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Nature enthusiasts, rejoice!
If your idea of fun is everything outdoorsy, I can promise that you’ll feel right at home in South Lake Tahoe. After all, this place isn’t known as the ‘Jewel of the Sierra’ for nothing! This sparkling moniker perfectly harnesses the mesmerizing setting that awaits as soon as you cross into Lake Tahoe’s southern shores.
With dense forests, majestic peaks, and glistening, turquoise waters, this place does get super busy in both summer and winter. After all, let’s not forget that South Lake Tahoe just so happens to be a fantastic skiing destination as well.
Because South Lake Tahoe is such a crowd-puller, finding the best place to stay has never been more important. After all, you want to get the best bang for your buck without compromising comfort, right?
So, allow me to guide you precisely on where to stay in South Lake Tahoe!
Photo: Ana Pereira
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Whether you’re planning a backpacking trip across the US, or just a relaxing lakeside vacation, here are my top 3 recommendations for where to stay!
Postmarc Hotel and Spa Suites | Best Hotel in South Lake Tahoe
Here’s a great hotel that lies close to those great Tahoe Keys venues! The Postmarc Hotel and Spa Suites boast refined rooms fitted with microwaves, coffee machines, and refrigerators.
Luxury suites add a spa bath-perfect for unwinding after exploring nearby attractions like Zephyr Cove Park and Pope Beach.
If visiting during the ski season, you’ll be glad to learn that the hotel lies less than 2 kilometers from the Heavenly Ski Area. You’ll also be close to the Lake Tahoe Golf Course and Harvey’s Lake Tahoe Casino.
Oh, and did I mention you’ll be treated to free perks like bike rentals and all-day coffee?
The Tahoe Beach & Ski Club Owners Association | Another Great Hotel in South Lake Tahoe
Traveling with your family and wondering where to stay in South Lake Tahoe?
Well, I can totally vouch for the Tahoe Beach & Ski Club Owners Association, which despite its official-sounding name, offers heaps of fun amenities!
Guests can choose from Studios, One-Bedroom Townhouses, and One-Bedroom Suites with kitchenettes. Other on-site amenities include hot tubs, a sauna, and a fitness center. It’s one of my favourite places to ski in California for sure.
Super Cozy Condo with Stunning Views | Best Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe
Wake up to incredible views with a stay in this lavish condo! With a large, modern kitchen and classic home comforts, this space can accommodate four guests in two bedrooms.
There’s plenty to do nearby since you’ll be close to the Stage Coach Ski Lift and the Casino Corridor.
Featuring a massive patio deck, the condo also provides a gas fireplace for warming up after a day of skiing.
The Heavenly Village
Are you a first-time visitor who’s feeling that itch for adventure? Then there’s no better place to stay in South Lake Tahoe than the Heavenly Village! And yes, I promise that this place does live up to its name!
Bijou
Bijou may literally translate to ‘jewel’ in French, but I can assure you there’s nothing glitzy or expensive about this charming nook located on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe!
Stateline
It’s no secret that one of the best places to stay in Lake Tahoe for nightlife is Stateline. True to its name, this vibrant area straddles both South Lake Tahoe and Nevada along the southern shore of the lake.
Tahoe Keys
Travelers looking for waterside fun without crowds may wish to check out Tahoe Keys, a super cool area known for its exciting activities! Besides, what could be cooler than a vacation smack dab on the water, right?
Ski Run Marina
Okay, let’s wrap this up with the absolute best place to stay in South Lake Tahoe for families! Parents traveling with their kids may wish to check out the Ski Run Marina, an area fringed by Lake Tahoe’s famously turquoise waters.
Perched in the high Sierras smack dab between Nevada and California, South Lake Tahoe is the ultimate playground for adventure travel.
Bordered by granite peaks, this mountain town draws over 3 million tourists each year- and for good reason! The good news is that there are several great neighborhoods that you can choose from according to your budget and personal preferences.
First-time visitors can always consider the Heavenly Village which is the ultimate getaway to all sorts of skiing-related activities! This neighborhood is especially known for its Heavenly Gondola, from which you can admire lush views of the surroundings.
Stateline, on the other hand, is awash with nighttime offerings, loud, glittery casinos, and energetic clubs You can dance and drink until the early morning hours. This area lies right on the border between Nevada and California.
Lake Tahoe neighborhoods are the coolest, but if you’re looking for something laid-back and affordable, be sure to check out the charming Bijou area. With oodles of outdoor activities on offer, Bijou also has a super relaxing vibe to it – perfect for connecting with nature!
For South Lake Tahoe’s coolest offerings, there’s no better destination than the Tahoe Keys, which as you might have guessed, is the Californian answer to the iconic Floriada Keys! This area is ideal for those who want to be close to the water.
Alternatively, you can also consider staying at the Ski Run Marina, another beautiful area that offers easy access to lakeside venues. This particular spot is especially popular with families since it has heaps of kid-friendly amenities.
5 Best Areas to Stay in South Lake Tahoe
All geared up and ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Then let’s check out the 5 best places to stay in South Lake Tahoe!
1. The Heavenly Village – Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe for First-Timers
Are you a first-time visitor who’s feeling that itch for adventure? Then there’s no better place to stay in South Lake Tahoe than the Heavenly Village!
And yes, I promise that this place does live up to its name!
From lively outdoor concerts to a buzzing array of activities, the Heavenly Village is located right at the base of the Heavenly Mountain Resort Gondola. As such, you’ll be within walking distance of plenty of hotels and casinos.
Photo: Chris Yunker (Flickr)
There’s literally something for everyone: live theatre performances, miniature golf, ice skating, and skiing galore!
In my opinion, the best way to properly take in that classic Tahoe ambiance is to simply amble through those cobblestone streets while enjoying that vacation spirit that perpetually permeates this neighborhood.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to the Heavenly Village without at least one ride up the famous Heavenly Gondola. From up there, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe.
Tahoe Seasons Resort | Best Hotel in the Heavenly Village
Enjoy proximity to no less than three ski lifts with a stay at the Tahoe Seasons Resort!
Offering various room configurations for two to four guests, this hotel features access to an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub.
Larger groups can always opt for the two-bedroom suite, which easily sleeps up to height. In addition to the ski lifts, you’ll also be close to the Eldorado National Forest and El Dorado Beach.
Black Bear Lodge | Another Great Hotel in the Heavenly Village
Travelers looking for a nice place to stay in one of the most-coveted South Lake Tahoe neighborhoods may wish to consider the Black Bear Lodge.
Not only does this place offer super cozy rooms with gas fireplaces, but you’ll also enjoy proximity to the Gondola at Heavenly and Emerald State Park.
The gorgeous shores of Lake Tahoe lie just a quick 15-minute walk away. Onsite, the lodge offers a spacious lounge and a café.
3-Bedroom Space with Hot Tub | Best Airbnb in the Heavenly Village
Nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood, this pet-friendly mansion features three bedrooms for up to six guests.
Take advantage of nearby venues like the Heavenly Village Ice Rink and the Gondola, then return to the mansion to unwind in the hot tub.
As the evening rolls in, you can always rustle up a meal in the kitchen to enjoy on the furnished deck.
Things to Do in the Heavenly Village
Photo: Sanjoy Ghosh (Flickr)
- Rent some ski gear and get ready to shred those slopes!
- Go ice skating at the 8,000-square-foot outdoor rink, which has gorgeous lake and mountain views.
- Check out the Wyland Galleries, known for its unique artwork centered on the environment.
- Take a scenic gondola ride up to the Observation Deck, where you can admire jaw-dropping views of Lake Tahoe.
- Relax on the sandy shores of Nevada Beach.
I recommend jumping on an west coast road trip where you can soak up some of the best views from the Sierra Nevada mountains and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe.
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View on Osprey2. Bijou – Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe on a Budget
Bijou may literally translate to ‘jewel’ in French, but I can assure you there’s nothing glitzy or expensive about this charming nook located on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe!
An excellent destination for budget travelers who would prefer the sound of birds chirping instead of slot machines ringing, Bijou is actually one of the oldest hoods in South Lake Tahoe. As such, it’s not uncommon to see 40s-style homes and cabins peppered among more modern condos.
Photo: LittleT889 (WikiCommons)
This neighborhood is actually made up of two areas: The larger Bijou 1, which is found between South Lake Tahoe and Stateline. Bijou 2, which is found within a little nook near West Highway 50. Owing to its central location, Bijou is an excellent jumping spot for exploring other great South Lake Tahoe neighborhoods like the Ski Run Marina.
In addition to being more affordable than most South Lake Tahoe areas, Bijou offers the ideal setting for disconnecting from the daily grind. This is the kind of place where life just seems to slow down.
If you want to camp around California but have never ventured much further than your own backyard, this is your chance! Hiking, camping, and golfing are practically a way of life in Bijou – so nature lovers should feel right at home!
The Alder Inn | Best Hotel in Bijou
This centrally-located hotel offers Deluxe Double, Deluxe Queen, and King Rooms for two to four guests.
Each room offers a Keurig coffee machine, ensuring that you wake up to a hot brew every morning! The rooms are also fitted with a microwave and fridge.
When it’s time to explore, you can always check out nearby venues like Lakeside Green and the Eldorado National Forest.
Hotel Azure | Another Great Hotel in Bijou
Boasting ski storage and a 24-hour reception, Hotel Azure offers spacious rooms that can accommodate up to four guests.
You can take advantage of the numerous onsite facilities, including an onsite restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner and even free bike rentals!
Best of all, you’ll be right across the street from Lake Tahoe.
Charming Condo for 4 | Best Airbnb in Bijou
With one bedroom for two guests, this condo lies close to the Grand Residence Club. Rest assured that there’s also a sofabed in the living room to squeeze in two extra guests if you need to.
Featuring a fully-equipped kitchen, this space also features a fireplace, perfect for warming up after a day of trekking!
Guests will have access to various resort amenities, including a health club with a sauna, a heated outdoor pool, and hot tubs.
Things to Do in Bijou
- Take a sightseeing cruise across Emerald Bay, which is one of the ten most photographed places in the world.
- Visit nearby Pope Beach, a quaint area known for its pine trees, dunes, picnic spots, and boating opportunities.
- Take in some culture at the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum, home to interactive displays and exhibits.
- Grab your hiking shoes and head to Hike Van Sickle Bi-State Park, known for its easy trails and mesmerizing views.
- Check out the 18-hole Bijou Golf Course.
3. Stateline – Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe for Nightlife
It’s no secret that one of the best places to stay in Lake Tahoe for nightlife is Stateline. True to its name, this vibrant area straddles both South Lake Tahoe and Nevada along the southern shore of the lake.
Now, Stateline only has a tiny population of around 1,000 citizens, but don’t let that fool you: this place is the getaway to everything fun and exciting in South Lake Tahoe! When the sun dips behind the pines, Stateline turns into a twinkling playground with heaps of venues that stay open until dawn.
Whether your idea of a good time is to roll the dice at glittery casinos or sip on aromatic cocktails while enjoying live performances at MontBleu’s Opal Ultra Lounge, Stateline has plenty on offer for night owls. I can totally vouch for the Improv at Harvey’s, a comedy club known for its intimate setting and excellent performances.
Hungover after a fun evening? Fret not: Stateline has 24-hour eateries. Like a lot! So dive in and savor the flavors.
Edgewood Tahoe Resort | Best Hotel in Stateline
Located smack on the beachfront, Edgewood Tahoe Resort offers 5-star accommodations with numerous room configurations.
Guests can enjoy several onsite amenities, including a 24-hour front desk, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
With a stay at this hotel, you’ll be close to the River Fork Ranch Preserve and Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen.
Tahoe Trail Resort | Another Great Hotel in Stateline
If you’re looking for the best places to stay in South Lake Tahoe, you may wish to check out Tahoe Trail Resort, located near Audible’s Sports Bar and Gaming.
This resort offers one or two-bedroom spaces to sleep between four and five guests. All units provide fully-equipped kitchens with dining areas, while select units feature a separate seating area.
As the day winds down, you can always use the provided barbecue facilities to prepare a grilled feast for dinner.
Super Cozy Condo with Stunning Views | Best Airbnb in Stateline
Wake up to incredible views with a stay in this lavish condo!
With a large, modern kitchen and classic home comforts, this space can accommodate four guests in two bedrooms. There’s plenty to do nearby since you’ll be close to the Stage Coach Ski Lift and the Casino Corridor.
Featuring a massive patio deck, the condo also provides a gas fireplace for warming up after a day of skiing.
Things to Do in Stateline
Photo: Mark Gunn (Flickr)
- Try your luck at nearby casinos like the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Lakeside Inn & Casino, and Harrah’s.
- Enjoy a relaxing self-guided driving tour, perfect for taking in the best sights in just one day!
- Catch a show at The Loft Theatre.
- Spend the evening at Lake Tahoe AleWorX, a popular brewery known for its live music and local beers.
- Take a sunset dinner cruise on the M.S. Dixie II.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Tahoe Keys – Coolest Neighborhood in South Lake Tahoe
Travelers looking for waterside fun without crowds may wish to check out Tahoe Keys. It’s a super cool area known for its exciting activities! Besides, what could be cooler than a vacation smack dab on the water, right?
Boasting 11 miles of protected inland waterways, this neighborhood is found at the southern end of the lake. In the summer, I recommend finding a lightweight kayak and paddling down the waterways to observe herons and osprey in their natural habitat.
In the Tahoe Keys, adventures flow from kayaking to parasailing, so thrill-seekers will certainly be served! For something more laid back, you can go camping, hike up those gorgeous trails with canal views, or simply spend the day on Pope Beach.
In addition, you’ll be within walking or cycling distance of other National Forest Beaches like Kiva, Baldwin, and Camp Richardson.
Hampton Inn & Suites South Lake Tahoe | Best Hotel in Tahoe Keys
This pet-friendly hotel commands an excellent location near the National Forest Beaches, one of the most scenic beaches in California. It is well-suited to families and groups of friends visiting South Lake Tahoe.
Each room features a desk and coffee-making facilities while studio suites add separate sitting areas.
An array of onsite amenities awaits, including ironing facilities and an indoor swimming pool. With a stay in this hotel, you’ll be close to various eateries, including Vinny’s Pizza and Taco Taqueria.
Postmarc Hotel and Spa Suites | Another Great Hotel in Tahoe Keys
Here’s a great hotel that lies close to those great Tahoe Keys venues! The Postmarc Hotel and Spa Suites boast refined rooms fitted with microwaves, coffee machines, and refrigerators.
Luxury suites add a spa bath-perfect for unwinding after exploring nearby attractions like Zephyr Cove Park and Pope Beach.
If visiting during the ski season, you’ll be glad to learn that the hotel lies less than 2 kilometers from the Heavenly Ski Area. You’ll also be close to the Lake Tahoe Golf Course and Harvey’s Lake Tahoe Casino.
Oh, and did I mention you’ll be treated to free perks like bike rentals and all-day coffee?
Tahoe Keys Home with Boat Dock | Best Airbnb in Tahoe Keys
Planning a longer visit and wondering where to stay in South Lake Tahoe? Then, you may wish to check out this 3,000 sq ft. home that’s right by the water’s edge!
Boating and kayaking are a breeze thanks to the private boat dock, and the space even features a hot tub for soothing those muscles after a full day of adventuring!
Offering a kitchen, fenced yard, and three bedrooms for 6 to 10 guests, this space lies just a stone’s throw from Pope Beach.
Things to Do in Tahoe Keys
- Embark on a wine-tasting cruising experience.
- Spend the day at Camp Richardson Beach, which features a deck, ice cream shop, and lakefront grill.
- Hit the links at nearby golf courses like Tahoe Paradise and Edgewood.
- Go off the beaten path with this epic snowshoeing experience.
- Marvel at the Tallac Historic Site, which is made up of three Estates and a free museum.
5. Ski Run Marina – Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe for Families
Photo: Sandip Bhattacharya (Flickr)
Okay, let’s wrap this up with the absolute best place to stay in South Lake Tahoe for families!
If you’re travelling full-time as a family, you may wish to check out the Ski Run Marina, an area fringed by Lake Tahoe’s famously turquoise waters. Located near the Emerald Bay Road intersection, this neighborhood is especially known for its picturesque lakefront parks, docks, and beaches.
The Ski Run Marina may be the boating hub of South Lake Tahoe, but it also offers a variety of other family-friendly attractions. You’ll enjoy the Fallen Leaf Lake, a 3-mile-long glacial lake that’s part of the National Forest system.
Just a quick drive from Ski Run Marina takes you to Van Sickle Bi-State Park, which boasts over 10 miles of hiking trails. Kids and adults alike will no doubt enjoy a visit to Ski Run Marina’s beach where they can jet ski, fish, or even rent a boat.
The Tahoe Beach & Ski Club Owners Association | Best Hotel in the Ski Run Marina
Traveling with your family and wondering where to stay in South Lake Tahoe?
Well, I can totally vouch for The Tahoe Beach & Ski Club Owners Association, which despite its official-sounding name, offers heaps of fun amenities!
Guests can choose from Studios, One-Bedroom Townhouses, and One-Bedroom Suites with kitchenettes. Other on-site amenities include hot tubs, a sauna, and a fitness center.
The Elet Hotel | Another Great Hotel in the Ski Run Marina
Another great South Lake Tahoe accommodation, The Elet Hotel, features Superior Queen or King rooms that sleep up to four. Select rooms will add kitchenettes.
Rest assured that you’ll never be bored at the hotel since it offers easy access to numerous attractions, including Camp Richardson, Lakeside Beach, and the Heavenly Gondola.
Peaceful Two-Bedroom Cabin | Best Airbnb in the Ski Run Marina
Nestled on a kid-friendly property, this peaceful cabin features two bedrooms for up to four guests.
Parents will be glad to learn that the space provides plenty of amenities for the little ones, including a play kitchen area, booster seat, and Pack-n-Play.
This cabin is centrally located near the Ski Run Marina, Heavenly, and Sierra at Tahoe.
Things to Do in the Ski Run Marina
- Treat yourself to a SUP experience.
- Be awed by Vikingsholm, an impressive 38-room mansion that’s been dubbed ‘one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture’ in the US.
- Head to the nearby Bijou Community Park for a free outdoor movie (summer only).
- Enjoy a family hike followed by a picnic at Van Sickle Park.
- Take a boat to Fanette Island.
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Hide Yo’ Money!What To Pack For South Lake Tahoe
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for South Lake Tahoe
Before you set off, getting travel insurance for the USA is essential. You hope you don’t need it, but it’s not worth the risk.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe
There you have it – all those amazing places to stay in South Lake Tahoe! If you’re still having trouble deciding, then I can absolutely vouch for the Tahoe Keys.
With plenty of awesome attractions, this neighborhood also offers excellent accommodation options like the Postmarc Hotel and Spa Suites.
Photo: Ana Pereira
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