Best Lake Tahoe Hotels

This 154-room mountain lodge is cast against the dramatic Sierra range just steps from Lake Tahoe’s shoreline. The LEED-certified property is water and energy-efficient and has developed pedestrian and bike-friendly pathways that lead to local commercial areas in order to reduce vehicle traffic. The hotel boasts a heated outdoor pool, 8,500-square-foot spa, an 18-hole championship golf course, and three restaurants.

From summer kayaking and evening s'mores to a winter snowshoe to the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Chalet, the lodge is a world unto itself that families, couples, or solo travelers will revel in. But not far off-site, Lake Tahoe adventures await. Outdoor enthusiasts can hit local trails for hiking and mountain biking in the summer or catch a shuttle to nearby Heavenly Mountain Resort for winter skiing. The lodge is also just minutes away from South Lake Tahoe’s casino district and shopping and nightlife in Heavenly Village.

• Electric vehicle charging stations
• Pool and fitness center

Situated on the scenic west shore of Lake Tahoe, Sunnyside Lodge has been a popular family vacation spot since the 1950s. Cozy, rustic decor and spacious rooms with private patios mean it won’t be too cramped with the kids along for the trip. And outside the rooms, the largest outdoor deck on the lake hosts idyllic alfresco summer dining not far from the beach.

Helpful staff will be happy to get families set up with nearby outdoor adventures, from boating, hiking, and fishing in the summer to cross-country skiing and snowboarding in the winter.  When parents need some alone time, they can hire a babysitter for the night and head to the Lakeside Dining Room, indulging in the award-winning wine list. Most importantly, with only 23 rooms and a laid-back vibe, the atmosphere means everyone will enjoy a relaxed and rejuvenating stay.

• Free parking
• Free breakfast
• Canoeing
• Babysitting
• Business center

The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe is the only AAA five-diamond mountain resort in Northern California, making it the first choice for a posh, pampered stay in the region. The hotel has the only luxury ski-in, ski-out access in Lake Tahoe with mountain concierge services. Texas-style barbecue and après-inspired cocktails are served at the all-season Backyard Bar & BBQ or guests can warm up with a cocktail at the sleek Highlands bar, where floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the Sierra mountains.

Warm, inviting rooms feature gas fireplaces, 400-thread count linens and duvets, plush robes, and soaker tubs. But guests who really want to experience Lake Tahoe pampering will melt into a slope-side spa experience inspired by the surrounding landscape, including a massage that uses stones from the lake and a wild honeysuckle treatment. The spa has 17 treatment rooms, relaxation areas warmed by fireplaces, a dry-heat lodge, a eucalyptus steam room, and a heated outdoor lap pool that overlooks the slopes.

• Electric vehicle charging stations
• Pool and fitness center
• Game room

Designed to capture the spirit of adventure that travelers would find at an expedition basecamp, Basecamp Hotel gives nods to the wilderness in its design and atmosphere. From murals featuring stenciled wildlife and campfires to actual fire pits on the communal-style patio, visitors will feel like they’re on a wilderness escape at this property—but still get to end the day in a comfortable room.

It’s a five-minute walk to the lake for summertime water sports and a similar distance to the Heavenly Gondola for winter travelers. But whether guests are drying off or warming up, the hotel has a lively, social atmosphere worth sticking around for. Roast s'mores in the beer garden while listening to live music or enjoy a pint at the lobby Hideaway Bar during Happy Camper Hour. Fun is never far away here and comes at a bargain. Basecamp also has a sister property on the north end of the lake.

• Pet-friendly
• Free parking
• Bar and rooftop terrace
• Game room

With a prime waterfront location, many of the rooms at The Landing have a balcony overlooking the lake, and all come with a stone fireplace that sets the tone for a cozy stay. Plush pillow-top beds and heated bathroom floors make rooms a place guests will want to linger, but the real indulgence is the resort’s on-site spa. 

The hotel’s luxury spa uses organic products and natural botanicals in its treatments, including their Peak Recovery Massage, perfect for couples who have been out adventuring in the surrounding mountains and lake. The resort’s location gives guests easy access to trails, skiing, and restaurants. But the wood-fired, locally sourced fare served at the lake view Jimmy’s Restaurant is worth a dinner on-site.

• Valet parking
• Pool

Still within walking distance to Tahoe’s main ski gondola and the Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, the 18-story Harrah’s caters to travelers who put entertainment first. The 24-hour casino has 1,300 slot and video poker machines, as well as everyone’s favorite table games. Guests can dance the night away to the beat of some of the country’s best DJs at the 6700-square foot Peak Nightclub or catch a concert or show at the Casino Center Stage. On Tuesday nights, the hotel hosts free Blues shows at the casino. 

The 512 rooms are outfitted with glam decor, flatscreen TVs, and blackout curtains. Visitors who plan on winning big can book one of the luxury suites that occupy two full floors. A handful of different dining options means guests don’t have to wander far to grab a bite, whether they’re looking for fine dining or a late-night burger.

• Noteworthy casino
• Pool and fitness center
• Valet parking

Set on a forested acreage, Black Bear Lodge is a rejuvenating nature haven. The main lodge houses five rooms, and four private log cabins dot the property. All cabins have a king bed, gas fireplace, and a private garden patio where guests can enjoy a morning coffee amidst the trill of morning birdsong.

Craft beer, California wines, and small sharing plates are served at an intimate, live-edge wood bar under vintage lighting. Visitors can bring their glass of wine over to the large river rock fireplace, or in the summer, enjoy a drink on the back patio under aromatic pine trees. Less than a mile away is the lake and Heavenly Mountain Resort.

• Free parking
• Hot tub
• Spa