Who doesn’t love Lake Tahoe? It’s a fantastic destination, especially for families. With its stunning alpine scenery, crystal-clear waters, and abundance of outdoor activities, we’re not surprised if you don’t want to leave this place. A playground for outdoor enthusiasts like us; we love the fact that we can always swim, kayak, and paddleboard on the lake. Not to mention, when winter comes, Lake Tahoe transforms into a winter wonderland. However, our previous visits wouldn’t be great without the proper accommodations. If you’re coming with your loved ones, you must check out the best Lake Tahoe resorts for families. They offer ski-in/ski-out convenience, beautiful locations, and family-friendly amenities. To sum it up, they’re the perfect place to create memories with your precious ones.
Table of contents
- Hilton Vacation Club Lake Tahoe Resort South
- Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe
- Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge
- Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort
- Hyatt Vacation Club at High Sierra Lodge
- Cedar Glen Lodge
- The Landing Resort and Spa
- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino
- The Everline Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe
- Edgewood Tahoe Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe
- Which side of Lake Tahoe is best for families?
- Is Lake Tahoe good for kids?
- How many days do you need at Lake Tahoe?
Hilton Vacation Club Lake Tahoe Resort South
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Kicking off this list is the Hilton Vacation Club Lake Tahoe Resort South. If you’re a fan of Hilton Hotels, you won’t be disappointed by this one. One of our favorite amenities was the indoor/outdoor pool. It was our go-to place to relax both our bodies and minds. Want to stay in shape? Head to the on-site gym instead! It has everything you need to stay active and sweat it out. Don’t miss the on-site spa! After a long flight, it was the first thing we did. The masseurs sure knew how to spoil us.
While you’re enjoying the massage, let your kids have fun in the game room. It’s the perfect hangout spot for kids. Moving on, our room was simple but extremely comfortable. We opted for the one-bedroom king suite, which was probably our best option. Everything was decorated warmly and invitingly, and amenities like a kitchenette and living area were a big plus. We even had a balcony overlooking the resort, which was lovely for enjoying our morning coffee.
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Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe
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There’s a reason why Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe is popular among travelers. First of all, this resort knows a thing or two about relaxation. It has everything you possibly need to unwind. We enjoyed splashing around in the heated indoor pool, dipping in the hot tub, and getting a workout at the fitness center. The three garden atriums were a nice addition, too. They’re a great place to relax with a book and some fresh air.
What’s more, our suite was fantastic. Honestly, it felt more like a condo. We had a separate living room with a comfy couch and a second TV. The bedroom was cozy and had its own TV, and there was even a well-lit work area, which was handy for catching up on some work. Best of all, this resort is right where you want to be! You’ll be just steps from the Heavenly Ski Resort Gondola, meaning hitting the slopes will be a breeze.
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Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge
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The Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge is a laid-back resort on the shores of Lake Tahoe. It was the perfect location for us. We were just a 5-minute walk from the North Tahoe Marina for boat rentals and tours. Plus, staying here means you’re still within driving distance of Squaw Valley if your family wants to hit the slopes. The lodge also has a bunch of great amenities. We spent a lot of time by the private beach, and having access to loaner kayaks was a major perk! We also used the heated pool to cool off and could dine under the stars thanks to the fire pit and barbecue grills.
The rooms at Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge are comfortable. We loved having a kitchenette in our room, which allowed us to prepare some meals anytime we wanted to. Plus, cozying up by the fireplace in the evenings was pure bliss. For families, we highly recommend the two-bedroom unit. While your kids are busy having fun in the room, pamper yourself at the on-site spa with stunning lake views. It’s the ultimate way to unwind.
By the way, did you know that this resort is also one of the best Lake Tahoe hotels on the water?
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Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort
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Like the other best Lake Tahoe resorts for families, Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe. But it offers much more than that. For us, the best part of the resort was the suites—our King Suite, to be exact. Ours came with an enchanting lake view and a private patio, which allowed us to have relaxing mornings and evenings. The room was spacious, and there was a kitchen, too.
The resort offered us a lot to do without even leaving the property. We enjoyed soaking in the hot tubs with a glass of wine, and the BBQ grills were perfect for an evening cookout. The resort fee covered a big perk, which was private beach access! We also took advantage of the kayaks, paddleboards, and paddle boats so we could get out on the water easily. During winter, the resort offers a ski shuttle and continental breakfast, and in the summer, your family can cool off with treats from the seasonal ice cream shop, which kids will 100% love.
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Hyatt Vacation Club at High Sierra Lodge
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When searching for the top family resorts in Lake Tahoe, you shouldn’t miss the Hyatt Vacation Club at High Sierra Lodge. One of the biggest selling points of this resort is its location, which is set on a hillside with a gorgeous view of Lake Tahoe. We enjoyed the area a lot, as it felt secluded and peaceful. Yet, we were only a short drive from the excitement of Diamond Peak skiing and Kings Beach State Park. But you don’t have to leave the resort to have fun. Your entire family can have fun in the outdoor pool, and you can also access all the out-of-this-world amenities at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort (more about this hotel later), which is just a five-minute walk away.
Our suite was impressive! It was a relaxed, rustic-chic vibe with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a full kitchen. We think it should be big enough for most families. We also loved cozying up by the fireplace in the living room, and the flat-screen TVs and balconies were also nice touches. Having a full kitchen was always great, especially since our hunger doesn’t know time. We could easily prepare meals and snacks, which saved us money and fit our schedule perfectly.
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Cedar Glen Lodge
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Best Cabin Resort. If you and your family want to experience something unique, consider the Cedar Glen Lodge. As you can see from the picture below, the lodge has a rustic feel with comfortable rooms and cozy cottages. Our room, the studio with lake views, had everything we needed. We also loved that most accommodations had lake views. Nothing can beat waking up to beautiful scenery with your loved ones.
The amenities at Cedar Glen Lodge were top-notch, too. We enjoyed relaxing by the outdoor heated pool, soaking in the hot tub, and unwinding in the sauna. They also had fire pits and picnic areas with BBQ grills, which were great as we could spend our evenings outdoors. We checked out the volleyball courts, ping-pong tables, and putting green for some friendly competition. When it comes to dining, you can bring your entire family to grab a bite at the casual on-site restaurant. Or, when your kids are asleep, feel free to enjoy a glass of wine by the stone fireplace in the wine bar. But for the perfect family night, join the nightly campfire with s’mores.
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The Landing Resort and Spa
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Best Views. Our stay at The Landing Resort and Spa was nothing short of fancy. The location was perfect for us. This pet-friendly hotel in Lake Tahoe was close enough to Heavenly Village Ski Resort to take advantage of the resort’s free transportation and was also in a tranquil and relaxing spot. Aside from that, the resort offered everything we could have wanted for a relaxing getaway. We enjoyed unwinding in the full-service spa, soaking in the hot tub, and taking refreshing dips in the heated pool. Don’t forget to take your precious ones to the rooftop terrace with fire pits and the lake-view patio. They’re fantastic spots to relax and take in the scenery.
For those who like to stay active, there’s a well-equipped fitness center, and the resort even provides free snowboard and ski storage in case you or your kids love to ski. The resort also boasts an on-site gift shop, which can be handy for picking up last-minute souvenirs. We spent our nights at the Premier King Room, and it was amazing. We loved curling up by the stone fireplace in the evenings. The bathroom was equally impressive, with heated floors, plush towels, and high-quality toiletries. Some rooms even come with a spa tub, so everyone in your family can pamper themselves.
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Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino
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As the name suggests, the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino has it all. On the property, you’ll find d a year-round heated pool and hot tubs to relax in, a spa for some pampering, and a fitness center to keep up with your workout routine. We especially enjoyed the variety of dining options, from the gourmet deli and coffee bar to the American buffet and the saloon serving delicious meals. Plus, there are six bars on-site for those who enjoy a post-dinner cocktail. Of course, while we were there, we also made sure to pay the casino a visit. Spoiler: we brought back some fantastic prizes!
We stayed in the Deluxe King Room, and it had everything we expected. But for families, we recommend the Family King Suite, which is bigger and more suitable for small families. Let’s talk about the location. While the resort itself isn’t directly on the lake, it’s a short drive away, and it wasn’t a deal-breaker for us. Speaking of which, there’s also a golf course just a short drive away.
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The Everline Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe
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We still couldn’t get over how amazing The Everline Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe was. Nestled right in Olympic Valley, it was the perfect base for our mountain getaway. Lake Tahoe was just a few minutes away, but the resort offered so much within itself that we barely needed to leave. This makes it the perfect option for families who just want to maximize the resort’s amenities. By staying here, you and your family are only steps away from all the fun. Think world-class skiing in the winter and exciting summer activities during warmer months. The resort even has an 18-hole championship golf course right there!
Moreover, our suite felt luxurious. We loved the custom furnishings and the little touches like slate entryways and granite vanities. It really felt like a cozy mountain home, but with all the modern amenities we could ask for. And to spoil your loved ones, you can consider booking the penthouse, which comes with a massive balcony and oversized family room. But don’t spend the whole day inside! Throughout our stay, we loved to end our day relaxing by the heated pool.
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Edgewood Tahoe Resort
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Most Luxurious. While staying at the Edgewood Tahoe Resort may cost a lot, it’s definitely worth splurging. When we entered the hotel, it was hard not to be mesmerized by the 38 ft windows showcasing the stunning lake view. And after spending a few nights there, we realized that fireplaces were king there. They created these cozy gathering spots everywhere we turned. But head to the second-floor library for a truly intimate conversation or a friendly game of cards with your family members. Our go-to spot, though, for relaxation was the spa. It’s an 8,500 sq ft haven with treatment rooms named after local plants. We tried the Earth Connection Ritual and were instantly rejuvenated.
When it comes to outdoor fun, this Tahoe family resort had everything we needed. There was a spacious events lawn, fire pits scattered around for roasting marshmallows, comfy chairs for soaking up the sun, a private beach area, and a year-round pool and hot tub. What more could we ask for? On top of that, this resort is perfect no matter the season. In summer, travelers can explore the lake on clear-bottom kayak tours. Meanwhile, winter brings different kinds of fun – you can buy lift tickets at the hotel, hop on their private shuttles to the gondolas, and wander around the village. And let’s not forget the rooms. Every single one boasts a fireplace, a luxurious soaking tub, and a spacious walk-in shower. Talk about pure relaxation!
Speaking of luxury, check out these best 5 and 4-star hotels in Lake Tahoe!
“Some things are just worth the extra cost, and the Edgewood Tahoe Resort is certainly one of them.”
WOW Travel
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The Ritz-Carlton
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Best Amenities. No matter where you go, The Ritz-Carlton won’t disappoint, including the one in Lake Tahoe. Forget stuffy lobbies. The minute we walked in, it felt more like a giant living room with a warm fireplace. It was super inviting and cozy, just what we wanted after exploring the mountains. Speaking of mountains, the best part was the ski-in/ski-out access! We didn’t have to lug our equipment around as a gondola was right by the hotel that took us up the slopes. You can also take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service that runs to Truckee in the winter and the beaches in the summer. This is especially useful if you’re traveling with an elderly.
If you’re looking for an extra luxurious experience, splurge on the Club Level room. It’s totally worth it. You get access to exclusive food and beverage presentations throughout the day, plus your own personal concierge to help with anything you need. We’re sure your family will thank you. The highlight of our trip, though? The daily Marshmology experience! Every afternoon, a s’mores expert taught us how to make the perfect toasted marshmallows. We’re sure your kids will enjoy this experience. It was a fun and delicious way to end the day before returning to our big, cozy one-bedroom suite. If you’re coming with your loved ones, you can consider the Slopeside Residence, which has three beds, a kitchen, a huge living area,, and everything else you might need.
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Our Verdict!
Need a hand deciding which resort is the best for your family? We’ve categorized some of the resorts above based on the following criteria: take a look!
- Best Amenities: The Ritz-Carlton
- Most Luxurious: Edgewood Tahoe Resort
- Best Views: The Landing Resort and Spa
- Best Cabin Resort: Cedar Glen Lodge
Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe
When thinking of which area to base your base in, the first one that you may think of is South Lake Tahoe. This is the largest, most developed, and arguably most popular area around the lake. You’ll find casinos, nightlife, and plenty of restaurants and shops here. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action. Staying here will also keep your family busy regardless of their interest.
Apart from that, West Shore and Tahoe City are also popular choices among families. They’re known for their family-friendly atmosphere, with lots of beaches and water sports rentals. They’re also a good base for exploring the surrounding area, including Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows ski resorts. Speaking of which, have you read our list of the best ski resorts by Lake Tahoe?
If you want something a little more exclusive, there’s Incline Village. This resort town on the Nevada side of the lake is known for its beautiful scenery and upscale accommodations. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a relaxing and luxurious getaway.
Which side of Lake Tahoe is best for families?
Both North and South Lake Tahoe offer great experiences for families. North Lake Tahoe tends to be quieter, with beautiful beaches like Sand Harbor, making it a great choice for relaxing and playing in the water. South Lake Tahoe has more activity options and lively towns, but it might be busier.
Is Lake Tahoe good for kids?
Yes, Lake Tahoe is a great place to visit with kids! There are tons of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming, as well as fun options like mini golf and gondola rides.
How many days do you need at Lake Tahoe?
The number of days you need at Lake Tahoe depends on what you want to do. For a weekend getaway to enjoy the lake’s beauty, 2-3 days is a good amount of time. You can spend your days relaxing on the beach, hiking in the mountains, or kayaking on the lake.