The NASWA Resort

The honest review

The NASWA Resort sits on Weirs Beach in Laconia on the most recognizable stretch of Lake Winnipesaukee, and it has been drawing families to its sandy shore since the 1930s. That history is more than nostalgia — it reflects a property that has figured out what lake-vacation families actually want and built its offering around it.

The beach is the resort's greatest asset. It runs longer than any other private beach on the lake and is wide enough that even on a busy July Saturday it does not feel claustrophobic. The water here is clear and calm in the cove, with a gradual drop-off well suited to younger swimmers. Complimentary kayaks and paddleboards are available to guests at no extra charge — an amenity that larger resorts often upsell — and this alone makes the resort stand out for value-conscious families.

The CampNaz summer kids program gives children a structured activity option and gives parents a genuine window to sit on the beach or have a proper meal. The NazBar & Grill is casual and lakeside with a menu that satisfies both picky eaters and adults who want something more than a burger. The Blue Bistro handles breakfast and dinner with a slightly more polished feel. Evening campfires with s'mores are a nightly ritual that families consistently call out as a highlight in reviews — simple but effective.

Accommodations span hotel rooms and suites in the main building, plus 18 cottages set back from the beach. The cottages are the right choice for families with multiple kids or any group that wants a kitchen and a screened porch for evening hanging-out. They are not fancy — expect a classic New England cottage aesthetic with serviceable furnishings — but they are clean, well-maintained, and practically oriented for how lake-vacation families actually live. Kids 17 and under stay free using existing bedding, which helps with the overall math on a multi-night stay.

The honest limitations: the NASWA is a seasonal property, operating only from mid-May through mid-October, so it is not a year-round option. It is also located near Weirs Beach, which during Laconia Motorcycle Week in June is a very different scene than a quiet family retreat. Families planning a June visit should check those dates carefully. Outside of special event weeks, Weirs Beach is lively but manageable and adds an arcade and boardwalk within easy walking distance that kids tend to love. Overall, the NASWA consistently delivers one of the more authentic and well-run lakefront family experiences on Lake Winnipesaukee.