10 Summertime Things To Do in Sandpoint, Idaho

10 Summertime Things to Do in Sandpoint, Idaho

Celebrated for its small-town charm and outdoor appeal, Sandpoint is a stunning mountain town located near the Canadian border in Northern Idaho. This charming town sits on the shores of lake Pend Oreille, and that’s part of the reason there are so many things to do in Sandpoint during the summer!

Home to a plethora of natural landscapes, this adventurous destination is a mecca for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. From hiking to biking, cruising, swimming, and golfing, I’ve compiled below some of the best warm-weather things to do in Sandpoint so you can make the most of your summer getaway!

I was invited to explore Sandpoint as part of a two-week trip to Northern Idaho in collaboration with North Idaho Tourism and Visit Sandpoint. I have loads of information from my visit to this beautiful area, so feel free to take a look at some of these other articles and videos from Northern Idaho. 

Sandpoint, Idaho is a true outdoor haven with tons of water and land activities that make every trip something special. I’ve included a few affiliate links in this post, and if you decide to make a purchase through one, you’ll help me earn a small commission at zero cost to you. Thanks for your support, and let’s check out the best things to do during a Sandpoint summer! 

Why You Should Visit Sandpoint, Idaho

Surrounded by three mountains and situated along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s largest and deepest lake, Sandpoint is north Idaho’s premier outdoor destination. Offering miles of protected land, a thriving wildlife population, and endless recreational opportunities, this small town is perfect for those looking to escape into nature!

Sandpoint is also home to a vibrant historical center, where you’ll find a wide variety of local shops, restaurants, and markets. Not to mention more than a few lively festivals and celebrations that happen throughout the year, especially during the vibrant summer months! 

10 Best Things to Do in Sandpoint, Idaho in Summer

Here are the top 10 summertime things to do in Sandpoint, Idaho!

1. Go For a Hike

Hiking is, undoubtedly, one of the best ways to explore Sandpoint. With its close proximity to the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, the town offers easy access to thousands of miles of trails. While they’re all worth exploring, these are some of the most popular:

• Mickinnick Trail: This challenging 7-mile switchback trail offers stunning views of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille.
• Gold Hill Trail: Popular among mountain bikers, this moderately challenging 5.6-mile trail provides impressive views of the surrounding mountains.
• Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail: Perfect for runners, dog-walking, or those with families, this easy 3.3-mile trail meanders along the shore of Lake Pend Oreille.
• Mineral Point Trail: This easy 2-mile hike ends at Green Bay Campground, where swimming is accessible.

2. Cool Down at Sandpoint City Beach 

Encompassing a total of 22 acres of waterfront property, Sandpoint City Beach provides easy access to Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint’s most popular attraction. Here you’ll have the opportunity to partake in several activities on the water, including swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, and tubing. Recreational courts, food concessions, and picnic areas are also available on shore.

Tip: Don’t forget to brush up on your boater safety if heading out on the water. 

3. Explore Schweitzer Mountain Resort

While Schweitzer may be best known for its skiing, it also offers a wide array of adventurous activities during the summer months. From hiking to mountain biking, zip lining, horseback riding, berry picking, geocaching, and disc golfing, there’s plenty to do here when the warmer weather arrives! 

4. Shop Local at the Cedar Street Bridge Public Market

Situated in the heart of Sandpoint, Cedar Street Bridge Public Market is the only marketplace in the country that is located on a historic bridge. Dating back to the 1920s, this bridge once connected the town and nearby railroad depot. Today, it plays host to various local vendors, many of whom sell handmade and sustainably-sourced goods.

Lake art gallery as seen from the Shawnodese Cruise 

5. Take a Cruise on Lake Pend Oreille

A popular activity among families and older travelers, cruises are a safe and easy way to explore Lake Pend Oreille. You can choose from various cruise types, including sunset cruises, birdwatching cruises, and historical cruises.

6. Visit Farragut State Park

Once a former Naval Training Station, Farragut State Park was declared protected land in 1965. The park spans approximately 4,000 acres and offers many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, camping, sailing, swimming, fishing, boating, and horseback riding. 

7. Join a Brewery Tour 

Sandpoint is home to three microbreweries: MickDuff’s, Matchwood, and Utara. All three of these breweries are located downtown, within walking distance of each other – so you can sample all the local flavors of Sandpoint in one go!

8. Tee Up at Jack Nicklaus’ Signature Golf Course

Sandpoint is home to The Idaho Club, the state’s only Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. Meticulously designed by the famous golfer, this 18-hole golf course is one of Idaho’s most famous.

9. Pick Your Own Produce

Situated just outside of Sandpoint, you’ll find several U-Pick farms that offer an array of produce, including blueberries, strawberries, and even flowers. In addition to this, the mountains surrounding Sandpoint become blanketed in huckleberries during July and August. You can venture out on your own to pick them or join a shuttle tour at Schweitzer Resort.

10. Attend a Summer Festival

Throughout the summer, Sandpoint hosts several lively festivals! Some of the most popular include the Northwest Wine Festival, Beerfest, and The Festival, a 10-day concert that features some of the country’s most famous musical artists.

Best Restaurants to Try in Sandpoint, Idaho 

Now that we’ve covered activities that you can do in Sandpoint, it’s time to turn our attention to the best restaurants in town—and trust me, there are plenty!

1. Trinity at City Beach 

Situated along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Trinity at City Beach not only offers excellent food but also amazing views! You can sit on their waterfront deck and admire the lake while chowing down on a selection of delectable American food. Some of the best dishes here include trout, crab cakes, and lobster ravioli!

Trinity at City Beach

2. Di Luna’s Cafe 

Open for breakfast and lunch, Di Luna’s Cafe offers a variety of healthy regional cuisines featuring an assortment of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. For breakfast, you can find favorites such as scrambled eggs, french toast, and pancakes, while soups, salads, and sandwiches are available for lunch.

3. Sky House

Located at the peak of Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Sky House offers 360-degree views of Sandpoint and the surrounding area. You can even see all the way to Canada from up here! In addition to its incredible views, Sky House serves lunch, coffee, and beer daily. You can either hike up to the restaurant or catch a ride on the resort’s chair lift.

The Lodge at Sandpoint 

Where To Stay in Sandpoint, Idaho 

When you’ve had your fill of food and activities, these are some of the best places to go for a great night’s sleep!

1. Schweitzer Mountain Resort

At Schweitzer Mountain Resort, you’ll find eleven different lodging facilities to choose from. These accommodations, which are dispersed along the mountain and in town, feature a mix of condos, bungalows, lodges, motels, and hotels. The newest of these is the Humbird Hotel, a boutique hotel that opened in winter of 2022.

I actually got a private tour of this hotel and it is fabulous. Rooms have large windows, great beds, bathrooms, work areas and even boot warmers to keep your ski boots warm overnight. The hotel also has a bar/restaurant, guest only fire and game room, and remote worker’s office as well. 

2. Talus Rock Retreat 

Located on 18 acres, only a mile from downtown Sandpoint, Talus Rock Retreat is a peaceful, luxurious bed and breakfast that offers unique accommodations. Situated inside an elegant villa, the B&B can be rented out entirely or room by room. Rooms are enormous, and the property features a hot tub, infrared sauna, pond and walking trails through the grounds. 

3. The Lodge at Sandpoint 

Offering waterfront accommodations, The Lodge at Sandpoint sits directly on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. In addition to incredible views, this boutique lodge also offers complimentary breakfast, a fitness room, and outdoor hot tubs, as well as a private beach. 

Best Things To Do in Sandpoint, Idaho 

Sandpoint is an excellent destination with much to offer. From outdoor recreation to fine dining, shopping, and community events, there’s certainly much to do and see here! Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, an adventurous foodie, or a community-minded traveler, you’re sure to find a wealth of activities that excite and inspire you in Sandpoint, Idaho!