Vacation in South Lake Tahoe

If you have decided to visit Lake Tahoe for your next vacation, the first stage of your planning is done! Of course, your next big decision is to choose which side of the Lake you will stay on: the North Shore or the South Shore.

You might hear that the North Shore is for those who want a tranquil, relaxing, nature-filled vacation. While the South Shore, on the other hand, is more for the party-inclined, gambling, dancing, city-goer. We are here to tell you that this theory is not entirely true.

Yes, South Shore does have a bustling night life that the North Shore is devoid of, but we also have some of the best skiing, snowboarding, entertainment, cuisine and so much more that are on par (if not better) than what North Lake has to offer.

South Shore Overview

We are the largest community around Lake Tahoe, and the only city on the shores of the lake. This means that our vibrant, bustling community has a healthy mix of year round residents and tourists alike. The ‘South Shore’ encompasses neighborhoods sprawling from Emerald Bay, to Meyers and over the California/Nevada border to Cave Rock.

These different areas include everything from lakefront communities, to summit villages, downtown condos, neighborhoods and rural communities. All of the areas offer something a little different, thus visitors have the opportunity to choose just what kind of vacation experience they are looking for.

Year Round Entertainment

As the South Shore straddles the state line, we are lucky enough to have a few casinos located on the Nevada side. Obviously the casinos allow our visitors and locals to try their hand at gambling, but they also bring in great entertainment all year round. Because our venues are large enough, we host acts such as Aerosmith, Kenny Chesney, Braid Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Boston, Doobie Brothers, Dave Matthews Band and many more. Not many mountain towns have the capacity to host such large acts right in the center of their communities.

If you are not one for the high energy of the casinos, many local bars also feature live music from talented local musicians. This is great when you are looking for a more ‘laid back’ night out. With bars and restaurants spanning from Zephyr Cove out towards Camp Richardson, no matter where your vacation rental is there will be something within a few miles. By visiting our local bars, visitors and locals can mingle together.

A Foodie’s Paradise

The South Shore has some of the best restaurants around all of Lake Tahoe. Because we are a small city rather than a secluded mountain town, South Lake Tahoe has food that satisfies even the pickiest of eaters. We have a great selection of breakfast spots to choose from. No matter what you are in the mood for, you will find a cafe or restaurant that will suit your cravings. For dinner, we have everything from Mexican and Italian, to five star steak and seafood meals or classic French cuisine. Some restaurants are better for a romantic night out, while others cater to larger groups.

First Class Skiing

In the South Shore we have three great ski mountains all within a short drive of town. The most popular and convenient of course is Heavenly Mountain Resort, located in the middle of South Lake Tahoe. Heavenly Mountain is known for its ‘heavenly’ views of Lake Tahoe. On some runs you have to be careful not to get distracted by the gorgeous blue lake in front of you! Sierra at Tahoe is just outside of Meyers, and is a smaller mountain packed with great terrain, with more of a ‘local feel.’ Kirkwood Mountain Resort is a little further out, but for those looking for the best snow and the steepest terrain on the South Shore the drive is worth it every time. You can even ski Heavenly Mountain and Kirkwood on the same ski pass as they are both owned by Vail Resorts.

Luxurious Spas

After a long day on the slopes, the best thing for a sore body is a relaxing massage. South Lake Tahoe has over 15 established spas in the area. Not to mention many private massage therapists who will travel to you, and provide services in the comfort of your vacation rental! Find treatments such as facials, holistic treatments and acupuncture, Swedish massages to the best manicures and pedicures around!

Start Planning!

For more specific information on everything Tahoe South, head over to the official TahoeSouth website. There you can plan out your entire trip itinerary in one place.

It goes without saying that when you stay in South Lake Tahoe you will get to enjoy the best views in all of Tahoe. When the mountains are covered in snow, and it is a typical bluebird day the view is jaw-dropping. If you are lucky enough to book one of our vacation homes with a lake view, you can wake up to these views every morning, and then watch the sun set in the evening. Start your search here!