Often dwarfed by its larger, louder neighbor, Lake Winnisquam is happy to offer boaters a more casual place to enjoy the clear, clean waters of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.
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LAKE WINNISQUAM AT A GLANCE
The Lake Winnisquam StoryREAD THE STORYIf Lake Winnipesaukee is the big, boisterous elder brother of the New Hampshire boating family, Lake Winnisquam is the laidback younger sibling.
Boating Regulations: License: New Hampshire requires a boating-safety certificate to operate a powerboat with an engine of 25 horsepower or more. The certificate requires passing a boating-safety exam, or proof of equivalent certification in another state. For information, visit the following site.
Age Limit: Unless accompanied by an adult, no person under 16 may operate a boat or outboard motor in excess of 25 horsepower. Persons under 16 may not operate a personal watercraft under any conditions.
Dockage, Moorings & Service: Winnisquam Marine(603) 524-8380: Largest marina on the lake, by the Winnisquam Bridge off Rte. 3. Offers service, storage, boat rental, equipment and boat sales, and a fuel dock.
Launch Ramp: Lily Bay, which also offers free slips for its campground guests.
Winnisquam Public Boat Access Site: Water Street, Laconia. Two-lane ramp with ample parking. No fee.
Ahern State Park: Parade Road/Rte. 106. Car-top/walk-in only. Shorebank entry. No fee.
Bartlett Beach, Laconia: Car-top/walk-in only. Shorebank entry. No fee.
Anchorages: Overnight anchoring on Winnisquam, or any inland waterbody in New Hampshire, is prohibited.
DESTINATION LAKE WINNISQUAM
Dining: The Lobster Connection(603) 524-7079: Popular seafood restaurant with outdoor picnic tables and award-winning chowder. Temporary slips available for boats up to 30 feet. Beach access for personal watercraft, kayaks, and other small craft.
Dox on Winnisquam(603) 527-8381: Restaurant and bar accessible by boat on the lower basin. Features a spacious outdoor deck. Specializes in modern American dishes, seafood options and a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails. Live music in summer.
Provisions: Winnisquam Country Store & Deli(603) 527-8110: Well-stocked and much-loved local deli/grocery store/gift shop by the Winnisquam (“Mosquito”) Bridge. Offers grocery delivery service to different parts of the lake. Also carries bait and tackle, and has a dock for boaters.
The Loon Center(603) 476-5666: Dedicated to the preservation of the iconic waterbirds and their habitat through monitoring, management, and education. Offers walking trails, educational programs, and trips on nearby Squam Lake.
Cool Shops: Laconia Antique Center (603) 524-9484: New Hampshire’s largest antiques store features an amazing array of items from over 150 dealers. Almost like visiting a museum.
The Studio(603) 455-8008: Laconia-based shop with wide array of unique gifts, jewelry, bath and body products, greeting cards, and specialty clothing.
Winnisquam Country Gifts (603) 528-4454: Carries a wide selection of New Hampshire souvenir items, as well as a large variety of wind-driven yard and garden spinners.
Where to Stay: Lake House At Ferry Point(603) 524-0087: The area’s only lakefront bed-and-breakfast, the historic Lake House was built in the 1700s and offers sweeping views of Winnisquam, plus a dock for guests who bring a boat.