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad.
• 🎡 See what summer events are on the calendar—like Laconia Motorcycle Week, the Lakeside Craft Fair, and Fourth of July celebrations.

💡 Planning tip: You don’t need a rigid itinerary. Leave space for downtime and spontaneity—sometimes the best moments come from simply wandering down to the water or catching an impromptu sunset on the dock.

2. Decide How Long to Stay (Spoiler: You’ll Probably Wish You Stayed Longer)

Choosing the right length for your stay is about finding the sweet spot between relaxation and exploration. Luckily, The NASWA Resort offers flexible options—from quick weekend getaways to full-week family retreats.

Here are a few things to consider:

• 🧳 A Weekend Stay: Perfect for a quick recharge, birthday celebration, or first-time visit. Enjoy beach time, one or two excursions, and dinner at The Blue Bistro.
• 🏖️ Midweek Magic: Traveling Sunday through Thursday often comes with better rates and fewer crowds, especially in June or late August.
• 🌞 A Full Week: Ideal for bigger families or those looking to truly unplug and unwind. You’ll have time to explore Lake Winnipesaukee, venture into the White Mountains, enjoy our live beachside entertainment, and still have a few lazy days to simply relax.

💡 Pro tip: The earlier you book, the better your options for specific cottage styles, pet-friendly rooms, and prime dates—especially if you’re coordinating with extended family or friends.

3. Pick a Date and Start the Countdown

Anticipation is half the fun. Once you’ve picked your dates, mark it on the calendar, start your packing list, and let the countdown begin!

Why early booking matters:

• 🛌 Popular dates fill up fast—especially during peak season (late June through August) and major events like Motorcycle Week or holiday weekends.
• 🐶 Pet-friendly accommodations are limited, and they go quickly!
• 📆 Group getaways or multi-room bookings benefit from early coordination—so everyone gets the perfect setup.

For families with school-age kids, a summer trip on the horizon can be a motivator through winter and spring. And for parents, it offers peace of mind knowing that your summer plans are already beautifully in motion.

Why The NASWA Resort Is More Than Just a Place to Stay

We like to think of The NASWA as a memory-making machine wrapped in lakeside charm. For nearly a century, families have come to our colorful cottages and inn rooms not just for the view, but for the feeling they get when they walk down to the beach, grab a cocktail from NazBar, or share stories around a firepit.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• 🌊 The largest private sandy beach on Lake Winnipesaukee
• 🛶 Free use of kayaks and paddleboards
• 🍽️ Two onsite restaurants—from fine dining at Blue Bistro to casual, festive fun at NazBar & Grill
• 🎶 Live music and beach parties all summer long
• 🧺 Family-friendly events and easy access to Weirs Beach attractions
• 🐾 Pet-friendly accommodations so no one gets left behind
• ❤️ A legacy of hospitality from our family to yours—rooted in the Greek tradition of philoxenia (treating strangers like friends)

Make This the Summer You’ll Always Remember

Vacations have a way of stitching themselves into the fabric of our family stories—those golden days of laughter on the lake, games on the sand, and late-night walks back to the cottage under the stars. At The NASWA Resort, we know how precious those moments are, and we’re here to help you make every one of them count.

📞 Ready to start planning? Call 888-55-NASWA
🌐 Browse accommodations and seasonal specials at naswa.com
📧 Have questions? Reach out to [email protected] for personalized help

Let the countdown to summer begin. Because the memories you’re dreaming of today are waiting for you right here on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.