With breathtaking views from any vantage point, to cozy cabins, to eclectic local bites, human-powered sports, and everything else in between, a trip to Lake Tahoe is a gift in and of itself. But for the holidays, there are endless ways to give the gift of Lake Tahoe, whether you’re visiting in-person or sharing mementos from your time here.
Our mountain paradise plays host to a cornucopia of talented local merchants and artisans who — each in their unique way — capture the beauty and culture of Tahoe through their works. Between their offerings and the endless giftable experiences, events, and getaways you can find the perfect piece of Lake Tahoe to share with your loved ones this holiday season. We’ve rounded up a few ways for you to do just that.
Experience the Best of Lake Tahoe
Finding the gift that is just right for your loved ones — especially those with particular tastes — can be difficult. Luckily, there’s an easy way to give the gift of Lake Tahoe shopping without worrying about picking something out yourself: the North Lake Tahoe eGift Card. This magical card unlocks over 50 local businesses, from boutiques and board shops to restaurants and resorts. Simply load up the gift card with funds and send it to the inbox of who you want to give it to. Then, they’ll be able to use it at any participating Lake Tahoe business.
Shopping in person for the right gift can, of course, be an adventure in and of itself. For a nudge in the right direction, start by checking out Lake Tahoe Visitor Centers, which, in addition to helpful information and tips on where to shop, offers guests Lake Tahoe merchandise and local artisan goods. The Visitor Information Centers in Kings Beach and Tahoe City are available on the California side, with a Welcome Center in Incline Village available on the Nevada side — making it an easy stop no matter where you’re staying.
Shop Local for Authentic Lake Tahoe Gifts
Lake Tahoe is home to a number of talented craftsmen and artisans. Shopping local in Lake Tahoe means your holiday gifts will have the authentic flair of our mountain paradise, and lets you bring a true piece of the Sierra Nevada home with you. With five vibrant shopping districts available to explore, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.
For more art-centric gifts, head to a shop such as Chickadee Art Collective, where you can find beautiful works of art in the form of jewelry, apparel, woodwork, ceramics and much more. In fact, many shops around Lake Tahoe boast wearable art goodies — vendors such as Incline Village’s The Potlatch and Tahoe City’s Trunk Show offer gorgeous options that are sure to dazzle your lucky loved ones. You can also head to somewhere like Bluestone Jewelry, Lake Tahoe’s premiere shopping destination for designer jewelry inspired by Lake Tahoe’s beautiful natural environment.
Another great option is Tahoe City’s North Tahoe Arts, which offers space and opportunities to artists throughout the region. Or, for a more classic, gallery-style shopping experience, Lake Tahoe is home to a range of curated galleries where you can purchase art, including Gallery Keoki and The Eadington Gallery.
Jewelry and works of art aside, there are a wide variety of fun shops where you’re sure to find a unique gift your loved ones will cherish. Show them how much you appreciate them with a heartfelt, custom-designed bouquet from Heartwood Floral Registry and Planterium. Pair that with a box of decadent desserts from Tahoe City Chocolates, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better way to say, “I love you,” this holiday season.
Give the Gift of an Outdoor Adventure
For many, outdoor adventure represents the pièce de résistance of Lake Tahoe’s offerings — and with good reason! From the region’s 11 downhill resorts to a number of exciting hiking or biking trails and everything else in between, there are plenty of places that provide outdoor adventurers with an array of exciting options.
With resorts opening for the winter season, lift tickets or season passes are perfect for treasured family and friends who love to play in the snow. Resorts such as Northstar California, for instance, offer tons of fun activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, making a season pass a truly versatile gift. Whether you’re helping long-time pros experience their fun in the Sierra Nevada or putting young skiers on the pathway to learning a lifelong skill, a gift like this is sure to attract smiles of gratitude. Check out our comprehensive ski guide for more information on various resorts, including specials for this upcoming season.
One thing every outdoor enthusiast will always appreciate? Gear. No matter the sport, Lake Tahoe has shops offering exactly what you need to own an outdoor adventure. Alpenglow Sports, for instance, has everything the intrepid explorer in your life could want, whether they’re in need of a new pair of skis, a pair of sunglasses, a sturdy backpack and much more. You’ll also find a number of apparel items and biking gear at Olympic Bike Shop, so you can help your loved ones get sporty in style — no matter the season.
Present the Perfect Getaway
Sometimes, you just want to get away from it all. This can be especially true after a long year of work, family obligations, travel or other meaningful-but-draining expenditures of time and energy.
Lake Tahoe’s resorts, cabins and other lodging options offer a range of amenities that make for the perfect site to shed life’s pressures and reinvigorate. Many places offer on-site relief, like the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe’s Stillwater Spa and Salon. There are also a number of wellness-focused shops around Lake Tahoe that have a retail space, as well, making it easy to put together a personalized gift that includes a trip to the spa. Head to Well Being Massage & Gift Shop and make a reservation on behalf of your loved one — and before you go, snag a few crystals, a relaxing candle or a beautiful piece of jewelry. That way, they have something to open alongside their gift certificate. Well Being is especially convenient as they have much of their stock available for shopping online, as well.
Sage Spa Tahoe is another spot perfect for the person on your list who needs a little self-care. Your loved one will truly appreciate the chance to go and be completely pampered with a massage, facial or energy therapy session, and getting to make their own sugar scrub or herb blend at the end of the experience is a cherry on top of it all. No matter the place, a serene experience for the loved one in need of relaxation will go a long way toward keeping them in good spirits.
However you choose to spread the holiday cheer this season, you’ll find plenty to treasure in Lake Tahoe. Of course, while you’re shopping, you shouldn’t forget yourself… So why not book your stay with us while you’re at it?
