Why Go to South Lake Tahoe
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
South Lake Tahoe is the lively side of Lake Tahoe, where California mountain culture meets Nevada nightlife. Set at the southern tip of the largest alpine lake in North America, it offers big-mountain skiing, beautiful beaches and casinos all in one place.
Ride the gondola at Heavenly Mountain Resort for sweeping views of the lake, then ski or snowboard runs that straddle two states. In summer, the gondola takes you up for hiking and mountain fun. Drive to Emerald Bay State Park for one of the most photographed views in the West, hike down to Vikingsholm castle, and explore the historic Tallac estates along the shore. Relax at Pope Beach or Zephyr Cove, paddle the clear water, or take a paddle wheeler cruise. When the sun goes down, cross into Stateline, Nevada, for casinos, shows and nightlife.
Fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport, about an hour away, or drive from the Bay Area. South Lake Tahoe is great for families, groups and couples. I'll find the right lodge, condo or resort and plan your ski or summer adventures.
BEST FOR
Skiers, hikers, boaters, families and couples
BEST MONTHS
December to March or July to August
EXPLORE
- Heavenly Village: Shops, restaurants and the gondola.
- Stateline: Casinos and nightlife.
- Camp Richardson: Beaches and historic sites.
- Meyers: A quiet area near the mountains.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
South Lake Tahoe
North America › West Coast › USA › California / Nevada
Crystal-clear alpine water, world-class skiing and casino nights on the Nevada line.
Mountain & Alpine
Skiing
Casino
Hiking
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Visit Emerald Bay early in the morning; parking fills fast in summer, and the calm morning water is perfect for photos and kayaking.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Ride the gondola in summer for views and hiking.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
A huge ski resort straddling two states, with incredible lake views.
Hike down to Vikingsholm and back.
Emerald Bay State Park
A stunning bay with turquoise water and the historic Vikingsholm mansion.
Book a sunset cruise.
Lake Tahoe Cruise
Paddlewheel and sightseeing cruises explore the lake and Emerald Bay.
Arrive early on summer weekends.
Pope Beach
A sandy beach with clear water and mountain views.
Catch a show at one of the casino theaters.
Stateline Casinos
Casinos, shows and nightlife on the Nevada side.
A luxury lakefront resort with a championship golf course and spa.
Edgewood Tahoe Resort
Stateline
Hotel Tags
A boutique lakefront resort with fireplaces and a spa.
The Landing Tahoe Resort & Spa
Lakefront
Hotel Tags
A rustic resort with cabins, a beach and lake cruises.
Zephyr Cove Resort
Zephyr Cove
Hotel Tags
A casino hotel with restaurants and entertainment.
Harrah's Lake Tahoe
Stateline
Hotel Tags
A modern hotel close to the gondola and restaurants.
Hotel Becket
Heavenly Village
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in South Lake Tahoe
High 50°F · Low 25°F · Rain 2.6 in
Ski season begins, depending on snow.
The best times to visit South Lake Tahoe are December through March for skiing and July through August for beaches and hiking. Fall brings fewer crowds and golden aspens, while spring is a quieter shoulder season.
Best Times to Visit South Lake Tahoe
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
South Lake Tahoe's dining ranges from casual après-ski spots to lakefront restaurants.
- Lakefront dining: Enjoy dinner with sunset views over the lake.
- Après-ski: Relax with drinks and comfort food after a day on the slopes.
- Must-try: Fresh trout, burgers, craft beer and local wine.
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Walking
Heavenly Village and Stateline are easy to explore on foot.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Rideshare apps are available.
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Buses
Local buses and free shuttles serve the area.
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Shuttles
Shuttles connect the airport with South Lake Tahoe.
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Driving
A car is useful for exploring the lake, but bring chains in winter.
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Flying In
Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is about 75 minutes away, and Sacramento (SMF) is about two hours away.
Most travelers fly into Reno or Sacramento and drive or take a shuttle. Once you're here, shuttles and rideshares make it easy to get around, but a car helps for exploring the lake.
Getting Around South Lake Tahoe
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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