Looking for a perfect West Shore Tahoe vacation? My name is Rusty, and I'm a West Shore local. I live in Tahoma year round and I know the best places to be when you spend time on the West Shore. Let me guide you through a locals day of fun here at lovely Lake Tahoe. A lot of tourists overlook staying down in the Tahoma, Homewood and Chamberlands area because it seems like it's far from town, however, it’s just a short 15-minute drive from Tahoe City. Locals love it down here because it's less crowded, the hikes are to die for, and the local flavor can't be beat. When the north shore beaches are full, we are blessed with plenty of space away from the crowds and surrounded by nature.
A great way to start your day on the West Shore is to get some coffee at Where We Met which is a cute little gelato joint in Tahoma. Really great flavors and amazing service make this a must. The PDQ Market, which is right around the corner, makes really tasty pre-made breakfast sandwiches that come in handy if you just want to grab some food and head out to the beach or go for a hike. If you're in the mood for a full-blown breakfast, head over to Fire Sign Café which is amazing and the bloody mary's are top notch.
If you're in the mood to simply hit the beach and relax, just a short drive down the road is Meeks Bay. It is the perfect spot to relax and spend the day soaking in some rays. The beach is sandy and isn't ever crowded, but be prepared to pay a small entry fee. If you want a bit more seclusion, head over to Sugar Pine Point State Park, and hike over to the beach. Us locals love to go watch the sunset over the mountains while dipping our toes in the cool water on hot days.
If a hike is more your speed, you can't do much better than to drive down to Emerald Bay and hike down to the Vikingsholm, which is considered one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States. After you check out the house and beach area, Eagle Falls is just a short hike up the hill from there, which can be quite spectacular in the spring and early summer when the snow melt is still in full effect. Another amazing hike is over at D.L. Bliss State Park, which features some beautiful cliffs and amazing views from every part on the trail; seriously every single spot is photo worthy and will blow you away. If you are looking for something super simple, Eagle Rock in Homewood is an easy 15-minute hike, and the views of the lake from the now dormant volcano are breath taking.
To finish up your day, head over to either Sunnyside Restaurant, which always gets stellar reviews, or West Shore Pizza, which sometimes features a local band or performer on the tiny stage inside. The views of the lake from Sunnyside Restaurant are really great, and their back patio is another fun place to watch the sunset. If you are looking just to chill and get some drinks, Chambers Landing Bar and Grill is super unique. It's way out on a pier and features some amazing drink specials in the evenings. And don't forget, as the sun melts into the mountains and the stars start to take over the night sky be sure to look up at our unfiltered view of space, you can usually spot a satellite or two and falling stars are abundant and thrilling to watch.
So, there you have it. A local's angle on what you should check out on the west shore. These are just a few of my favorite activities and places, but there is so much more out there. If you are more of a back country 4-wheeler, the Rubicon Trail is calling your name. Whatever your nature loving heart desires, Lake Tahoe and the West Shore are here to please your needs. Locals don't say "The West Shore if the Best Shore" for no reason. Come stay at one of our lovely vacation rentals and see what Lake Tahoe has to offer for you.