South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals

Stay near South Lake Tahoe's top sights

Heavenly Mountain Resort299 locals recommend
Harrah's Lake Tahoe199 locals recommend
Edgewood Tahoe75 locals recommend
Pope Beach82 locals recommend
Harveys Lake Tahoe29 locals recommend
Safeway217 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in South Lake Tahoe

  • Total rentals

    2.9K properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $10 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    98K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    1.6K properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    570 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    1.7K properties have a pool

Your guide to South Lake Tahoe

Introduction

This Californian mountain town, located 190 miles from San Francisco on the Nevada border, draws travelers for its diverse attractions and activities: skiing and snowboarding in the winter, swimming and wakeboarding in the summer, and live entertainment year-round. Incorporated in 1965, South Lake Tahoe came to life at the heels of a casino boom in neighboring Stateline, Nevada, and the same enthusiastic spirit can be seen today in its vibrant nightlife venues, tight-knit Tahoe Keys community, and Fourth of July celebrations. South Lake, as locals call it, is also a popular destination for city dwellers craving a quiet weekend vacation in a lakefront cabin or woodsy retreat. And it’s all set against a panoramic backdrop of glacier-carved mountains, sky-scraping sugar pines, and a mesmerizing Neptune-blue lake — the largest alpine lake in North America.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe

Sitting at an elevation of 6,200 feet, South Lake Tahoe has a highland climate, meaning the weather changes dramatically with the season. Dependably hot and arid summer days (the average temperature in August is 75 degrees Fahrenheit) are ideal for a range of water sports on the lake. But don't be fooled by the scorching days, as nights can be chilly — on average, 227 mornings a year fall below freezing. Winter sports fans take note: The snowiest month is March, with an average snowfall of 74 inches, and ample bluebird days for hitting the slopes with your sunglasses on. Runs are typically open until May. The coldest month is February, with an average temperature of 39 degrees.


Top things to do in South Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay State Park

Given the park’s name, it should come as no surprise that this piercingly blue bay is a South Lake Tahoe must-do. You have several options for ways to admire the natural beauty here: pull-out vistas on the roads, hike-in or boat-in camping, or California's first underwater trail, which guides scuba divers and snorkelers along submerged barges. The park also contains Vikingsholm, one of the most renowned examples of Scandinavian architecture in the Western Hemisphere.

El Dorado Beach

As the largest beach in South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado boasts at least a weekend's worth of activities: shaded picnic tables with barbecues, kayak rentals, a boat launch with floating dock, and prime shoreline real estate for throwing down your beach towel for the day. And it's the perfect place to catch the sunset year-round.

South Lake Tahoe Bike Trail

One of the best ways to take in South Lake Tahoe's natural beauty is by cruising along this scenic 11-mile-long bike trail. The combination of paved and dirt trails are relatively flat, leading cyclists past restaurants and through forests and meadows, and even over the state line into Nevada. It also connects to other bike paths for a choose-your-own-adventure day.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in South Lake Tahoe?

    South Lake Tahoe experiences a high mountain climate, with temperatures ranging from -6°C (21°F) in winter to 26°C (80°F) in summer. Snowfall is common in winter, making it a great time for snow-oriented activities, whereas summer months are often warm and sunny, suitable for hiking and water sports.

  • What are some of the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe?

    Visitors to South Lake Tahoe often enjoy water sports on the lake, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. In winter, skiing and snowboarding at Heavenly Mountain Resort are popular activities. Hiking and mountain biking are also common during the warmer months.

  • What is the best time of year to visit South Lake Tahoe?

    South Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, with summer and winter being the most popular seasons. The Summer Concert Series at Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena is a frequently attended event. In winter, many visitors come for the SnowGlobe Music Festival.

  • What are the best places to stay in South Lake Tahoe?

    Visitors tend to prefer staying in areas like Stateline, known for its proximity to the lake and Heavenly Mountain Resort. The Al Tahoe neighborhood is also popular due to its tranquil environment and closeness to the beach.

  • What are the best places to visit in South Lake Tahoe?

    Guests often enjoy exploring Emerald Bay State Park, a scenic natural area with an island in the middle. Heavenly Mountain Resort is frequently suggested for skiing and snowboarding. Visitors also enjoy the Tahoe Rim Trail, stretching 165 miles (266 km) and offering panoramic views of the lake.

  • What are some hiking trails in South Lake Tahoe?

    Hikers frequently explore the Rubicon trail or the trail up to Maggie's Peaks. These trails provide stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Mount Tallac Trail is another popular choice, although it's considered a more challenging hike.

  • What are some family activities to do in South Lake Tahoe?

    Families can spend enjoyable time at the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena, known for its engaging summer concerts. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is also a great place for children to learn about local wildlife. South Lake Tahoe also has bike rentals for family excursions along the lake.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in South Lake Tahoe?

    Visitors often take day trips to nearby destinations such as the historic town of Virginia City, or Carson City, Nevada's state capital. Both are less than an hour's drive away. Another suggestion is the Eldorado Wine Country, known for its vineyards and wine tasting.

  • Are there vacation rentals near South Lake Tahoe's top attractions?

    You're in luck! Stay at the heart of it all with our vacation rentals near South Lake Tahoe's top attractions. We offer over 6,760 vacation rentals near Heavenly California Aerial Tram, over 6,780 vacation rentals near Heavenly Gondola Run, over 13,530 vacation rentals near Heavenly Gondola, over 6,760 vacation rentals near Heavenly Mountain Resort, and over 5,380 vacation rentals near Sprouts Café, and so much more! Experience the best of South Lake Tahoe right on your doorstep.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in South Lake Tahoe?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 1,390 vacation rentals in South Lake Tahoe featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

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