How to Have the Perfect Priest Lake Beach Day
A Priest Lake beach day is not just about finding a spot in the sand. It is about clear mountain water, cedar-lined shorelines, boat rides, quiet coves, campfires, and those long summer afternoons that turn into unforgettable nights. Set deep in Northern Idaho below the Selkirk Mountains, Priest Lake is known for its scenic shoreline, cool water, and peaceful outdoor feel.
Start Easy at Elkins South Beach
For a classic beach day, begin at Elkins South Beach. You do not have to go far to find soft sand, space to spread out, and plenty to do. This is the spot for building sandcastles, lounging in the sun, swimming, and playing beach volleyball with family or friends.
Elkins Resort sits along the sandy shores of Reeder Bay and is known for lakefront lodging, dining, boat rentals, and easy access to the water. Stay late, and the day gets even better. Roast marshmallows by a beach fire, look up at the stars, and let the lake do what it does best: slow everything down.
Boat to Canoe Point
For a more tucked-away experience, head to Canoe Point on the northeast side of Priest Lake. This boat-in beach rewards you with fine white sand, crystal-clear water, and a protected setting that is often calmer when the wind picks up elsewhere.
It is the kind of place where you anchor, jump in, swim until your fingers wrinkle, then stretch out on the sand like you have discovered your own private corner of the lake.
Watch the Boats at Anderson Point
Anderson Point on Bartoo Island brings a little history and a lot of charm to your beach day. Once used as a summer cabin area before the 99-year lease ended, this island point is now a memorable public spot where visitors can relax and watch boats cruise by.
Pack a lunch, bring a towel, and enjoy the rare feeling of spending the afternoon on an island in the middle of Priest Lake.
Walk Into Teachers Bay
About five miles north of Elkins Resort on Reeder Bay Road, Teachers Bay is worth the one-mile walk down to the lake. The trail leads through tall cedar trees before opening to a sandy beach that feels quiet, shaded, and perfect for a picnic or camping-style day.
Adventure to Trapper Creek Beach
For the adventurous, make your way to Trapper Creek Beach on Upper Priest Lake. This north-facing white sand beach is a camper favorite, and for good reason. It offers swimming, solitude, and access to the Centennial Trail, where you can hike north toward an ancient cedar grove or south toward a beautiful creek crossing.
Book Your Cabin at Elkins Resort
The coziest places to stay in Priest Lake ID are right here at Elkins Resort. Whether you are looking for a romantic couple’s retreat or space for a large family vacation, our Priest Lake cabins are just what you’ve been looking for. Choose from 30 cedar cabins, ranging in size from studios to six bedrooms, each featuring the comforts of modern amenities and beautiful views of Northern Idaho. Picture-worthy spots in Priest Lake will be right outside your door! So, what are you waiting for? Book your vacation with Elkins Resort today!