11 Best 5 & 4 Star Hotels in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe was famously called “the fairest picture the whole earth affords” by Mark Twain, and it holds true even a century-and-a-half later. The beguilingly turquoise blue lake sits against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains and is North America’s second-deepest lake. So, it’s not surprising that it’s a year-round destination, whether one wants to sail, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard in the summer or ski and snowboard in winter. That’s why the best options for a 4-star hotel in Lake Tahoe aren’t just places to sleep for the night – they celebrate the region’s spirit of the region. What’s more, with two distinct sides to the lake, which is a 70-mile circumnavigation, we needed to keep in mind the different locations when thinking about luxury hotels in the region.

The first region is the low-key North Tahoe near the old frontier town of Truckee. Not only is it closer to nature, but it’s also home to some of the region’s best Lake Tahoe ski resorts. In contrast, there’s Tahoe South, which has a vibrant downtown dotted with casinos, theaters, brewpubs, restaurants, and whatnot. Whether you’re looking for a boutique luxurious stay or slopeside four-star digs, Lake Tahoe has something for every kind of traveler. Here’s a detailed guide to luxury living in Lake Tahoe.

Marriott Grand Residence Club, South Lake Tahoe

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We begin the list with a Marriott property, the Marriott Grand Residence Club in South Lake Tahoe. This Heavenly Resort village was the epitome of elegance and was perfect for our large group of friends, who preferred condo suites rather than rooms. What we loved about the digs at this four-star hotel was that they came fully equipped with cozy fireplaces and kitchens. So, we could whip up meals anytime we wanted, especially on the days when we didn’t feel like moving out for food. The high ceilings were a definite plus point, keeping the space bright and cheerful. The best bit was that our three-room residence came with four bathrooms, allowing all eight of us adults to stay luxuriously in comfort.

However, the upscale condos are not all that the Marriott property offers. The star amenity of the property was the heated outdoor pool, which meant that we could also enjoy a dip in colder weather. As a South Lake Tahoe hotel, this was definitely a well-thought amenity. Aside from the fitness center, which nobody really comes to Tahoe for, we loved rejuvenating with massages and treatments at the Serenity Spa. When the hunger pangs came calling, the onsite bar and grill served up some of the region’s best Asian food. Plus, we were smack dab in the heart of Heavenly Village, so all the dining and shopping options, as well as the gondola, were a hop, skip, and jump.

Desolation Hotel, South Lake Tahoe

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Best boutique. With newer, inventive hotel options always available in Lake Tahoe, we were excited to explore the micro-resort that is the Desolation Hotel. Functionality meets Eastern zen with a hybrid Scandi-Japanese wabi-sabi design at this hotel, which boasts luxurious touches in a minimalist environment.

We had the choice of 21 sleek townhomes, suites, and studios, all of which feature custom art pieces, Belkin speakers, and Frette linens. In fact, the living space of our townhome even had a tiny kitchen with a gas range where we could prepare light meals if we wanted. The spa-like bathrooms were perfect for winding down after a long day, especially with the inclusion of Grown Alchemist bath products. But we were absolutely delighted to see that our digs, in fact, all of them, came with private balconies featuring soaking tubs. It doesn’t get any more luxurious than that.

The heart of the hotel was the year-round outdoor heated saltwater pool, which had very inviting cabana-style seating and loungers around it. But that’s not all. Do you prefer the beach? There’s access to a shared but private beach just a few blocks away. So, you’re ensured of safety due to the presence of other people, but no crowds at all. Since we’re eco-friendly fiends, we were impressed by Desolation’s eco-friendliness, whether it was the dark sky lighting, solar power use, the EV charging stations, or the water bottle refilling stations. The cherry on top was that the hotel’s restaurant, Maggie’s, tucked on the third floor amidst treetops, is one of the best places to dine across the region.

The Ritz-Carlton, Truckee

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Imagine finding a luxury spot in Truckee that’s both a summer and winter-popular place to stay; that’s the Ritz-Carlton for you. This grand, mid-mountain alpine retreat on Northstar Mountain is Lake Tahoe’s only ski-in/ski-out spot, but crowds flock here in summer too.

When we checked in, we stepped into what’s called the Living Room, complete with a 55-foot-tall granite fireplace and a cozy seating area. Even when we weren’t skiing, it was a great spot for enjoying cocktails and people-watching, complete with views of skiers zipping down the mountain. We loved the year-round heated pool, which allowed us to check a thrilling activity off our bucket list – to swim when it was snowing! After what was a divine swim, a message at the award-winning spa was just the ticket. We wound up the day by enjoying dinner at Manzanita, the excellent fine-dining restaurant onsite.

Every guest room or suite at this Ritz outpost is excellent, complete with warm wood accents, fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic alpine views. Since we wanted to soak in the spectacular views, we chose the Corner View Slopeside room with wraparound views of the slopes. The place is complete with a plush king bed, slippers, and robes and a luxe bathroom with a bathtub.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa, and Casino, Incline Village

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Best hotel with a private beach. We were looking to spend an in-town vacation in Incline Village but with the perks and amenities of a resort. The serene waterfront Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa, and Casino offered just that – and then some.

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For one, it’s one of the few resorts on the banks of Lake Tahoe to have a private beach, which we were thrilled at the prospect of. In fact, the hotel even had cabanas laid out, complete with food and drink service, so we practically spent half a day at the beach. Later on, the relaxation continued at the year-round heated outdoor pool, followed by a rather indulgent session at the Stillwater Spa, which is among Lake Tahoe’s best. We splashed on a couple’s sanctuary, which even had an infinity tub and a fireplace, to enjoy a massage and unwind. Come evening, the resort’s atmosphere turned splashy, thanks to the amazing casino and the many dining options, which included a splendid waterfront restaurant.

With more than 400 rooms, suites, and lakeside cottages to choose from, the resort caters to the taste of practically every kind of traveler. Moreover, they all feature picturesque views of the mountains and the lake and modern alpine decor.

The Landing Resort & Spa, South Lake Tahoe

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Best skiing resort. It’s rare to find a quiet and serene lakeside resort and spa in Lake Tahoe, so when we heard about The Landing Resort & Spa in South Lake Tahoe, we grabbed the opportunity to stay here. Unobstructed views of the lake’s sapphire waters and snowcapped mountains were on full display here. In fact, gazing out the windows was our favorite pastime here. When we wanted to do more than just look, we’d head to the semi-private Zephyr Cove beach, access to which was included in the amenity fee.

Conversely, if you’re here in the winter, the gondola is a mere 15-minute walk, and there’s even a free hotel shuttle to Heavenly Mountain. But what about if you want to enjoy a swim in winter? The resort’s answer to that is the amazing year-round heated outdoor pool, where we could enjoy a swim and a lounge with views of the mountain. Next, we headed to the intimate spa, where we pampered ourselves from head to toe with a Treat Yourself package. Evenings were spent around the fireplace on the rooftop deck while we wound up the day at Jimmy’s Restaurant.

With just 82 rooms and lakeside suites, staying here felt quite intimate, even though the resort was so massive and sprawling. With tons of creature comforts like Lavazza espresso machines, plush pillowtop beds, and stone gas fireplaces, we truly enjoyed our luxurious stay here.

PlumpJack Inn, Olympic Valley/Tahoe City

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Located just steps from the lift at Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort, PlumpJack Inn has long been a local favorite. So, we decided to stay at this two-storeyed, stylishly rustic, cedar-sided inn and experience true laidback luxury.

The choices here range from regular rooms and family suites to a penthouse with a jacuzzi tub! Since we wanted to indulge ourselves, we chose – no surprises – the penthouse with the jacuzzi, and it was the best money we had ever spent. Not only that, but the room also had a sumptuous bed with a down comforter, an iPod dock, high-end bath amenities, and a mainstay in all the rooms. Oh, and did we tell you about the hooded terry robes they left for us so we could wear them to the outdoor hot tubs? Yep.

Downstairs, the amenities were as nice as the rooms. We loved the bar, which is a happening après-ski destination, and the namesake restaurant is equally superb, especially its seasonal dinner menu. This place might not have all the bells and whistles of other luxury hotels, but its luxury is more understated than in your face. Plus, the attentive service is through the roof. Are you seeking an extended winter vacation? For a 25-night minimum stay, the ski lease program here includes ski storage perks and other assorted discounts.

Cedar Glen Lodge, Tahoe Vista/Kings Beach

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Our idea of a luxurious Lake Tahoe vacation also included staying in idyllic spots with all mod-cons in the middle of a pine forest. That’s why we loved the rustic yet refined Cedar Glen Lodge at Tahoe Vista, an eco-resort made up of a bunch of tasteful and charming cabins in Agate Bay, North Lake Tahoe. In fact, this 4-star Lake Tahoe hotel even made it to the list of “10 highest-rated green hotels” by TripAdvisor, and we’re all for it. We loved the lush, lovely, and well-maintained grounds around the resort, with the sandy beach of a lakeshore located right across the street. That said, the property has a superb outdoor pool surrounded by lovely lounge chairs, daybeds, and umbrellas. It was the perfect place to relax when we wanted to step out of our rooms.

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Since our idea of getting cozy is a wood-paneled cabin in the middle of a forest, we loved this award-winning hotel which features a main lodge with many rooms. However, the stars are the standalone cottages, nestled under a canopy of majestic pine trees, which we obviously went for. Originally built in the 1940s, the cottages have been renovated and offer the most luxurious living experience. We chose the ultimate in luxury, the Romance Suite Cottage, which came with a living area, a kitchenette, a quaint gas fireplace, and even a jetted bathtub for two.

Everline Resort & Spa, Olympic Village/Tahoe City

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Locals affectionately call the Everline Resort and Spa the “Death Star” due to its gleaming black-paneled exterior. However, there’s nothing even remotely ominous about this AAA four-diamond property, which is one of Lake Tahoe’s most family-friendly resorts. Located at Palisade Tahoe Ski Resort, the resort boasts direct access to winter skiing, snowshoeing, and summer activities, making it the perfect year-round destination for families like ours.

The kids had a blast at this massive resort, including splashing about in the heated pool and playing games all day long in the game room. Since it was winter, they had a ball going sledding, too. But that’s not all. They even attended the workshops that the hotel conducted, like kids’ crafts, and enjoyed them, too. As the kids enjoyed their activities, we took some much-needed us time at the adults-only heated pool, enjoyed a massage at the spa, and spent some time hitting balls around on the 18-hole golf course. Finally, we’d all get together for meals at the onsite restaurant, which even had a kid’s menu to keep the children happy.

“If you’re going to Lake Tahoe with kids, then this is the place you should be staying at!”

WOW Travel

Coming to the digs, the rooms and suites all feature modern mountain decor, enjoying both mountain and forest views. We chose a mountain-facing suite with not just a bathtub and a mini-fridge but also a gas fireplace and even ski-in/ski-out privileges.

Black Bear Lodge, South Lake Tahoe

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Most romantic. As a couple yearning for serenity and quietude in South Lake Tahoe, the Black Bear Lodge was the pinnacle of luxury. There was no resort-style pool, kids’ club, or even a spa at this resort, and that’s what made it so romantically luxurious.

So, what does this place have? This timber-hewn Tahoe-chic retreat boasts a slew of standalone cabins which made for a perfect rustic home away from home. We had the choice of traditional lodge-style rooms and cabins, both of which blend rustic and upscale aesthetics with artwork, rich leather and wood accents, and luxury linens. That said, we chose a standalone lodge, which had a separate living area and even a private patio where we could enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Plus, it even had extra touches like a doTerra diffuser, a pour-over coffee kit, and include a river rock fireplace. Talk about barefoot luxury.

If you’re able to pull yourself away from the romantic digs, the Lodge Bar is excellent and serves killer charcuterie boxes, SoCal wines, and craft beers. We loved spending time at the communal lounge reading books and playing board games. While there are many activities to do around, this place is for peeps like us who want to relax and unwind.

The Village At Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley/Tahoe City

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Staying at a resort that was the home of and the host to the 1960 Winter Olympics was an indescribable feeling. Welcome to The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Lake Tahoe’s most famous skiing resort tucked at the foot of the slopes. In fact, it sits right in the heart of the village, and we could enjoy ski-in/ski-out access like no other accommodation around.

Looking at the timber-and-stone resort felt like we were in Bavaria. On the inside, the vibe is thoroughly mountainous, with wood-beamed ceilings and a roaring fire at the stone-clad chimney fireplace since we were here in winter. We loved the friendly service here, which didn’t feel overwhelming. Not only was there a daily housekeeping service but also there were laundry facilities on each floor. Plus, we had a wonderful time unwinding at the whirlpool spas and dry saunas, especially after a day out on the slopes. Thanks to the children’s games room, even families with kids have a lot to do here, which added to the familial vibe.

The digs range from standard rooms and suites with mini-fridges to sprawling three-bedroom apartments with fireplaces, balconies, kitchens, and whatnot. We loved the slightly old-fashioned, cozy mountain lodge feel with coffee filter machines, bathrooms with vinyl shower curtains, and taxidermied deer heads. That said, the beds are unbelievably comfortable and soft.

Edgewood Tahoe Resort, South Lake Tahoe

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There’s nothing like golfing against the sparkling backdrop of Lake Tahoe, which we did at the Edgewood Tahoe Resort, South Lake Tahoe. Enjoying a prime perch right on the lake shores on the Nevada side, this sophisticated LEED resort is as much of a stunner as the lake is. Right from floor-to-ceiling chapel-style windows with lake views to a metallic silver tree wall carving, every detail is lovingly tied to Lake Tahoe.

Even the amenities at this hotel are tied to the Big Blue. The long stretch of private beach is undoubtedly its most prized amenity. However, we loved the year-round heated outdoor pool and the hot tub, which offered spectacular slopeside views. There’s a legendary golf course, but the sanctuary-like spa and its many treatments drew us in. Little perks like the après sleep cart stocked with fresh fruits, granola-on-the-go, and herbal teas in the lobby made us feel special. We didn’t even leave the grounds on some days, reading a book in the library with a glass of wine and roasting s’mores at the fire pit. Wrapping up the features are three excellent onsite eateries, but the Edgewood Restaurant, with waterfront views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, takes the cake.

Staying here was as luxurious as the resort promised, especially since they even had a new set of waterfront villas! That said, all tooms here have soaking tubs, fireplaces, and private balconies, and ours even had splendid lake views.

Our Verdict!

We’ve been enamored with all of Lake Tahoe’s luxurious stays, but a few are slightly better than the others due to their specific features. They’re listed below:

• Most romantic: Black Bear Lodge, South Lake Tahoe
• Best boutique: Desolation Hotel, South Lake Tahoe
• Best hotel with a private beach: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa, And Casino, Incline Village
• Best skiing resort: The Landing Resort & Spa, South Lake Tahoe

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe?

As we explained earlier, Lake Tahoe is huge, and it has numerous shoreline areas, regions, and towns. Hence, it’s not surprising that it’s one of the top tourist attractions in the USA. So, where did we stay when we visited this region, and what’s the best place for you?

First-time visitors should head to South Lake Tahoe on the Californian side for its jaw-dropping scenery and slew of luxury hotels. What’s more, there are tons of recreational activities to do here, which means that hotels fill up fast, so book quickly. Next, there’s Incline Village in Nevada on the northern shores, a rural town nestled amongst mountains and pine trees. It’s home to luxurious, cozy lodges and rustic resort hotels and is a top mountain retreat. While you’re on the northern side, you might also consider Truckee, one of the USA’s best mountain cities in the Sierra Nevada mountains and a venerated skiing destination.

There’s also Tahoe City, which is a mix of a European ski resort village and a beach town, as it’s home to the massive Commons Beach and a handful of ski resorts. Another beach town is Kings Beach, on the northernmost point of the lake, which has a laidback and friendly vibe. Are you a culture vulture? The capital of Nevada, Carson City, on the eastern shores, is the place for you. Not only is it a picturesque town, but it also offers lots of history lessons along with stunning lake views. 

What is the best area to stay in Lake Tahoe?

The best areas in Lake Tahoe are Carson City, Truckee, Incline Village, Tahoe City, and South Lake Tahoe, all of which promise a memorable holiday. Most of these places have at least one 4-star Lake Tahoe hotel.

Which part of Lake Tahoe is best in summer?

That would be South Lake Tahoe and its popular El Dorado Beach, which is not only easily accessible but also has a ton of water activities and barbeques with live music.

What time of year is best to see Lake Tahoe?

During peak tourist season, both summer and winter, Lake Tahoe could be very crowded – but it also has the best weather during this time. That said, fall and spring, i.e., September-November and April-May, are also the best times to visit for fewer crowds.