And just like that, it’s summer in Tahoe! The seasons certainly change quickly in the mountains, and we are ready to trade our ski boots for flip flops, and enjoy as much time as possible time out of doors. There is something so quintessentially summer about drinks on a deck, so we’ve rounded up the best places to enjoy an afternoon or an evening with a cocktail and a view. Here are the best places around Lake Tahoe to enjoy a drink on the deck!
Gar Woods
A north shore institution, Gar Woods boasts a lakefront deck next to the sandy beach and long pier. Famous for the Wet Woody, a boozy blended punch, Garwoods is a popular spot to enjoy a quick bite or a full meal. It’s a very popular spot come summer, so reservations are recommended. If you’re out on the water, you can call ahead for dockside delivery, or tie up at a buoy and grab a drink on the deck.
Hyatt Lake Tahoe
For a taste of elegance, look no further than the Hyatt in Incline Village. Cozy up around the lakeside firepits at the Lone Eagle Grill, or grab a drink on the floating pier that opens during the summer season. Boasting a kitchen full of locally grown and sourced ingredients, the Hyatt has multiple dining options perfect to enjoy after a day spent adventuring in Tahoe. With sweeping views of the lake from the sandy shores, the Hyatt is a great spot to watch boats on the water or the sunset light up the sky.
Sunnyside
The best deck on the West Shore is without a doubt at Sunnyside. Stretched along the pebbled shore, the expansive deck wraps around the front of the hotel’s two restaurants, even wrapping around a few stately pines. We love coming for one of their special nights – Taco Tuesdays featuring fried fish tacos and drink specials really hit the spot on a balmy summer evening. Another bonus: the Sunnyside deck is a great spot to watch the sunset. A trip to Sunnyside is never complete without a slice of their famous Hula Pie for dessert.
Za’s Lakefront
In the heart of Tahoe City, Za’s Lakefront is a laid-back spot with a deck overlooking the Tahoe City Marina and close to Common’s Beach. We’re big fans of their delicious wood-fired pizzas, perfect for the whole family to share. In the summertime, they also have an outdoor bar overlooking the walking path alongside the lake. Perfect for lunch or an afternoon cocktail, Za’s has a variety of dishes to delight.
Traverse Deck
And the last – but certainly not least – best deck to enjoy is our very own Traverse Deck! Designed to seamlessly flow from the living space, the spacious Traverse deck is the perfect spot to enjoy views from home. It’s large enough to host friends and family for apres or more, and close to the kitchen so refills on drinks and snacks are a breeze. We’ve made good use of the deck throughout the winter – there is nothing better than enjoying a relaxing soak after days on the slopes – but we have to admit we’re excited for long summer evenings outside when the Traverse deck really shines.
