How to Choose a Vacation Rental in Lake Tahoe

With brilliant crystal blue waters, breathtaking alpine beauty and a thousand ways to play, Lake Tahoe is a year-round vacationer's paradise. In Tahoe, one of the best ways to enjoy a honeymoon getaway, writer's retreat or a little family-friendly home comfort is to stay at a vacation rental. Here's how you can rent anything from a luxury lakefront mansion to the coziest mountain cabin at "America's All-Year Playground."

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide what time of year you want to go there, who is going with you and how long you'll stay. Consider your lifestyle and favorite activities when choosing a rental, and look for properties that appeal to other vacationers with similar interests.

2. Search the Internet for "Lake Tahoe vacation rentals" and select a few from the list. You may also choose vacation rental properties listed on the Vacation Rental Managers Association website. Just enter "Tahoe" into the search field, read each description and click on their websites for more information.

3. Search for properties by location, size, rates and sleeping capacity. Click on the property's code number or name for photos and description.

4. Browse the website to find out what is included in the rental price. Most provide basic bed linens, towels and toilet paper. Many rentals have in-unit washers and dryers, and some even include access to amenities, such as exercise facilities, pools, tennis courts and private beaches.

5. Make your reservation from the website, or call the company directly if you don't feel comfortable reserving online.

6. Get a confirmation. If you reserved the property online, you should receive an email confirmation. If you called in your reservation, make sure you get a confirmation number from the phone rep.

Tips & Warnings

• Rent only from well-established property management companies or realtors that specialize in vacation rentals.
• Always carefully read the rental company's policies on deposits, cancellations, check-in/out, cleaning fees and minimum stay.

Resources

• Vacation Rental Managers Association
• Find Lake Tahoe rentals at Accommodation Station.
• Hauserman Rental Group offers Lake Tahoe rentals.
• Find Lake Tahoe vacation rentals at Calltahoe.
• Lake Tahoe accommodations