Hotels on Lakes in California

Hotels on lakes in California are something we look for when choosing a place for a trip. Are you browsing for that now? We'll try to help, as we have some great ideas.

We generally like to search using a specific app, because the more we use it - the more savings it gives us. They have tons of places to stay all over the world. That includes on lakes!

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You may have heard of them. They're Booking.com. Since we use it all the time, and love the way it works - the status they give you for sticking with them for bookings - we can't help but recommend them to others. We have compared others, but think they're the best.

Much of the time the initial rates they give are lower than others, or the same. But after you log in, you'll get even better rates if you've been using them. They have the "Genius Benefits" Plan.

Plus they have even more ways to save. 

lakeside hotel sunset poster

So let's see which fabulous hotels on lakes in California we can find for you to investigate!

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Northern California Hotels on Lakes


Lake Tahoe Area Lakeside Hotels

lake surrounded with pine covered mountains with snow on the groundWintertime in Lake Tahoe

Don't Miss This Special to Find a Lakeside Area Stay! Good through Jan. 3, 2023. Make Your Plans...


South Lake Tahoe Hotels - Lakeside

Do you favor South Lake Tahoe? Many love this area. The pines sighing in the breeze, the sparkling lake, the mountainside beaches. Sandy areas to relax shore-side! How can you go wrong? 

You can peruse many, many gorgeous places to stay. Or try for bargain spots, or those that are kid-friendly, or welcome your pets. Click the Button to browse away for all kinds of choices. Or scroll for our specific picks.


We do have specific recommendations though. If you'd like to see those:

Hotel Azur - Superb view of the lake. Plus there's nearby restaurants. Dog friendly & free parking. All kinds of rooms to suit your needs. Choose Yours>

Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa - Gotta be one of the top locations. This hotel on the lake on California's side has their own beach. Which Room is Yours>

The Landing Resort & Spa - You're treated to a fireplace, plus heated bathroom floors, a bathrobe & slippers! Extra extreme lake views from the rooftop terrace. Book It>


Other Lake Tahoe Area Lakeside Hotels

Lots of other popular areas for lakeside hotels & stays are near the shores of Lake Tahoe. Larger communities are where you'll find lakeside hotels.

Other lakeshore towns have mostly rental homes. Scan some of these areas, to see your pick among them.

Kings Beach - Right at the top end of the lake - Northernmost part. One of the largest lakeside towns. But still has that quaint beachy lifestyle feel.

  • Crown Motel - Top reviews & a best value. Has its own private beach, & lakeview rooms. Why not try it? Choose Your Room>
  • Stevenson's Inn - Excellent value, just down from the lake. Park right outside your door. See its options, then Reserve One>

Tahoe City - Nice small walkable downtown. There's a summertime Farmer's Market too. Hwy. 89 exits onto the lakeside here, for easy access to lots more. Plus you'll love the nearby confluence of the Truckee River.

  • Best Value Inn - The name says it, one of the best values on the lake. Near everything, with lake view rooms. Before they say "No Vacancy" - Reserve Now>
  • On The Sunny Side - Resort & Lodge, with the standard types of rooms to pick from. But magnificent lake views & restaurant/bar on-site. Top reviews. Choose Yours>
  • Cottage Inn - This B&B has themed rooms we think you'll love. Gorgeous cabin style, near everything. With a private lakeside beach. See this Terrific Value>

Tahoma - Community North of Meeks Bay. Stay here to get away from it all. It's a peaceful spot.

  • Tahoma Meadows - A group of cottages run as a B&B. Very good reviews & close to the beach. See which Cottage Suits You>
  • Lakeside View - Water's Edge Escape has good reviews. Nice place with room to sleep 6. See if it's available for Your Dates>

Homewood/Tahoe Pines - About midway lakeside's west. Small older communities. Visit the Tahoe Maritime Museum there. Some of the best stays:

  • Blissful Stay - Home that sleeps up to 10 with top reviews. Plus a private beach. See It>
  • Lakefront Haven - Enjoy fabulous views from the jacuzzi. Is that Your Style?

Carnelian Bay - On NW Lake Tahoe. It's named for the semi-precious stones found on the area's lakeshore. Famed for its yearly wooden boat show: Concours d’Elegance.

  • Lake View - Right there at Lago Vista! It may be right up Your Alley!
  • Cabin in the Pines - With lake & mountain views. 4 bedrooms sleep up to 8. See It Here>

CRESCENT CITY - On a budget? How about the Lakeside Hostel & Guest House? On Lake Earl, but nearby is the Pacific Ocean, too!

Lake Earl is the largest coastal lagoon in California. It's also within the county wildlife area & Tolowa Dunes State Park. Here you have the best of both worlds: lake & sea. Plus the hostel will shuttle you from the airport. See The Details>


AT LAKE ALMANOR - Created from waters of the North Fork of the Feather River, the lake has a variety of recreation, plus scenic views. Check out these fabulous places to stay.

Timber House - Exquisite comfort in this lodge in Chester, the lake's North end. They have nine themed rooms To Choose>. A restaurant/brewery is in the works.

Lakefront Escape - This home-resort away from home can sleep 9. So much here including a private beach, deck, firepit, hammock, beach chairs, kayaks, paddleboards & more! On the eastern shore. Reserve Now>

Vacation Cabin - 1 block from lake, with beautiful deck. That's the way to Do It!

Lake Almanor Lodge - Closer into town, amidst the pines. It's a wonderful value with top reviews. Parking right outside your door on 1-level. Take a Look>


CLEAR LAKE - The largest freshwater lake that's totally within the boundaries of California. Popular for all kinds of water recreation.

  • Worldmark - North end of Clear Lake. FYI, it's marketed as a timeshare. But they also rent out room vacancies at a good value. Has top reviews: "awesome." See It Here>
  • Lakeview Inn - Across from a lakeside park. Only 1 level, can park at your door. Not the "Ritz" of course. But you'll be lakeside & out and about all day! Try It> 
  • Regency Inn - On the lakefront beach in Lakeport. The west side of the lake. Convenient location to all needs. Two pools. Compare This>
  • Lakefront Sanctuary - Exquisite home right on the lake. 2 bedrooms, can sleep 8. Has all you need. Wouldn't you love To Be Here?

Hotels on Lakes in California: Central State

PINE MOUNTAIN LAKE - Not far from Yosemite, this Private Lake is owned by the local community. The lake has its own virtues. Like a marina lakeside with a beach & café. Plus 2 more sandy beaches with nice clear, relatively warm water.

Lakefront Cabin - A 3-bedroom cabin that sleeps 8! Private pier. Plus access to community pool, tennis courts, golfing, etc. Book It>

Berkshire Inn - Not quite lakeside, but it's at the lake. Showing you this because all love this B&B, with its cozy rooms & delish breakfast. Check it out>

Yosemite International Hostel - Budget style. Reserve Your Spot>


SHAVER LAKE - At 5500' elevation, primarily its waters come from Stevenson Creek. Nearby is another smaller lake to scope out: Balsam Forebay, continue NE on Rt.168 to left at Ely Mountain.

Village Hotel - One of the more well-liked hotels on the lake in California for Shaver. Many room selections, as well as cabins, + breakfast included. See It Now>

Elevation Station - Above the lakeside. You can bring your furry friend along. 2 queen beds in this studio-style rustic cozy cabin. Sleeps up to 4. Excellent value. Plan For It>


LAKE KAWEAH - Formed by damming the Kaweah River's downflow from the high country. This area is so gorgeous.

The first time we came through here, we knew we wanted to return! The route it's on is just one of the gateways into the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Lazy J Ranch Motel - Just upriver from the lake's beginnings. Adjacent to Slick Rock Rec Area. Everyone loves this place. We hope you will too! Give It A Look>

Sequoia Ridgetop - Stay in style! Amazing views outside. If you squint you might be able to see the lake! About <5 miles away - as the bird flies! Sleeps up to 8 in 3 bedrooms. You gotta see that pool beside the patio. Consider It>

Western Holiday Lodge - Basic hotel for the economy traveler. A bit farther upriver & closer to town. Check It Here>


Hotels on Lakes in Southern California

CANYON LAKE - It's also been called Railroad Canyon Lake. But either way, there's a couple of choices here you may want to try.

Rodeway Inn - Typical motel type stay with free breakfast & complimentary WiFi. Canyon Lake Dr. is opposite, for accessing the lakeside parks, several swimming areas, etc. If you're looking for an economical visit, Go For It.

Lakefront Cottage - With a gorgeous, comfy back deck overlooking the lake. So much to love in this comfortable home. What a fabulous place, tale a look at all the amenities! Can you Picture Yourself Here?


AT LAKE ARROWHEAD - A popular area, with some lake exclusivity. You've got to be staying on the lake, or participating in a Lakeside Activity to access it.

Where would you like to stay?

Resort & Spa - Treat yourself! With a bar & private beach. Pets welcome. Breakfast included. Check It Out>

Tree-Top Lodge - Assorted room types to fit your needs, sleeping as many as 6. Pet friendly, free parking. Plan Your Stay>

Lake House - Lake views from the windows, with a large deck for outdoor living, too. Everything you need is here. Sleeps up to 8. Want This?

Lake Edge Oasis - 3 levels filled with every amenity you could want! Sleeps 10 in this 5 bedroom home. Not a hotel, but it gives you deluxe flexibility with the views. See It>


LAKE ELSINORE - Easy access from the I-15. Here are some good options near the lake.

Best Western - Ask for a Lake-View Room, because there are some. Reviews are typical of the chain.

Your Lake Escape - Walk to beach. Private yard. Lake views. This home sleeps up to 6. Worth a look, for the closest Stay To The Lake>

Bright Lake View - Home sleeps up to 6 in 3 bedrooms. Everything you need is Right There>


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