One of the most popular destinations in the Adirondacks, Million Dollar Beach is nothing short of amazing. Situated in the lake’s southern basin, it boasts a gorgeous 1,700-foot sandy shoreline with breathtaking views of the surrounding Adirondack Mountains. It’s known as one of the best places for swimming in the Adirondacks, with clean and calm waters, soft sand, and lifeguards on duty.Â
Million Dollar Beach is open from the end of May to the first week in September. This beach area officially opened as a park in 1951 and cost one million dollars, hence the unusual name. As a state-owned property, access to Million Dollar Beach is always free. Aside from swimming, this area is also known for its fantastic boat launch, picnic area, volleyball courts, and clean facilities.
While Million Dollar Beach is a known busy tourist destination, it’s a great place to visit at least once. However, if you’re looking for a quieter lodging option, our luxury Inn is one of the most secluded Adirondacks hotels and the perfect place to stay for a romantic getaway. Our 18 guest room choices all offer beautiful spaces designed for couples to relax together. We have on-site dining, a curated trail system, and a long list of amenities to make your stay unforgettable. Book your lodging today!Â
Million Dollar Beach & More Things to do in Lake George
Spending a relaxing day in the sunshine and crisp, clean waters of Million Dollar Beach is always a great addition to your getaway to the Adirondacks! The Lake George area is filled with fantastic things to do, so you can make a full-day trip to this lovely village.Â
Here are the best things to do in Lake George:Â
- Swimming at Million Dollar Beach: If you want to experience the pristine waters of Lake George, Million Dollar Beach is one of the best places to soak up the sun and swim.Â
- Climb Aboard the Minne Ha-Ha Steamboat: One of the classic activities in Lake George is to take a ride or dinner cruise aboard one of the historic steamboats. This is the perfect way to see the sights and relax on the water.Â
- Take an Epic Historical Tour: History buffs will appreciate the backstory of the Lake George area, and a great place to learn more is the Fort William Henry Historic Museum.Â
- Hike the Prospect Mountain Trail: This 3.3-mile out-and-back trail offers one of the most panoramic views of the Lake George area and the Adirondack mountains. Be ready for a steep hike up an old tramway trail from Lake George Village.Â
- Wine Tasting at the Adirondack Winery: After spending the day at Million Dollar Beach, there’s nothing better than enjoying a wine flight at our local Adirondack winery. Enjoy the handcrafted and award-winning wines while taking in the beauty of Lake George.Â
- Hit the Ropes at the Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course: Connect with your inner thrill seeker and climb the ropes to the treetops at this local adventure course.Â
- View the Beauty of Shelving Rock Falls: One of the most popular hikes in the area, Shelving Rock Falls is one of the best things to do in Lake George. The 6.3-mile loop is considered moderate, but the picturesque waterfalls are worth the effort!Â
- Grab Lunch on the Patio: Summer plans in Lake George aren’t complete until you’ve soaked up the lake views from one of the many outdoor patio options. A few favorites are Christie’s on the Lake, the Lake George Beach Club, and the Tavern on the Lake.Â
One of the Most Secluded Adirondacks Hotels
Million Dollar Beach is one of the best places for swimming in the Adirondacks, and you’ll get your fill of the lively atmosphere during a visit there, which makes returning to one of the most secluded Adirondacks Hotels all the more worth it! Our luxurious Inn offers the perfect, quiet reprieve from the tourist hotspots in the Lake George area and beyond.
As a guest at Friends Lake Inn, you’ll have beautiful accommodations, lovely on-site dining, and welcoming hospitality. With 18 lodging options on our property, we can accommodate any style of getaway, be that a romantic retreat, friend trip, or solo vacation. All of our guest rooms have luxurious amenities and beautifully appointed en suite bathrooms. As one of the most secluded Adirondacks hotels, you can relish the privacy that our wooded property provides.Â
Our dining options on-site are an added bonus to your stay, as you won’t have to go far to indulge in a fantastic farm-to-table meal. Our chef-driven, seasonal menu has something for everyone, along with a curated wine list, craft beer, and classic cocktails. We offer two styles of dining: the Birch Bistro is more casual, and our Main Dining Room imbues a more fine-dining approach. We can’t wait to host you in the Adirondacks; book your lodging today!
