Sierra Nevada
Lake Tahoe
Considered by many to be one of the loveliest places in the world, the largest alpine lake in North America is known for its crystal-clear waters and majestic scenery. Located at 1,897 metres above sea level, this pristine body of water is encircled by the Sierra Nevada mountains. When you’ve spent the day adventuring in the great outdoors, at night you can indulge in its world-class restaurants, bars, live music, and clubs.
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, there’s never a bad time to visit Lake Tahoe. In summer you might hike to Emerald Bay State Park or make a splash at Pope Beach, while in the chilly months you’ll discover why Tahoe winters are legendary, with skiing and other holiday fun at the Heavenly Village and Ski Resort. Or if you want to avoid high season, visit in spring and hit the slopes in shades and a T-shirt, or come in autumn when the mountains are swathed in bright foliage and hiking is at its best.
Average Temperature (°C)
Summer
26.0
Autumn
17.0
Winter
7.0
Interesting facts
The estimated 39.75 trillion gallons of water contained in the lake are 99.9% pure – visibility is to 23 metres below the surface.
The second-deepest lake in the United States, at 501 metres at its lowest point, Tahoe has a multitude of exciting water-based activities, including boating and swimming.
Sitting on the border of California and Nevada, South Lake Tahoe offers a two-centre holiday in one destination.
The lake has had several different monikers; ‘Tahoe’, which is a Native American word for ‘big water’, is the one that stuck.
A true four-season destination, South Lake Tahoe is different at each time of year, thanks to ever-changing views, activities, and events.
The lake is home to several fish species, including rainbow trout and Kokanee salmon. It also supports diverse wildlife, such as black bears and bald eagles.
Get on (and in) the lake
Lake Tahoe has plenty to tempt adventure seekers: rent a speedboat or a jet-ski and zip over to Emerald Bay, soar over the water on a parasail, kayak or paddleboard along the shoreline to hidden beaches, or get your thrills with a spot of wake-surfing and wakeboarding.
Explore the mountains
In winter, skiing and snowboarding, ice-skating, and sledding are all great options, while in summer, breathtaking mountain vistas, meadows colourful with wildflowers, and pristine alpine lakes offer visitors the very best of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Experience world-class events
From the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship to divine holidays in the Heavenly Village, from the Summer Concert Series to events at new Tahoe Blue Events Center, South Lake Tahoe has something for everyone.
Combine California cool with non-stop Nevada
With South Lake Tahoe sitting proudly on the border between these two states, it’s easy to make the best of both worlds.
Immerse yourselves in a winter wonderland
With more than 20 ski areas around the lake, offering skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and sledding, as well as endless après-ski options, winters in South Lake Tahoe are thrilling both on and off the slopes.
Seafood to savour
Take in a spectacular sunset while enjoying the very best seafood at Chart House, perched on top of a hill with uninterrupted views.
Dine like a star
Sample celebrity dining at Wolf by Vanderpump or Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitchen.
California cuisine
Enjoy exquisite California cooking at Jimmy’s Restaurant, complemented by a gorgeous patio and lakeside location.
Raise a glass
Take advantage of happy hours across South Lake Tahoe, sampling offerings at a variety of different establishments.
Authentic Italian flavours
Savour the house-made pasta and expansive Italian wine list at Primo’s Italian Bistro, family-owned since 1962.
Margaritaville Resort
This all-suite ‘base camp’ a short walk from the Heavenly Mountain Resort gondola draws inspiration from the surrounding natural beauty, with colour palettes evoking sand, sea, and sky. As well as an indoor pool and hot tub, if offers weekly live music, summer lawn games, winter après-ski fire pits, and more.
The Landing Resort & Spa
Just minutes from Heavenly Village, with private beach access, this is another place for laidback luxury, with California-fresh cuisine and creative craft cocktails at Jimmy’s with its patio and rooftop deck complete with sunset views, plus a spa and a vast heated outdoor pool.
Station House Inn
This lovingly restored alpine hotel nestled in South Lake Tahoe combines private beach access with a charming boutique experience with a vintage feel. Expect a cabana-ringed seasonal pool, outdoor games, and a fire pit, plus free big-screen movies and popcorn each Friday.
Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa
Its own stretch of sand, beach volleyball, barbecues, sunset views, a fire pit, a pool, and a hot tub make this another appealing option on the South Shore. Every room has views of Lake Tahoe and its location in the centre of town means you have easy access to Heavenly Ski Resort.
The Coachman Hotel
Nestled between the majestic vistas of Heavenly Mountain and the tranquil serenity of Lake Tahoe, the reimagined Coachman Hotel offers modern open-air accommodations as your home base. Gather around the fire pit to roast s’mores and share the day's adventures with family and friends.
