Edgewood Tahoe Resort: Iconic Lake Views, Legendary Golf, and Easy Access to Skiing & Downtown

Lake Tahoe has always felt like home to me. I even lived here for a while, and staying at Edgewood Tahoe Resort is one of my favorite ways to experience everything the lake has to offer. The resort sits right on the water, close to downtown South Lake Tahoe and the ski resorts, but still feels peaceful and tucked away. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, it’s one of those places that manages to feel special every single time.

One of the things I love most about Tahoe is how much there is to explore around the lake. I’ve been to Sand Harbor countless times in the summer. It’s known for its crystal-clear water, giant granite boulders, and sandy beaches. Warm days here are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, picnicking, or just floating and soaking it all in. In the winter, it transforms into something completely different and just as beautiful, with snow-covered trees, quiet shoreline walks, and that peaceful, frozen-lake feel.

Another must-see is Emerald Bay, one of the most iconic and photographed spots in Tahoe. You can drive there easily and stop at the overlook, or make a full experience of it by taking the paddlewheeler from Zephyr Cove. The boat ride across the lake is half the fun, and once you arrive, visiting Vikingsholm adds a layer of history that really grounds the trip. If you’re driving the full loop around the lake, it’s easy to pair Emerald Bay with Sand Harbor in the same day and still stop in Truckee to wander, shop, and grab a bite.

Emerald Bay

Lake Tahoe itself has such an interesting past. It’s one of the deepest lakes in North America, reaching more than 1,600 feet, and for decades it’s been a playground for artists, adventurers, and celebrities. During the Rat Pack era, Tahoe was a glamorous destination filled with big-name performers and late-night shows, and that mix of old-school glamour and outdoor adventure still feels very present today.

M.S. Dixie II ride to Emerald Bay from Zephyr Cove Resort

In winter, the views from the ski hills are unreal, with sweeping lake views paired with snowy peaks that never get old. You can ski during the day, then head into town for ice skating, cozy dinners, and après-ski drinks. In summer, the energy shifts but doesn’t slow down, with warm beach days, mini golf, endless hiking trails, and long evenings by the water.

Some of my favorite easy spots around the lake are Nevada Beach, which is perfect for a quick walk that ends right on the sand, and Zephyr Beach, especially at sunset with nearby hiking trails. Hiking up Cave Rock is always fun and rewards you with big views without a huge time commitment. Round Hill Pines is another favorite—it's relaxed, scenic, and easy to linger, especially when you can grab food right on site at the beachside restaurant.

Summer at Edgewood brings its own special energy thanks to the annual celebrity golf tournament held right on the resort’s course. Athletes and entertainers take over town for the week, and even if you’re not a big golf fan, it’s fun to people-watch and feel that buzz around the lake.

Back at the resort, everything feels beautifully balanced. You can spend the day hiking, exploring beaches, or out on the lake, then come back to sit poolside, slip into the spa, or enjoy a great meal with a view. From summer horseback riding and boating to winter sleigh rides, skiing, and cozy evenings by the fire, Tahoe always seems to meet you in whatever season you arrive. Being close to downtown, trails, beaches, and ski hills while still feeling peaceful and lakeside is what makes Edgewood Tahoe Resort so special to me and why Lake Tahoe never gets old.

At-a-glance guide: Lake Tahoe

Day trips:

• Emerald Bay for iconic views and Vikingsholm

• Sand Harbor for beaches, boulders, and clear water

• Truckee for a walkable downtown, shops, and cafés

• A full loop drive around the lake with scenic pullouts

Half-day outings:

• Nevada Beach for an easy lakeside walk

• Zephyr Beach for sunset and nearby trails

• Cave Rock for a short hike with a big payoff

• Round Hill Pines for a relaxed beach day with food and rentals

Seasonal activities:

• Skiing and riding in winter

• Ice skating in town

• Mini golf and beach days in summer

• Boating, kayaking, paddleboarding

• Celebrity golf tournament at Edgewood each summer

Ski areas around Lake Tahoe:

• Heavenly

• Palisades Tahoe

• Northstar

• Kirkwood

• Diamond Peak

Where to eat (what to order):

• The Edge Restaurant & Lounge

  • Appetizer: oysters or tableside cheese and charcuterie board

  • Entrée: Wagyu filet mignon or elk chop

  • Dessert: deconstructed tiramisu or a chocolate raspberry rose budino

  • Cocktail: lavender lemon drop

  • Why: elevated dining with incredible lake views

• Bistro at Edgewood Tahoe

  • Appetizer: roasted beets and goat cheese, salad, and French onion soup

  • Entrée: chicken pot pie or fish and chips

  • Cocktail: espresso martini or Negroni

  • Why: polished but relaxed, great any time of day

• Chart House

  • Appetizer: shrimp cocktail or seared pepper Ahi tuna

  • Entrée: Key West swordfish, lemon herb-crusted salmon, or prime rib

  • Dessert: crème brûlée tasting

  • Cocktail: espresso martini or tableside torched apple Manhattan

  • Why: sunset views and classic Tahoe vibes

• Riva Grill

  • Appetizer: French onion soup, steamed clams, or lobster deviled eggs

  • Entrée: seared diver scallops, short ribs, prime rib, mushroom risotto, or grilled pork tenderloin

  • Dessert: apple pecan bread pudding or a warm brownie

  • Cocktail: Wet Woody

  • Why: lively waterfront atmosphere

• Kalani’s

  • Appetizer: sushi, poke nachos, wings, and baby back ribs

  • Entrée: poke bowl, filet mignon, or Hawaiian-inspired seafood dish

  • Dessert: Hawaiian sweet bread pudding or guava cheesecake

  • Cocktail: Hawaiian margarita, mai tai, or painkiller

  • Why: fun vacation energy with bold flavors

• Base Camp Pizza Co.

  • Appetizer: spinach and artichoke dip, calamari, wings, and Greek salad

  • Entrée: craft pizza (favorite), four cheese ravioli, or spaghetti bolognese

  • Dessert: Rockslide brownie

  • Cocktail: Base Camp shaken lemonade, spicy blood orange margarita, or a Tahoe Sunset

  • Why: social, fun, and great for groups

• Hell’s Kitchen

  • Appetizer: pan-seared scallops

  • Entrée: beef Wellington (the must-order)

  • Dessert: sticky toffee pudding

  • Cocktail: Hell’s Kitchen signature cocktail

  • Why: bold flavors and a true night-out spot

• California Burger Co.

  • Appetizer: sweet potato tots or loaded fries

  • Entrée: Ohana burger or the California burger

  • Dessert: hand-dipped milkshake

  • Cocktail: whiskey cocktail or local beer

  • Why: casual comfort food done right

• McP’s Taphouse

  • Appetizer: wings

  • Entrée: pizza, fish and chips, or bangers and hash

  • Dessert: warm apple pie and carrot cake

  • Cocktail: black and tan

  • Why: laid-back, local favorite

• Red Hut Café

  • Start with: coffee

  • Order: pancakes, omelets, waffles, or breakfast skillets

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, but the experience can feel completely different depending on the season, so timing matters. Summer and winter are busiest, so booking lodging and dining in advance is smart, especially around holidays and ski weekends. Weather can change quickly at elevation, so pack layers no matter when you visit, and if you’re driving in winter, check road conditions and carry chains when required.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Lake Tahoe page.