Lake Tahoe Summer Vacation

We went to Lake Tahoe for the first time as a family 2 summers ago. If you’re wondering about going to Lake Tahoe with a toddler, read on!

Two things up front:

1. The first thing that comes to mind for many when they think Lake Tahoe is skiing, but as with many ski destinations, there are lots of things to do in Lake Tahoe in the summer, too!  Boating, swimming, sunning, hiking, to name a few.
2. As you may or may not know, there are two main areas in Lake Tahoe.  South Lake Tahoe and North Lake Tahoe.  South Lake Tahoe has more hotels and casinos, and is a bit more of a party area.  North Lake Tahoe is a longer drive, but is a bit quieter, perhaps more relaxing.  We went to North Lake Tahoe on our first trip and that’s where we’re headed when we go back this year.

We initially chose North Lake Tahoe because that’s where the Hyatt is and we had free
nights we could use (from signing up for their credit card). Come to find out, it’s a great resort for families. On our first trip, we stayed in the main tower, in one of the Regency Club rooms. Having access to the Regency Club was really nice. Breakfast is available each morning, snacks and beverages throughout the day, and some light appetizers in the evening. If you’re staying in the main tower, just down the elevator, off the main lobby, is the casino, restaurant, and coffee/snack shop, and one more level down is the pool area.

They’ve got a big pool (that’s heated year round) and a wading pool for kids (complete with a water spray feature), which Flying Lad really enjoyed. We enjoyed the big pool as a family, too, and got lunch from the poolside grill.

A short walk from the main hotel building is the lakeside part of the property. There you’ll find the fancier restaurant and bar, as well as the lakeside cottages. On the porch of the restaurant/bar building is one of the fire pits, where guests can roast marshmallows and make s’mores, nightly. They will actually provide you the dowels in the gift shop for doing your s’mores if you ask them. They also sell s’mores kits!

One of the great attractions of the property is the private beach.  On the first trip, we spent more time at the pool, though Flying Lad did enjoy splashing in the lake, and we had a peaceful picnic breakfast by the lake one morning.  We’re going back this summer to do it again and on this trip, we’ll be staying in a lakeside room, and we’re staying a little bit longer, so we’ll probably spend more time at the beach (weather permitting). Also, we’re planning to take a sunset cruise this time.  I’ll be sure to update this post when we get back.

One more thing I’d recommend.  We took a little walk along a creek that runs near the property. That was a fun little “hike” for a toddler.  I understand there are trails nearby for more serious hikers, as well.

We barely scratched the surface on our first trip to Tahoe, but if you’re looking for a relaxing summer vacation spot close to nature, North Lake Tahoe is a great choice with a lot to offer, so get out there!

Have you been to Lake Tahoe with your kids? Let us know in the comments below!