South Lake Tahoe has so many places to eat and stay. With hotels and restaurants dotting both the California and Nevada sides, part of the dilemma is figuring out where to eat and where to rest.
Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe
Whether you’re looking for a glorious suite with stunning views, a charming motor lodge-style property, a casino resort, or a ski chalet, there’s definitely a stay that will suit your needs. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the best luck with hotels on my most recent visits. The hotel where I stayed as a child has since changed hands (I believe it is now the Marriott Timber Lodge, which has an excellent location, especially if you want to explore Heavenly Village and take the gondola up the mountain).
I’ve never had many bug issues while traveling (thank GOD), but this last visit to South Lake Tahoe was disturbing and kind of hilarious. We checked into the same hotel I stayed at during a visit in 2019 and were pleasantly surprised to find the rooms both inexpensive and fully renovated with updated bathroom fixtures and amenities. I had noticed one or two ants in the bathroom when we arrived, and then didn’t see them again until the next night when I found them… all inside the takeout box I had sitting on the counter! The fun part was that I moved that pizza box in the middle of the night (after a late-night bite in the dark that I now know may have consisted of me eating the ants) and put it in the fridge. So these hundreds of ants froze to death. Not the experience I wanted!
Where to Eat & Drink in South Lake Tahoe
For me, the most disappointing part was not getting to finish my pizza or sandwich from Blue Dog Pizza. Both were legitimately outstanding, so this is where we segue into talking about where to eat. You can actually get pizza by the slice here, which is great since you don’t always need (or want) an entire pie. Another great dinner spot is Base Camp Pizza Co., where we incidentally skipped the pizza and went for piping hot pasta instead. The place was PACKED, so book a table if you can. Becket Tavern is another spot with cold-weather staples that will warm you right up (even in the warmer months, evenings can get quite chilly).
For breakfast, you have plenty of options, from hearty fare to light pastries and lots of coffee. Red Hut Cafe is just a little down the road but serves up an outstanding breakfast (I especially loved the Rösti). Closer to the main drag, the Driftwood Cafe does fantastic biscuits and gravy, and Social House has a wonderful selection, including handheld breakfast options (the corned beef hash was delicious). Heaven’s Little Cafe is a great spot for pastries and coffee, and if you’re not feeling adventurous, there is also a Starbucks.
Essential Tips Before You Visit South Lake Tahoe
Some essential tips for your visit—basically, what to know before you go! First off, pack layers. We visited in late May, and I was still freezing. Wind and precipitation can quickly turn a warm spring day into something that feels like winter without the snow. This is especially true if you are heading down towards the water. Bring lots of light layers and something heavier for the evening. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes! So much is within walking distance that driving and parking seem tedious.
Since South Lake Tahoe straddles the Nevada and California borders, make sure to know the traffic laws for BOTH STATES. Both states are hands-free, so if you are driving, don’t hold your phone. I strongly suggest a rental car if you are hoping to do any significant exploring—especially if you want to do a route all around the lake. It’s a beautiful drive, but you will want a vehicle!
If you don’t plan to explore much and want to enjoy the fresh air and do a lot of walking, the South Tahoe Airporter can take you directly from Reno Airport to South Lake Tahoe for under $35 per person, per way. Tahoe Transportation District runs throughout South Lake Tahoe, crossing the ,border, while Lake Link Transportation operates a free on-demand shuttle on the South Shore. Download the app for easy use!
