Set against the backdrop of mountain peaks, towering trees, and the most beautiful lake is Shore Lodge in McCall, Idaho. This mountain resort is a year-round destination, but there is something special about summers here! Whether it’s building sandcastles on the beach, paddle boarding, swimming in the pool, or assembling s’mores — there are so many family-friendly summer activities.
McCall, Idaho is an idyllic mountain town with stunning scenery, a variety of shops and restaurants, and tons of outdoor activities. During the summer months, you can hike, mountain bike, fish, boat, and play in the lake — which has such clear water! And best of all, these activities are within minutes of Shore Lodge.
Summer Activities
Shore Lodge McCall is our favorite place to stay in this town, and it has become an end-of-summer tradition. We love playing in the sand, splashing in the lake, and spending an afternoon cooling off by the pool. You could easily never leave the resort with all its amenities — but we always have to hike at Ponderosa State Park at least once!
The private beach here has loungers, umbrellas, and side tables available for guests. It’s the perfect place to spend a warm summer day! You’ll usually find kids swimming out to the docks and doing cannon balls into the clear, and somewhat chilly water! For more adventure you can rent a pontoon boat, paddle boards, and kayaks at the kiosk by the beach.
During our recent visit, we spent a lot of time at the pool, and in the huge hot tub in the evenings. This is also where you can grab a s’more kit in the evening for a sweet ending to the wonderful summer day. The pool area has a bar serving sodas, beer, wine, and cocktails — and delicious mojitos.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Cove Spa which is located inside Shore Lodge. This place is truly heaven! Unfortunately, or fortunately, however you want to look at it — kids aren’t allowed. So, if you want some quiet time, make an appointment (far in advance) and prepare for some serious relaxation.
Lake View King Suite
If you can select your room type, then I highly recommend a Lake View Suite! These rooms have the most incredible views of the lake and offer a separate living space with a sleeper sofa — perfect for families. Sitting on the porch in the morning with a cup of coffee is so peaceful and refreshing. Plus, this layout gives you more space to spread out.
Dining
In the summer you must eat outside as much as possible. The Cutwater has a large patio right along the beach, and in the evenings the sunset views are unmatched! The Cutwater is where you’ll eat most of your meals since they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner here. There is also a small coffee shop that serves Starbucks coffee, pastries, and small breakfast items.
The upstairs bar serves great drinks, small plates, and incredible lake views; however, kids aren’t allowed. So, you can ditch the kids and enjoy some adult time here. Or, if you want a “fancier” dinner, then check out The Narrows Steakhouse. This upscale dining spot has a masculine decor with a great wine and whiskey selection. They are also accommodating to little ones, and surprisingly, to vegans as well. I had a fantastic vegan dinner while enjoying a great view of the lake!
Game Room & Movies
In addition to the outdoor activities, there is plenty of fun to be had indoors. Families love the game room which features a gigantic fish tank. And for a little nostalgia, they also have Pac-Man and Donkey Kong! It’s a great place to enjoy some quality family time or let the kids play and burn some extra energy.
There is a small movie theater onsite which shows family-friendly movies. You can check the front desk for the scheduled times, or even rent it out for a private showing! None of the times worked for us, so instead, we were given a huge list of movies we could select from to watch in our room, which would be delivered along with freshly popped popcorn.
If you’d like to read more about Shore Lodge in McCall, Idaho, and some of the available winter activities, then click here.
