Historically ports of call for the logging industry and Tahoe’s steamships, Carnelian Bay and Tahoe Vista occupy the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe. The wilderness, which the Paiute and Washoe tribesmen used as favorite summer camps, today serves as a hub for the communities that include beachfront accommodations, fine dining, and sandy and pebbled beaches.

In the summer months, kayakers paddle the shoreline amongst families of Merganser ducks floating in front of secluded beaches. There is a plethora of beaches to choose from here, from the soft sand and shallow waters of Moon Dunes to dog-friendly Patton Beach. Every day, charter fishing boats and exquisite vintage wooden yachts travel in and out of Sierra Boat Company as well as the North Tahoe Marina, while exploring the Lake. Each year, Sierra Boat Company hosts the Concours d’Elegance—one of the largest classic wooden boat shows in the world. North Lake Tahoe Regional Park is a great place for year-round fun, with 124 acres and stunning Lake views, where picnicking and nature hikes can give way to sledding and cross country skiing.

Outdoor attractions are our first act. But there are plenty of attractions indoors to complete the show. Spindleshanks’ dining room is a set designer’s vision of a bistro, intimate and pinepaneled, where conversation flows from table to table. Notable lakefront eateries, such as Gar Woods Grill and Pier and Captain Jon’s, bring the Lake and the mountains right into their dining rooms. Mourelatos Ice Cream Shop, across from the lakeshore resort with the same name, is a favorite afternoon stop for kids of all ages. Sancho’s serves up authentic Mexican cuisine, with a view of Lake Tahoe from every seat or stool. 

If the fresh air and solitude of the two communities are not enough to hold the modern world at bay, various motel accommodations have an even more pristine appeal. There are more lodging choices in Tahoe Vista than you can shake a kayak paddle at—from B&Bs where you can tickle your toes under the cozy covers, and charming lakefront cabins complete with cozy fireplaces, to high-end fractional ownership resorts and mom and-pop motels. As its name suggests, Tahoe Vista lodging is nestled right against the lakeshore.
 

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