Family Guide to Lake Tahoe’s Best Resorts
Planning a Lake Tahoe family vacation? Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes of winter or the sun-soaked shores of summer, Lake Tahoe is a great lake location with year-round fun for families who love both adventure and luxury. But where you stay can make all the difference.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through four of the best family-friendly luxury properties in Lake Tahoe that I got the chance to personally visit: The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, The Landing Resort & Spa, and Edgewood Tahoe. From room layouts and resort amenities to location perks and seasonal highlights, I’m giving you the full picture to help you choose the perfect base for your unforgettable lake escape.
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
Location: Northstar California Resort, North Lake Tahoe
The Ritz-Carlton is a dream for families who want elevated comfort with easy access to both ski slopes and summer trails. This resort is located mid-mountain at Northstar, and is the only ski-in/ski-out luxury hotel in Lake Tahoe, which makes winter trips incredibly convenient.
Why Families Love It:
- Ski-in/ski-out access directly onto Northstar’s slopes
- Ski Valet service to make mountain days a breeze
- Ritz Kids program with seasonal activities and crafts
- Family-friendly dining options, including Manzanita (upscale but approachable)
- Spacious guest rooms and suites with gas fireplaces and mountain or forest views
- Outdoor heated pool and whirlpool open year-round
- On-site spa (perfect for parents after a long day on the slopes!)
Room Types:
- Standard Guest Rooms with 1 king or 2 queens
- Executive Suites with living area and pull-out sofa
- Residential-style suites with multiple bedrooms, great for larger families
The Ritz-Carlton Lake Club (Summer Only)
In summer, families staying at The Ritz can enjoy exclusive access to the Ritz-Carlton Lake Club, a private lakefront beach club on the north shore of Lake Tahoe in Tahoe Vista. Note, this is an added per person charge for access and requires advanced reservations.
The club features:
- Direct waterfront access with lounge chairs and umbrellas
- Water activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet ski rentals
- Partnership with Mastercraft boats for water sport fun
- Lakeside dining and bar
- Perfect for a group or family get together!
- Comfortable showers and changing facilities
- Complimentary transportation between the hotel and the club
Best Time to Stay at the Ritz:
- Winter (Dec–Mar): For ski trips with direct mountain access
- Summer (June–Aug): For lake days and Lake Club access
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
Location: Incline Village, North Lake Tahoe
The Hyatt Regency in Incline Village is a standout for families looking for that classic lake-meets-luxury in the woods, rustic resort experience. It is located right on the north shore, and has private beach access, lots of open space, and easy access to both winter and summer activities.
Why Families Love It:
- Private beach with fire pits, sand volleyball, and cabana rentals
- Lakeside heated pool and hot tubs open year-round
- Resort Activities scheduled throughout the day (some at additional cost, but many are free!)
- Casual family dining at the Lone Eagle Grille and Sierra Café
- Casino onsite (for parents!)
- Nearby access to Diamond Peak ski resort, just 5 minutes away
Room Types:
- Standard Guest Rooms with 1 king or 2 queens
- Fireplace Suites with extra space and cozy vibes (some even have bunk beds great for kids!)
- Lakeview Rooms and Suites with balconies
- Two-story Lakeside Cottages perfect for families needing space and a kitchen
Amenities:
- Full-service Stillwater Spa
- Water sports rentals and boat tours in summer
- Bike and snowshoe rentals available seasonally
- Pet-friendly options available
Best Time to Stay:
- Summer (June–Sept): For lakeside fun, beach access, and water sports
- Winter (Dec–Feb): For a more relaxed ski experience near Diamond Peak
The Landing Resort & Spa
Location: South Lake Tahoe (near Heavenly Village)
For families looking for a more boutique hotel experience with lake views and easy access to the heart of South Lake Tahoe, The Landing is an excellent choice. This lakefront resort is within walking distance of Heavenly Village, the Heavenly Gondola, and Lakeside Beach.
Why Families Love It:
- Close to restaurants, shops, and Heavenly ski gondola
- Lakeside beach access just steps away (seasonal). In the summer, the beach is private and only allowed access for guests which makes this property that much more exclusive.
- Complimentary bikes for exploring the local area
- In-room gas fireplaces and heated bathroom floors
- Family-friendly restaurant onsite with room service
- Great event space for hosting larger gatherings
- Free shuttle to downtown South Lake Tahoe spots like the casinos
Room Types:
- Deluxe King or Two Queen Rooms with private balconies
- Suites with lake views, fireplaces, and whirlpool tubs
- Some rooms have connecting options for families
Amenities:
- Outdoor heated pool and hot tub
- Full-service spa and fitness center
- Onsite Jimmy’s Restaurant with Greek-inspired California cuisine
- Complimentary valet parking
Best Time to Stay:
- Summer (July–Sept): For beach access and bike riding
- Winter (Jan–Mar): For skiing at Heavenly and cozy après-lake nights
Edgewood Tahoe Resort
Location: Stateline, South Lake Tahoe
If you’re looking for a true five-star lakefront escape, Edgewood Tahoe is a showstopper. This luxury resort combines world-class design with absolutely stunning lake views, and it’s great for families who want a blend of nature, elegance, and convenience.
Why Families Love It:
- Located right on the water with private beach access
- Heated lakefront pool and hot tub
- Complimentary cruiser bikes, yard games, and s’mores nights
- Easy access to Heavenly Village and Gondola
- Golf, hiking, and snowshoeing all available nearby
Room Types:
- Villa Suites with multiple bedrooms and kitchens
- Premium Rooms and Suites with fireplaces, soaking tubs, and private decks
- Connecting rooms are available for families
Amenities:
- Full-service spa and fitness studio
- Onsite Championship Golf Course
- Mastercraft Boat Rentals
- Ski Valet for equipment during your winter stay
- Edgewood Restaurant, Brooks’ Bar & Deck, and The Bistro for dining
- Daily champagne and wine hours for adults
- Complimentary shuttle service around South Lake Tahoe
Best Time to Stay:
- Late Spring to Early Fall (May–October): For perfect lake weather and full access to all amenities
- Winter (Dec–Feb): For proximity to skiing and cozy lakefront luxury
Luxury Lakefront Options
Each of these resorts will bring something special to a Lake Tahoe family vacation. If you’re looking for ski-in/ski-out convenience and a private beach club, the Ritz-Carlton is unmatched. For a balanced summer retreat with beach access and resort amenities, Hyatt Regency Incline Village is a winner. Prefer to be walking distance from the action? Go boutique with The Landing. Want full luxury with the best views in South Lake Tahoe? Edgewood Tahoe will blow you away.
Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, and with these properties, you’ll find your perfect mix of family fun and five-star comfort.
Contact Anita
Need help booking or creating a full Tahoe itinerary for your family? Reach out and I’ll help you match your dates, needs, and style to the perfect property
