Considering a visit to Lake Tahoe? If you are looking for accommodation in Lake Tahoe, you have lots of great choices all around the lake!
Lake Tahoe is a gorgeous alpine lake located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, on the California-Nevada border.
The enormous lake straddles the two states, and there are many small communities nestled along the shore of the lake.
From world-class mountain resorts to cute cabins tucked away in the woods by the lake, there are numerous places to stay in Lake Tahoe.
A year-round playground, Lake Tahoe is a hugely popular winter sports destination, with numerous ski resorts.
The rest of the year, you can enjoy hiking, scenic drives, cruising, boating, and other outdoor activities, and, if you plan to spend a few days, you can even explore other places in the region.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Best Places to Stay in Lake Tahoe
Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe, CA
Best Places to Stay in Stateline, NV
Incline Village Accommodations, NV
Where to Stay in Kings Beach, CA
Best Places to Stay in Tahoe City, CA
Homewood Accommodations, CA
The Best Places to Stay in Lake Tahoe
When you visit Lake Tahoe, you can stay in one of the communities on the south, north, west, or east shore of Lake Tahoe.
In the south and north, you will find communities in both California and Nevada from which to pick.
You can also stay in places farther away from the lakeshore, such as Truckee on the California side, or Reno or Carson City on the Nevada side, and drive to the lake each day.
The best area to stay in Lake Tahoe depends on whether you enjoy having more options for dining and nightlife or you are looking for a get-away-from-it-all experience: the South Shore of Lake Tahoe is lively, with shopping, dining, and nightlife, while the other shores tend to be more quieter and more secluded.
The activities you’ve planned for your visit should also play a role in where you opt to stay.
While the road around the lake is scenic, it is a slow road, and it takes a while to get from one part of the shore to another. Staying near attractions, ski resorts, or hiking trails you want to cover will minimize time spent sitting in the car.
In this article, we have described the larger communities around the lake, with our curated options for hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.
We’ve visited Lake Tahoe a number of times, and we’ve stayed on the south shore, the west shore, and the north shore, in hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.
Each of our stays was unique and fun: Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful lakes in California, and quite definitely a paradise!
Good to know: Reserve early! Lake Tahoe is an enormously popular getaway destination all through the year. Booking your accommodations early (as in weeks ahead) will help you score the location and accommodation you want, likely at a better price as well.
Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe sits on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, on the California side.
The resort destination is lively and bustling, with numerous quality eateries and easy access to stores for groceries and supplies.
Jalisco Grill for Mexican, and California Burger Co., two of our favorite eateries around Lake Tahoe, are located here.
You also have a choice of beaches along the south shore of Lake Tahoe.
Boat rentals are easily available, and you have convenient access to spas and golf courses as well. Emerald Bay State Park, one of the most scenic parts of the lake, is just 11 miles away.
South Lake Tahoe is home to the Heavenly Ski Resort for winter sports. Heavenly Village has shops, dining, and entertainment as well. It features a seasonal ice rink, a cinema complex, and live theater. It is also close to the casinos in Stateline.
Sierra-at-Tahoe Ski Resort in Twin Bridges is just 30 minutes away.
We’ve stayed in South Lake Tahoe several times, and found it a fun place to enjoy the evenings, after days spent in the outdoors.
On a visit to Lake Tahoe in the fall, South Lake Tahoe served as a convenient base from where we did extensive leaf-peeping: in Hope Valley, along the mountain passes, and along US 395.
Choose South Lake Tahoe if you want a family-friendly place with lots of amenities, or a fun place to hang out after hitting the slopes or the trails during the day.
Best Hotels in South Lake Tahoe, CA
Grand Residences by Marriott in Heavenly Village features spacious apartments with full kitchens and room to spread out: we loved our one-bedroom apartment here. You can choose from studios to 2-bedroom units. The complex features a spa, sauna, steam room, and a swimming pool.
BOOK YOUR STAY NOW: Expedia.com | Booking.com
Black Bear Lodge is set back about 0.5 mile from the lake. The property features rooms as well as standalone cottages, all with fireplaces. The cozy one-and two-bedroom cottages come with kitchenettes. Parking is free here! Black Bear Lodge is a great option if you want some quiet but still want to be only a short drive from the amenities of South Lake Tahoe.
BOOK YOUR STAY NOW: Expedia.com | Booking.com
The Landing Resort and Spa is located on the lake shore, a short drive from shopping and dining (they have a free shuttle). Some rooms have balconies overlooking the lake, as well as fireplaces and shelves of books to enjoy at night. The beds are super soft, so if you require firm back support, call to make sure they can accommodate you. The onsite restaurant is excellent. We loved our stay here!
BOOK YOUR STAY NOW: Expedia.com | Booking.com
Best Vacation Rental Stays in South Lake Tahoe, CA
This rustic and cozy 800-square-foot cabin is located near Heavenly Mountain Resort and is walking distance to the lake and to shopping and restaurants. The cabin features two bedrooms and two baths and a full kitchen and is surrounded by pine trees.
“We had a great stay at this cabin. It is clean, well equipped and a good utilization of space. It was perfect for our family of 3. My son really appreciated the games/ books. The location is perfect…Katie“
Book a stay here!
This cozy studio unit at the Marriott Timber Lodge resort is the perfect couples retreat, but it offers two beds and sleeps up to four guests. The resort has a year-round heated pool. The unit, which has a kitchenette, is inside Heavenly Village, close to dining and shopping. Book a stay here!
This modern A-frame offers 1,088 square feet and is perfect for a couple or a small family. Located in a forested neighborhood, the cabin has large windows for a bright airy feel, and is close to the lake and shopping/dining. There’s a deck outside for nice weather days. Book a stay here!
Places to Stay in Stateline
Stateline is located in Nevada, just across the border from South Lake Tahoe along the southeast shore of the lake. With several high-rise casino resorts, Stateline offers nightlife and many dining options.
Zephyr Cove, the start point for cruises of the lake on the MS Dixie II, is just a few miles away, and Lakeside Beach is very close. You can also walk down to the lake at Zephyr Cove. Since it adjoins South Lake Tahoe, Stateline is close to the Heavenly Ski Resort.
Stateline is about 20 miles from Sand Harbor State Park, in our opinion one of the most beautiful parts of the lake. It is also about a 35-minute drive to Carson City, Nevada’s capital, where you can enjoy museums and shopping, and a ride on a historic railway.
Best Hotels in Stateline, NV
Edgewood Tahoe Resort is well-reviewed, and offers spacious, well-appointed rooms with fireplaces, some with balconies overlooking the lake. The property features an outdoor swimming pool, gorgeous gardens, and access to a private beach. Ski equipment is available for rent. Book a stay here!
Lodge at Kingsbury Crossing is a 5-minute drive from the lakeshore. The resort features spacious suites with fireplaces and kitchenettes. The property offers an on-site hot tub and sauna, and a recreation room. Book a stay here!
Doc’s Cottages are standalone cabins with full kitchens and private bathrooms. The cottages have free wifi, and parking is free as well. The rustic cabins are located just behind Harrah’s Casino and are walking distance from Lakeside Beach. Book a stay here!
Best Vacation Rentals in Stateline, NV
This beautiful cabin in Zephyr Cove offers fabulous views of Lake Tahoe and Cave Rock! There’s even a little bit of beach depending on the water level. Located close to town, the cabin has a full kitchen and sleeps up to 6 guests. You can bring one pet! Book a stay here!
This lovely Tahoe chalet features wood beams and large windows to let in the gorgeous views. There is also a large lake-facing deck to enjoy the outdoors. Inside, you will find 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, a full kitchen, and spacious living spaces. The property is one miles from downtown Stateline. Book a stay here!
This beautiful condo in Lake Village has 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. The condo is located convenient to downtown Stateline as well as area beaches. The home is well decorated and there is a deck with a barbecue. You will have access to the community pool and clubhouse. Book a stay here!
Lake Tahoe Accommodation in Incline Village
Incline Village is located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, in Nevada. A giant adventure playground, the town is nestled in the mountains, and has everything, from golf courses and ski resorts to a skate park, hiking and mountain biking, and easy access to beaches.
Diamond Peak Ski Resort is located in Incline Village, and has a relaxed vibe perfect for families and beginner skiers. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe is 15 minutes away, and Northstar (in California) a 20-minute drive away. Beautiful Sand Harbor State Park is under 5 miles: the boardwalk trail at the park is stunning, and the beach gorgeous.
Nearby Crystal Bay hosts a variety of festivals through the year. You will find lots of shopping in Incline Village and Crystal Bay, and a number of great eateries.
Best Hotels in Incline Village, NV
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino is located just a 5-minute drive from Lake Tahoe. The resort features a year-round heated outdoor pool and two hot tubs. Rooms and suites are spacious, and some rooms have balconies. Standalone cottages are also offered. Onsite dining is available and the resort has multiple bars. Book a stay here!
Hyatt Residence Club Lake Tahoe High Sierra Lodge offers 2-bedroom vacation condos, with free parking. Suites are spacious, with full kitchens, fireplaces, and balconies. Enjoy the year-round outdoor pool, and onsite dining. The location is close to the lake and to ski resorts. Great option for families. Book a stay here!
Club Tahoe Resort has a beautiful setting in Incline Village. It offers spacious two-bedroom condos, with separate sitting and dining areas and full kitchens. Each unit comes with a fireplace and balcony. The resort is close to the lake and to local ski resorts and golf courses. Great for families! Book a stay here!
Best Vacation Rentals in Incline Village, NV
This gorgeous one-bedroom upper level condo with balcony is the ideal couples retreat. The bed is super comfy, the wifi is reliable, and there is a hot tub to enjoy. The living room has a cozy fireplace. Cable TV and Netflix are included. The condo is located just a few minutes from private beaches (small fee). Book a stay here!
This beautiful chalet is 1,400 square feet and sleeps up to 10 guests. The 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is located next to a creek and forest. Diamond Peak Ski Resort is nearby. The dog-friendly property has a private hot tub and is close to a grocery store and restaurants. Book a stay here!
Looking for a large home for a family or group get-together? Check out this luxury home with 6 bedrooms and 6.5 baths. Located at the end of a cul de sac, just a 5-minute drive from the lake, the home has a great room with fireplace and a view of pine trees. Book a stay here!
Lake Tahoe Lodging in Kings Beach
Kings Beach is located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, in California. It is set very close to the lake, and is therefore hugely popular in the summer. Lazing on the beach is a popular activity here, as are swimming and diving in the clear waters of the lake. The quirky town has a good sprinkling of eateries and shops.
Kings Beach State Recreation Area includes a large sandy beach area and picnic tables. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at many places, and you can also go hiking and biking on the many nearby trails.
You can also stay in Kings Beach in the winter! The nearest ski resorts are Diamond Ski Resort in Incline Village and Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area. Squaw Valley is less than 30 minutes away.
Best Vacation Rental Stays in Kings Beach, CA
This spacious home is perfect for a family or group, with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. It is located just 3 blocks from Kings Beach and about 8 miles from Northstar Ski Resort. There is a deck with outdoor seating and a backyard, as well as a large hot tub. Book a stay here!
This serene Tahoe cabin is the perfect getaway for a couple! It’s located on one acre bordering the National Forest. Enjoy the decks (both have BBQs) or the full kitchen inside. Relax and soak in the quiet at one of many sitting areas. Gas stoves make it cozy when it’s cold outside. Book a stay here!
The Sunset Chalet features panoramic lake views. The home has two bedrooms and one bath. Enjoy gas heat or the wood-burning stove in the winter. The deck overlooks the lake and offers seating as well as a barbecue grill. It is 6 miles from Northstar. Book a stay here!
This cabin in the woods has lake views, and offers one bedroom and two baths. It can sleep up to 4 adults and 2 kids. The wraparound deck offers expansive lake views with lots of seating and a hammock. Northstar and Diamond Peak are about 7 miles away, and the beaches are a short drive. Book a stay here!
Where to Stay in Tahoe City
Tahoe City is located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, on the California side. The town center, with many shops, restaurants, and hotels, is pretty, and you have beautiful views of the lake on one side and the mountains on the other. It is one of our favorite places to stay when we visit Lake Tahoe.
Tahoe City’s location makes it a perfect base for both winter sports and summer activities in and around the water. Boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are available, and you can also cruise Lake Tahoe, or go hiking or mountain biking.
Granlibakkan Resort is a smaller European-inspired ski resort. Homewood is another small resort perfect for new-to-the-sport skiers. Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area offers cross-country skiing. Squaw Valley is just 11 miles away.
Best Hotels in Tahoe City, CA
Cottage Inn is a highly-rated adult-only bed-and-breakfast inn with private beach access. Studio units feature garden or partial lake views, a fireplace, a refrigerator, and separate sitting area. It is two miles from Tahoe City. Book a stay here!
Basecamp Tahoe City is located close to the lake, and is walking distance to shopping and restaurants. It offers spacious rooms, comfortably furnished. The property features fire pits and a hot tub, with a courtyard and garden. Book a stay here!
Sunnyside Resort and Lodge features lake access, and spacious rooms with comfortable beds and fireplaces. Some rooms have partial or full lake views. The restaurant overlooks the water and is a great place to dine! This is a small lodge, with less than two dozen rooms. Book a stay here!
Best Vacation Rentals in Tahoe City
This Tahoe Park luxury cabin sleeps up to 3 guests and is located close to the beach and pier. It is just 2 miles to Tahoe City. The charming one-bedroom, one bath cabin is dog friendly and features a cozy interior with decorative touches. The bathroom has a deep tub. Book a stay here!
This Tahoe City cabin has a fabulous lake view and is walking distance to both the lake and Tahoe City. It’s also close to Squaw valley, for winter sports. The 3-bedroom, 2-bath cabin sleeps up to 9 guests, and has a full kitchen and a deck. Book a stay here!
Where to Stay in Homewood
Homewood is a small community on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, in California. It is just five miles from Tahoe City, and home to the Homewood Mountain Resort, a family-friendly ski resort great for beginners.
Homewood, or one of the other nearby communities on the west shore, such as Tahoe Pines, Ridgewood, or Carnelian Bay, are great choices if you are looking for a more outdoorsy, less city-like experience at Lake Tahoe. You still have access to restaurants and shopping, as well as beaches and hiking trails.
Best Hotels in Homewood, CA
West Shore Cafe and Inn faces Lake Tahoe on one side and the mountains on the other, making for the perfect setting. Some rooms have separate sitting areas, and a few rooms offer mountain or lake views. Rooms are equipped with fireplaces and small refrigerators. There is an onsite restaurant and ski equipment rentals are available. Book a stay here!
Best Vacation Rentals in (and near) Homewood, CA
This lovely west shore cabin has two bedrooms and two baths. Located close to the highway and the lake, the cabin makes a great retreat for a family or a couple. Relax in the outdoor hot tub, or grill on the barbecue. Inside, the living and dining spaces are spacious. Enjoy the indoor fireplace. Secluded, yet close to restaurants. Book a stay here!
This spacious home is located close to the lake, ski resort, and bike trail. The four-bedroom, four-bath home sleeps up to 10. The great room is large, with huge windows. The gourmet kitchen is fully equipped. Two of the bedrooms feature king beds. This is the perfect family or small group getaway on the west shore. Book a stay here!
This perfectly located modern cabin is close to private beach and pier, to hiking trails, to restaurants, and to ski resorts for winter fun. The 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom cabin can sleep up to 8, and features hardwood floors in living and sleeping areas. There is a deck in front with barbecue grill and picnic table. Book a stay here!
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