You are here

Experience Life Along Tahoe's West Shore

To drive along the West Shore is to experience the appeal of living at Lake Tahoe. As you travel through the string of small towns that line the West Shore, the laid-back vibe of lake life is inescapable. Starting in Tahoe City, you head south along the shore, passing an eclectic mix of waterfront mansions and rustic cabins. The road takes you right up along the lake, with uninterrupted views of the crystal blue waters of Hurricane Bay and McKinney Bay. You’ll know you’re in Homewood when you see the silhouette of Eagle Rock jutting out above the road. A short 15-minute hike up the volcanic outcropping yields panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. Stop at one of the many small markets along the way and grab a picnic lunch to enjoy at the top, or at any of the other picturesque locales along the West Shore.

As you continue to weave along the shore, you’ll pass through Sugar Pine Point State Park, where towering Sequoias shade the road. Then the scenery shifts, and granite boulders and sandy bluffs are the telltale signs you’ve reached Rubicon Bay. The journey finally culminates at Emerald Bay, one of Lake Tahoe’s most iconic vistas. Take the mile walk down to Vikingsholm, a peculiar mansion built in the 1920s. The estate is unique both for its design — it’s a relic of a long-gone age — and for its location amidst a silent forest of lofty trees. 

Vacation Rentals on the West Shore

Our West Shore Lake Tahoe vacation rentals allow you to experience the laid-back lifestyle of living at the lake. Explore West Shore properties with Tahoe Vacation Rentals by Granite Peak Management today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which part of California is Lake Tahoe?

Lake Tahoe is located in Northern California, on the border between California and Nevada. Most of the lake's shoreline, including popular areas like South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City, is in California, while a smaller portion lies in Nevada. It’s part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

What airport do you fly into for Lake Tahoe?

The closest airport to Lake Tahoe is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), about 1-1.5 hours away by car. It offers domestic and some international flights.

Alternatively, you can fly into Sacramento International Airport (SMF), about two hours from Lake Tahoe, or Truckee Tahoe Airport (TKF), a smaller regional airport serving private flights.

How many days are enough for Lake Tahoe?

3-4 days is ideal for a short getaway, offering various activities like skiing or hiking. 5-7 days allow for more exploration, including visiting beaches, ski resorts, and scenic drives. Overall, 3-7 days is perfect for experiencing the best of Lake Tahoe.

Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 results matching your search criteria
Map View
List View

Emerald Club

West Shore
4 Bedrooms
4 Full Bathrooms
8 Guests
The Emerald Club's blends rustic Tahoe décor with modern luxury, creating a cozy yet upscale atmosphere. The four bedrooms and...