3 Best Hotels in Carnelian Bay to Kings Beach, Lake Tahoe

For years a lakeside favorite of travelers willing to trade style and amenities for below-average rates—and impressive water views from some rooms—the Crown is emerging from a property makeover with a sportier look but still budget-friendly pricing. Standard rooms, their decor remaining more serviceable than flashy, all have coffeemakers, small refrigerators, microwaves, and flat-screen TVs; some only sleep two people, others up to four. Deluxe, premium, and lakefront rooms have progressively better amenities that might include kitchenettes, air-conditioning, fireplaces, or all of these. Many rooms are just steps from the private beach. The hot tub and pool, the latter so close to the lake you'll practically feel in it, are both heated. A fire pit warms things up when the lake chills down, and there's an area for cornhole and other games. Water-sports rentals are available on-site. 

Cedar-shingled cottages and a two-story lodge form a horseshoe around this compact, woodsy property's central pool, picnic, and play areas. The look inside and out is classic alpine rustic, with the guest accommodations' wood floors, trim, and furniture driving the point home. Some cottages have kitchens and fireplaces. There's a heated pool open seasonally, and the hot tub remains fired up year-round. The cottages come with one or two bedrooms; because the lodge sits on a rise at the property's back end, the views south to the lake are among Cedar Glen's best.

At first glance, this family-run waterfront property looks like a slightly above-average two-story motel, but it legitimately lays claim to the title of resort thanks to a private beach; two hot tubs; alluring lake and mountain vistas; and summertime barbecuing, kayaking, and other extras. About half the rooms have king beds, queen sofabeds, and full kitchens, a boon for families or other groups. The remaining kings and all the queens have wet bars. All rooms have patios or balconies, and though the buildings are perpendicular to the lake, the windows are angled to maximize the views. Book well ahead for summer stays; look for online bargains for the rest of the year.