As one California’s best all-year-round destinations, there tons of activities and things to do in Lake Tahoe no matter when you visit. So whether you’re looking for a summer hiking trip, exhilarating ski break, or a relaxed weekend in nature, Lake Tahoe will surely not disappoint.
If you’re currently planning a trip to this beautiful area, you’re most likely wondering where to stay in Lake Tahoe. The answer largely depends on what you’re planning to do and the vibe you’re looking for.
Although there are plenty of Lake Tahoe hotels and resorts, the area gets pretty crowded during summer and winter. If you’re heading to the lake during peak season, be sure to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment. Keep reading for recommendations for the top Lake Tahoe accommodation!
Best Areas to Stay in Lake Tahoe
Here is a breakdown of the best places to base yourself for your Lake Tahoe vacation.
- South Lake Tahoe: Best for first-time visitors
- Stateline: Best for luxury travelers
- Incline Village: Best for adventure lovers
- Tahoe City: Best for relaxation and stunning views
- Olympic Valley: Best for winter sports
But first: Don’t miss my other California trip guides including a 1-3 day Lake Tahoe itinerary!
Best Places to Stay in Lake Tahoe
To help you plan a fabulous trip, I’ve hand-picked the best Lake Tahoe resorts and hotels for all budgets. The following accommodations are close to some of the top Lake Tahoe attractions and are within easy access to everything, including restaurants, shops, and essential services.
South Lake Tahoe
Best area to stay in for first-time visitors
South Lake Tahoe has it all, from incredible views and beautiful beaches to lively nightlife and excellent eateries. Suppose you’ve never been to the area before and are unsure of which Lake Tahoe activities to do, in that case, South Lake Tahoe is the best area to stay as you have multiple options on your doorstep.
As the most popular resort destination, you’ll find many excellent restaurants along with the famous Heavenly Ski Village, full of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. In terms of scenery, you’ll be right by the magnificent Emerald Bay and gorgeous Fallen Leaf Lake. You’ll also find several lovely beaches and coves and plenty of hiking trails in the southern mountains like Maggies Peaks.
Top Hotel Picks for South Lake Tahoe
Luxury: The Landing Resort and Spa
The Landing Resort and Spa is one of the only 5-star hotels in the area, providing unbeatable service and luxurious amenities. Situated on the pristine Lakeside Beach and close to Heavenly Village, the location could not be any more perfect either.
All rooms include a stone gas fireplace, coffee machine, and marble bathrooms with heated floors. You can then enjoy the superb range of on-site facilities, including a spa with a hot tub, rooftop terrace, fire pits, and a lake-view patio.
Mid-range: Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel
The 3-star Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel is where to go if you want a private suite for an affordable price. Located at the base of Heavenly Mountain Resort, it’s easily the best place to stay in Lake Tahoe in winter. Here you’ll be close to top-class skiing, snowboarding, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The resort is the only all-suite lodging option in the area, offering stunning views from your balcony. You’ll also enjoy an exceptional daily breakfast, the large indoor heated pool, jacuzzi hot tub, and three garden atriums.
Budget: Bluelake Inn
You don’t have to miss out on staying in the most happening area if you’re on a budget. Bluelake Inn in Heavenly Village offers simple but comfortable rooms in the best spot in town. The inn also has its own seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub. Plus, it includes a tasty daily breakfast featuring fresh pastries and gourmet coffee.
Stateline
Best area to stay in for luxury travelers
With flashy resorts, high-end casinos, and upmarket spas, Stateline is the place to go if you want to enjoy the high life. Stateline sits just above South Lake Tahoe but is not so crowded, so it is undoubtedly one of the top places to stay in Lake Tahoe during the high season.
Furthermore, as a small area, Stateline has a strong community feel. It’s right next to Van Sickle Bi-State Park, so if you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out this beautiful spot for hiking and horseback riding.
Top picks for Stateline
Luxury: Edgewood Tahoe
Nestled away behind the alpine woods and along the pristine sandy shore is Lake Tahoe’s only lakefront golf resort, Edgewood Tahoe. If price is not a factor and you’re wondering where to stay in Lake Tahoe, Edgewood Tahoe is an excellent choice.
This upscale resort is not just for golfers; it’s ideal for anyone looking for a relaxing base close to all the main attractions. Along with a private golf course, you can enjoy the on-site spa, beauty spa, outdoor pool, and seasonal ice rink.
Mid-range: Lodge at Kingsbury Crossing
The 3-star Lodge at Kingsbury Crossing is a lovely, affordable resort offering simple, private suites with everything you need. Every room has a kitchenette, allowing you to save money by cooking for yourself. Plus, you’ll still enjoy some luxury with the on-site hot tub and sauna.
Budget: Harveys Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino
While you’ll find a more extensive selection of budget Lake Tahoe hotels in other areas, you don’t have to spend a fortune to stay in Stateline. Harveys Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino offers spacious and modern rooms for a fab price along with non-stop entertainment.
This hotel is highly popular with visitors looking for a fun and thrilling vacation. The price and gaming options make it the best hotel in Lake Tahoe for those who prefer to spend their money playing in the 4,800 square meter casino than on accommodation.
Incline Village
Best area to stay in for an adventure
Suppose you’re after an adrenaline-filled vacation rather than a relaxing break. In that case, you’ll find Incline Village to be the right choice when deciding where to stay in Tahoe. With so many scenic spots in and around Incline Village, you’ll find yourself spending most of your time in the great outdoors.
Plus, this picturesque town north of the lake is home to less than 10,000 people, so it never feels crowded. Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is the go-to spot for avid hikers here. In contrast, Diamond Peak is heaven for skiers, with over 25 runs suitable for all levels.
Top Picks for Incline
Luxury: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort
The 4-star Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort is the place to be in Incline Village, featuring a 24-hour casino and luxurious spa. With an outdoor heated pool, two hot tubs, six bars, and four restaurants, you certainly won’t get bored here. There are various rooms and suites to choose from, along with gorgeous lakeside cottages equipped with a fireplace and balcony. Plus, every morning, you can indulge in the extensive American-style buffet breakfast!
Mid-range: Club Tahoe Resort
Club Tahoe Resort is one of the most popular accommodation options in Incline Village; thus, it’s essential to book ahead for this one. It features a bar, seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, and games room. In addition, the resort offers homely two-bedroom lofts with a kitchen and washer/dryer, making Club Tahoe an excellent self-catering option for longer stays.
Budget: North Lake Lodges & Villas
If you want to avoid the uber-expensive resorts yet enjoy private amenities, North Lake Lodges is an excellent option. The condo-style lodges are situated among peaceful gardens and have private balconies and fully equipped kitchens. There’s also an onsite hot tub and barbeque facilities.
Tahoe City
Best area to stay in for relaxation and lake views
Tahoe City is undoubtedly the most charming town in Lake Tahoe, with fine-dining restaurants, lakeside bars, and postcard-worthy views on every turn. It’s also highly peaceful, so if you’re planning a retreat and wondering where to stay in Lake Tahoe, you won’t find a better spot than Tahoe City.
The town sits on the northwestern shore, far from the hustle and bustle of the south. It’s the best area to stay in Lake Tahoe in summer when you can enjoy the quiet beaches and hiking and biking trails. Alternatively, it’s not far from the resorts of Olympic Valley if you fancy a day on the slopes during the winter.
Top Picks for Tahoe City
Luxury: Granlibakken Tahoe
This 4-star lodge is set in 74 wooded acres giving total serenity and relaxation. Granlibakken Tahoe makes for a luxurious getaway if you want to pause from your hectic daily life and reconnect with mother nature. On-site, you’ll enjoy the large heated pool and tennis courts, and in your studio lodge, you’ll feel instantly at home with the stylish wooden decor, stone fireplace, and private balcony.
Mid-range: Sunnyside Resort and Lodge
The 3-star Sunnyside Resort features cozy rooms with a full lake view and an idyllic lakeside dining room where you’ll feast on a daily breakfast buffet and afternoon tea. The resort promotes a totally chilled vibe, with the peaceful lake on one side and the alpine forest on the other. Plus, although the spot feels super secluded, you’re only a short drive from plenty of attractions.
Budget: Basecamp Tahoe City
Basecamp serves as a budget-friendly hotel for those looking for an affordable winter sports getaway. The hotel features warm and stylish decor and boasts a welcoming bar with a heated outdoor seating area. The chic rooms are not the largest, but they have a modern and comfortable feel and are excellent value for money.
Olympic Valley
Best area to stay in for winter sports
Wondering where to stay in Lake Tahoe for skiing? Look no further than the famous ski town of Olympic Valley. This area is the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, and the Tahoe ski resorts here draw in both professional powder lovers and enthusiastic beginners alike.
The snow-covered mountains and white wilderness make Olympic Valley extremely picturesque and magical, plus the atmosphere here is incredible. As a ski town, you won’t be short on lively bars and hearty restaurants where the valley’s visitors gather and mingle in the evenings. So for an authentic alpine ski experience, head to Olympic Valley.
Top Picks for Olympic Valley
Luxury: Resort at Squaw Creek
Resort at Squaw Creek is an upscale 4-star Hyatt Residence hotel with incredible facilities such as a championship golf course and ice-skating rink. There are also multiple heated pools and jacuzzis to enjoy, along with a complete spa and fitness center.
The resort has a range of gorgeous fireplace suites available, featuring cozy decor and priceless views. Alternatively, opt for an elegant penthouse for extra privacy.
Mid-range: Red Wolf Lodge At Squaw Valley
The 3-star Red Wolf Lodge At Squaw Valley sits right in the heart of Olympic Valley, offering warm and welcoming studios and 2-bed apartments with wooden decor, fireplaces, and spa baths. All rooms have a fully-equipped kitchen, too, making Red Wolf Lodge a superb self-catering option. For on-site facilities, you’ll enjoy the outdoor hot tubs, sauna, and clubhouse.
Budget: The Village at Palisades Tahoe
While not a budget resort by any means, The Village at Palisades Tahoe is great for those wanting to save money. The resort offers many different accommodation options, including super affordable queen rooms.
While simple, the rooms are modern and spacious, with a small kitchenette and dining area. However, what makes The Village unbelievable value for money is the facilities. These include 8 hot tubs, multiple saunas, and an expansive restaurant with an unobstructed panorama of the mountains.
Enjoy your time in Lake Tahoe!