The Best Hotels to Book in Lake Tahoe, California

This luxurious five-star hotel, with elegant interiors crafted from stone, sits on the shores of Lake Tahoe, looking out on the lake through expansive windows. It has an architect-designed golf course, one of the top public golf courses in the world, which, at an altitude of more than 6,200ft (1,890m), is also a great vantage point. Meanwhile, there are three distinctive restaurant experiences on site: a casual golf-inspired bar just steps from the 18th hole, a relaxed bar and bistro, and a fine-dining restaurant. If you overdo it with wine during dinner, reserve a spot at the spa the next day and make your full recovery via a Heavenly Healing treatment, which includes a Swedish massage.

Set on the waterfront in North Lake Tahoe, this scenic resort is one of the best places to stay in Lake Tahoe for exploring the region’s picturesque trails, enjoying watersports or skiing. There’s as much to discover within the resort itself, where you’ll find an award-winning spa, numerous pools and six restaurants and bars, including a relaxed poolside bar, a sports saloon and an upscale restaurant. After you’ve eaten your way around, head to the beach and take in the views of the High Sierra Nevada mountains while chowing down on BBQ favorites right off the grill.

Make yourself at home at this cozy, lodge-like resort near the north shore of Lake Tahoe. Its 55 rooms have been designed with comfort in mind – and some even have views out over the Sierra Nevada. Animal lover traveling with a canine companion? You’re in luck, as all rooms are pet-friendly. Elsewhere, the Plumpjack Bar offers a seasonal menu, with an award-winning wine list. Time it right and enjoy one of the special wine dinners held throughout the year with guest winemakers.

As the name suggests, Cedar House Sport Hotel is all about embracing the great outdoors. Located in Truckee, one of California’s oldest towns, the hotel is a base camp for sporting activities throughout the year. In summer and spring, climb mountains, explore miles of hiking trails and try your hand at watersports on the lake. In winter, the area is home to 13 ski resorts and unlimited backcountry access. Whatever the season, wrap up each day by retreating to the comfortable rooms and communal areas, which have been crafted from recycled and natural materials.

Located in South Lake Tahoe, this is the original Basecamp hotel, designed to provide a convenient and comfortable base for exploring the mountains, lakes and trails of the Lake Tahoe Basin. It’s a five-minute walk to the lakeshore and the Heavenly gondola is even closer. The 73 rooms have all the conveniences you’ll need, and range from single and family rooms to the Explorer’s Room, which can sleep up to eight in bunk beds. For something unique, book the Great Indoors room, which features a faux log fire, camping chairs and an indoor tent.

Basecamp Tahoe City, the latest addition to the Basecamp group, is in the heart of Tahoe City and, like Basecamp South Lake Tahoe, there’s a Great Indoors room that kids will love. Here you can have the camping experience without the hassle or risk of bad weather, and there’s an adjoining room for added privacy. The Lobby Bar features a curated selection of local microbrews, wines and snacks, and s’mores are served daily on the deck from 5pm to 10pm. Can you think of a better way to round off a day in the mountains?

Looking for a place to stay in Lake Tahoe with superlative lake views? Book a room at the Landing Lake Tahoe Resort & Spa. Each of the 82 individual rooms has a stunning view of the lake, as well as serious creature comforts. Jimmy’s Restaurant is also worth a visit: its wood-fired Californian cuisine shines a spotlight on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, and there are several private dining alcoves, each with its own fireplace. If you need to get away from it all, opt for a treatment at the spa – the coffee and coconut body wrap will have you feeling fresh in no time.