Things to Do
In winter, we come to Tahoe for the skiing — and it delivers some of the best in North America. Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley) on the north shore offers over 6,000 skiable acres with lift tickets around $180-$220 per day. Heavenly on the south shore has runs that straddle the California-Nevada state line with stunning lake views from the slopes. Northstar ($170-$200) is more family-friendly with a charming village at the base. For savings, the Ikon Pass ($1,100-$1,300 for the season) covers multiple Tahoe resorts.
In summer, the lake itself is the main attraction. We rent kayaks or paddleboards ($40-$60 for two hours) from beaches around the shore and paddle over water so clear we can see the bottom 70 feet down. Emerald Bay State Park ($10 parking) is the crown jewel — the viewpoint from above is iconic, and hiking down to Vikingsholm Castle ($6 tour) is worth the steep return climb. The Rubicon Trail from D.L. Bliss to Emerald Bay ($10 parking) is our favorite Tahoe hike — four miles of pristine shoreline with turquoise water below.
For a different perspective, the M.S. Dixie II paddlewheel cruise from Zephyr Cove ($65-$85) takes you to Emerald Bay with a meal included. We also love driving the full 72-mile loop around the lake, stopping at viewpoints, beaches, and small towns along the way. Budget a full day for this drive — the views demand frequent stops.
Where to Stay
Tahoe has options across every budget, but prices spike during ski season and summer weekends. On the luxury end, Edgewood Tahoe Resort ($400-$700 per night) on the south shore is in a class of its own — private beach, world-class golf course, and mountain-view rooms with fireplaces. The Ritz-Carlton at Northstar ($350-$600) is another premium option with ski-in/ski-out access.
For mid-range, we love Basecamp Hotel in South Lake Tahoe ($150-$280), a fun boutique property with a great apres-ski bar and walkable location. On the north shore, Cedar Glen Lodge ($130-$250) puts you right on the lake with private beach access — waking up and walking straight to the water is priceless. Vacation rentals are hugely popular and can offer great value for groups, with cabin rentals from $150-$400 per night.
Budget travelers should look at hostels like the Tahoe Adventure Company Lodge or the many motels along Lake Tahoe Boulevard in South Lake Tahoe ($80-$150). Camping at D.L. Bliss State Park ($35) or Bayview Campground ($20) offers an unbeatable lakeside setting. These campgrounds are extremely popular and require reservations months in advance through ReserveCalifornia.
Where to Eat
The Tahoe food scene spans from ski-lodge burgers to fine dining. On the south shore, Evan’s American Gourmet Cafe ($35-$55 entrees) is our favorite special-occasion restaurant, serving creative California cuisine in an intimate setting. For casual meals, Sprouts Cafe ($10-$16) serves excellent healthy bowls and sandwiches. Burger Lounge ($12-$16) satisfies apres-ski cravings with grass-fed burgers.
North shore dining has evolved significantly. Wolfdale’s in Tahoe City ($28-$45 entrees) blends California and Asian cuisines with lakefront views. For pizza, Fat Cat Bar and Grill ($14-$20) is a local favorite. Truckee, just 15 minutes from the north shore, has become a foodie destination — Trokay ($30-$48) and Pianeta ($22-$35) are both excellent for dinner. Coffeebar in Truckee ($5-$8 drinks) is our go-to morning spot.
For a unique experience, we always do at least one meal at a mountain-top restaurant accessible by gondola or chairlift. Heavenly’s Tamarack Lodge (burgers and chili, $14-$22) offers lunch with sweeping lake views. In summer, Le Chamois at Palisades ($15-$25) has a legendary deck for sunny afternoon dining. Pack picnic supplies from Tahoe City’s Niche Wine Bar and Market ($15-$25 per person) for lakeside lunches.
Getting Around
A car is the primary way to get around Lake Tahoe. The 72-mile loop road connects all the communities, though traffic can be brutal during ski season — especially Friday evenings inbound and Sunday afternoons outbound on Highway 50 and I-80. Carry chains from November through April even with all-wheel drive, as chain controls are enforced during storms.
In winter, free ski shuttles run from many hotels and lodges to the major resorts, which we highly recommend to avoid parking headaches. South Lake Tahoe’s BlueGo transit system runs year-round for $2 per ride, connecting hotels, casinos, and Heavenly Village. In summer, a free trolley operates along the north shore between Tahoe City and Squaw Valley.
The lake is bikeable in summer — the North Lake Tahoe bike path runs for over 10 miles, and rental shops offer cruisers and e-bikes starting at $35-$60 per day. For water transportation, the Tahoe Water Trail offers a paddling route around the lake, and water taxis operate between some beaches in summer ($20-$40). Car rentals are available in South Lake Tahoe and Reno ($60-$100 per day), though booking early during peak seasons is critical.