Zephyr Cove Resort is the East Shore's classic cabin resort, and the easiest way to stay right by one of Tahoe's best beaches. It sits on the Nevada shore on Highway 50, about 10 minutes north of Stateline, and the resort's history goes back to the 1800s. Its 28 cabins are spread through the pines a short walk from the beach. They range from studios to four-bedroom units, all with kitchens, and some have gas fireplaces. Some cabins are pet-friendly, and some are ADA-accessible. The beach is the highlight: a mile-long stretch of sand with clear water and views across the lake, one of the most popular beaches on the South Shore in summer. The marina rents boats and watercraft, offers fishing and parasailing, and is the home of the Lake Tahoe Cruises boats, including the M.S. Dixie II paddlewheeler that sails to Emerald Bay. Cabin guests get a discount on boat rentals and tours. There is a restaurant, a bar and a gift shop on site, and parking and wireless internet are free. In winter the resort offers snowmobile tours and other winter activities, and the cabins make a cozy base for Heavenly, about 20 minutes away. The drawbacks: the cabins are rustic rather than luxurious, the beach and marina are crowded with day visitors on summer weekends, and dining options nearby are limited, so expect to drive to Stateline for more choice. It suits families, couples who want a cabin by the lake, boaters, and anyone who wants the old-fashioned Tahoe experience.
The resort has been a lakeside stop since the 1800s, and the cabins in the pines keep that old-Tahoe feel. In summer the beach fills with families and the marina is busy with boats, paddleboards and the Dixie's sailings to Emerald Bay. In the off-season, the resort is much quieter, and a cabin with a fireplace is a peaceful base.
Room strategy
Families should book a two- to four-bedroom cabin with a kitchen; couples should ask for a studio or one-bedroom cabin with a fireplace. If you are bringing a dog, request a pet-friendly cabin when booking. Book the M.S. Dixie II cruise with your stay for the discount, and get to the beach early on summer weekends.
Practicals
On Highway 50 at Zephyr Cove, Nevada, about 10 minutes north of Stateline and about 20 minutes from Heavenly. Cabins with kitchens; restaurant and bar; marina with rentals and cruises; free parking. Fit: families, couples, boaters and old-Tahoe fans.
Why stay here
- ✓28 cabins from studios to four bedrooms
- ✓Kitchens in every cabin
- ✓Mile-long sandy beach
- ✓Marina with boat and watercraft rentals
- ✓M.S. Dixie II cruise departures
- ✓Restaurant, bar and gift shop
- ✓Pet-friendly select cabins
- ✓Free parking and wireless internet
Good questions
Are the cabins on the beach?+
They are set in the pines a short walk from the beach, the marina and the cruise dock.
Can I take the M.S. Dixie II from here?+
Yes. The Lake Tahoe Cruises boats, including the M.S. Dixie II to Emerald Bay, sail from the Zephyr Cove marina, and cabin guests get a discount on tours and rentals.
Is it open in winter?+
Yes. The resort offers winter activities such as snowmobile tours, and the cabins make a quiet base for skiing at Heavenly, about 20 minutes away.
