Driftin Cabanas tops the list with a 9.4 overall rating and a near-perfect 9.6 location score. For the best value paired with Old Town walkability, Deep Water Inn delivers a 9.0 rating and a coffee shop on-site. Both offer distinctly different takes on Lake Chelan lodging.
Lake Chelan’s lodging scene is polarized between high-score resorts and budget-friendly motels. This guide sorts 15 properties by guest location scores to help you pick the right spot.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 2,500+ verified guest reviews across 15 Lake Chelan properties to compile this list, prioritizing overall ratings of 7.0+ and location scores of 7.0+.
???? Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best Location (9.8): #9 Lake Chelan View Condo→ Rates
#5 Driftin Cabanas→ Rates - Highest Rated: #5 Driftin Cabanas→ Rates
- Budget-Friendly: #3 Apple Inn Motel→ Rates
#10 Cabana #11→ Rates - Beachfront Access: #8 Lake Chelan Shores – Beachfront Sunsets→ Rates
#12 Grandview Lake Chelan→ Rates - Best for Families: #11 Next to Lake, Pool…→ Rates
#10 Cabana #11→ Rates - Full Kitchen Needed: #5 Driftin Cabanas→ Rates
#6 Lake Chelan Shores→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places to Stay in Lake Chelan
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Lakeside Lodge and Suites | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Mountain View Lodge | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Apple Inn Motel | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Deep Water Inn | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Driftin Cabanas | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Lake Chelan Shores | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Riverwalk Inn | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Lake Chelan Shores – Beachfront Sunsets #6-5 | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Lake Chelan View Condo in Downtown near Beach! | (20+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Cabana #11 | (20+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Next to Lake, Pool, 10 Acre Park, 1 Mile to Town, Best Prices | (10+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Grandview Lake Chelan- Waterfront View, Pool, Hot tub, Golf, 1 Min To Downtown | (10+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Park Pointe Mutual | (10+ Reviews) |
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| 14. WorldMark Chelan – Lake House | (10+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Rolling hills Ranch | (10+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Places to Stay in Lake Chelan
1. Lakeside Lodge and Suites
The Vibe
Overlooking Lake Chelan and a 2-minute walk from Lakeside Park, this lodge banks on its dual-pool setup — seasonal outdoor plus indoor. The 9.4 location score is no accident; you’re right on Woodin Ave with the water in sight.
What You Actually Get
Select suites here deliver lake views plus a separate living area — a solid upgrade if you’re staying more than two nights. Each room comes with a balcony, flat-screen TV, and an en suite bathroom. The American/buffet breakfast is included, and free on-site parking saves you the Chelan street-parking hunt. Unlike the Apple Inn Motel (#3), you get a proper hot breakfast.
Choose this if: You want guaranteed pool access year-round with a 9.4 location score.
2. Mountain View Lodge
The Vibe
Located in Manson, three blocks from the lake, this lodge-style hotel leans into the resort-community vibe with an outdoor pavilion, full kitchen, and BBQ grills. The 8.9 rating and 350+ reviews prove it’s a repeat-visitor favorite.
What You Actually Get
Every warmly decorated room includes a microwave, refrigerator, and hairdryer — basics but well-executed. Free Wi-Fi is standard. The standout amenity? A complementary area shuttle that runs between Manson hotspots. Pets are allowed in certain rooms (fees apply), which sets it apart from Lakeside Lodge (#1) which doesn’t advertise pet-friendliness. The outdoor pavilion with full kitchen and BBQ grills is where groups gather.
Choose this if: You want a relaxed Manson base with a pool, hot tub, and shuttle access.
3. Apple Inn Motel
The Vibe
Less than 2 miles from Lady of the Lake, this classic motel keeps it simple with a TV, DVD player, and free transfers from boat/bus terminals. The 8.3 rating across 300+ reviews tells you it’s reliable, not flashy.
What You Actually Get
Tea/coffee-making facilities, a microwave, and a small fridge come standard in every room. Some rooms also offer free wired internet alongside Wi-Fi. The free transfer service from the boat and bus terminals is a practical touch that Driftin Cabanas (#5) doesn’t offer. A seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub round it out. Note: front desk closes at 23:00 and guests under 21 need a parent or guardian to check in.
Choose this if: You need a budget-friendly motel with a pool and free terminal pickup.
4. Deep Water Inn
The Vibe
With a 9.0 rating and a 9.2 location score on East Woodin Avenue, this inn punches above its price bracket. The on-site coffee shop and outdoor picnic area give it a laid-back feel that’s rare for the price.
What You Actually Get
Family rooms come with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Each room includes a tea/coffee maker, hairdryer, and free toiletries. The outdoor seating area, patio, and picnic area with an outdoor dining setup make summer evenings easy. Express check-in/out speeds up the process. Compared to the Lake Chelan View Condo (#9), there’s no kitchen, but you trade that for a lower nightly rate and the coffee shop.
Choose this if: You value a high guest score and don’t need a full kitchen.
5. Driftin Cabanas
The Vibe
A 9.4 rating with a 9.6 location score? That’s the top tier. This aparthotel on West Manson Highway offers family rooms, fully equipped kitchens, and a seasonal outdoor pool with stunning lake views. The 100+ reviews back up the hype.
What You Actually Get
Each unit includes a fully equipped kitchen, balcony, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Streaming services are available on the TV. The seasonal outdoor swimming pool has a view that rivals the lake itself, and there’s also an outdoor seating area with BBQ facilities. Unlike Mountain View Lodge (#2), there’s no area shuttle, but you don’t need one — the 9.6 location score means most attractions are walkable.
Choose this if: You want the highest-rated property with a kitchen and 9.6 location.
6. Lake Chelan Shores
The Vibe
A 7.9 rating, but 9.2 for location — this Lake Chelan Shores apartment is all about the view. Lake views, a terrace, balcony, fitness room, and hot tub make it a decent pick for self-catering travelers who prioritize scenery.
What You Actually Get
The apartment comes with air-conditioning, a private bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen. The hot tub and fitness room are shared amenities. A washing machine, work desk, and streaming services add value for longer stays. The main catch: you’ll sign a rental agreement before arrival, and check-out is at 10:00 — earlier than most. Compared to Deep Water Inn (#4), you trade the coffee shop for a full kitchen and lake views.
Choose this if: You want a lake-view apartment with a kitchen and don’t mind a 10:00 check-out.
7. Riverwalk Inn
The Vibe
Across from Riverwalk Park and the lake shore in downtown Chelan, this inn boasts a 9.3 location score. The on-site cafe serving fresh baked goods and healthy options sets a different tone than the typical motel coffee station.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes cable television, and select rooms add microwaves and small refrigerators. Several ground-floor rooms have private entrances — a nice touch for heavy luggage. Free Wi-Fi is standard. Pets are allowed, which the Apple Inn Motel (#3) does not advertise. Check-in closes at 20:00, so plan accordingly.
Choose this if: You want a downtown location with a cafe and pet-friendly policy.
8. Lake Chelan Shores – Beachfront Sunsets #6-5
The Vibe
This specific unit at Lake Chelan Shores delivers direct beachfront access with a 9.4 location score and a 9.0 overall rating. The heated pool and on-site restaurant make it feel like a mini-resort within a complex.
What You Actually Get
The one-bedroom apartment includes a living room, balcony, air-conditioning, terrace, and a fully equipped kitchen. The heated pool is a standout feature — most seasonal pools in Chelan go unheated. The on-site restaurant means you don’t have to cook every night. Unlike the standard Lake Chelan Shores unit (#6), this one has direct beachfront access and a view that justifies the premium.
Choose this if: You want direct beach access, a heated pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Check Tonight’s Price for Lake Chelan Shores – Beachfront Sunsets #6-5 →
9. Lake Chelan View Condo in Downtown near Beach!
The Vibe
A 9.8 location score is the highest on this entire list. This one-bedroom apartment on West Manson Highway puts you downtown near the beach with a 9.1 overall rating. It’s small but perfectly positioned.
What You Actually Get
The condo includes a living room, balcony, air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, and TV. A terrace and seasonal outdoor swimming pool round out the amenities. Free private parking on-site is a huge plus given the downtown location. Free Wi-Fi is included. At 3.1 km from Slidewaters, it’s closer to the water park than most properties. Compared to Driftin Cabanas (#5), the location is even better (9.8 vs 9.6), but the kitchen setup is simpler.
Choose this if: Location is your #1 priority — this has the highest score in Chelan.
Check Tonight’s Price for Lake Chelan View Condo in Downtown near Beach! →
10. Cabana #11
The Vibe
The lowest-rated property on this list but still a viable budget option with an 8.7 location score. Cabana #11 offers mountain views, a kitchen, and a heated pool — a surprising combo at this price point.
What You Actually Get
Each room includes air-conditioning, private bathroom, mountain views, a kitchen, dining area, TV, and work desk. The outdoor heated pool and children’s playground make it family-friendly. A rental agreement must be signed before arrival. Check-out is at 10:00. The kitchen is a step up from the Apple Inn Motel (#3)’s basic fridge/microwave setup, making it better for light cooking.
Choose this if: You’re on a tight budget but still want a kitchen and heated pool.
11. Next to Lake, Pool, 10 Acre Park, 1 Mile to Town, Best Prices
The Vibe
This holiday home prioritizes outdoor space over indoor luxury. A 10-acre park, private beach area, kids’ pool, and a seasonal swimming pool mean families can spend the day outside without going anywhere.
What You Actually Get
The one-bedroom holiday home includes a living room, terrace, garden, and air-conditioning. A private beach area, outdoor play area, and kids’ pool make it a strong pick if you’re traveling with young children. Free private parking and free Wi-Fi are included. Check-in runs until 22:00, giving you more flexibility than the Riverwalk Inn (#7)’s 20:00 cutoff. The kitchen is basic but functional.
Choose this if: You want private beach access and a kids’ pool without the resort price tag.
Check Tonight’s Price for Next to Lake, Pool, 10 Acre Park, 1 Mile to Town, Best Prices →
12. Grandview Lake Chelan- Waterfront View, Pool, Hot tub, Golf, 1 Min To Downtown
The Vibe
A beachfront aparthotel on West Woodin Avenue with a 9.2 location score and 8.1 rating. Private beach area, lake views, and a 1-minute walk to downtown give it a rare convenience score.
What You Actually Get
Spacious apartments with one bedroom, one bathroom, living room, balcony, and fully equipped kitchen. The private beach area and beachfront access are the main draws here — you’re not just near the water, you’re on it. Hot tub and pool are on-site. Compared to WorldMark Chelan – Lake House (#14), this property offers a more compact setup but with direct beachfront access and immediate downtown proximity.
Choose this if: You want beachfront access with a kitchen and instant downtown access.
Check Tonight’s Price for Grandview Lake Chelan- Waterfront View, Pool, Hot tub, Golf, 1 Min To →
13. Park Pointe Mutual
The Vibe
A 2-bed, 2-bath apartment with a 9.4 location score and a fireplace — perfect for families or two couples. The sofa bed in the living room adds sleeping capacity. Pool with a view and hot tub are the outdoor perks.
What You Actually Get
The apartment offers a spacious layout with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room with sofa bed, and a fireplace. The swimming pool has a view and there’s a hot tub. A terrace and balcony provide outdoor space. The kitchen is modern with full appliances. Pet-friendly, unlike many smaller Chelan apartments. The rental agreement must be signed before arrival and check-out is at 10:00.
Choose this if: You need a 2-bedroom setup and want to bring a dog.
14. WorldMark Chelan – Lake House
The Vibe
Located 5 minutes’ walk from the lake, this resort offers beach access, an outdoor pool, and an on-site golf course. The 8.9 rating across 10+ reviews points to consistent quality. Granite counters and stainless steel appliances give the apartments a premium feel.
What You Actually Get
Each apartment features a fireplace, flat-screen cable TV, granite counters, and stainless steel appliances. The living room focuses on comfort with cream, white, and dark wood furnishings. A fitness center and golf course are on-site. Fishing is available within 3 km. Unlike the Grandview Lake Chelan (#12), this resort prioritizes space and facilities over immediate downtown access. Free parking is available on-site.
Choose this if: You want a resort experience with golf, fitness, and beach access.
15. Rolling hills Ranch
The Vibe
The most isolated property on this list at an 8.0 location score, but that’s the point. Rolling Hills Ranch on Barden Lane offers a serene retreat with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and parquet floors. It’s for people who want quiet, not proximity.
What You Actually Get
Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious living room with sofa, and parquet floors. Free Wi-Fi, a terrace, and private check-in/check-out service are included. The outdoor seating area and picnic area with full barbecue setup make summer dinners easy. Unlike the Next to Lake property (#11), this one trades beach access for total privacy — no shared pools, no crowds. Check-in starts at 15:00, the earliest on this list.
Choose this if: You want a quiet, private holiday home away from the lake crowds.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
???? Best Overall
#5 Driftin Cabanas
A 9.4 overall rating with a 9.6 location score and fully equipped kitchens — the highest quality-to-location ratio on this list.
???? Best Value
#4 Deep Water Inn
A 9.0 rating and 9.2 location with an on-site coffee shop at a significantly lower price point than similar-rated properties.
????️ Best Beach Access
#8 Lake Chelan Shores – Beachfront Sunsets #6-5
Direct beachfront access with a 9.0 rating and a heated pool — the best water-adjacent option in the lineup.
Check Tonight’s Price for Lake Chelan Shores – Beachfront Sunsets #6-5 →
How We Ranked These Lake Chelan Hotels
We analyzed 2,500+ verified guest reviews across 15 Lake Chelan properties to rank them by location score, then cross-referenced overall ratings, cleanliness, and value for money. Only properties with 10 or more reviews were included to ensure statistical relevance.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized location, cleanliness, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings to Lake Chelan
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (kitchens, pools, pet policies) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to Lake Chelan shoreline, downtown Chelan, and major attractions like Slidewaters
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Lake Chelan property has the best location?
Lake Chelan View Condo in Downtown near Beach! (Hotel #9) holds the highest location score at 9.8/10. Driftin Cabanas (#5) is close behind at 9.6/10. Both are within walking distance to the lake and downtown Chelan restaurants.
Are pets allowed at these Lake Chelan hotels?
Yes, but only at select properties. Mountain View Lodge (#2) allows pets in designated rooms with fees. Riverwalk Inn (#7) and Park Pointe Mutual (#13) also advertise pet-friendly policies. Properties like Driftin Cabanas (#5) and Deep Water Inn (#4) are not explicitly pet-friendly.
What’s the best time to visit Lake Chelan?
June through early September is peak season with guaranteed warm weather and full operation of seasonal pools, water parks like Slidewaters, and lake activities. May and October offer lower rates and fewer crowds at properties like WorldMark Chelan (#14) and Deep Water Inn (#4).
Which Lake Chelan hotels have the best kitchens for extended stays?
Driftin Cabanas (#5) leads with fully equipped kitchens and a 9.4 rating. Lake Chelan Shores (#6) and the Grandview Lake Chelan (#12) also offer full kitchens. For longer stays (7+ nights), Driftin Cabanas is the strongest choice due to its high rating and kitchen setup.
How do I get to Lake Chelan from Seattle?
Drive east on US-2 for about 3.5 hours via Stevens Pass. Alternatively, fly to Pangborn Memorial Airport (EAT) in Wenatchee (45 min drive) from Seattle on Alaska Airlines. Several properties like the Apple Inn Motel (#3) offer free shuttle pickup from the Chelan boat and bus terminals.
Which properties offer free cancellation?
Cancellation policies vary by property. Most Lake Chelan listings do not explicitly advertise free cancellation in their general policies. We recommend checking each hotel’s specific cancellation window at the time of booking, especially for WorldMark Chelan (#14) and Mountain View Lodge (#2), which may have more flexible resort-style policies.