Jack Tuthill, Author at Surfside On The Lake

Apr 01 2026

The Top Lake George Area Beaches to Visit in Summer

If your idea of the perfect New York summer vacation includes relaxing at the beach, boating on the lake, and hiking mountain trails, then look no further than Lake George in the Adirondacks. Soak up the sun on the private beach at Surfside on the Lake and enjoy swimming, paddling, and sunbathing. Then, pack your beach bag and check out all the amazing Lake George beaches nearby, including Million Dollar Beach and Shepard Park Beach.

Private Beach at Surfside on the Lake

Enjoy summer fun at the private beach at Surfside on the Lake. Our beach extends around 230 feet and is located directly on the shores of Lake George. Take advantage of all these activities available at our beach:

Relax on the sandy shoreline. We have beach chairs available for your enjoyment!
Cool down and go swimming in the lake.
Reserve a time slot for our kayaks or paddle boards, and launch from the beach for a scenic paddling adventure.
Bring buckets and build sandcastles.
Use our BBQ grills and have a family grill out at the beach.

Million Dollar Beach

Amenities: Bath house, lifeguards, food concessions, adjacent boat launch, volleyball court, picnic tables, grills.

Million Dollar Beach, also known as Lake George Beach, is the largest and most popular beach in town. Spanning 51 acres, it offers plenty of space for everyone to spread out. If you are driving to this beach, you will have to pay for parking. Otherwise, it’s just over a mile from our hotel and an easy walk.

Shepard Park Beach

Amenities: Public restrooms, lifeguard, public fishing dock, and amphitheater.

Shepard Park Beach is a small 350-foot sandy beach in the heart of Lake George Village. Relax on the sandy shoreline in the afternoon and stick around for free summer concerts and fireworks in the evening. Walk to this Lake George Beach from our hotel just minutes away.

Usher Park Beach

Amenities: Picnic tables, lifeguard, grills, two pavilions, playground equipment, tennis court, basketball court, and restrooms.

If you are looking for a quieter option the whole family can enjoy, Usher Park Beach is the place for you. The water is much shallower here than at other local beaches, making it ideal for families with young children.

Book Your Summer Vacation in Lake George, NY

Book your lodging at Surfside on the Lake and access Lake George beaches right at our lakefront hotel. Hang out at our private beach and discover even more fun on-site with hotel amenities like an outdoor pool, sun deck, playground, and restaurant. Head up to our Rooftop Cabana Bar and Restaurant for delicious lunch, dinner, and cocktails while overlooking the water. Check out our Lake George hotel room options and reserve your summer trip with us today!

Mar 13 2026

Looking for 4th of July Vacations in New York? Visit Lake George!

Are you looking for the perfect vacation spot to celebrate the 4th of July in New York? Look no further than the Lake George Region, offering the perfect blend of family-friendly fun, dazzling events, and rich history. Celebrate American Independence in our historic city and find the perfect lodging for the holiday weekend with Surfside on the Lake. Watch the fireworks from our hotel on Canada Street and enjoy on-site amenities such as a private beach, rooftop restaurant, and heated pool. Discover fun for the whole family this 4th!

Attend Events in the Lake George Area

Celebrate American Independence in the Lake George Area with these exciting events:

Six Flags Red, White, and Rock: Experience the fun and excitement of Six Flags over the 4th of July. Expect all your favorite rides and food, along with a special concert featuring your favorite rock and roll hits.
Lake George Village Fireworks: Watch dazzling fireworks over the waters of Lake George from the beach at Surfside on the Lake.
Lake George Steamboat Company Fireworks Cruise: Book a boat tour and enjoy a one-of-a-kind vantage point to the 4th of July fireworks.

Experience History

During the Fourth of July weekend, we invite you to step back in time, wander through Lake George’s historic sites, and celebrate America’s story in a place where history truly happened.

Fort William Henry: This historic fort, built in the 1750s, played a pivotal role in the French and Indian War. Sign up for a tour and explore this incredible piece of history!
Lake George Battlefield Park: See remnants of the battles that took place in Lake George at this historic park.
Fort Ticonderoga: Drive an hour from Lake George to explore another historic fort in the region.

Enjoy Classic Summer Activities at Surfside on the Lake

Experience classic summertime fun in Lake George at Surfside on the Lake. Fill your itinerary with these on-site activities available during the 4th of July weekend:

Soak up the sun at our private beach. Use the BBQ grills on the beach for a 4th of July cookout!
Go swimming in our heated outdoor pool.
Explore the calm waters of Lake George with our kayaks, stand-up boards, and pedal boats.
Play a game of cornhole together.
Take the kids to the playground to burn off some energy.
Enjoy delicious food and drinks at The Rooftop Cabana Bar while soaking in the views of the lake.

Book Your 4th of July Vacation in New York

The 4th of July is one of the busiest weekends in Lake George, New York. Book with us now to guarantee your spot at our resort for the holiday weekend. Choose from several accommodation options and choose a room with amenities like lake views, private balconies, or a short walk to the pool/beach. Find the perfect Lake George hotel room for your budget and needs and book with us today!

Feb 06 2026

Best Summer Weekends to Visit Lake George, NY

Summer in Lake George, New York, is packed with sunshine, lake days, and exciting events that draw visitors from near and far. If you’re planning a getaway in summer 2026, choosing the right weekend can make all the difference. Here are some of the best summer weekends to visit Lake George, NY, starting when Surfside on the Lake opens for the season.

Memorial Day Weekend: May 22–25, 2026

Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial kickoff to summer in Lake George, NY, and the opening weekend for Surfside on the Lake. The village comes alive with seasonal attractions reopening, waterfront dining, and boating on the lake. If you can’t wait to get to the lake and enjoy the beautiful weather of early summer, Memorial Day Weekend is a great choice.

Adirondack Wine & Food Festival Weekend: June 27–28, 2026

Foodies won’t want to miss one of the most popular summer events in Upstate New York, the Adirondack Wine & Food Festival. This festival, celebrating its 10th year in 2026, brings together regional wineries, breweries, distilleries, and restaurants for a weekend of tastings and live entertainment. Pair the festival with a lakeside stay and unwind afterward with sunset views, a swim in the pool, or a drink at Surfside’s Rooftop Cabana Bar & Restaurant.

4th of July Weekend: July 3–5, 2026

For many, the 4th of July is the highlight of summer, and in 2026, the holiday falls on Saturday, making it perfect for a weekend of festivities. In Lake George, NY, we celebrate the 4th of July in style. You can expect fireworks over the lake, live music, and more. Staying directly on the water puts you in the perfect spot to enjoy the 4th of July fireworks without worrying about parking or crowds.

Rock the Dock Music Festival: July 10–12, 2026

Music lovers should consider planning their trip around Rock the Dock, one of New York’s most anticipated summer music festivals. With live performances and a high-energy vibe, this weekend is ideal for travelers who want to mix lake relaxation with entertainment. Rock the Dock is only on Saturday, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy the rest of what summer in Lake George, NY, has to offer.

Adirondack Nationals Car Show Weekend: September 10–13, 2026

Rounding out the summer season, the Adirondack Nationals Car Show is a longtime Lake George tradition. During this event, thousands of classic cars line the streets. Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make this an excellent late-summer weekend to enjoy the lake while catching one of the area’s most iconic events.

Make Summer Memories on the Lake

No matter which summer weekend you choose to visit Lake George, NY, Surfside on the Lake puts you right in the heart of the action. When you stay at our hotel, you’ll enjoy direct lake access, a private beach, complimentary kayaks and paddleboards, an outdoor pool, and spacious rooms with stunning views of Lake George. Book your stay early; these popular weekends fill up fast. Start planning your summer getaway and experience summer the way it was meant to be: on the water at Surfside on the Lake.

Jan 05 2026

Plan Ahead for Your Family Summer Vacation in Lake George

For many families, visiting Lake George in the summer is an annual tradition. Because Lake George is such a popular summer destination, accommodations fill up quickly. Start planning your summer vacation now and secure your preferred dates and rooms at Surfside on the Lake well in advance. Let Surfside on the Lake be your home base for the perfect family summer vacation in Lake George!

Benefits of Planning Your Summer Vacation Early

Better Room Selection

To get the rooms you want on your preferred dates, we recommend booking with us as soon as possible. This is especially important if you plan to visit during popular weekends like the 4th of July or Memorial Day, since these dates fill up quickly.

Flexibility for Planning Your Trip

When your lodging is secured in advance, it’s easier to build the rest of your vacation around it. You will have plenty of time to coordinate your time off, plan activities, and book any reservations.

Peace of Mind

Knowing your Lake George getaway is already reserved allows you to relax and look forward to the summer months. Knowing that summer days at the lake are on the horizon will get you through the cold winter months. Book ahead and avoid the last-minute stress of vacation planning.

Things to Do During Your Lake George Summer Vacation

Here’s what you have to look forward to this summer in Lake George:

Hang out at Surfside’s private beach and take our stand-up paddleboard, kayaks, or paddleboats on the water for a fun paddling adventure.
Grab a cocktail at Surfside’s Rooftop Cabana Bar and enjoy your drink with a view of Lake George.
Cool down with fun watersports like parasailing, jet skiing, lazy river tubing, and boating.
Take the kids to amusement parks like Lake George Expedition Park and enjoy exhilarating rides for the whole family.
Visit Shepard Park for live music and fireworks throughout the summer.
Cool down with a scoop of ice cream from a local ice cream parlor.
Hike or bike the region’s nature trails and explore the natural beauty of the Adirondacks.
Go fishing on Lake George and catch lake trout, salmon, and smallmouth bass. Head out on your own or book a fishing charter with a local guide.

Book Your Family Summer Vacation in Lake George

What are you waiting for? Secure your spot at Surfside on the Lake and join us for a memorable family summer vacation in Lake George, NY. Browse our Lake George hotel rooms and find the perfect accommodations for your summer stay!

Nov 07 2025

The Top 5 Lake George Attractions to Check Out on Vacation

In Lake George, we know a thing or two about vacation. As the birthplace of the American vacation, we have been welcoming families to the Adirondacks for over 100 years. Join the tradition and plan your next vacation in Lake George with Surfside on the Lake. Explore the natural beauty of the Adirondacks and enjoy a wide variety of Lake George attractions for every interest. From historic forts to one-of-a-kind amusement parks, here are the top five attractions to check out during your visit:

1. Fort William Henry Museum

The Fort William Henry Museum is not only one of Lake George’s top tourist attractions, but it’s also a living artifact of our town’s history. Step back in time to the 1750s, when this fort played an important role in the French and Indian Wars. Tour the grounds with an expert guide, learn about the realities of life in a fort, and watch cannon demonstrations. This interactive attraction is a fun and educational way to learn about the region’s military history.

2. Lake George Steamboat Company

There’s no better way to experience Lake George than from the water! Cruise around the water with Lake George Steamboat Company and support a company that has been operating on Lake George for over 200 years. Choose from several tours on three historic ships, including the Minne-Ha-Ha, one of the last steam paddle wheel ships in America. From fall foliage cruises to dinner cruises, there is an excursion for everyone’s interests!

3. Shepard Park

Shepard Park is the hub of the Lake George Village, located just down the road from Surfside on the Lake. Walk to the park and stroll along the paved path, enjoying views of Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains. In the summertime, Shepard Park is the place to be for beach days, fireworks, entertainment, and free events. The park is also surrounded by fantastic shopping and dining if you want to explore further!

4. Lake George Expedition Park

The Lake George Expedition Park isn’t your average amusement park. Yes, it offers the usual rides and games, but it also offers immersive trails where you can walk amongst dinosaurs and dig for fossils. Visit the amusement park with your kids and enjoy a day of family-friendly entertainment unlike anywhere else!

5. The Outlets at Lake George

Shop till you drop at The Outlets at Lake George! This open-air shopping center offers deals on your favorite brands, including Adidas, Columbia, Vera Bradley, and American Eagle. Whether you are looking for discounted holiday gifts for the family or a new outfit for vacation, there is something for everyone.

Plan Your Next Vacation in Lake George, NY

Whether you’re exploring Lake George’s many attractions, hiking scenic trails, or cruising its crystal-clear waters, there’s no better place to unwind than Surfside on the Lake. With its unbeatable lakefront views and convenient location just steps from all the action, it’s the perfect home base for your next Adirondack getaway. Book with us today!

Nov 07 2025

Check Out Lake George Nightlife and Live Music Spots

Looking for fun after the sun sets in Lake George? Look no further, because Surfside on the Lake is here to give you recommendations on the best spots in town for drinks, live music, and fun. Whether you are looking for a sophisticated date night spot to enjoy a cocktail with your partner or a lively bar playing live music to dance the night away, there is a Lake George nightlife spot for everyone’s interests. Start your evening with cocktails at Surfside’s Rooftop Cabana Bar before checking out the nightlife spots in town.

Rooftop Cabana Bar

Enjoy dinner and drinks without leaving the resort grounds at Rooftop Cabana Bar. Open seasonally, our rooftop bar is a great place to kick back and relax while enjoying a cocktail, dinner, and views of Lake George. Call head to inquire about our current hours.

Lake George Beach Club

Enjoy live music while savoring food and drinks on the lakefront at Lake George Beach Club. Don’t miss their annual Summer in the Sun series, featuring live music from local musicians on the outdoor deck every weekend. And since they are open year-round, you can stop in and catch live entertainment no matter when you visit.

Inn of Lake George Lobby Bar

If you are looking for a date night spot, we recommend heading to the Inn of Lake George Lobby Bar for a handcrafted cocktail. This cozy bar features refined decor, soft lighting, and an impressive selection of drinks, making it the perfect spot for a night out.

Adirondack Pub & Brewery

Cap off your day of adventures with a refreshing drink at Adirondack Pub & Brewery. Sample one of their handcrafted ales, brewed, bottled, and packaged on-site. They often host live music and events throughout the year.

Adirondack Winery

If wine is more your style, Adirondack Winery is the perfect place to relax and grab a drink in the evening. Head to the tasting room in Lake George for a glass of wine near our hotel, or head to the Queensbury tasting room to combine your wine tasting with fun events like live music and trivia.

The Garrison

Head to The Garrison and dine in the cozy log cabin atmosphere while enjoying live music every Wednesday and Sunday night. Enjoy classic American cuisine like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers with your friends and family.

Jamo’s Pub

Jamo’s Pub is Lake George’s latest nightlife spot, located just a few minutes from Surfside on the Lake. Stop in at this Irish pub and enjoy an evening of food, cold drinks, and entertainment. They regularly offer live music, DJs, and karaoke for the perfect night out.

Book Your Getaway at Our Lake George Hotel

From summer fun on the lake to evening nightlife and entertainment, Lake George has something for everyone! Escape to Lake George with Surfside on the Lake and stay in the heart of the village, just steps away from the lakefront. Enjoy on-site amenities, dining, and accommodations for everyone in your group. Browse our Lake George hotel rooms and book with us today!

Sep 08 2025

Fall Activities Guide: Lake George Vacation with Kids

Lake George has long been one of the top family vacation destinations in New York. With four seasons of fun, family-friendly resorts, and natural beauty, our Adirondack Mountain town offers something for all ages. Plan your trip during the fall months and experience a vacation filled with hiking, biking, apple picking, and kid-friendly festivals. Whether you are traveling with toddlers or teens, there are things to do in Lake George with kids of all ages. Stay close to everything the region has to offer with Surfside on the Lake!

Outdoor Fun for Kids of All Ages

If you are looking to spend some time outside with your family this fall, Lake George offers the perfect destination. Explore the Adirondacks and enjoy the crisp weather and vibrant fall foliage with these kid-friendly activities:

Discover hikes for all ages in the Lake George Area. From the easy Palmer Pond hike to the more challenging Prospect Mountain hike, there’s a trail for everyone.
Enjoy a family-friendly bike ride along the 9-mile Warren County Bikeway.
Zip through a canopy of colorful fall foliage at Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course.

Classic Family Fall Fun: Apple Picking & Pumpkin Patches

Experience the magic of the season with classic fall harvest activities like apple picking, pumpkin carving, and corn mazes. And while you are driving to these attractions, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the fall foliage along the way:

Pick up pumpkins in Lake George at Ryan’s Country Farm and carve pumpkins together.
Drive to Hicks Orchard in Granville and pick apples with the kids.
Visit Schuyler Farms and enjoy kid-friendly games and activities like petting zoos, corn mazes, hayrides, and super slides.

Family-Friendly Events

Plan your fall vacation around one of the exciting, family-friendly events in Lake George:

Attend the Adirondack Balloon Festival in September and watch hot air balloons take flight amidst the backdrop of the Adirondack Mountains.
Head to Great Escape for Kids Boo Fest and enjoy thrilling rides alongside Halloween festivities, including trick or treating and costume parties.
Lake George Oktoberfest is great for all ages. Adults can sip on craft beer while the kids enjoy carnival rides and games.

Plan Your Fall Vacation in Lake George

Plan a family vacation in Lake George this fall and discover fun activities for kids of all ages. Find the perfect lodging for your family at Surfside on the Lake and enjoy family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, private beach access, kayaks, and paddle boats. Browse our Lake George hotel rooms and find an option that suits your family’s budget and needs!

Jul 11 2025

Explore Fort William Henry: Museum, Tours, & Events

There are many attractions in the Lake George Area to add to your vacation itinerary. One of the top attractions is the Fort William Henry Museum, a historic site that played an important role in the French and Indian War. Whether you are a history buff or just want to learn something new on vacation–this historic fort is a must-visit for anyone spending time in Lake George. Sign up for a guided tour and step back in time to learn about life on an 18th-century fort from a uniformed soldier. Access the Fort William Henry Museum less than a mile from your accommodations at Surfside on the Lake and start your exploration today:

Things to Do at Fort William Henry Museum

Fort William Henry was initially built in 1755 by the British military during the midst of the French and Indian War. The location on Lake George was chosen to protect the inland waterways from New York City to Montreal. In 1757, the French military launched an attack on the fort, and the battle lasted several days before the British surrendered. The fort burned to the ground around this time and remained untouched until the 1950s when the site was reconstructed using the original plans. Today, the fort is open for visitors, offering guided tours, events, and museum exhibits:

Living History Tours

Several tours are offered at the fort from April to October. One of the most popular tours is the Guided Military Demonstrations, where a uniformed soldier brings the 18th century to life. Walk through the grounds and learn about the daily realities of living at the fort. Then, experience the sights and sounds of the past with a musket and cannon fire demonstration.

If you are interested in the paranormal, you can also tour the fort on a Haunted History Ghost Story. Explore the most haunted areas of the fort and hear ghost stories from your guide along the way.

Museum and Gift Shop

Stroll through the museum and see artifacts and documents that showcase the rich history of the fort. Learn about life at the fort, the history of the battles, and important figures from several fascinating exhibits. Afterward, stop at the Sutler Shoppe and find a keepsake or souvenir to bring home with you.

Events

There are several exciting events happening at the fort throughout the season. Join the annual 4th of July celebration and enjoy historic demonstrations, live music, kid-friendly activities, and fireworks displays. Every year, they also host a reenactment on the anniversary of the original battle. This free event is an immersive experience for the whole family, with battle reenactments, living history encampments, and a sutler market.

Discover Lake George’s History on Vacation

After exploring the Fort William Henry Museum, discover even more fascinating history at several museums and historical sites in the Lake George Area. Learn more about the region’s military history at Fort Ticonderoga or walk through the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage and see the final home of the 18th president. Find the perfect base camp for your exploration at Surfside on the Lake in Lake George Village. Relax at our lakefront hotel and enjoy complimentary watersports and dining at our on-site restaurant. Book with us today and escape to the Adirondack Mountains!

Jun 06 2025

Plan a Lake George Fishing Trip

With thousands of lakes, rivers, and ponds, the Adirondacks offer some of the best fishing in New York. Anglers seeking a destination where they can catch both cold- and warm-water species in one location will find the perfect spot in Lake George. Cast your line in the 32-mile lake and fish for lake trout, salmon, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and much more. Stay with Surfside on the Lake in the heart of the Lake George Village and access several popular fishing spots near our lakefront hotel. Whether you are planning a family vacation or a solo trip, fishing in Lake George is the perfect addition to your itinerary:

Popular Lake George Fishing Spots

Fishing on Lake George is a popular pastime for many locals and visitors. The 32-mile lake is divided into two basins, the northern and southern, each offering distinct fishing conditions and species. The Lake George Village is located in the southern basin of the lake. Fish from the shoreline in the Village or launch a boat from one of the local docks to access over 28,000 acres of water:

Find fishing in Lake George Village along the sidewalks and public docks down Beach Road. This is a great option for families looking to spend a few hours fishing without having to rent a boat.
Just a few miles from Lake George Village on the east side of the lake, you can find great fishing in the surrounding bays. Fish for pike, perch, and largemouth bass from Dunham Bay. Fish in the deep waters of Assembly Point for trout and salmon.
Separating the northern and southern sections of the lake, The Narrows are a popular fishing area for bass, crappie, and trout. Depart from one of the boat launches near Bolton Landing.
Drive to the Northern Basin of Lake George and find some of the best bass, trout, and salmon fishing at destinations like Mossy Point or Rogers Rock.

Lake George Fishing Charters

Not sure where to fish on Lake George? Sign up for a local fishing charter and let a captain take you on an epic fishing trip. Charters provide everything you need for the day, including rods, tackle, and bait. Just make sure you have your New York fishing license and get ready for a fun, family-friendly excursion with one of these fishing charters:

Reserve a Room at Lake George Hotel

Stay close to the best fishing spots on Lake George with Surfside on the Lake. Our hotel is situated directly on the stunning shores of Lake George, providing easy access to exceptional trout, salmon, and bass fishing. After a day of fishing adventures, enjoy food and drinks at our Rooftop Cabana Bar, open seasonally from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. In addition to our on-site restaurant, we also offer private beach access, an outdoor pool, a children’s playground, kayaks, and a sun deck. Check out our selection of Lake George hotel rooms and book with us today! Check out our selection of Lake George hotel rooms and book with us today!

May 09 2025

Summer Activities Guide: Lake George Water Sports

Spending time on the water is essential to any Lake George summer vacation. With Surfside on the Lake, it’s easy to enjoy a wide variety of water sports during your Lake George vacation. Start your adventures at our lakefront hotel and launch our complimentary kayaks and paddleboards from the private beach. Then, head into the village or neighboring towns to discover even more waterfront fun, like boating, jet skiing, tubing, and parasailing. Whether you are seeking something relaxed or fast-paced, there is something to keep every water lover entertained in Lake George:

Paddling

When you stay with Surfside on the Lake, you can start your water sports adventures right from our lakefront hotel. Reserve paddleboats, kayaks, or stand-up paddle boards with a beach attendant and head into the water from our private beach!

Boating

Reserve a pontoon from Lake George Boat Rentals and enjoy a day of sightseeing around Lake George. Boat to popular destinations like Dollar Island, bring your fishing gear and cast your line, hang out with your friends and family, and swim off the boat.

Parasailing

Experience Lake George from new heights on a parasailing trip with Parasail Joe’s. Fly on your own or in tandem with a family or friend and take in scenic views of the Adirondacks.

Jet Skiing

If you are looking for something more fast-paced, head to Chic’s Marina in Bolton Landing for the largest selection of waverunners and jet ski rentals on Lake George. Zip around the open water and enjoy an exhilarating day on the water.

Lazy River Tubing

In addition to all the fun on Lake George, you can find more water sports nearby on the Hudson River. Head to Tubby Tubes and reserve their lazy river tubing adventure for a relaxing and fun outing for all ages.

Whitewater Rafting

If you’ve never been whitewater rafting, the Lake George Area is a great place to try the water sport for the first time. Sign up for a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure on the Sacandaga River with Adirondack Adventure Center and ride 3.5 miles along the class II-III whitewater.

Book Your Getaway at Our Lake George Hotel on the Water

Discover fun for the whole family at Surfisde on the Lake, one of the top Lake George hotels on the water. Enjoy family-friendly water sports, relax on the beach, swim in the outdoor pool, take the kids to the playground, and enjoy food and drinks at the Rooftop Cabana Bar. Soak in views of Lake George as you sip on a frozen cocktail and enjoy our menu of burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and more. At the end of the day, our Lake George hotel rooms offer the perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains. Book your summer escape with us today!