Zephyr Cove

One of Lake Tahoe's hidden gems, Zephyr Cove is a quiet and peaceful resort community, located along the Nevada side of the lake's South Shore.

This waterfront alpine hideaway, which became popular during the early 1900s, is home to several Zephyr Cove hotels such as Zephyr Cove Resort, Pine Cone Resort and the Resort at South Shore (775-588-2388). Zephyr Cove vacation rentals are available through Buckingham Properties Lake Tahoe or Tahoe Management Company.

Looking up at the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, Zephyr Cove Resort is a pet friendly cluster of 28 historic Zephyr Cove cabins, ranging from studios to 2-story chalets.

Each Zephyr Cove cabin sleeps up to 10 people and include full kitchens, modern bathrooms, cable TV, telephone, Internet and other services. Keep in mind that accommodations are very rustic, in keeping with the cabin feel, but have been restored to retain their original character.

If you don't want to stay in a Zephyr Cove cabin, the resort's four lodge rooms will fit the bill. Each room accommodates between 2 and 6 people and includes private bath, microwave and a small refrigerator. One suite includes a Jacuzzi.

Additional Zephyr Cove lodging is available in the resort's Zephyr Cove Campground, which has 47 walk-in camp sites and 10 drive-in camp sites.  The Zephyr Cove RV Park has 93 sites (some with lake views), sewer hookups, cable TV, water, picnic tables and fire rings. Internet and telephone service is also available. Zephyr Cove camping sites are conveniently located next to laundry services and showers. There's also a general store. View Zephyr Cove map here.

During your Zephyr Cove vacation, you'll find a wealth of activities. For a fun day out on Lake Tahoe, swim on the local beach, go horseback riding in the wilderness, or head to Zephyr Cove Marina for a scenic cruise on the 570-passenger, award-winning M.S. Dixie II or the Tahoe Queen.

Voted “Best Cruise in Nevada” by Nevada Magazine, the M.S. Dixie II is the largest cruising vessel on Lake Tahoe. Dinner cruises are offered year-round with live music and dancing. View cruise schedules here.

When snow hits the ground, the Zephyr Cove Snowmobile Center is where it's at. The largest snowmobile center in the United States, it offers a variety of guided tours through the Sierra Nevadas. Morning and afternoon tours depart daily, and include helmets. You can even rent snow clothing if you didn't bring your own. For snowmobile rental and tour rates, click here.

For more excitement, head into Lake Tahoe City, where you'll find the resort's best shops, restaurants and casinos. Seasonal transportation is offered to state line.

Zephyr Cove Resort is one of Lake Tahoe's most historic getaways. Photos courtesy of Aramark Media.

Lake Tahoe Zephyr Cove Resort has three dining choices, from the casual coffee bar, where you can get your fix of mochas and lattes made with Starbucks, to the historic Zephyr Cove Restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. View sample menu here.

Nearby, in the Safeway shopping center, the Zephyr Cove Coyote Grill is a popular place for fish tacos, burgers and booze. (212 Elks Point Drive; 775-586-1822).

During the warmer months, enjoy pub grub and cool tropical drinks on the outdoor deck at Sunset Beach Bar and Grille, while enjoying a beautiful sunset amidst a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and lush green pines.

Average Zephyr Cove weather conditions in the winter are about 40°F during the day and 15°F at night. During the summer, Lake Tahoe weather is approximately 70-80°F during the day and 55-60°F at night.

Zephyr Cove Resort is located at 760 Hwy. 50, four miles north of the California-Nevada state line. For more information, go to www.zephyrcove.com.

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