Lake Tahoe

I’ve been to the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada a few times, and it’s absolutely stunning.  I’d love to share my special finds with you, in case you ever find yourself there! Which, you really should find yourself there someday.  

I remember when I first laid eyes on the lake many years ago.  It was so big, so grand, so spectacular.  I’ll never forget that first view.  I knew once I got to the lake itself, I would forever by impressed.   And it’s not just the lake, it was the inn I found, the food I ate, and the beaches I saw.  So, here we go!

Let’s talk about lodging.  I stayed at the Alder Inn in South Lake Tahoe, California twice, and would gladly stay there again.  First, the inn is always spotless.  Lodging necessity #1 - clean!  Each room was decorated individually with inviting themes.  The rooms were cozy and quaint, and the staff very kind.  The location was also phenomenal.  It sits on Ski Run Boulevard which is super convenient for the area.  Also, you could walk to a beach area (more on that later) AND good food.  I mean, what more could you ask for?  Clean, comfy, and close to the lake.  A win!

Next, let’s talk about food.  Okay, sometimes when I visit the same area twice, I end up going to the same places I had visited previously.  Sometimes, my heart longs for the places I’ve visited and I just have to go to the special little finds I’ve been to before.  I mean, why not!  The Riva Grill is a short walk from the Alder Inn, and sits right on the water.  Yes, right on the water!  The food is stellar, and the views are unforgettable.  On one cozy night, I sat next to a fireplace and it was perfect.  Combining good food and views, this place was well worth it! 

Another neat place was called Organic Ice when I last was there, and it was just down the street from the Inn.  It served Hawaiian shave ice, and it was amazing.  Real food, yes please!  I did some social media research to figure out if they were still there.  It looks like they changed their name to The Ice Shack since I visited, and now Tahoe Pops.  As of the summer of 2020, they were serving only local popsicles that were made super naturally and locally and not the shave ice.  Shave ice, popsicle….either way, local and organic beats artificial any day!  Worth a look, my friends!

Lastly, the lake itself.  There is lake access right down the street from The Alder Inn, within walking distance.  After eating dinner at the Riva Grill, who wouldn’t want to go dip their toes in the second deepest lake in the country.  This particular beach was more of a spot for sitting or standing for a short while, and admiring the beauty of God’s great earth.  

I did spend one full day at a beach, and parked at Zephyr Cove, which is on the Nevada side.  There was food, sand, and sun…and even some ducks!  The water was crystal clear and it was beautiful and relaxing.