Tahoe: A Perfect Day with Dogs in Lake Tahoe, Part 3 (South Lake)
We have broken up our Lake Tahoe recommendations into different regions to help you make the most of your visit. With so many different parts of Tahoe, there really is something for everyone. Next up is South Lake Tahoe, which offers a ton of variety of things to do and places to stay, making it one of the most popular spots on the lake for visitors. I would describe South Lake as the most “happening” place on the lake. There is always a lot going on which is certainly fun, but can also create a less tranquil vibe than other parts of the lake.
Here are our suggestions for a perfect day with your dog(s) in the South Lake area of Lake Tahoe!
Morning
Our morning essentials are always coffee and breakfast. One of our favorite spots is Drink Coffee Do Stuff, with locations around Tahoe including this South Lake location. Clydes Coffee Roasting Company is also known for their delicious coffee and pastries. For bagel lovers, you can grab breakfast to-go from Dragonfly Bagel Co. or Tahoe Bagel Company.
Before you head out for your day’s adventures, pick up some lunch to-go from Sierra Subs or Yellow Submarine Sandwich Shop.
Option 1: Head to the beach
If you are headed to South Lake with your pup you are in luck, because this area is home to many of Tahoe’s dog-friendly beaches. All of these beaches offer parking and are generally easy to access. However, the drawback of being so accessible is that these beaches can fill up quickly especially on the weekends, so be sure to get there early to avoid the crowds and snag a good spot!
If you are interested in going out for a paddle on a paddle board or kayak, these beaches are also great spots to launch from. For rentals, check out SUP Tahoe. You can book your paddle board or kayak in advance for a quick and easy process. One thing to keep in mind in Tahoe is that the wind often picks up in the afternoon, making the morning typically the best time for a peaceful paddle.
Kiva Beach - one of our favorite spots in South Lake where you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. It is just a short hike from the parking lot to the beach, and is the perfect spot for swimming and paddle boarding or kayaking.
Nevada Beach - located on the southeast shore of Tahoe, this is another great option. The dog-friendly section is south on the far left side of the beach, just follow the paw prints on the path. The beach is nice and sandy, and there is also a bench to sit at. This is a beautiful spot during the day, and is also situated perfectly to watch the sunset, making it a great option for an evening picnic. There is paid parking in the lot (which is closed during winter), or free parking on the street when available, which is a further walk to the beach.
North Zephyr Cove - just north of Nevada Beach is Zephyr Cove Beach. The area where dogs are allowed is the north beach, which is located to the right of the dock. This is a beautiful spot, but beware that parts of the beach can be a bit rocky. Also note that during peak season there is a charge for parking, which often fills up quickly.
Option 2: Take a hike
Easy - the Cave Rock Trail is .8 miles total round trip, making it a quick and easy option that leads you to a view point with 180 degree views of Lake Tahoe. Cave Rock is an incredible rock formation on the southeast shore of Tahoe. There is a short scramble up the rocks at the end if you want to access the best view point, but plenty of great views even if you don’t. This is also a popular trail to hike for sunset, allowing you to take in the beautiful sunset views across the lake. To access the trail, there is a small road side parking lot by the trailhead, but note that parking spots are limited.
Easy/Longer - another fun option is hiking to Fallen Leaf Lake, a beautiful mountain lake about a mile south of Lake Tahoe. This trail is relatively flat and easy, is just over 4 miles total out and back, and is a great option for water-loving pups. I would suggest downloading the trail map for easy navigation, as there are several trails in the area that interconnect. The views of the lake are fantastic, and it’s the perfect place to stop for a dip before hiking back.
Moderate - for some of the most stunning landscapes in the area, adventure a bit further West to the Eagle Lake Trail. Be sure to pit stop before or after your hike to take in the views of Emerald Bay! The trail is 1.9 miles out and back, and there are parts that are rocky and may be a bit slippery depending on conditions. But with waterfalls, creeks, granite peaks, and a beautiful lake - it is definitely worth it. If you’re brave, you can take a dip in the cold water before heading back. Also note that entry permits are required, which you can get at the trailhead in the summer months.
Moderate - the Castle Rock Loop is a 3 mile loop trail through the Tahoe forest to Castle Rock. Much of the hike takes you through a peaceful forest trail that is nice and shaded. There is a bit of rock scrambling at the end if you want to get to the top, but the view is worth it! There is a good amount of parking and a restroom at the trailhead as well.
Moderate/Longer - this hike on the Van Sickle Rim Trail is a fun longer hike at 6.4 miles out and back. The trail offers beautiful forest and lake views and leads to a waterfall. Note that much of the trail is sun exposed, so it is best to start early in warm weather. And be sure to pack plenty of water!
Afternoon/Evening
You may have noticed by now that we are always big fans of local breweries, especially when they are dog friendly! South Lake has two of our favorite spots to go in Tahoe:
South of North Brewing Co. has fun seating areas around fire pits, delicious food options and live music every evening.
The Hangar - Taproom & Bottle Shop allows pups on the patio side (not on the grass area, just follow the signage). They always have a huge selection of the best beers on tap and fun food truck options.
Another fun place to walk around is the Heavenly Ski Resort Village. While there, we like to enjoy the dog-friendly patio at Base Camp Pizza Co. They also have live music daily.
For dinner, you can enjoy the beach vibe and beautiful views of the lake from the Beach House, or check out the covered patio at Toulhouse for New Orleans style cuisine.
Another great option is to grab some take out for dinner, and have a picnic with your dog(s) at the beach/park or enjoy it in the comfort of your hotel room. In addition to the beaches discussed above, you could also check out Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach, which has grassy areas, benches, a small area with water access and both an on-leash and off-leash dog area. A few great places for takeout are:
Off the Hook Sushi - great take out sushi options, need we say more?
Lake Tahoe Pizza Company - known for their delicious crust!
Jaliscos - for authentic burritos and Mexican combo plates.
Curry & Grill - take out only spot for fantastic Indian food. You will think we are crazy when you see the gas station location, but you’ll have to trust us that the food is delicious.
Where to stay?
South Lake is full of great lodging options! Below are our top recommendations in the area:
The Landing - we may be biased because we stayed here for our anniversary and had such a great trip! The hotel is located right on the lake, offering patios with beautiful lake views. All of their rooms are dog-friendly, with a $75 per night pet fee. Pups are even allowed on their shuttle, which can take you anywhere within a 2 mile radius of the hotel.
The Coachman Hotel - a really cute newly renovated motel, and very dog-friendly with a variety of common areas throughout the property. They also offer fire pits and daily activities such as happy hour and s’mores. Just be sure to let them know you are bringing your dog at booking to ensure you are assigned a pet-friendly room. Pet fees are $50 per day.
Desolation Hotel - they describe themselves as a modern adventurer’s paradise, and I have to say I agree! We haven’t had a chance to stay here yet, but it is at the top of our list for our next staycation. In addition to their modern luxury design, they are a micro resort that focuses on eco-consciousness, including using solar power and planting a tree in the Tahoe area for every night a guest books with them. According to their website, rooms with canine guests will be appointed with dog-friendly amenities such as food and water bowls, pet waste bags, and directions to doggie relief areas.
Hotel Azure - located across the street from the lake, this is another great and often more affordable option. Dogs are welcome for a fee of $25 per dog per night, which includes a dog bed, bowl, welcome treat, and doggie bag.
Do you have any favorite spots that we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Disclaimer: The information provided above and dog-friendly policies were understood to be accurate as of the time of this post. For the most up-to-date information and policies, be sure to confirm with the businesses directly.
