The Guide | Lake Tahoe's West Shore

Photography © Ali McLaren

Whether you're Tahoe-bound for skiing, hiking, or boating—just a few of this mountain locale's prime recreational activities—here are my favorite spots to relax with family and friends on the lake's West Shore.  

Sunnyside Restaurant + Lodge
1850 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, California 
A West Shore institution since the 1950s, Sunnyside is always buzzing, no matter the season. Sit by the fire in the lodge après-ski or dine outside on the deck in summertime with a spectacular view across the lake. The fried zucchini is killer. If you're looking to spend some time on the lake, the High Sierra Waterski School offers boat and jet ski rentals at Sunnyside's marina.

West Shore Market & Deli
1780 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, California
This new kid on the block is stocked with specialty products galore—from Talenti gelato to Sir Kensington's Ketchup—and boasts a deli and cafe with delicious grab-and-go grub too. It's the general store of the 21st century we've been waiting for. Finally.

Fire Sign Cafe
1785 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, California
The family-owned Fire Sign Cafe has been serving up smiles since 1978. Whether it's a good ol' stack of pancakes or a cheeseburger you're after, they offer breakfast and lunch seven days a week. The wait can be long thanks to its popularity with locals and out-of-towners alike, so pop over to the West Shore Market across the street for a coffee while you wait.

Obexer's General Store
5300 West Lake Blvd., Homewood, California
If you're looking for that good old-fashioned general store—this is your place. It's a quick pit-stop for much-needed supplies or you can relax with an espresso in the cafe, offering free wifi. I always head to Obexer's for their generously-sized deli sandwiches before a day of boating on the lake. 

Tahoe House Bakery + Gourmet
625 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, California
This is another favorite for gourmet grab-and-go. It has a little of everything—fresh-out-of-the-oven breads and pastries, cakes and cookies, coffee drinks, deli lunches, cheeses, chutneys and dressings, meats, wine—and a comfortable space to spend a few hours if you need to be in front of your laptop. 

Blackwood Canyon
The intersection of West Lake Blvd. (Hwy 89) and Barker Pass Rd. (Blackwood Canyon Rd.)
When the sun is shining, Blackwood Canyon is the perfect destination for a bike ride or hike that all ages can enjoy. During the winter months, it's a popular place for cross-county skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiles.

Eagle Rock
West Lake Blvd. (Hwy 89), between mile markers 67 and 68
If you're looking for panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, consider the short but steep hike up to the top of Eagle Rock, a dormant volcano.

The West Shore has a number of bike trails to offer too!