With summer in full swing, there’s no better way to experience Coeur d’Alene than on the water. Whether you’re paddleboarding along calm inlets, relaxing with lakeside dining, or enjoying a lazy picnic at the beach, the lake lifestyle is calling. This guide spotlights some of the best places to rent watercraft, dine lakeside, and soak up the views with a picnic in tow.
Explore The Area’s Lakes
The Coeur d’Alene area is rich with lake adventures beyond just Lake Coeur d’Alene. According to Gear Garage CDA, visitors and locals alike can enjoy the serenity and access of three major lakes in the region:
Lake Coeur d’Alene
A favorite for boating, paddleboarding, and beach days. Access points are easy to find, and the marina offers everything from rentals to guided tours.
Hayden Lake
Known for its quiet coves and excellent fishing. A great alternative for those wanting less boat traffic and more tranquility.
Lake Pend Oreille (in nearby Sandpoint)
Idaho’s largest and deepest lake, perfect for long paddles, sailboat watching, and discovering hidden bays.
Also worth noting are the scenic Chain Lakes off the Coeur d’Alene River, including Rose Lake, Killarney Lake, Medicine Lake, and Cave Lake. The river in this area is calm and ideal for paddling between lakes, making it a peaceful half-day excursion for the adventurous.
Rent, Ride, And Explore: Boat & Watercraft Rentals
Getting out on Lake Coeur d’Alene is a must during the summer, and whether you’re looking to cruise, paddle, or float, there are plenty of rental options to suit your style..
One of the most exciting new options in town is the Quick Launch Boat Club, recently launched by the Hagadone Marine Group. This membership-based service allows you to rent boats without the hassle of ownership – perfect for locals who want flexibility or summer visitors who want to enjoy the lake without towing a vessel. The club features a fleet of high-end boats that are kept ready to launch, giving members convenient access to top-tier watercraft with little prep or cleanup.
cdaboatclub.com
For those looking to paddle at their own pace, Gear Garage CDA is a great place to start. Their local guide to kayaking and paddleboarding highlights some of the best lakes for a calm, scenic paddle, including Lake Coeur d’Alene, Hayden Lake, and even Sandpoint’s Lake Pend Oreille. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced paddler, their gear and tips can help you discover the quiet corners and stunning inlets of the region’s waterways.
geargaragecda.com
Best Picnic Spots
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy the lake is to keep it simple: pack a picnic, find a shady spot, and let the day unfold naturally. Coeur d’Alene offers several scenic picnic spots perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Tubbs Hill is a favorite among locals for its hiking trails and peaceful beaches. Several small coves along the trail offer rocky beaches that are perfect for spreading out a towel, dipping your toes in the water, and enjoying a packed lunch with postcard-worthy views.
Just to the east of downtown, Sanders Beach is a quieter stretch of shoreline with soft sand, shallow water, and stunning views of the lake. It’s a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and spending a few relaxed hours in the sun. Just remember – no lifeguards here, so keep safety in mind.
For families, City Park offers grassy picnic areas, playgrounds, and easy lake access near downtown. Grab lunch to-go from a local café or food truck, spread out under the shade trees, and let the kids run free while boats drift by in the background.
Lakeside Dining Favorites
A lake day isn’t complete without a meal by the water. Fortunately, Coeur d’Alene offers no shortage of lakeside options that pair local flavor with unbeatable scenery.
Tony’s on the Lake
A longtime local favorite, Tony’s serves up classic Italian cuisine with an elevated twist in a beautiful setting overlooking Lake Coeur d’Alene. Relax on the patio, sip a glass of wine, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this East Coeur d’Alene gem.
tonysonthelake.com
Cedars Floating Restaurant
A true North Idaho experience, Cedars is a floating restaurant located where the Spokane River meets Lake Coeur d’Alene. Known for steaks, seafood, and its unique location, it’s a must-visit for visitors looking to dine literally on the lake.
cedarsfloatingrestaurant.com
Dockside at The Coeur d’Alene Resort
Located right on the resort’s waterfront, Dockside is known for its signature salad bar, prime rib, huckleberry lemonade, and famous Gooey desserts. With large windows and outdoor seating, it offers gorgeous lake views while serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a family-friendly setting.
docksidecda.com
The chain lakes along the Coeur d’Alene River – like Rose, Killarney, Medicine, and Cave Lakes – offer calm waters perfect for paddling. You can leisurely float down the river and explore each lake as you go.
Final Splash
With countless ways to enjoy the water – from paddling serene inlets to sipping cocktails over lake views – Coeur d’Alene makes it easy to embrace summer at its finest. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or soaking in every sunny day as a local, there’s always something new to discover.
Pack your sunscreen, grab your shades, and get ready to dive into summer on the water!
Picnics, friends, and lake views – sometimes the best summer memories are made right on the shore.
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