Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is a picturesque freshwater lake that straddles the border between California and Nevada. With crystal clear blue waters, it is the largest alpine lake in North America and the second-deepest lake in the US. It’s no wonder why tourists flock to this idyllic area all year round. With so many things to do in Lake Tahoe, there is something for everyone – no matter the season!
During the summer Lake Tahoe boasts beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and all sorts of water activities. And in the winter months visitors can take advantage of Tahoe’s world-class ski resorts, ritzy casinos, and bustling food-and-beverage scene.
Lake Tahoe is an ultra-popular vacation destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and beachgoers. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic retreat, or an adventure-filled reunion with friends, there’s no doubt that you’ll find a unique Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe that is perfect for you. From luxurious lakeside estates to picture-perfect A-frame cabins and contemporary log cabins – the options are endless.
While there are accommodation options all around the lake – which is 72 miles around – most visitors opt to base themselves in South Lake Tahoe. Finding the perfect vacation home might seem overwhelming, so we have picked out 12 of the best Airbnbs in South Lake Tahoe to make your decision just a little bit easier!
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Top 10 Things To Do in South Lake Tahoe
- Enjoy a bird’s eye view of Lake Tahoe and the snow-capped mountains from the Heavenly Gondola and its 9,123-foot observation deck.
- Take a gamble at Harrah’s, Hard Rock, Harvey’s, or any one of Lake Tahoe’s many casinos.
- Grab a craft brew or two at South of North Brewing. Be sure to try their famous fruit beers!
- Go paddleboarding or kayaking on Lake Tahoe’s crystal clear water.
- Hike along a section of the picturesque Rubicon Trail where you’ll encounter plenty of natural wonders.
- Skiing or snowboarding at one of Lake Tahoe’s famous ski resorts should definitely be on your Califonia bucket list. At Heavenly Ski Resort, you can even ski in two different states – California and Nevada – at the same resort!
- Take in the sweeping lake views at Emerald Bay State Park’s famous Inspiration Point. Don’t forget your camera!
- Watch the sunset behind Bonsai Rock. This picturesque boulder is nestled in the lake and is famous for the little tree growing on top of it!
- Sample authentic Mexican cuisine at Jalisco’s. This Tahoe institution even serves up excellent $1.50 tacos!
- Take a dip in the crystal clear water at Sand Harbor Beach, arguably the best beach on Lake Tahoe.
Why Stay in an Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe
Staying in an Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe comes with lots of perks. First off, you’ll have the chance to stay in a completely unique home, instead of staying in a run-of-the-mill hotel or casino. Residents of Lake Tahoe are notoriously friendly, which means you’ll likely get lots of insider tips on what to do in the area from your Airbnb host.
Because Tahoe is such a popular destination, the selection of cool Airbnbs in South Lake Tahoe varies wildly. You can opt for a cute cottage in a pine tree forest, a posh villa on the lake, or a designer home in the heart of town.
By choosing to stay in an Airbnb you’ll definitely get more bang for your buck. Most vacation homes in South Lake Tahoe are much nicer and more spacious than your average hotel room. Plus you’ll have a kitchen to prepare home-cooked meals and picnic lunches to enjoy during your day on the slopes or on the lake!
If you are traveling as a large group, Airbnbs will likely cost less per person than shelling out money for multiple hotel rooms. This is especially true in the summer and winter months when tourism is at its height.
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The 12 Best Airbnbs in South Lake Tahoe
Best South Lake Tahoe Airbnbs for Couples and Solo Travelers
1. Külhaus Cabin: Adorable A-Frame Chalet
If you’re looking for a quintessential Lake Tahoe vacation rental, look no further than this stylish A-frame chalet! With one bedroom and a loft, Külhaus Cabin is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway or a trip with friends.
Nestled in a pine forest, this wood cabin was recently remodeled using sustainable and local materials. The open concept living area has wood vaulted ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, a rustic fireplace, a contemporary couch, and smart TV. The space also features a cozy kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and everything you need to cook at home. Plus the grocery store is just a short drive away so it’s a cinch to get supplies.
The adorable bedroom is located on the first floor and features a queen-sized bed and a modern en-suite bathroom. Head up the spiral staircase to the loft and you’ll find two twin beds and a half bath.
Enjoy forest views from the spacious outdoor deck and backyard where you can prepare a barbeque meal and dine alfresco under the trees!
2. Charming Wood Cabin with Hot Tub
This cute wood cabin is the perfect place to base yourself during your trip to South Lake Tahoe. This vacation home is a great option for couples looking for a romantic getaway.
Inside you can curl up with a good book on the leather couch, warm up next to the gas fireplace, or watch a movie on the 37-inch flat-screen. If you want to make your own meals, the kitchen has everything you need including an oven with a 4-burner stove, microwave, and dishwasher. Get a good night’s sleep in the bedroom which has a queen-sized bed, a day bed, a flat-screen TV, and French doors that open up to a private wood patio.
There is a hot tub on the patio that’s just perfect for soaking after a day exploring Lake Tahoe. You’ll also find a gas grill on the patio so you can cook up a barbecue dinner and dine alfresco at the picnic table! And you’re free to rummage through the shed which has all sorts of outdoor gear for summer and winter activities.
3. Secluded Rosebud Cottage on the Meadow
If you’re looking for a quiet and serene setting, look no further than the adorable Rosebud Cottage. With its large wraparound sofa, stone fireplace, and large flat-screen TV, the living room is the perfect place to bundle up and watch a movie. The open-concept room has a fully outfitted kitchen, a small dining table, and views of Mount Tallac.
The loft bedroom has a queen bed and flat-screen TV in the main loft area. And a curtain reveals an additional sleeping area tucked away in the far area of the space, so this vacation rental can accommodate up to four people.
Because this Airbnb is set on the edge of a meadow, it’s possible to go snowshoeing or cross country skiing right from your back door during the winter months! In the summer, there are plenty of hiking trails around as well. So this is a great vacation rental for any time of year!
This vacation rental is a short drive from Heavenly Village and there are a bunch of restaurants, shops, and a grocery store just down the street.
4. Pet-Friendly Cabin in the Woods with Hot Tub
Quality pet-friendly vacation rentals can be difficult to come by, which is why this quaint rustic cabin is such a great find if you’re planning to travel with your dog! This 1-bedroom South Lake Tahoe Airbnb has extra sleeping space so it’s perfect for a small family or a group of friends.
The living room incorporates both rustic and modern elements and features a stone fireplace, a leather couch (which unfolds into a queen bed), and charming wooden walls and ceilings. The kitchen is cozy and outfitted with everything you need to prepare basic meals and snacks. The upstairs bedroom has sloped wood walls, a plush king bed, and forest views.
And because this vacation home is part of a duplex, you’ll also have access to a shared hot tub, a grill, a picnic table, and a fenced-in yard, so you can let your furry friend run around.
This Airbnb is conveniently located about a mile from shops and restaurants downtown. There are also plenty of hiking trails nearby.
Best South Lake Tahoe Airbnbs for Small Groups and Families
5. Luxurious Lake House with Private Dock
Nestled in a pine forest on the edge of Lake Tahoe, this is hands down one of the best vacation homes in South Lake Tahoe! With a private dock, unbeatable lake views, and stylish decor, Villa De Lago is really something special.
Boasting three deluxe bedrooms and extra sleeping space in the spacious loft area, this vacation home can fit up to eight guests. It’s an amazing option for a family vacation or a memorable getaway with friends.
You’ll love the open-concept great room, which was designed to create a luxurious lodge-like atmosphere. The living room features vaulted ceilings, a double-height stone fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning lake views. The space is adorned with colorful paintings, fur rugs, and comfy couches.
Head into the fully outfitted modern kitchen where you can whip up a gourmet meal (or hire a private chef to cook for you). Enjoy dinner at the designer wooden table or, better yet, dine alfresco on the deck while watching the sunset. The massive deck also boasts a hot tub, a barbeque, and plenty of outdoor furniture.
While it might feel like you’re worlds away, South Lake Tahoe is just 10 miles from this Airbnb.
6. Contemporary Log Cabin with Heated Indoor Pool
This beautiful log chalet feels more like a pampering resort than an Airbnb. You can go for a swim in the spectacular heated indoor pool, enjoy forest and lake views from the outdoor hot tub, or have a relaxing steam in the sauna!
With its stone fireplace, wooden walls, and overstuffed couches, the living room has a rustic cabin vibe. But modern touches like a flat-screen smart TV, vaulted wood ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows give the space a luxurious flair.
The open-plan chef’s kitchen features wooden cabinets, a large island with bar stools, and a funky circular dining area. It has everything you need to enjoy meals at home. And if you’re in the mood to grill, there’s a barbeque on the deck.In line with the log cabin theme, each of the contemporary, yet cozy, bedrooms creatively incorporates stylish wooden elements into the design – including the bed frames, closet doors, or walls and ceilings.
Heavenly and Sierra-At-Tahoe ski resorts are less than 15 minutes away!
7. Luxury Lake House near Heavenly Ski Resort
If you’re looking for a Lake Tahoe Airbnb close to Heavenly, this luxurious 3-bedroom lake house is an excellent option. Located just five minutes to the famous ski resort, this home is not only super convenient but it boasts some amazing lake and mountain views!
The living room has vaulted ceilings, a stone fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and two plush couches. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer epic views of Lake Tahoe. If you feel like cooking for your group, the kitchen is an absolute dream. With granite countertops, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, and a large island with bar stools, you’ll have everything you need to whip up a gourmet meal. Enjoy dinner with a view at the chic dining room table.
The two covered decks boast a modern fire pit, contemporary patio furniture, a wet bar, a grill, and sweeping views of the lake. An added perk of this Airbnb is that you can walk to the lake in a matter of minutes!
8. Rubicon Retreat with Private Beach
With its stone facade, A-frame design, and arched doorway, the Rubicon Retreat is about as charming as it gets. But once you walk inside, this lakeside cabin just exudes luxury. With two luxurious master suites and one “bunk” room, this cabin can sleep up to eight guests. It’s the perfect spot for an unforgettable family vacation!
This 3,200-square-foot vacation rental is nestled just above the west side of the lake, three miles from the heart of South Lake Tahoe. With its emerald waters, the Rubicon area is arguably one the most beautiful areas of Lake Tahoe!
The living room features vaulted wood ceilings, two leather couches, a stone fireplace, and panoramic views of Rubicon Bay. Head into the picture-perfect kitchen, which boasts aqua blue cabinets, a stone-clad stove, and granite countertops. With a large island, a breakfast bar, and high-end appliances, you can cook up a home-cooked meal for the entire group. There is also a Weber grill on one of the two decks if you’re craving a barbeque meal.
If that’s not enough, you’ll have access to a private beach that’s a mere 5-minute walk away!
Best South Lake Tahoe Airbnbs for Large Groups and Events
9. 9-Bedroom Heavenly Mansion with Indoor Pool
If you’re planning to host a large reunion with family and friends, this sprawling mansion is the place to do it. Surrounded by towering pine trees and located right next to Heavenly California Lodge, this is the perfect South Lake Tahoe Airbnb for a ski vacation!
This 3-story vacation rental boasts nine bedrooms and bathrooms as well as amazing amenities such as an indoor pool, a sauna, an outdoor hot tub, and a fire pit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. And with a foosball table, pool table, and 70-inch flat-screen TV, this Airbnb was made for entertaining.
If you’re looking to have a relaxing movie night after a day on the slopes, head into the posh home movie theater. There is also a fully outfitted wet bar where you can host cocktail hour each evening. The enormous kitchen is perfect for socializing and boasts everything you need to cook a gourmet meal. Plus it features a huge breakfast bar and dining table with large windows overlooking the forest.
The three covered decks are outfitted with contemporary patio furniture, a stone fireplace, and a built-in barbeque station.
10. Stunningly Unique “Tahoe Stonehenge” Home
Situated on a rocky ridge overlooking the mountains, “Tahoe Stonehenge” is definitely the most unique Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe. With five bedrooms, this funky yet luxurious vacation rental can accommodate up to 12 guests. This award-winning house is the perfect place for an unforgettable trip to Tahoe!
True to its name, you’ll enter this vacation home through a crevasse between two massive boulders. Architects actually incorporated the surrounding boulders into the home. The living room is built around a large boulder and features stone floors, a wood-burning fireplace, a wraparound couch, and floor-to-ceiling windows with mountain views. The first floor also boasts a fully equipped open-plan kitchen and a cozy dining area.
Head upstairs and you’ll find a spacious loft where you can play board games or curl up with a book. Each of the luxurious bedrooms has unique features from wood-burning stoves to funky murals and decorative tree trunks. If you want to relax after a long day exploring Lake Tahoe, the backyard has a large wooden deck with a built-in hot tub surrounded by twisting trees and picturesque boulders.
11. Heavenly Escape: Luxurious Cabin with Indoor Pool
Heavenly Escape is the perfect option for a much-needed family reunion. Kids and adults alike will love this vacation home’s unique amenities. With six luxurious bedrooms, this 4,700-square-foot villa can fit up to 16 people.
The living room features cathedral ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, a stone fireplace, and a wraparound couch – it’s the perfect place to relax after a day on the slopes. The chef’s kitchen boasts a large island with granite countertops and a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and everything you need to prepare a delicious dinner for the group.
You can go for a swim in the heated indoor swimming pool, take a relaxing steam in the sauna, or watch a film in the home movie theater. The second-story loft features a decked-out game room with a pool table, foosball table, skeeball machine, and an arcade with over 60 games!
You probably won’t want to tear yourself from this dreamy Airbnb but the lake and Heavenly are both less than a 15-minute drive away if you’d like to go exploring.
12. Designer Home in the Heart of South Lake Tahoe
This stunning vacation rental is an architectural gem located in a quiet neighborhood in the heart of South Lake Tahoe. It has six luxurious bedrooms and can accommodate 12 guests making it a great option for a special getaway with family and friends!
With its stone fireplace, hardwood floors, contemporary furniture, 25-foot picture windows, and wood trimmings, the living room looks like something you’d see in a magazine. The kitchen is also picture-perfect and features a large island with granite countertops, a double oven, stainless steel appliances, and forest views.
Upstairs you’ll find a spacious loft overlooking the living room – it’s the perfect place to entertain a large group. The space has a pool table, a dartboard, a wet bar, a massive smart TV, and an outdoor deck overlooking the towering trees.
If that’s not enough, the large backyard is outfitted with a soothing hot tub, a built-in grill station, a stone fire pit, and plenty of contemporary patio furniture for evenings spent enjoying each other’s company!
That’s it – 12 of the best Airbnbs in South Lake Tahoe! Do you have a favorite vacation rental in South Lake Tahoe? Let us know in the comments below.
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