Lake Tahoe is my favorite place. Its my opinion, it’s the closest thing to Heaven on earth. I grew up taking road trips there as a kid, and now as an adult (despite the long distance), we take an annual Summer trip (sometimes Winter, too) with friends and family. It’s a priority for this California girl.
Not to mention, two years ago on the first night of our trip, Blake proposed! I guess you could say Tahoe holds an even more special place in my heart now. (If you haven’t read our Proposal Story, head on over to do so.)
Summer, Winter, Spring, Fall… There really isn’t a bad time to visit Lake Tahoe. There is so much to do, indoor and out! Here is the rundown of my must-dos, must-haves, and must-sees in South Lake!
Restaurants:
Heidis– One of the best breakfast spots I’ve ever been to. We make it a point to visit at least once every trip. The portions are very generous and every item on the menu is delicious.
- Healthy Menu Picks:
- Emerald Bay Skillet- no feta (my favorite!)
- Florentine Omelet- hollandaise sauce on the side
- Florentine Benedict- sub spinach for the english muffin and hollandaise sauce on the side
- Pancake- not healthy, but worth the splurge
Azul Latin Kitchen – This is actually the restaurant we went to the night of our engagement. I still remember sitting in the middle of a long table, surrounded by many of my best friends, starving, yet too excited to eat. I was literally on Cloud 9. Best. Feeling. Ever. Anyways, Azul combines Latin flair with the farm-to-table standard. They’re food is locally-sourced and fresh. Gluten free options are available, too!
- Healthy Menu Picks:
- Housemade Chips & Guacamole- because you need your healthy fats, duh!
- Quinoa Kale Salad- hold the tortilla strips, dressing on the side
- Fajita Bowl- all the fajita goodness without a tortilla (this is my favorite!)
- Jalapeño Margarita- not healthy, but worth the splurge (my favorite beverage!)
Base Camp Pizza – As one of my go-to restaurants in South Lake, we make a stop at Base Camp Pizza every single trip. The pizza is aaah-mazing and the vibes are just right with a lodge-like, cozy feel. The restaurant is located in the heart of Heavenly village, complete with a super fun outdoor patio. Sure, pizza isn’t necessarily a “healthy option,” but it’s worth the splurge. And, their menu includes gluten free crust, which is a win in my book!
- Healthy Menu Options:
- Hummus, Feta, & Olives Appetizer- because hummus is always a good idea
- The Greek Salad- as a side salad because you aren’t allowed to skip the pizza here. It’s all about moderation, right?
- Smoky BBQ Chicken Pizza- probably the best pizza ever, but not healthy in any way shape or form
- Pear & Gorgonzola- light or no sauce, add chicken or prawns (my favorite!)
- Big Mountain- all the protein, please
Activities:
Zephyr Cove- Take your pick from endless activities! Kayaks, paddle boards, parasails, wakeboard boats, sand volleyball courts, you name it. But, honestly, I enjoy simply relaxing on the sore and taking an occasional dip in the (freezing) water. I recommend packing a healthy picnic lunch since the food options are far and few between, and mostly fried.
Fallen Leaf Lake Hike- The most gorgeous view with minimal activity (about a mile), making this a doable hike for almost anyone. The lake is pretty secluded and private, with stunning views of the mountains and lake. (Photos are from our engagement in 2015.)
Casinos (Harvey’s and Harrah’s)- I consider South Lake Tahoe to be a classier, smaller Las Vegas. The casinos, when gambling responsibly, are such a blast. Blake and I usually sit at the penny slots, while sipping our free cocktails. There are also dance clubs (if that’s your kind of thing) and restaurants, including Cabo Wabo, where you can enjoy some awesome live music!
Places to Stay:
Airbnb– In my opinion, the best option for a large group or those who are on a budget. Make a Safeway run when you arrive to stock up on food for the trip. To save money on food, enjoy dinners out and eat breakfasts/lunches at the house. This is also the best way to spend quality time with your fellow travelers.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino– Located in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, you can take a short walk to the casinos and a variety of restaurants! Staying within such a close proximity of all the fun definitely has it’s perks, including walking everywhere, spending extra time in the beautiful outdoors, and not wasting money on Uber rides.
Well, there you have it, folks. The run down of visit my favorite place on earth- beautiful, sunny Lake Tahoe. If y’all have any must-see’s or must-do’s in Tahoe, please leave a comment below. I’d love to hear your favorite spots and check ’em out next time!
