Dover Bay Lakeside Adventures & Igloo Dining in Sandpoint - Spokane, Washington

Dover Bay Lakeside Adventures & Igloo Dining in Sandpoint

Spokane, Washingtoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for beginners and casual adventurers with basic balance and swimming skills.

Overview

Dover Bay in Sandpoint, Idaho, offers a refreshing lakeside adventure with kayak rentals, boat moorage, and a one-of-a-kind igloo dining experience. Get a closer look at what makes this waterfront destination stand out on Lake Pend Oreille.

Details

Located on the shimmering shores of Lake Pend Oreille in Sandpoint, Idaho, Dover Bay offers a unique blend of lakeside recreation and cozy hospitality. This stretch of one of Idaho’s largest lakes is known for its striking clear waters framed by forested hills and the rugged Selkirk Mountains. Dover Bay has engineered a distinctive set of offerings that connect visitors to this vibrant waterfront in both dynamic and relaxing ways.

Dover Bay’s standout feature is its Lakeside Igloo Dining experience—inviting guests to enjoy seasonal menus within clear, heated domes right on the water’s edge. It’s an intimate way to take in the fresh lake breezes and panoramic views after a day of outdoor activity. When the sun is high, Dover Bay’s kayak rentals and stand-up paddleboards provide direct access to gliding across calm waters peppered with occasional wildlife sightings—otters and eagles are common visitors here.

The facility also accommodates boaters with moorage options and even offers secure overnight trailer storage, making it a practical hub for Lake Pend Oreille enthusiasts. This infrastructure supports extended adventures, from sunrise paddle expeditions to late-afternoon cruises.

Sandpoint itself, just east of the Cascade Mountains, is an outdoors hub with hiking, biking, and water sports year-round. Dover Bay captures this energy while balancing relaxation—its igloo dining offers warmth and ambiance during colder months, contrasting with bright summer days spent on the lake. The clear waters owe their clarity to Lake Pend Oreille’s deep glacial origins and the surrounding undeveloped watershed.

Whether you’re after an active day on paddleboards or a unique dining experience under the stars, Dover Bay’s mix of amenities and location make it a must-visit for adventurers and leisure seekers aligned with Idaho’s outdoor spirit.

Adventure Tips

Book Igloo Dining in Advance

Lakeside igloos fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays—reserve early to secure your spot.

Arrive Early for Paddleboard Rentals

Morning sessions offer calmer water and fewer crowds, ideal for standup paddleboarding beginners.

Use Life Jackets on the Water

Idaho law requires personal flotation devices for kayak and paddleboard use—safety first on Lake Pend Oreille.

Check Weather Before Your Visit

Weather on the lake can shift quickly; dress in layers and be prepared for wind changes.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Robinson Creek Trailhead – a quiet spot with lakeside hiking and less traffic
  • City Beach Park – a small warm-water swimming area just a few minutes from Dover Bay

Wildlife

  • Bald Eagles frequently spotted soaring above Lake Pend Oreille
  • River Otters that play near the shoreline at dawn and dusk

History

Lake Pend Oreille is a glacial lake formed during the last Ice Age and has been central to local tribes and settlers in the Sandpoint region.

Conservation

Dover Bay supports lake health by encouraging responsible boating and limiting shoreline disturbance, promoting sustainable recreation practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning
Blue hour after sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • South-facing pier at Dover Bay for lake and mountain vistas
  • From a paddleboard near the igloos to capture reflections
  • Nearby hilltops overlooking Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille

What to Photograph

Clear lake waters and mountain backdrops
Lakeside igloo dining domes lit up after dark
Local wildlife such as eagles and otters on the water’s edge

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Protects from spring showers and cool lake breezes during paddle sessions.

spring specific

Water Shoes

Essential

Provides traction and comfort when entering and exiting the water with kayaks or paddleboards.

summer specific

Insulated Layers

Essential

Keep warm during chilly evenings and sunrise outings near the lake.

fall specific

Warm Hat and Gloves

Essential

Necessary for comfort during outdoor moments before and after igloo dining.

winter specific