10 most beautiful lakes in Idaho for your next vacation
Discover scenic treasures by taking a breathtaking tour of the top bodies of water in the U.S.
Whether you’re chasing summer sun, serene mountain views, or your next big fishing story, Idaho's lakes have it all. From vast open waters to tucked-away alpine gems, the Gem State is home to diverse lake destinations that are perfect for fishing, swimming, paddling, or just soaking in the scenery.
And with vacation rentals conveniently located near many of these shoreline escapes, your next lakeside vacation is closer than you think. Explore 10 of the most beautiful lakes in Idaho to plan your perfect getaway.
Lake Coeur d’Alene is one of Idaho’s most iconic summer destinations. Its sparkling waters are perfect for boating, kayaking, and lakefront lounging. Visitors love strolling the downtown boardwalk, hiking Tubbs Hill, and dining with a view of the marina. With a vibrant mix of recreation and relaxation, including plenty of nearby places to stay, it's a top choice for family getaways and couples’ retreats alike.
Set against the backdrop of northern Idaho’s forested mountains, Lake Pend Oreille is the state’s deepest and one of its largest lakes—ideal for boating, sailing, and trophy fishing. You’ll find sandy beaches, scenic trails, and the charming resort town of Sandpoint nearby. Go big or relax on shore—Pend Oreille offers something for every pace of vacation.
In the quaint mountain town of McCall in the Ponderosa State Park, Payette Lake delivers the perfect mix of nature and amenities. The lake's calm, clear waters are perfect for families, with access to boat rentals, paddleboarding, and lakeside parks. After a day in the sun, stroll into town for local eats and ice cream.
A quieter, more relaxed lake getaway awaits at Lake Cascade. Surrounded by the Boise National Forest, this spacious lake is big on boating, fishing, and year-round adventure. In summer, enjoy paddleboarding and lakeside kayaking. In winter, hit the slopes at nearby Tamarack Resort. Lake Cascade offers a balance of outdoor fun and off-the-grid serenity.
Known as “The Caribbean of the Rockies” for its bright turquoise water, the Bear Lake State Park is a summer favorite on the Idaho-Utah border. It’s well-suited for family vacations and reunions, with long beaches, jet skiing, water skiing, and plenty of sunshine.
If you’re looking for something a little more peaceful than Coeur d’Alene but just as beautiful, head to Hayden Lake. Tucked among tree-covered hills, Hayden is great for kayaking, paddleboarding, or casting a line. With fewer crowds, it's easy to find your private moment on the water. And it's just a short drive from restaurants, shops, and attractions in nearby Coeur d’Alene.
Redfish Lake is a postcard-perfect alpine lake near the town of Stanley and nestled in the Sawtooth Mountains. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and hiking trails, it’s known for kayak-friendly waters, swimming beaches, and unbeatable sunrise views. While lodging on the lake is limited, you’ll find charming vacation rentals in nearby Sun Valley or Ketchum—your gateway to mountain adventure.
Just south of Redfish Lake, Alturas offers a quieter, equally breathtaking alpine experience. It’s less developed, making it ideal for peaceful paddling, wildlife spotting, and stargazing. With picnic areas and views for days, this lake lets you unplug in true Idaho style. Visit as a scenic stop on your trip to Sun Valley or Redfish Lake.
Tucked just a short drive from Redfish Lake, Stanley Lake makes a strong case for Idaho’s most scenic mountain views. You’ll find towering pines, reflection-perfect water, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for picnics, hiking, canoeing, or photography. Pair your lake visit with a stay in Sun Valley or Ketchum for that perfect mix of rugged and refined.
A favorite for anglers and nature lovers alike, Henrys Lake lies just west of Yellowstone National Park near Island Park, Idaho. It’s best known for excellent trout fishing, cool alpine air, and peaceful, open views. Wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, and foxes, is commonly spotted around the lake.
From shimmering mountain lakes to family-friendly swimming spots, Idaho is filled with unique places to relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re planning a fishing trip, a paddling adventure, or a laid-back lake escape, we have the perfect vacation rental close to it all. Let your Idaho lake vacation begin.
Idaho is home to over 2,000 lakes, many of which were formed by glacial activity and volcanic processes. These include both natural and man-made lakes. Most are situated in the northern and central parts of the state, offering recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and swimming to residents and visitors alike.
The deepest lake in Idaho is Pend Oreille Lake, with a maximum depth of approximately 1,150 feet (350 meters). Located in the northern part of the state, it's one of the deepest lakes in the United States and was formed by glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age.
Lake Pend Oreille is also the largest lake in Idaho, covering about 148 square miles (383 square kilometers). It features over 100 miles of shoreline and is renowned for its beautiful scenery, deep waters, and abundant wildlife. It's a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.
Lake Lowell, located near Nampa in southwestern Idaho, is considered one of the warmest lakes in the state. Shallow waters and warm summer temperatures cause it to heat up more quickly than deeper lakes. It’s a favorite spot for swimming, boating, and bird watching within Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge.
