North Lake Tahoe is always a good idea, any season of the year. But the good thing about visiting during the spring & fall is that you can catch their dual season days. You can enjoy lake activities as well as the snow, all in one day!
No matter where you visit from, the closest airport is Reno International Airport. Flying there from LA was a breeze, just an hour flight. We took the 8am flight and landed at 9am to enjoy the full first day. We went straight to pick up our rental car at the airport. We rented a 4 wheel drive, to get around the mountain, with an infant car seat (much more convenient than having to carry the car seat) and we got on the road to North Lake Tahoe (just an hour drive).
We decided to stay at the cutest lake-front hotel, Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort a stunning boutique lodging on the edge of a private beach in Tahoe Vista, California. A family owned and operated business of over 30 years, which means they know all about family-focused quality time, they have toys & activities for everyone. They offer outdoor hot tub, board game inventory, boat rentals, beach fire pits, picnic tables, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, kayaks, water bikes, ping pong table, water trampoline, water chairs, cabin rentals, hiking trails, adventure programs, ski shuttle service, snow sleds, snow play toys... Everything you'd want to do by the lake & the mountain! They are also located on the beach by the water, but have the hiking trails and slopes super close by. Plus, each room has a fully equipped kitchen so you can cook too, perfect if you travel with your family like us.
During the three days we were there we relaxed, ate the best fresh fish & seafood, and did so many fun outdoor activities. I am going to list & link all the restaurants we tried and everything that there is to do at North Lake Tahoe and I suggest planning your itinerary based on the weather and activity availability.
You have to visit this incredible place! The clearest lake waters I have ever seen and just magical. It truly is the perfect spot for family fun, or a romantic couple getaway. Regardless. You won't regret it. Visit North Lake Tahoe!
Top Activities
1. Aerial Tramp to High Camp at Squaw Valley
Address: 1750 Village East Rd, Olympic Valley, CA 96146
During the spring Squaw Valley’s High Camp turns into a lively apres spot with a hot tub and pool, bar and lodge, overlooking Lake Tahoe. Once the snow melts, guests can explore the hiking trails, bursting with wildflowers. Up there you can also visit the Olympic Museum.
Address: 1750 Village East Rd, Olympic Valley, CA 96146
The cutest mountain village. Explore, eat & shop. Uncorked Squaw, is a great wine and tapas bar and Coffeebar, is an Italian inspired cafe. So cozy.
Address: 364 Lakeview Ave, Incline Village, NV 89451
1.5 loop trail on a paved path featuring panoramic views of the lake
4. Common’s Beach
Address: 400 N Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA 96145
Enjoy the sun & water and a picnic on the beach. Right next to it you also can find Tahoe City Visitor’s Center, Fanny Bridge (the historical bridge is the only outlet for Lake Tahoe, located adjacent to the Visitor’s Center) and Gatekeeper’s Museum (the museum offers eclectic Native American and 1960 Squaw Olympics memorabilia).
Address: 967 Lakeshore Blvd, Incline Village, NV 89451
Go on a boat tour on the 35' Formula "Thunder Cloud" or on one of their Catamarans.
6. Explore Incline Village
- Flume Trail & Tunnel Creek Cafe ( located at the famous Flume Trail trailhead. Stop for a coffee and consider taking a jaunt up the Flume Trail. Panoramic views of the lake can been from the start of the trail)
- Harbor Beach (enjoy a walk along one of Lake Tahoe’s most breathtaking beaches)
- Alibi Ale Works (enjoy a craft beer made with pristine alpine water from Lake Tahoe)
Restaurant Suggestions
Best Sunsets
- Sand Harbor Beach.
- Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park
- Stateline Fire Lookout
- Burnt Cedar Beach