Growing up, I visited Lake Winnipesaukee every year and stayed in some absolutely stunning lakefront cottages. There’s nothing quite like waking up to the serene views of New Hampshire’s largest lake, spending the day on the water, and relaxing by the fire at night. I’m excited to share the best of the best with you that have availability online today!
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun family retreat, renting a lake house on Winnipesaukee is the perfect escape. In this guide, I’ve handpicked the top lake houses to rent, all offering unbeatable views and direct access to the lake for your ultimate New England getaway.
The Coolest Houses for Rent on Lake Winnipesaukee (At a Glance)
Here are the best lake house Airbnbs and VRBOs in Lake Winnipesaukee by category, including amenities, trip types, and budgets. The subsequent sections will cover each listing in more detail.
- Top Vacation Rental on Lake Winnipesaukee: A-Frame on Lake Winni
- Best Luxury Rental Lake Winnipesaukee: Waterfront Home with Boat Dock
- Most Romantic House for Rent on Lake Winnipesaukee: Quiet Lakefront Cottage Rental
- Best Lake Winnipesaukee Cabin for Large Groups: Gilford House near the Beach
- Top Cheap VRBO Cabin in Lake Winnipesaukee: Wolfeboro Cottage
- Best Lakefront Cottage on Lake Winnipesaukee for Rent: Alton Waterfront House
- Coolest Lake Region Rental for Families: Moultonborough Lodge on the Lake
- Best Lake Winnipesaukee NH Rental with a View: Lakefront NH House with Dock
- Most Unique Vacation Rental on Lake Winnipesaukee: Harold’s Camp Cottage
Now, let’s get into the best areas to stay around the lake in 2025.
Where to Stay on Lake Winnipesaukee: Quick Area Guide
Lake Winnipesaukee is huge – spanning over 70 square miles with more than 250 islands. So choosing the right home base really matters, and honestly, many people often choose the wrong side of the lake. Whether you’re looking for a low-key family escape, bustling lake town energy, or a remote island getaway, here’s how each area stacks up:
Meredith
Perfect for: First-timers, couples, boutique vibes
Charming, walkable, and upscale. Meredith has a beautiful waterfront, cute cafés, art galleries, and a relaxed, polished feel. Great for romantic getaways or anyone who wants lake views with small-town charm.
Wolfeboro
Perfect for: History lovers, families, shopping + dining
Known as “America’s Oldest Summer Resort,” Wolfeboro blends quaint New England architecture with a lively downtown. Great for strolling, people-watching, and boutique shopping with the kids.
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Laconia / Weirs Beach
Perfect for: Entertainment, arcades, boating, nightlife
This is the most touristy part of the lake…think bumper cars, mini golf, concerts, and a bustling boardwalk scene. A fun, classic summer experience with more energy and crowds. Here’s the precise area of Laconia I recommend staying.
Gilford
Perfect for: Boaters, concertgoers, and lakefront luxury
Gilford is home to Bank of NH Pavilion (a popular outdoor concert venue) and plenty of upscale lakefront homes. It’s ideal if you want a mix of peace, recreation, and entertainment access.
Alton Bay
Perfect for: Slower pace, lake views, budget-friendly stays
Located on the southern tip of the lake, Alton is quiet and a bit more local. Great for folks who want to relax, hit the water, and avoid the hustle.
Moultonborough / Center Harbor
Perfect for: Families, nature lovers, longer stays
These spots are less commercialized but still close to hiking trails, public beaches, and grocery stores. It’s the sweet spot between rustic and convenient.
13 Top-Rated Vacation Homes in Lake Winnipesaukee
If romantic lakefront cottages and luxury vacation rentals on Lake Winnipesaukee all sound good to you, you’re in for a treat! Below are some of the most unique stays on Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire.
1. Perfect Family Getaway Home
- 📍 Location: Alton, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $608/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Water view, AC, wood stove, deck, washer/dryer
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏖️, outdoor enthusiasts 🌲, relaxation seekers 🔥
Welcome to your perfect retreat! This renovated 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Alton offers stunning water views and a peaceful atmosphere, just a short walk from Lake Winnipesaukee.
Inside, the living area features a cozy wood stove, perfect for chilly nights. The fully equipped kitchen and separate dining area offer all you need for family meals.
Just minutes away, explore Gunstock Mountain Resort or the nearby Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion. For more outdoor adventures, the area offers plenty of hiking, water activities, and local attractions.
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Nearby, enjoy skiing, hiking, and boating, or visit nearby Laconia for more outdoor fun. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, this home offers something for everyone.
2. Private Waterfront Retreat
- 📍 Location: 94 Dinsmoor Point Rd, Gilford, NH, 03249
- 💵 Price Per Night: $599/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private beach, ample docking, fire pit, sandy beach
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family vacations 👨👩👧👦, boating enthusiasts 🚤, outdoor lovers 🌳
Escape to this Prime Waterfront Cottage on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, offering privacy and a lakeside experience. Located at Coleman Point, this 1200 sq. ft. cottage features 3 cozy bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a detached bunkhouse, and a sleeper sofa.
Enjoy relaxing on the 30-foot porch with an electric awning, perfect for taking in the views, or unwind around the fire pit on the sun deck while watching the sunset.
With a firm sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, this property offers access to boating and a protected area for your boat.
Just a short drive away, you can enjoy skiing at Gunstock Mountain Resort or catch live music at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, ensuring endless entertainment. Additionally, Laconia, only 11 minutes from the home, offers unique shopping, dining, and local attractions.
3. Harold’s Camp
- 📍 Location: Alton Bay, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $440/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 4 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private lakefront, vintage charm, fireplace, peaceful retreat
- 🌟 Perfect For: Couples 👫, nature lovers 🌳, lake enthusiasts 🚤
Relax at Harold’s Camp, a vintage 1900s waterfront camp on Lake Winnipesaukee, offering the ultimate opportunity to unwind. This cozy 954 sq. ft. camp sits back from the road, ensuring privacy and a peaceful atmosphere.
The open-concept living and dining room features a propane fireplace, perfect for cozy nights, while the quaint kitchen is ideal for preparing meals to enjoy in the comfort of your lakeside retreat.
This camp features two comfortable bedrooms, a bathroom, and a peaceful outdoor space ideal for relaxation. Spend your days soaking in the natural beauty of the area or exploring nearby attractions.
Gunstock Mountain Resort offers skiing and outdoor activities, while Alton Bay, a charming lakeside town, provides shopping and dining. For even more adventure, Laconia is just a short drive away, offering additional attractions and local culture to explore.
4. Idyllic Mountain and Lake Getaway
- 📍 Location: Gilford, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $450/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Stunning mountain and lake views, private outdoor space, cozy wood stove
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏖️, nature lovers 🌲, outdoor enthusiasts 🚶♀️
Step into this idyllic mountain and lake getaway, nestled in the heart of Gilford, NH. This charming home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and plenty of space to unwind and explore the natural beauty of the area.
Indoor, the home boasts a cozy atmosphere with a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living area with a wood stove, and large windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Close by, you’ll find Gunstock Mountain Resort for skiing and outdoor activities, while Lake Winnipesaukee provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and relaxation by the water.
The Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion offers live music events, and Laconia, just minutes away, provides shopping, dining, and local culture. This mountain and lake getaway is the perfect spot to relax and explore Gilford’s beauty.
5. Beautiful New Home near Lake
- 📍 Location: Laconia, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $799/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 7 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private dock, lake access, cozy living spaces, nearby attractions
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏖️, outdoor lovers 🌲, water sports enthusiasts 🚤
Settle into this beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee retreat! Perfect for families or groups, this charming home features 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, accommodating up to 7 guests.
Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living room, and a relaxing ambiance. Step out to your private dock, ideal for boating and fishing, or unwind on the deck with lake views.
Just minutes away, you can explore Paugus Bay, enjoy live music at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, or head to Gunstock Mountain Resort for skiing and outdoor adventures.
Nearby, Laconia offers shopping, dining, and local attractions, making this getaway perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
6. Campbellot Lakefront Chalet
- 📍 Location: Wolfeboro, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $425/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private waterfront, dock, paddle boards, EV charging outlet
- 🌟 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌲, water enthusiasts 🚤, relaxation seekers 🛀, adventure lovers 🏞️
Discover Campbellot, a beautiful year-round lakefront chalet on the Rust Pond in the heart of the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. This peaceful retreat is perfect for families or groups, offering 4 bedrooms and amenities.
Within, the warm atmosphere is complemented by a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and large windows. Outdoor, enjoy a private dock, raft, kayaks, paddle boards, and a Weber gas grill for perfect lakeside evenings.
In the vicinity, explore hiking trails at Mount Major, fish at Rust Pond or Lake Wentworth, or visit attractions such as Lake Winnipesaukee and Castle in the Clouds. Winter brings snowshoeing and ice skating, with Gunstock, King Pine, and Cranmore resorts just a short drive away.
This getaway offers something for every season—boating, hiking, skiing, and endless outdoor fun.
- Read next: When to Visit New England
7. Luxurious Lake Home with a Stunning View
- 📍 Location: Gilford, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $695/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 12 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Radiant heated floors, 2 large decks, Sonos sound system, 70″ TV, private parking
- 🌟 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌲, water enthusiasts 🚤, family gatherings 👨👩👧👦
Welcome to this luxurious 4-bedroom, 4-bath home with breathtaking views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains. This spacious retreat offers the perfect blend of comfort and adventure.
Enjoy radiant heated hardwood floors, a gourmet kitchen with a Keurig coffee maker, and a Sonos sound system throughout the house. The open living areas create an ideal space for gathering, and the two large decks offer stunning views.
Just minutes from Gunstock Mountain Resort, you can explore skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. Lake Winnipesaukee is a short drive away for boating and swimming, while nearby attractions like the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion, Monkey Trunks High Ropes, and Logs of Fun Arcade promise endless fun.
This home is the perfect base for making unforgettable memories with family and friends, combining relaxation and adventure in one spectacular location.
8. Stunning Waterfront Home with Boat Dock
- 📍 Location: Moultonborough, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $811/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 14 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Boat dock, fire-pit, expansive deck, lake views, kayaks, paddleboards
- 🌟 Perfect For: Family gatherings 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲, water sports enthusiasts 🚣♀️, sunset seekers 🌅
Enjoy stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee, Becky’s Garden, and Beaver Island from this five-bedroom, four-bath home. Just a short 3-minute walk to Lake Winnipesaukee, the home is designed with floor-to-ceiling windows and a southwest orientation, making it perfect for watching sunsets.
The property features 100 feet of sandy shoreline, a 40′ boat dock, and plenty of outdoor space for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Unwind by the fire pit or relax on the expansive deck.
The open-concept main floor is perfect for family gatherings, featuring vaulted ceilings and large windows. The kitchen is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, a breakfast bar, and a dining area.
Nearby, explore Lake Kanasatka, just a 9-minute drive away. A 25-minute drive will take you to Castle in the Clouds, while other attractions, like hiking trails, are within easy reach. From outdoor adventures to relaxing by the water, there’s plenty to discover in this beautiful area.
9. Gorgeous Waterfront Lake Home
- 📍 Location: Moultonborough, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $798/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 9 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Two master bedrooms, private balconies, spacious deck, three-season porch
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌳, sunset seekers 🌅
Located in the peaceful Hanson Cove on Lake Winnipesaukee, this home, built in 2018, offers the perfect getaway for up to 9 guests. With an open-concept kitchen, dining, and living room, this home is ideal for family gatherings.
Enjoy water views from the three-season porch or the expansive decks. With two master bedrooms, one on the main level and another on the second floor with its balcony, you’ll have plenty of space to relax.
Close by, enjoy boating and fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee, or take a short walk to the lake for a relaxing day by the water. Just a short drive away, explore Castle in the Clouds for hiking and breathtaking views, or head to Lake Kanasatka for more outdoor activities.
From peaceful lakefront moments to outdoor exploration, there’s something for everyone.
10. Lakefront Home with Great Sandy Beach
- 📍 Location: Moultonborough, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $650/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 8 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Sandy beach/swim area, 3 kayaks, canoe, sunfish, game room
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families with kids 👨👩👧👦, outdoor enthusiasts 🚣♀️, relaxation seekers 🏖️
Experience lakefront living at its finest in this 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home on Lake Winnipesaukee, just a 1-minute walk to the lake. Enjoy a private sandy beach with a swimming area perfect for kids and a dock for your boat.
The home is equipped with kayaks, paddleboards, and a canoe for water fun. Relax in the spacious living/dining area with a fireplace, or challenge the family to a game of foosball in the TV/game room.
Explore nearby attractions like Red Hill, Mt. Chocorua, and Whiteface Mountain for hiking and stunning views. Take a short drive to Castle in the Clouds for more breathtaking scenery, or visit the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion at Meadowbrook for live performances.
After a day of adventure, relax with lakeside dining on the large patio. The house offers a fully equipped kitchen, broadband internet, and ample space for everyone to unwind and enjoy!
11. Beautiful Private Home
- 📍 Location: Meredith, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $237/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Spacious 2nd and 3rd-floor apartment, private entrance
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏡, small groups 👨👩👧👦, nature lovers 🌲
Begin your stay at this beautiful home, a brand-new 2nd and 3rd-floor apartment in a private home, nestled in the heart of Meredith, NH. This bright and airy retreat is perfect for families or small groups seeking a relaxing getaway.
The open-concept design features a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a cozy living room—ideal for gathering and unwinding. With 2 bedrooms and futons in the living area, there’s plenty of space for everyone.
Step outdoors to enjoy the private patio or the nearby garden. A short walk away, you’ll find Cascade Spa and Lake Waukewan. The Winnipesaukee Playhouse is a quick drive away for entertainment, and Laconia is just 15 minutes away with more attractions and dining options.
Boating, fishing, and hiking at Gunstock Mountain Resort are just a short drive away, or you can enjoy live performances at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion. Meredith Bay is the perfect place to relax and unwind!
- Read next: Top Airbnb Rentals in the White Mountains NH
12. Beautiful Log Home in Suissevale
- 📍 Location: Moultonborough, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $383/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 10 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Log home, beach access, outdoor fire pit, wrap-around porch
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏖️, nature lovers 🌲, beachgoers 🏖️
Step into this beautiful log home in Suissevale on Lake Winnipesaukee, a perfect retreat for families or groups seeking both relaxation and adventure. The spacious 2,100 sq ft home features 4 cozy bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, comfortably sleeping up to 10 guests.
On the inside, the open-concept design and log cabin charm create an inviting atmosphere, while the well-equipped kitchen and dining area make it easy to enjoy meals. For evening relaxation, step outside to the wrap-around porch.
Enjoy the nearby Suissevale private beach, just a short walk away, where you can swim, boat, or relax by the water. Explore nearby attractions like Castle in the Clouds and Squam Lake, or enjoy local dining and shopping.
In the vicinity, enjoy boating, jet skiing, and fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee. Unwind on the beach or venture into the surrounding area—this log home provides the perfect base for making lasting memories.
13. Rustic & Modern Lakefront Home
- 📍 Location: Meredith, NH
- 💵 Price Per Night: $217/night
- 🛏️ Sleeps: 6 guests
- 🔥 Unique Features: Private beach, outdoor fire pit, nearby water access
- 🌟 Perfect For: Families 🏖️, nature lovers 🌲, water sports enthusiasts 🚤
Settle into this modern lakefront home, a retreat offering both relaxation and adventure. This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home comfortably sleeps 6 guests and is ideal for families or small groups.
Indoor, the bright living room with A/C provides the perfect spot to unwind, and the fully equipped kitchen and dining area ensure that meals are easy to enjoy together.
The home includes a queen-sized bed in the master bedroom and a bunk room with 4 twin beds. With a full bathroom and a half bathroom, guests can enjoy added convenience during their stay.
Just a short drive away, you can enjoy boating on Pemigewasset Lake or explore attractions like the Winnipesaukee Playhouse and Lake Waukewan. Take time to discover the town of Laconia, offering a variety of local shops. This location provides the ideal blend of relaxation and exciting adventures.
Top Lake Winni Airbnbs and VRBOs: Coolest Rentals in the Lakes Region of NH
Have you ever stayed in a unique Airbnb or VRBO rental on Lake Winnipesaukee? Let me know in the comments or on Insta, as I’m always looking to add to this list of the most unique lake houses on Lake Winnipesaukee!
Looking for more awesome New England adventures? Check out these dreamy destinations:
– Top Airbnb Rentals in New England
– Coolest Rentals in Massachusetts
– Unique Airbnbs in the White Mountains
– Best Vacation Homes in Rhode Island
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