Find Vacation Rentals in Lake Tahoe, California

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Lake Tahoe Information

Situated on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe has something to offer everyone. During winter, the area is known for its skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities. With the warmer months, there are a whole new set of activities to partake in, like fishing, boating, hiking, and more. Also, be sure to check out our Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental Locations guide, and our Lake Tahoe Family Activities guide.

There is so much to do here it is a bit overwhelming at first. Let’s break it down into activities based on which side of the lake you will be staying on. On the California side, Emerald Bay State Park is a must! The Gondola Ride at Heavenly is just that heavenly! If you’re visiting in winter, you cannot make a wrong decision of where to ski or snowboard. All of the mountains and trails are spectacular and you’re best bet is to find the one that matches your skill level (this is also true for the Nevada side). If you’re here in summer, the Mt. Tallac Trail is a must for hikers! When you get hungry, try these places: Café Fiore, Christy Hill Restaurant, Sprouts, Char-Pit, Jalisco Grill, Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery, Dough Custom Pizza, or Plump Jack Café. As for the Nevada side, there is still plenty to do and see. In winter, take a sleigh ride at Private Sand Harbor Lake. Skiing and snowboarding is equally amazing on this side of the lake. In summer, there are boats tours and all kinds of water activities. Going on at least one hike while visiting is on your to do list! Cascade Falls Trail is absolutely breathtaking! Flume Trail is great for bikers (hikers welcome too)! When it’s time to eat, try these hot spots: Long Eagle Grille, Chart House, Le Bistro, Red Hut Café, Tunnel Creek Café, Fat Burger, or Ciera Steak & Chophouse.

If you’re looking for something to do away from the lake, there is plenty to be found in either Nevada or California. Closest to Lake Tahoe is Reno, NV (one hour drive). First, there are numerous casinos in Reno. Therefore, if you didn’t get your fill at the ones by Lake Tahoe, then this is the place for you (short of Vegas). Aside from the casinos, there are several museums you should check out, like: National Automobile Museum, Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, Nevada Museum of Art and Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center. A picnic in one of the many parks in Reno is a great way to spend a warm summer afternoon. Your next closest option for a day trip is Sacramento, CA (three hour drive). As the capital of California, Sacramento is a very historic city. There’s a multitude of museums and art galleries. There are a large number of historical landmarks here as well. However a favorite is taking a leisurely bicycle ride along the American River Bicycle Trail. This trail is so peaceful and is at its best at sunset.

First, before you book anything, check out our site for some amazing rental homes and apartments. Whether you’re staying on the California or Nevada side, there is the perfect rental home available for you. However, if you would prefer a hotel then book accordingly. If staying on the California side, consider reserving a room at one of these hotels: Postmarc Hotel & Spa Suites, 3 Peaks Resort & Beach Club, Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe, Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, Hotel Azure, Stardust Lodge, or Resort at Squaw Creek. If you are going to be staying on the Nevada side, book here: Harvey’s Lake Tahoe, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe, Montbleu Resort Casino & Spa, Lakeside Inn & Casino, The Ridge Tahoe, Parkside Inn at Incline, or WorldMark South Shore.

There is public transit available at the North and South ends of the lake with intersecting routes. However, your best bet for getting around would be to rent a car. With a car, you can travel to all the points of interest around the lake and maybe even take a day trip to a nearby city.