Summer in South Lake Tahoe

This post is sponsored by Tahoe South

In my world, it’s not a true summer unless a trip to Lake Tahoe happens. As a Bay Area native I’ve spent quite some time in Lake Tahoe, but I’m constantly discovering new things. That’s why I’m so excited I’ve partnered with Tahoe South on this post. My friend Erin and I took a girl’s trip a few weeks ago (her first time!) to see what’s new in South Lake Tahoe, and why it should be your next summer escape. Pro-tip: visit mid-week to experience less crowds but just as much fun!

Watch the vlog below and scroll ahead for all my recommendations on what to see, eat, and do in South Lake Tahoe.

https://youtu.be/PaFDKYvIIfY

How To Get Around

• Walking: one of the best things about staying around Stateline is that everything is so walkable. You can enjoy hiking, lake sports, restaurants, casinos, and nightlife all likely within walking distance of where you’re staying.
• Uber: ridesharing through Uber is one of the smartest ways of getting around. Leave your GPS and parking worries behind, Uber has you covered from point A to B.
• LimeBike: these dockless rental bikes are easy to spot and even easier to rent. Just look for the green and yellow bikes across town. Biking is the perfect way to explore while working up a sweat. And next to walking, it’s one of the cheapest ways to get around.
• Chariot: these shuttles are all over SF and I’m glad to see they’ve made it to South Lake Tahoe. Rides are only $3 and cover two routes, covering pretty much all of the attractions I recommend in this post.

Where To Stay

• The Coachman: the cutest hotel with all the right hipster touches. If you like boutique hotels with a trendy design focus, The Coachman is for you.
• Basecamp Hotel: a super fun hotel with delights around every corner. The guest rooms have a camp/glamp theme to them, and the outdoor space is so inviting. Be sure to enjoy the rooftop jacuzzi for stargazing on a clear summer night!

What To Do

• SUP with South Tahoe Standup Paddle: this is the perfect summer morning activity to work up a sweat on the lake. You can rent the standup paddle boards either by the hour or by the day, launching off from El Dorado State Beach. Look out for the tent down by the water, just a few blocks from their shop.
• Hiking at Van Sickle Bi-State Park: this is a great moderate level hike that you can take straight from the hotels around stateline. It pretty much follows under the Heavenly gondola through forest, meadows, and boulders up until you reach a waterfall. The hike took 2.5 hours at a relaxed pace on a sweltering hot day with breaks for water and photos. The waterfall isn’t what you hike for, it’s all about the view of the lake!
• Serenity Cruise at Round Hill Pines: if you want an experience on the water without strenuous paddling, a boat cruise is for you. The Serenity boards at Round Hill Pines Beach Resort. From the dock, the Serenity will take you on a 2.5 hour cruise to Emerald Bay and back to Zephyr Cove. The crew point out a lot of important landmarks, wildlife, and history facts all along the way.
• Casino hopping at Stateline: for a little adult fun, South Lake has you covered with casinos. Plus, South Lake’s nightlife and casino scene is a lot more lively than North Lake. Here you can find everything from penny slots to high limit. You can find me at the roulette table!
• Summer Concert Series: if casinos or clubs aren’t your thing, check out this! They’ve had some amazing talent all summer long.

Where To Eat

• Sprouts: this cafe was so good, we came back twice! We loved the bagel sandwiches and fresh green juices for breakfast. Perfect if you’re looking for healthy meal options.
• Alpine Union: the perfect spot for happy hour, outdoor seating, and people watching. Alpine Union is just at the entrance to the Hard Rock Hotel at Stateline. In true HRH fashion, the restaurant is lively with music. We enjoyed sangria, chicken lettuce cups, Mediterranean quinoa salad, and decadent mac and cheese as the sun went down.
• Outpost Brewing Company: this is an awesome beer garden located at Basecamp Hotel. They serve all kinds of beer, surprisingly good food, and even offer some live music. Great spot to sit outside and chill by the fire as the sun goes down.
• Basecamp Pizza: this spot is one of my faves in the Heavenly Village. They have incredible happy hour specials like $12 for a personal pizza and a beer.

Have you been to South Lake Tahoe before? If you’re visiting in the winter, I have to recommend skiing or snowboarding at Heavenly, Sierra-at-Tahoe, and Kirkwood. If winter recommendations are of interest, that’s a blog post I can absolutely do in the future.

Like this post? Pin this post and share the love. Be sure to check out some of my other United States or California content before you go. Happy travels!