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Lake Sunapee, a serene and expansive body of water in western New Hampshire, stretches 8.1 miles in length and up to 2.5 miles in width, offering a diverse array of activities for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. With its maximum depth of 105 feet and a shoreline of approximately 70 miles, this lake is dotted with eleven islands and several peninsulas, creating a picturesque landscape.
Adventure travelers can indulge in boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding from one of the six public boat ramps, including those at Sunapee Harbor and Mount Sunapee State Park. The state park itself is a haven for outdoor activities, featuring hiking trails, swimming areas, and cross-country skiing in the winter.
Wellness seekers will appreciate the tranquil atmosphere of The Fells, an 83.5-acre estate once belonging to diplomat John Milton Hay, now open to the public with guided house tours and enchanting gardens. Families can enjoy dinner cruises aboard the MV Sunapee Lake Queen or explore the fairy village at The Fells.
Nearby, the John Hay National Wildlife Refuge and Pillsbury State Park offer additional opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring diverse habitats. For cultural enrichment, consider visiting the Montshire Museum of Science or the Hood Museum of Art, both located within a short drive. Historical landmarks such as the Loon Island Lighthouse and the original caboose in Newbury Harbor add to the rich tapestry of this lakeside destination. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Lake Sunapee is an idyllic destination that caters to all tastes.
- Surface area (mi)
- 10.56
- Max depth (ft)
- 111.88
- Elevation (ft)
- 1427.17
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 68.35
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
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Marinas on Lake Sunapee Vacation Rentals
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Sunapee Vacation Rentals has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake Sunapee, but there are specific areas where it is permitted. Swimming is allowed at Sunapee State Park Beach, though there are no lifeguards on duty, and it is not allowed in Sunapee Harbor except at Dewey Beach.
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Lake Sunapee is a popular destination because of its diverse recreational activities. It offers boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and hiking in the summer, as well as cross-country skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The lake also features several sandy beaches and scenic trails around its extensive shoreline.
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The size and bag limits for trout, lake trout, and salmon in Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire are as follows: Trout and landlocked salmon must be at least 15 inches long, while lake trout must be at least 18 inches long. The combined daily bag limit for all these species is 2 fish. From January 1 to March 31, only ice fishing is allowed, and landlocked salmon cannot be taken during this period.
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Mount Sunapee State Park Beach is best for families. It has a playground with swings, slides, and monkey bars, and ample picnic tables in the shade. The beach is clean, family-oriented, and has a snack bar and restrooms nearby.
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The towns near Lake Sunapee are Sunapee, Newbury, and New London. Sunapee offers villages like Sunapee Harbor and Georges Mills. Newbury is home to Mount Sunapee Ski Resort and Newbury Harbor, with amenities like hiking trails and an aerial sky ride. New London provides dining, shopping, and recreational activities.
