Blue Lagoon Resort

Aside from some minor interior updates and maintenance during the off season, not much changes at this family-run property, established in 1984. Many couples and families have been coming here for decades. Friendly owners Tom and Michelle have a knack for maintaining loyalty from both guests as well as their staff. 

Newcomers will likely find the slate blue, white, and brown property to be pretty basic upon arrival -- the word "resort" definitely should not be taken too seriously. But once guests have stepped out the car, the property's appeal becomes clearer, and it is easy to feel charmed by the natural environment and laid-back vibe. The scent of pine and wood is all around, and there are pristine lake and mountain backdrops. The property also enjoys the benefit of another dramatic view across the highway, where a forested mountain looks spectacular, especially in autumn. 

The property itself is open, flat, and easy to walk around. A lighthouse statue greets guests near the entrance, and a gravel road turns to pavement surrounding a strip of grass (the picnic area), separating the motel section from the cottages.

The beach during peak season has a fun family vibe with kids splashing in the water and parents reading books in the Adirondack chairs. Meanwhile, boaters and fisherman may be cruising in and out of their slips during the day. As evening comes, picnics and barbecues take place around the property, with the communal bonfires becoming the main event after dark. Guests are free to bring s'mores makings and enjoy the wood fire until midnight -- though quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. apply. Though parents certainly have their share of fun, there is not much of a party scene to worry about, making this property well-suited to families with kids of all ages.

This seasonal property sits on a flat piece of land between the lake and the highway called 9N, which is accessed from the Village of Lake George. It's an easy five-minute drive to get to town for grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and shops. Fort William Henry is also based in town (next to Million Dollar Beach) for scenic steamboat cruises across the lake. 

From the property, guests can drive in the other direction along 9N and take the 15-minute scenic route towards charming Bolton Landing, a ritzier area also known as the gateway for the elite staying at Sagamore Resort. During peak season, there are some nice restaurant options along this route, as well.

The mountainous area of Lake George is a popular summer destination that sees a big surge in tourism during summer months. Unlike fellow Adirondack sister Lake Placid -- better known for winter sports thanks to Whiteface Mountain and Olympic game facilities -- the area around Lake George slows down during winter months (which is why many hotels close down). The freshwater namesake is the main attraction and it provides opportunities for swimmers, boaters, and water sports enthusiasts, with beautiful views in every direction. The lake is located in the southeastern part of Adirondack State Park -- the largest state park in the lower 48 states with more than 3,000 lakes and 2,000 miles of hiking trails to explore. 

This property offers just 24 units. The cheapest option is the Motel room, which has knotted pine wood walls, plaid bedspreads, a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffeemaker. The Motel Efficiency rooms have slightly bigger kitchenettes with microwaves, refrigerators, coffeemakers, stovetops, pots, pans, and dishes. Bathrooms in both of these have stand-up shower stalls. These units have exterior entrances, and each has two chairs outside by the door. There's a lawn area for shared picnic tables and charcoal barbecues. 

The two-bedroom Cottages are standalone buildings on the other side of the driveway, and they have fully equipped kitchens (including dishwashers) with cookware, plates, silverware, and glasses for a family of four. One of the bedrooms has a queen bed and the other has two double beds. These units only have one bathroom with a tub/shower combo, as well as a private picnic table and charcoal barbecue. One unit (Number 9) has a screened-in porch with a table for four. 

The largest unit is a three-bedroom house with a spacious fully equipped kitchen, huge dining room table, and outdoor deck. One room has a queen bed, one has two double beds, and one has two twins. There is also a pullout sofa. 

Checkout times are early -- 9 a.m. for cottages and 10 a.m. for the motel section -- and guests will need to tidy up before checking out (stripping the beds of sheets and washing dishes). 

No doubt, the biggest attraction of the property is the 200-foot lakefront with a sandy shoreline and Adirondack chairs for lounging and watching the kids swim (the waves and shallow water are ideal for little ones). This setting offers a beautiful view of the lake with mountains in the backdrop, as well as mountains across the the property beyond the highway. Many guests while away their hours reading on the dock, surrounded by nature; for city slickers looking to unplug, this is heaven. Kayaks, paddleboards, rowboats and canoes are on loan, free of charge, and can be signed out at the office. There are life preservers here as well. Other kids' activities include an outdoor ping-pong table, and again, equipment can be borrowed in the office. 

Boaters are common here due to the boat launch and dock slips (fees apply). Guests must provide proof that a safety course has been completed. There are also designated times when boats can be used in the lake.   

Next to the waterfront is a wood campfire and Adirondack chairs for nightly bonfires. Guests are able to bring their own beverages and s’mores makings until midnight, though quiet hours are from 10 p.m. until 8 a.m. 

The office is the staff hub and the place to go for knick-knacks, souvenirs, snacks, SPF lotions, frozen treats, and beverages. There are books and magazines here, as well as one coin-operated washer and dryer with detergent. 

Each unit comes with an assigned and free parking spot. For boat trailers and extra cars, there are additional spots across the property. No visitors are allowed, even during the daytime. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.