Visitor Guide to Tahoe

One of the most frequent questions I get is what to do and where to eat when visiting Tahoe so I thought it was high-time I put a visitor guide together.

We live in South Lake Tahoe, though I am familiar with some other areas around the lake {email me or leave a question in the comment area if you have any questions specific to the north shore, like Incline Village, Tahoe City or Truckee}.

Here are my favorite things in South Lake Tahoe, which is focused mainly on the summer months:

SEE/DO:

Emerald Bay is a must for first-time visitors. 

 Then hike up to Cascade Falls that can be accessed through the campground behind the viewpoint of Emerald Bay.

Take the Heavenly Tram up for the views.

Go to the beach!

We love Baldwin and Pope Beach. Both have a parking fee but you can always park on the highway and bike/walk in.   Depending on where you stay, Zephyr Cove Resort is on the opposite end of town and is always fun "scene" with beach-side service.

Catch an outdoor concert show!

The casinos are fun for nighttime--there's always a concert, stand-up comedy, etc going on. And it's quite the scene...something you wouldn't expect to find in a small mountain town.  Ciera Steakhouse at Montbleu is super fun and swanky if you're looking for a more upscale steak and martini dinner.

EAT:

Here are some of my favorite spots:

Freshies (must sit on the rooftop during the summer): Love their tacos and try the Pliny the Elder on tap...it's a cult favorite.

Brook's Bar at Edgewood: Fabulous views of the lake and golf course (this is close to where you're staying).

Azul at Heavenly Village...sit outside...they usually have live music and it's a fun scene:(this is in Heavenly Village which is where your hotel is).

Beacon, which is down by the beaches and on the lake, so great views. Grab a rum runner. (Would be good if you went after your hike to Cascade Falls).

Artemis at Ski Run (sit outside!): Their fries are the best and they make their pita bread on-site. I love their chicken lettuce wraps! They have a great breakfast too.

Revive: A cute new coffee and wine bar with fabulous outdoor seating and a great charcuterie platter!

STAY:

I've talked about the Coachman Hotel, which is a fun hipster spot with great coffee and a cool little lounge + outdoor area with cornhole, etc.

Basecamp Hotel--similar fun vibe but more of an outdoor theme.  Check out Ethan's 6 month photoshoot here for more photos!

If you want to stay somewhere on the lake, check out Beach Retreat.

And coming in 2017, Edgewood {where we got married!} is opening their lodge, which is sure to be absolutely amazing!

Don't forget, winter is a whole new world, so while some of the above applies, it is still worth a return visit!

Have you visited South Lake Tahoe before?  What's your favorite thing to do?

xo natasha