Guest Post by Devin Donnelly
Meet Devin Donnelly
Devin lives on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe with her husband and son. She moved from San Francisco ten years ago to live out her dreams of being in the mountains year-round. She feels extremely lucky to be able to raise her son in nature with an amazing community of people.
Devin’s favorite place to travel to is Vermont and her top travel tip is to always take a red eye flight with a baby.
About The West Shore of Lake Tahoe, CA
The West Shore of Lake Tahoe is a captivating destination that blends natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and exploration amidst breathtaking surroundings. The West Shore is renowned for its stunning scenery, characterized by pristine blue waters framed by towering pine trees and rugged mountains.
The West Shore is dotted with charming communities and small towns, each with its own unique character. Tahoe City serves as the main hub, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Nearby, the historic town of Truckee boasts a picturesque downtown area and vibrant arts scene.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do on the West Shore. From hiking, mountain biking, and boating in the summer to skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing in the winter, there are activities for every season.
Above all, the West Shore exudes a sense of tranquility and relaxation that appeals to travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re lounging on a quiet beach, savoring a meal with lake views, or simply taking in the majestic scenery, the West Shore offers the perfect setting to unwind and recharge.
Q: Lake Tahoe is a huge area! From Nevada to California, there are a lot of incredible areas around the lake to explore. What’s your favorite area of Lake Tahoe and why?
A: The West Shore of Lake Tahoe is the best place to visit. The West Shore has the best trails for hiking and biking, and also has the best restaurants. Also, the pace of life is a little slower on the West Shore.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Lake Tahoe?
A: My favorite time of year in Tahoe is the fall. You get beautiful weather, amazing foliage, and smaller crowds. There are also great deals on lodging and restaurants.
Q: How long should you plan to stay in Tahoe to truly experience it?
A: I would say a long weekend (3-4 days) would be enough time to experience Tahoe.
Q: What are some must-pack items when visiting Tahoe?
A: A water bottle, sunscreen, and warm clothes throughout the year.
Q: What’s the best way to get to Tahoe? Best airport? Good to have a car? Are rideshare services available in the area?
A: The best way to get to Tahoe is by car. If you are coming from far away, the Reno airport is great. There are very limited rideshare services, so a car is a must.
Q: What are the main towns/areas of the West Shore?
A: Tahoe City, Homewood, and Tahoma are on the West Shore, which is a better place to visit if you want a true mountain vacation. Kings Beach is on the nearby North Shore, which is a great place to visit if you have children.
Q: Where do you recommend people stay on the West Shore? Best to stay in hotel/lodge? Rent a cabin or condo through Airbnb or another rental agency?
A: I think the best accommodations are renting a home, there are a lot of great local rental companies to go through. Some of my favorites include:
Q: The Tahoe region is known for its ski resorts. Which are your favorite and why?
A: I love Alpine Meadows and Homewood. They both get great snowfall and tend to have less crowds than other mountains in the area.
Q: What are some great non-ski activities to do in the Winter?
A: Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the area without having to spend a lot of money or risk some of the injuries that come with skiing! Also, sledding is fun for the kids.
Q: What are some great kid-friendly activities to do year-round? Summertime? Wintertime?
A: We have an amazing bike path from Meeks Bay to Dollar Hill in Tahoe City. A fun summertime activity is to ride bikes on the bike path and stop along the way to beaches and restaurants. In the wintertime, I would recommend the golf course in Tahoe City for sledding and ice skating.
Q: Summertime is a very popular time for people to visit Lake Tahoe. What are some must-do activities to do in the summer on the West and North Shore?
A: Hiking, mountain biking, D.L. Bliss State Park for the day, stand-up paddle boarding, renting a boat, and rafting down the Truckee River are some of my favorite activities in the summer.
Q: What is the best place on the West Shore to rent boats, paddle boards, bikes and more during the summertime?
A: West Shore Sports for bikes, paddle boards, and kayaks. SWA Watersports for boating! They offer everything from Boat and Pontoon rentals, fishing charters and private group charters.
Q: What are your favorite hikes in the area? Any hidden gems?
A: My favorite place to go in the summer is Blackwood Canyon. It is filled with hiking, swimming, and gorgeous views and wildflowers. Ellis Peak Hike is my favorite there.
Q: Where is the best spot to see live music?
A: My favorite place to see live music is Moe’s in Tahoe City.
Q: Best places to go shopping for local, artisan goods?
A: Boatworks Mall in Tahoe City is making a comeback. There are a few great shops in there for clothes, wine, and home goods.
Q: Let’s talk food & drink! What are your favorite restaurants on the West Shore? And your favorites in the Truckee/North Shore area?
A: My favorite restaurants on the West Shore are:
Nearby Truckee also has some amazing places to eat! Some of my preferred places to eat in Truckee include:
Golden Rotisserie
Q: Best coffee shops in the North Shore? West Shore?
A: The best coffee shop on the North Shore is Tree House Cafe in King’s Beach. On the West Shore, Tahoe House will always be the favorite.
Q: Where can you find the best bars in Truckee/North Shore? West Shore?
A: The best bar in Truckee is Moody’s. You can get amazing cocktails and see live music. Shadyside is the newest bar on the West Shore, offering Mexican food and a great spirits selection.
Q: Best spots on the West Shore to go grocery shopping?
A: In the summer and fall, the Tahoe City Farmers Market is the best place to get local goods. New Moon Natural Grocery Store is the best grocery store on the lake.
Q: Any additional tips about West Shore that you think people should know about?
A: Bring your bikes! Avoid traffic in all areas of the lake. Riding bikes is fun and a great way to see the scenery.
