Lake Tahoe is one of Northern California’s most sought-after destinations for many reasons: breathtaking views of its piercing blue lake, scenic hikes throughout the Sierra Nevadas, and multiple high-end ski resorts make the spot suitable for both summer and winter vacations. With a robust restaurant and bar scene adding to its plethora of outdoor activities, Lake Tahoe’s South Shore area offers something for everyone. (Not to mention it’s adjacent to Stateline, Nevada, which hosts heaps of casinos). If you’re intrigued by the thought of booking your next ski trip or summer holiday here, read below to find out exactly where you should go.
TO STAY:
This 21-key stay is carefully curated to emulate the spirit of Japanese tranquility and Scandinavian design — private outdoor soaking tubs, cozy indoor fireplaces, and modern kitchenettes within each suite comprise the setting. Keeping its eco-friendly theme in mind, the hotel wanted to minimize vehicle transportation with its location, allowing guests easy access for walking to shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities, including ski spots and hiking trails.
Once a musty motel, now a stylish boutique stay, the Coachman Hotel presents a simple, modern mountain lodge aesthetic. The selection of guest rooms holds everything for which you need to create your basecamp: Standard King rooms sport plush king-sized beds wrapped in soft Italian linens, handmade furnishings, and bright-tiled bathrooms; Premium Two Queen suites are accommodated with two, comfortable queen beds and private balconies with spectacular views of Heavenly Mountain. When it’s time to experience the outdoors, the hotel makes it easy by offering nightly s’mores by the campfire and rooftop yoga classes. Additionally, it’s within walking distance from the acclaimed Heavenly Village.
TO EAT:
Riva Grill
Sitting along South Shore, Riva Grill presents a fancy, romantic setting that imbues dinner-with-a-view-style dining. The restaurant predominantly serves seafood-style dishes, but those who aren’t seafood fans can order classic American cuisine as well (opt for one of their Deck Favorites such as the Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich or the Cobb Salad to satisfy your appetite).
Basecamp Pizza Co.
If you’re in search of an upbeat après ski atmosphere, Basecamp Pizza Co. is the place to go after a day of shredding the slopes. With a medley of hot drinks — try their Tahoe Toddy with Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey Whiskey, Q Ginger, lemon, and a cinnamon stick — gourmet pizzas — you can’t go wrong with a classic Base Camp special with pepperoni, Italian sausage, roasted peppers, roasted onions, portobello mushrooms, and their four-cheese blend — as well as live music accompanying their outdoor seating area.
The Baked Bear
Calling all sweet tooths, the Baked Bear serves decadent ice cream sandwiches held together by fresh-baked cookies and brownies (our mouths are watering just thinking about it).
TO DRINK:
South of North Brewing Co.
Chill, mountain vibes peak at South of North Brewing Co. every day and night. With relaxed outdoor seating surrounded by fire pits, hanging lights, live music performances, and craft beers, this is the ultimate post-ski day watering hole.
TO VISIT:
Heavenly Ski Resort
Truly one of the most unique ski resorts in the world, there aren’t many mountains that showcase picture-perfect sights of the pristine, blue Lake Tahoe — also known as the Jewel of the Sierra — while skiing. Plus, Heavenly is the only resort in North America that spans across states: California and Nevada. With a variety of runs from breezy greens to advanced black diamonds, this mountain is equally as beautiful as it is accessible.
Walk around Heavenly Village
Located at the base of Heavenly Mountain, visitors can wander around Heavenly Village for some of Tahoe’s top-rated restaurants, upbeat nightlife, and chic boutiques. Start your day at Heaven’s Little Café with a cup of coffee and a quick bite before popping into On Tahoe Time for eclectic home decor and High Chapparal for the finest Western apparel. End the night with dinner at Basecamp Pizza Co. followed by drinks and live music presented by Gunbarrel Tavern.
Ride the Heavenly Scenic Gondola
The 2.4-mile-long Heavenly Mountain Gondola will leave you speechless after taking in panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. Hop off the ride at the Observatory Deck for your Insta-worthy photographs and a latte at the stop’s Cafe Blue.
Edgewood Tahoe Resort Spa
Aside from being a luxurious mountain stay in South Lake Tahoe, Edgewood Tahoe Resort also offers its lavish, Spa Edgewood, which offers a selection of rejuvenating treatments. (Try the 50-minute Thai Yoga Massage to relax both your mind and body after a long day of hitting the slopes.)
