A Pet-Friendly Guide to South Lake Tahoe

dogs in water at Lake Tahoe

If the best of your late-summer plans involves cleaning out your rain gutters, hosting a garage sale, or pitching a tent in the backyard for your kids, you may want to reanalyze your priorities! Summer isn’t over yet, and there’s still much to do. Visiting South Lake Tahoe can put everything in perspective: crystal-clear water, white-sand beaches, towering pines, outdoor adventures, and world-class events. What else could you ask for?

Simply put, South Tahoe is a fantastic vacation destination for the whole family, even those with four legs and a wagging tail. Want to head out on a pet-friendly vacation this summer? It’s not too late! Read along for everything you need to know about taking a pet-friendly vacation in Lake Tahoe.

Golden Retriever standing in the water of Lake Tahoe

Is South Lake Tahoe Dog-Friendly?

Yes, South Lake Tahoe is dog-friendly! Take your pups to the beach, walk along nature trails, or simply enjoy time with them in your pet-friendly vacation rental.

Are Lake Tahoe Beaches Dog-Friendly?

Yes! While not every beach on Lake Tahoe is dog-friendly, there are plenty where you can take your pup. Of course, you’ll want to make sure they’re up to date on all of their vaccinations before bringing them to such a public place, and it’s important to know how they’ll react to other dogs—on or off-leash. Most dog-friendly places in South Lake Tahoe require your pet to be on a six-foot leash, but there are a couple of spots where they can roam free!

What Beaches Are Dog-Friendly in South Lake Tahoe?

On South Lake Tahoe, the dog-friendly beaches are:

Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach 

Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach is so dog-friendly that there’s even a dog park on the premises! Pups must be on leash at the beach everywhere except for the specific roped-off dog park. It’s the city’s only dog park, and you and your pup will both love it! Watch as they splash in the waves, meet other doggy friends, and tire themselves out before heading back to your vacation rental.

Tahoe Keys Beach

If you’re staying in one of our Tahoe Keys vacation rentals, you’re in luck—you can bring your pup along to the beach! Keep in mind that they must remain on-leash while you’re at the beach.

Kiva Beach

Kiva Beach is a famous dog beach in Lake Tahoe. It’s fairly remote, so pups are allowed off leash! You’ll have to park and hike about ¾ of a mile to get to the beach area, (which your dog will love) and then you can cool off in the water. The whole beach is about 200 yards of sandy shoreline, so there’s enough room for your dog to get some exercise in, but you’ll still be able to keep them within view.

What to do in South Lake Tahoe with Dogs?

A well-mannered, leashed dog is welcome on all public lands around Tahoe. So feel free to bring them along when visiting Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit lands, El Dorado National Forest, or Lake Tahoe National Forest. Other nearby dog-friendly state parks include Sugar Pine Point State Park and Van Sickle Bi-State Park.

Note: Bring a six-foot leash, waste bags, and proper tags; don’t allow your pet to disturb the flora and fauna; and be mindful of other hikers, campers, and dogs.

Can My Dog Drink Lake Tahoe Water?

No, your dog should not drink Lake Tahoe water. While it certainly looks pretty, lake water can be contaminated with all sorts of things that aren’t great for your dog to digest. You don’t want them to get sick!

Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals in South Lake Tahoe

woman with dog in her lap at a restaurant

At RnR, we see more and more of our guests traveling with these beloved family members, and we have worked with our homeowners to expand the number of pet-friendly homes in our catalog. Our strategy has been working—we  currently have no fewer than 40 pet-friendly vacation rentals in South Lake Tahoe, up 33 percent this year alone!

Without a doubt, South Lake Tahoe is one of the most dog-friendly corners of the world. Here’s why we think a stay at an RnR vacation home will make anyone’s tail wag:

  • Variety of pet-friendly options: We offer a wide range of Tahoe vacation rental homes, which means you can easily find a place that accommodates your entire family comfortably.
  • Amenities for pets and people: Some rentals, such as our Waterfront Retreat, not only offer hot tubs and multiple living areas for humans but also come with a fully-fenced backyard for pets. This ensures that your pet can enjoy the outdoors safely while you relax and enjoy the property's amenities.
  • Access to outdoor activities: South Tahoe is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. From hiking trails that welcome dogs to lakeside walks, there's plenty for you and your pet to explore together.
  • Close proximity to pet-friendly attractions: Our homes' location provides easy access to various pet-friendly attractions around Lake Tahoe, including parks, beaches, and trails.
  • Flexible accommodations: Whether you need a small cozy cabin or a large rental home, RnR can provide options that suit your party's size and your pet's needs, ensuring everyone has enough space to relax.

Book Your South Lake Tahoe Home Directly with RnR!

If you’re planning a South Tahoe adventure, choices abound for activities with dogs in tow! The entire Tahoe Basin is like a giant dog park for humans, which means your pet will feel right at home.

Booking a pet-friendly vacation in South Lake Tahoe with RnR means you will have a memorable stay in one of the most beautiful places in the world and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your pet is welcome and well-accommodated. The combination of pet-friendly amenities, comfortable Lake Tahoe cabins and vacation rentals, and access to outdoor adventures makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking to experience Lake Tahoe with their furry friends. Browse our available South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals today and book your stay directly with RnR!

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