The NASWA Resort has been awarded Best Lakeside Family Resort in New England by Yankee Magazine! This honor highlights the resort’s rich tradition of hospitality, vibrant lakeside charm, and its welcoming, family-first atmosphere that has made it a beloved destination for generations.
Lake Views and Big News.
The Blue Bistro’s “Hope-Made” Desserts were proudly featured in LakesRegion.org’s roundup of 8 Spots for Sweet Treats & Summer Sips in the Lakes Region. Honoring the beloved matriarch of The NASWA Resort, Hope Makris, these homemade desserts—from the iconic Key Lime Pie to the decadent “Tommy Bahama Cake”—have become a signature part of the lakeside dining experience. Each dessert is a sweet symbol of the hospitality, heart, and family tradition that define every visit to The NASWA.
2024 Best of the Lakes Region Award-Winning!
The NASWA Resort | Things to Do | Cottages / Cabins | GOLD
NazBar & Grill at NASWA Resort | Eat & Drink Boat Accessible Restaurant | SILVER
NazBar & Grill at NASWA Resort | Eat & Drink | Lake Front Dining | GOLD
The Peter Makris Memorial Run – The NASWA Resort | Things to Do | Charity Event | SILVER
Hundreds are expected to gather on Lake Winnipesaukee for the 23rd annual HK Powersports Land & Lake Poker Run on July 13, followed by the all-ages Buccaneer Bash at The NASWA Resort. This lively, pirate-themed event benefits Easterseals NH and features a poker run by boat, car, or motorcycle, ending at the NazBar & Grill with prizes, a grand buffet, beach games, and a live auction. Since 2001, the event has raised over $1.7 million to support Easterseals’ programs for individuals and families of all ages and abilities across New Hampshire.
The 23rd annual HK Powersports Land & Lake Poker Run returns to Weirs Beach on July 13, followed by the all-ages Buccaneer Bash at The NASWA Resort. The pirate-themed event benefits Easterseals NH, raising funds through a lakeside poker run, beach games, raffles, and live entertainment. The final card stop and festivities take place at the NazBar & Grill, with top prizes including a brand-new Sea-Doo. Since 2001, the event has raised over $1.7 million for Easterseals programs. This year’s run is dedicated to the memories of Peter Makris and local philanthropist Brian Connelly.
The HK Powersports Land & Lake Poker Run was recently featured on Speed on the Water, spotlighting its return to Lake Winnipesaukee on July 13 for its 23rd year. The high-energy event benefits Easterseals New Hampshire, with a fundraising goal of $200,000 in just one day. Super Stock-class race teams Northwing and CELSIUS will hit the water alongside fellow boaters, with owners Chris Hopgood and Daren Kittredge participating in the action. Set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Winnipesaukee, the event blends high-performance boating with heartfelt community impact.
The 101st Laconia Motorcycle Week officially kicks off, with organizers expecting 300,000 visitors from around the world. As a cornerstone of the event, The NASWA Resort has been part of the celebration for 89 years, with all 83 rooms sold out for the weekend. Cynthia Makris highlights the rally’s major economic impact, generating over $100 million for New Hampshire in just nine days. With races at NHMS, hill climbs at Gunstock, and events throughout the region, Motorcycle Week continues to be a vital and vibrant launch to the summer tourism season.
The NASWA Resort was named “Best Lakeside Family Resort in New England” for 2024 by Yankee Magazine and featured in their May/June Travel Guide Issue. Celebrated for its lakeside charm, multigenerational legacy, and family-friendly atmosphere, The NASWA continues to shine as a beloved destination on Lake Winnipesaukee—where warm hospitality and unforgettable memories go hand in hand.
The NASWA Resort continues to play a leading role in the 101st Laconia Motorcycle Week, kicking off the event with the 18th annual Peter Makris Memorial Run on June 8. The charity ride, created to honor Peter’s legacy, supports veterans, first responders, and local causes, having raised over $575,000 to date. Riders enjoy a scenic, police-escorted route, gourmet lunch, and live music at the NazBar & Grill. With additional events like the Tattoo Contest and late-night fun at the Blue Bistro, NASWA remains the heart of Motorcycle Week—and a tribute to decades of hospitality, family legacy, and community spirit.
The NASWA Resort was proudly named “Best Lakeside Family Resort in New England” for 2024 by TravelAwaits! Featured among the top nine family destinations in the region, NASWA earned this recognition for its vibrant atmosphere, multigenerational legacy, and unbeatable location on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee.
The 18th annual Peter Makris Memorial Run was featured in the Laconia Daily Sun, celebrating its legacy of giving back while kicking off Laconia Motorcycle Week. Held at The NASWA Resort, the ride drew 279 participants and is expected to raise $50,000 for Easterseals NH’s Veterans Count and other local causes. Over 17 years, the run has raised $575,000 for veterans, first responders, and community programs. Cynthia Makris, riding in honor of her father Peter, called it a powerful way to continue his legacy of service, community, and heartfelt hospitality.
Hope Makris was honored with the Dick Hamilton Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 New Hampshire Tourism Summit, held at the Lakeport Opera House. The award recognizes her remarkable and lasting contributions to the state’s tourism industry. As the beloved matriarch of The NASWA Resort, Hope’s lifelong dedication to hospitality has left an indelible mark on generations of guests and the entire Lakes Region community.
The NASWA Resort was proudly named one of the Best Dog-Friendly Hotels and Restaurants in New Hampshire for 2024. Known for treating pets like part of the family, the resort welcomes four-legged guests with a thoughtful touch. Upon check-in, pups receive a special “Welcome Kit” with treats, a toy, and local pet service info, while rooms are stocked with dog bedding, bowls, and waste bags. With a nightly pet fee and refundable deposit, The NASWA ensures a stay that’s as comfortable for dogs as it is for their humans.
Laconia Motorcycle Week celebrates its 100th year as the world’s oldest motorcycle rally, drawing riders from across the country to New Hampshire. Cynthia Makris of The NASWA Resort, a longtime rally supporter, honors her late father with the annual Peter Makris Memorial Run, now in its 17th year and raising over $500,000 for veterans and local causes.
The NASWA Resort proudly kicks off the 100th Laconia Motorcycle Week with the 17th annual Peter Makris Memorial Run, honoring the beloved Marine, community leader, and NASWA co-owner. This charity ride has raised over $550,000 for veterans, first responders, and local causes. With a scenic, police-escorted cruise, gourmet BBQ, and live music at the NazBar, the event continues Peter’s legacy of service, celebration, and heartfelt community spirit.