Where To Tie Up Your Boat On Coeur d’Alene: Top 10 Spots
Lake Coeur d’Alene, nestled in the scenic Idaho Panhandle, is a haven for boating enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder this lake is a top destination for both locals and tourists.
Whether you’re looking for serene spots to relax or adventurous areas to explore, Lake Coeur d’Alene has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 boating destinations you won’t want to miss on your next trip to this beautiful lake.
1. Harrison
Harrison is fun for the whole family, all day long! Located near the south end of the lake, it takes about an hour to get there by boat. Once you’re there, though, it’s tons of fun.
Arriving by boat, you’ll find that there are tons of boat slips available for you to tie up in. Take your pick and then head for land.
The first thing you’ll see is the swimmable beach and campground. So, if you’re looking for a great family getaway, think about taking the camper up there next time!
Then, keep walking up the hill and you’ll find yourself in the heart of town. There’s a small park, a few shops, an ice cream parlor, and a restaurant and bar called One Shot Charlies.
Ask any local and they’ll tell you that One Shot’s is a staple of any Harrison trip. Stop in, learn about the history (it’s over 100 years old!) and don’t forget to buy a t-shirt form their newly-renovated swag shop.
2. Tubbs Hill
Tubbs Hill is a popular destination for boaters due to its stunning natural beauty and convenient location near downtown Coeur d’Alene. This 120-acre natural area offers rugged terrain, hiking trails, and secluded beaches accessible only by boat. It’s the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic, a swim, or a hike along the shoreline trail that offers panoramic views of the lake. Bring your paddleboard as well – it’s a great spot for paddleboarding!
3. Sanders Beach
Located on the eastern side of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Sanders Beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This sandy beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Boaters can easily anchor offshore and enjoy the warm waters and beautiful views. The area around Sanders Beach is residential, making it a quieter spot compared to some of the busier beaches on the lake.
4. Carlin Bay
Carlin Bay is a private little spot on the lake with a recently renovated restaurant, and is one of the more popular bays on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Heading south on Lake CDA, you will find Carlin tucked away in a beautiful bay. It has a fairly large dock, with plenty of space for all diners to have their own slip. Boat right up, dock the boat, and then head for the Latitude food truck.
5. Rockford Bay
Located near the south side of the lake, Rockford Bay is a local favorite and close enough to the north side that you can get to it pretty easy from the resort.
When you arrive, you can easily dock the boat and then head up to Shooters for a few bites to eat. With a great view and lots of yummy food, you’re sure to enjoy every moment in Rockford. Afterwards, you can head back out on the water and have some fun. Head to Harrison or up towards Micah. There’s tons to do!
6. Cougar Bay
Cougar Bay is a beautiful and serene spot located just west of downtown Coeur d’Alene. This protected bay is a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a chance to see deer, eagles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The bay is also home to the Cougar Bay Preserve, which features hiking trails and educational exhibits. Boaters can anchor here and explore the area or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
7. Mica Bay
Mica Bay, unlike Rockford, is designed for camping and overnight stays. It has over a dozen campsites and two docks available for visitors to enjoy.
It also boasts picnic tables, shelters, toilets, and a swimming beach. Just be aware – if you are wanting to camp at Mica Bay, be sure to place a reservation for your campsite as this location can get busy during the summer months.
Don’t forget your furry companions either! Mica Bay is a dog friendly location, so long as they are on leashes, well behaved, and picked up after.
8. Wolf Lodge Bay
Wolf Lodge Bay is a must-visit for wildlife lovers, especially those interested in seeing the annual bald eagle migration. Every winter, bald eagles flock to this bay to feed on spawning kokanee salmon, making it a prime spot for eagle watching. During the warmer months, the bay is a peaceful area for boating, fishing, and swimming. Its location on the northeastern side of the lake makes it a more secluded spot, perfect for a quiet day on the water.
9. The North End of Lake Coeur d’Alene
The northern end of Lake Coeur d’Alene is a hub of activity, offering a mix of natural beauty and urban amenities. This area is home to the city of Coeur d’Alene, where you can find a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. The city beach and park are great places to dock your boat and enjoy a picnic, swim, or stroll along the boardwalk. For those looking for a bit more adventure, the nearby Tubbs Hill offers hiking trails with incredible views of the lake.
10. Coeur d’Alene Resort
To top off the list, of course we have to include the Coeur d’Alene Resort! Located on the north end of the lake, the resort has plenty of slips available for visitors wanting to grab a bite to eat at Dockside or Beverly’s
If you want to explore, the resort is also conveniently located right in the heart of downtown Coeur d’Alene. Take a stroll through the shops, explore the history of the area, and enjoy a snack at the many local restaurants and establishments.
If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can even take a hike up Tubbs Hill. You can see it as you arrive; the trails are visible to the right as you pull in. Pick a trail and head straight out to the point where you will have a beautiful view of the entire lake. It’s a must-see!
Enjoy Your Day Of Boating On Lake Coeur d’Alene!
And there you have it – 10 of the best places to tie up on Lake CDA. Lake Coeur d’Alene is extremely busy during the boating season, so be mindful. If you go out on a Saturday or Sunday, slips and docks may be busy and you may need to wait for a spot. It’s unfortunate but well worth it.
Lake Coeur d’Alene is a boater’s dream, offering a diverse range of destinations to explore. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful bay to relax in or a lively spot with dining and entertainment options, you’ll find it all on this stunning lake.
So, grab your boat, pack your essentials, and get ready to explore the best that Lake Coeur d’Alene has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or a first-time visitor, these destinations will ensure you have a great time cruising around on Lake Coeur d’Alene.
