Beautiful blue waters and rocky shores greet you at North Lake Tahoe, a prime spot for a vacation rental. Located along the California and Nevada state lines near central California, North Lake Tahoe offers a variety of outdoor activities, including biking, trail running, hiking, swimming, and boating. North Lake Tahoe also offers art galleries, unique shops, and historic landmarks for visitors to explore. This guide highlights 12 of the most popular North Lake Tahoe vacation rental locations for those seeking a respite from daily life.
1. Incline Villiage
Named for the Great Incline Railway built by loggers in the late 1800s, Incline Village once served as a stopping point for workers. Now, the village offers expansive views of Lake Tahoe, towering mountain ranges, and a quiet atmosphere worthy of those looking for a relaxing vacation. In the summer, head to Sand Harbor for the Shakespeare Festival, or grab a mountain bike and head down the Flume trail. In the winter, ski at the Diamond Peak ski area, or play a round of golf on the mountain course. You can also sign up for a water tour on the Tahoe Queen Boat.
2. Truckee
Plan your vacation rental around fun activities when you travel to Truckee. This scenic town has a rustic Old West feel in its downtown area, which has plenty of restaurants and shops for you and your family to explore. Cool off at Donner Lake by going swimming, or rent a kayak or canoe and cruise along on the calm waters. Ziplining and white water rafting down the Truckee River are available for those who love adventure.
3. Agate Bay
Agate Bay is located on the northwest corner of Lake Tahoe. This small neighborhood features cozy cabin vacation rentals for those looking for a semi-rustic retreat. Here, you can challenge friends to a game of tennis, or take a swim in the community pool. There is also a pier for fishing. If you’re headed to Agate Bay, bring your dog along, as Patton Beach is a designated area on Lake Tahoe where your furry friend can frolic and play.
4. Kings Beach
Kings Beach is one of the more populated areas along Lake Tahoe. There are restaurants and coffee shops on the beach for those looking for a quick meal, and the local theater offers movie showings throughout the day. Sign up for a day of parasailing on the water, or hop on one of the old timey boats for a quaint tour of the area. There’s a large wooden pier for fishing, and you can rent giant water tricycles to ride around the beach with your family. The expansive beach provides areas for picnicking, sunbathing, or lounging in a chair and enjoying a great book.
5. Carnelian Bay
When you step onto Carnelian Bay, you will see various red and yellow stones peppering the shoreline, an image that gives this picturesque area of Lake Tahoe its name. In the summer, you can go rafting, boating, or kayaking, and in the winter, you can rent a snowmobile and explore the area. North Tahoe Adventures offers ziplining through the trees and miniature golf, making it a fun spot for your entire family.
6. Tahoe Vista
Tahoe Vista is one of the places that is off the beaten path for vacation rentals. This charming tourist area is close to nature and centrally located to Lake Tahoe. Kayak with your spouse or kids, then go for a dip in the clear waters. In the winter, you can go ice skating or skiing. Back country sightseeing tours are also available through the Tahoe Adventure Company. If you want to relax, schedule a massage at one of the local spa retreats.
7. Crystal Bay
Crystal Bay is a beautiful area located along the northern border of Lake Tahoe. The waters of Crystal Lake are clear, and you can see straight to the bottom. Hike by the water, or rent bikes and explore the paths. In the evening, head to the Crystal Bay Casino for gambling, then enjoy a meal and some live entertainment.
8. North Shore
The North Shore is the perfect place to find Lake-front vacation rentals. You can watch the ducks on the water directly from your deck, or sip a glass of wine and watch the sun go down. Take lessons in stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing, or cast your fishing pole from your deck and try to catch the next big one. There are climbing walls in Squaw Valley, and horseback riding is available through the Tahoe Rim Trail Association. You can also play disc golf, take the kids to the playground at Commons Beach Park, or sign up for a round of golf at a local course.
9. Dollar Point
Dollar Point is a small subdivision located along the north shore of Lake Tahoe. There, you will find spacious vacation rental homes close to plenty of family friendly amenities. There is a large swimming pool with lanes for laps, a playground for children, and a grassy picnic area for relaxing in the sun. You can also bike along the beautiful trails after a relaxing day on the lake.
10. Tahoe City
The Lake Tahoe Dam is one of the most popular attractions in Tahoe City. Explore the beaches along the upper side of the dam, or go hang gliding down the mountain. At Tahoe Sailing Charters, you can learn how to sail a boat over the calm waters. You and your spouse sign up for a romantic tour complete with cocktails and dinner. DL Bliss State Park is the perfect place for hiking, biking, or getting a glimpse of the native animals.
11. Olympic Valley
Olympic Valley is the perfect spot for vacation rentals in the winter. There, you can go sledding, rent a snow mobile, or spend the afternoon skiing down the slopes. The Squaw Valley Aerial Tram lets you get a glimpse of Lake Tahoe from overhead. You can also travel the Granite Chief Trails on horseback. In the summer, fly fishing is available through several fishing charters. Spend at least one relaxing day at the Spa at Squaw Creek.
12. Alpine Meadows
Alpine Meadows is another popular winter vacation rental location, and snowboarding is a popular activity there. There are snowshoe dinner tours, and you can hike and bike along the mountain trails. In the village, you can go shopping or spend the day warming up in a hot tub. Make reservations at one of the high-end restaurants, or have some fun at the annual bluegrass festival in Squaw Valley.