Lake Vacations in North America

Location:

Bay Harbor, Michigan

Highlights:

Looking for lakeside luxury on the shores of Lake Michigan? The Inn at Bay Harbor offers stunning water views, upscale accommodations, golf, spa treatments, and dining—all in a serene Northern Michigan setting.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, golfers, and wellness travelers who want a peaceful yet activity-filled resort with refined touches and scenic beauty.

What we Love:

From hammocks overlooking the bay to championship golf and gourmet dining, this property blends laid-back elegance with family-friendly amenities and romantic appeal.

• Stay in lake-view rooms, charming suites, or opt for a Lakeside Cottage or Cottage at Crooked Tree for even more space and privacy.
• Enjoy complimentary amenities like internet, coffee, popcorn, shuttle service, snowshoe and bike rentals, beach water service, and board games—perfect for all ages and seasons.
• Golf on 45 championship holes at Crooked Tree Golf Club and Bay Harbor Golf Club, two of Michigan’s most scenic courses.
• Unwind with massages at the on-site spa, work out in the fitness room, or relax by the outdoor pool and lakeside hammocks.
• Dine at four excellent venues:
  • Sagamore’s Dining Room – elegant fine dining with sweeping views of Little Traverse Bay.
  • South American Grille and Wine Bar – intimate atmosphere and weekly live entertainment.
  • The Inn Cafe – ideal for light bites, gourmet snacks, and fresh ice cream.
  • The Cabana Bar – open in summer with poolside fare and tropical cocktails.

Address:

3600 Village Harbor Drive, Bay Harbor, MI 49770
Phone: 855-688-7023

Location:

Nisswa, Minnesota

Highlights:

Looking for a luxurious northern escape with lakeside charm? Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake offers top-tier amenities including a world-class spa, golf, dining, and elegant accommodations nestled in Minnesota’s scenic lake country.

We Recommend This For:

Spa seekers, couples, golfers, families, and anyone looking for a rejuvenating retreat surrounded by nature.

What we Love:

Glacial Waters Spa, championship golf, seven dining venues, and a variety of lodging options from cozy cabins to luxurious villas—all in a pine-scented, lakefront setting.

• Stay in stylishly appointed cabins, townhouses, cottages, villas, or suites—all fully furnished with chic décor and access to resort-wide amenities.
• Relax at the award-winning Glacial Waters Spa offering indulgent treatments that harness the healing powers of Minnesota’s mineral-rich lakes.
• Play on the resort’s scenic nine-hole championship golf course or enjoy family-friendly seasonal activities across the grounds.
• Dine at seven unique restaurants:
  • Loony’s Beach Hut – casual beachside burgers and lake views.
  • Italian Gardens – elegant candlelit dinners with gourmet Italian cuisine.
  • Other options include steak, tapas, seasonal fare, and lake-to-table delights.

Address:

23521 Nokomis Avenue, Nisswa, MN 56468
Phone: 866-801-2951

Location:

Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, WA

Highlights:

Looking for a peaceful retreat just a ferry ride from Seattle? Lakedale Resort is tucked between forest and lake, offering a perfect blend of luxury and laid-back adventure for couples, families, and glampers alike.

We Recommend This For:

Romantic getaways, nature lovers, families, and weekend escapees seeking a refreshing dose of lake life and island charm.

What we Love:

The mix of upscale hotel rooms, log cabins, and summer canvas tents, plus lakefront views, wine tastings, and whale watching tours—all in one picture-perfect setting.

• Stay in a wide variety of accommodations, from romantic log cabins with fireplaces and forest views to modern hotel rooms and seasonal canvas cabins for glamping lovers.
• Play on the water—canoeing, swimming, and paddleboarding are all on offer across Three Lakes.
• Explore San Juan Island by booking whale watching excursions or wine tasting tours through the resort or nearby local vendors.
• Escape city life just a few hours from Seattle by ferry or floatplane—perfect for a spontaneous weekend getaway.

Address:

4313 Roche Harbor Road, Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Phone: 360-378-2350

Romantic Lake Vacations:

Location:

Geneva, New York (Finger Lakes Region)

Highlights:

Love castles, wine, and spa treatments all in one spot? Belhurst Castle and Winery offers a truly unique experience with three distinct lodging options, an award-winning winery, fine and casual dining, and full-service spa—all set on the scenic shores of Seneca Lake.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a luxurious and immersive Finger Lakes experience.

What we Love:

The variety of historic and luxurious accommodations, in-room whirlpools, lakefront wine tasting, and the opportunity to stay in a genuine 19th-century castle.

• Stay in one of three unique accommodations:
  • The Chambers in the Castle – an 1800s stone castle with 11 richly appointed period rooms, a ranch home, and two charming cottages.
  • Vinifera Inn – modern luxury with a fireplace and whirlpool in every room for a romantic, pampering experience.
  • Historic White Springs Manor – a Georgian Revival mansion with peaceful views and classic décor overlooking a private pond.
• Relax at the Isabella Spa with massage therapy, body scrubs, facials, hairstyling, makeup services, and deluxe mani-pedis.
• Indulge in wine tasting at the on-site Belhurst Winery featuring award-winning wines right on the lakefront.
• Dine at two on-site restaurants:
  • Edgar’s Restaurant – fine dining in a regal setting inside the castle.
  • Stonecutter’s – a more relaxed, tavern-style experience with live music and hearty cuisine.

Address:

4069 West Lake Road, Geneva, NY 14456
Phone: 315-781-0201

Location:

Lake Arrowhead, California

Highlights:

Need a quick escape from the city? Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa is a tranquil four-season retreat tucked in the San Bernardino Mountains, offering lakeside views, luxury amenities, and outdoor adventure—all just two hours from LA.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, solo travelers, and wellness seekers looking for a blend of nature, comfort, and year-round activities.

What we Love:

Private beach access, forest hiking, snow play in winter, a full-service spa, and upscale accommodations—all with mountain-lake serenity built in.

• Stay in one of 170+ beautifully appointed rooms and suites with cozy décor, modern comforts, and many offering lake or forest views.
• Unwind at the resort's spa and wellness center featuring massage therapy, facials, a fitness room, and serene lakeside ambiance.
• Explore the outdoors with seasonal activities:
  • Summer: beach lounging, kayaking, and hiking forest trails.
  • Winter: skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cozy fireside relaxation.
• Relax in nature with the convenience of on-site dining, wellness classes, and stylish common areas for reading, games, or simply taking in the view.

Address:

27984 CA-189, Lake Arrowhead, California 92352
Phone: 909-336-1511

Family-friendly Lake Vacations:

Location:

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Highlights:

Looking to wake up with one of the most iconic lake views in the world? Crater Lake Lodge offers vintage charm, majestic scenery, and a true unplugged experience—perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, hikers, and national park explorers who want to stay steps from the rim of Crater Lake in a cozy, heritage-rich lodge.

What we Love:

The old-world charm, no-TV policy, direct lake access, and the breathtaking sunsets right from your room or the lodge’s panoramic veranda.

• Stay in one of 71 rustic-style guest rooms, many with clawfoot tubs and vintage furnishings—note, there are no TVs or phones, just nature and nostalgia.
• Unplug and soak in the timeless atmosphere—Wi-Fi is available, but the spirit of the lodge encourages disconnection and relaxation.
• Explore the park with hiking, biking, fishing, bird watching, rock climbing, boat tours, and ranger-led educational programs for all ages.
• Dine at:
  • Crater Lake Dining Room – a full-service restaurant featuring seasonal Oregon-sourced dishes in a scenic setting.
  • Annie Creek Restaurant & Gift Shop – buffet-style meals and souvenirs.
  • Rim Village Cafe – great for a quick bite before or after your adventure.

Address:

1211 Avenue C, White City, OR 97503
Phone: 888-774-2728

Location:

Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio

Highlights:

Looking for a lakeside retreat surrounded by vineyards and peaceful scenery? The Lodge at Geneva-On-The-Lake offers comfort, views of Lake Erie, and easy access to Ohio’s wine trail—all just a short drive from Cleveland.

We Recommend This For:

Wine lovers, couples, families, and travelers seeking a lakeside escape with all-season amenities and access to nearby spas and wineries.

What we Love:

Indoor/outdoor pools, lake-view dining, wine shuttle service, and proximity to Lakehouse Inn & Spa for added pampering—all wrapped up in the beauty of Ohio’s wine country.

• Stay in one of 109 comfortable rooms, including nine room types with options like whirlpools, balconies, lake views, mini-fridges, and high-speed internet. Roll-away beds, cribs, and microwaves are also available upon request.
• Swim year-round in the indoor and outdoor pools or unwind in the relaxing hot tubs after a day of exploring.
• Spa guests enjoy discounted access to Lakehouse Inn & Spa, just a quarter mile away—perfect for massages, facials, and wellness treatments.
• Explore the region on the resort’s wine shuttle to nearby vineyards or rent bikes for a self-guided adventure through Geneva’s scenic countryside.
• Dine at:
  • Horizons Restaurant & Lounge – serving locally inspired cuisine with wine pairings and a refined atmosphere.
  • The Terrace Grille – seasonal patio dining with grilled favorites and stunning Lake Erie views.
• Learn with the resort’s educational programs like guided tours and the Conversation Series, which bring insight and enrichment to your stay.

Address:

4888 North Broadway, Geneva, OH 44041
Phone: 866-806-8066

Location:

Roanoke, West Virginia

Highlights:

Want a getaway where you can unplug, explore, and dine in style—all without leaving the resort? Stonewall Resort is a 1,900-acre lakeside haven featuring an Adirondack-style lodge, cozy saltbox cottages, and endless outdoor recreation in scenic West Virginia.

We Recommend This For:

Families, couples, golfers, and nature lovers seeking a blend of outdoor activity, lakeside tranquility, and upscale lodging in a national park-like setting.

What we Love:

The expansive trail system, lake excursions, lakeside cottages with private decks, and the historic lodge’s 1920s-inspired architecture paired with modern comforts.

• Stay in the rustic-luxe Adirondack-style lodge with 191 guest rooms, or opt for a lakeside saltbox-style cottage featuring hardwood floors, exposed beams, gas grills, and private decks.
• Explore over 16 miles of hiking trails, rent bikes or Segways, and enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities like swimming, canoeing, kayaking, geocaching, and fishing.
• Relax with a ride on the 100-passenger excursion boat or spend the day on a pontoon rental from the Marina.
• Swim year-round with access to both indoor and outdoor pool facilities.
• Golf at the Arnold Palmer Signature Course and enjoy scenic views throughout the beautifully designed championship layout.
• Dine at:
  • Stillwaters Restaurant – the resort’s signature dining experience serving fresh, local cuisine in an elegant yet approachable setting.
  • Lightburn’s Restaurant – located in the golf clubhouse, this spot offers light gourmet meals with a view of the course.
  • TJ Muskies Lounge – for casual fare, cocktails, a pool table, and music in a relaxed environment.

Address:

940 Resort Drive, Roanoke, WV 26447
Phone: 888-278-8150

Location:

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Highlights:

Looking for a lakefront escape that combines family fun, nightlife, and full-service amenities? London Bridge Resort is a vibrant waterfront property with spacious suites, marina access, pools, spa services, and one of the Southwest’s largest dance clubs—all beside the iconic London Bridge.

We Recommend This For:

Families, couples, bachelorette/bachelor groups, and anyone craving fun in the sun with a mix of relaxation and energetic nightlife.

What we Love:

The 94-foot waterslide, marina and water rentals, on-site day spa, and dance-until-you-drop nights at Kokomo Havasu—all with lake and bridge views.

• Stay in one of 122 spacious suites, ranging from studios to one- and two-bedroom deluxe suites—all featuring fully equipped kitchens, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
• Swim in one of three resort pools, relax in the whirlpool spa, or make a splash on the 94-foot waterslide at the splash pool.
• Play on the lake with access to the resort’s on-site marina, boat dock, and watersport rentals including kayaks, paddleboats, and jet skis.
• Unwind with massages, facials, and more at the London Bridge Day Spa, or take in views along scenic walking paths and shoreline trails.
• Party at Kokomo Havasu—a massive 21-bar dance club and nightlife hotspot with 10,000 square feet of party space right on-site.
• Dine & Drink at:
  • Martini Bay – offering upscale casual fare like pork tenderloin and shrimp, DJs, and outdoor seating with sunset views.

Address:

1477 Queens Bay, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
Phone: 928-855-0888