Lake Tahoe is one of the beautiful places you must not miss this year. It has something for all four seasons. One of my favorite activities is going to the nearby hot springs in Lake Tahoe. 

This article will list my favorite five best hot spring retreats in Lake Tahoe.

Best Hot Springs in Lake Tahoe 

1.) Spa at the Summit

Located just outside of South Lake Tahoe, this spa is perfect if you are looking to relax and focus on only your body. They have various massage types and styles that vary by season so check out their website to learn more!

Not only do they offer massages but they also provide facials, waxing, and nail services. They even offer to tan for those who want to enjoy some sun-kissed skin.

They use natural products such as botanicals and oils in all of their treatments to ensure a clean feeling. All of their professionals must go through rigorous training to be certified so you know what a good product will do.

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2.) Gold Hill

Located just five miles outside of Stateline, this hot spring is one of the most visited attractions at Lake Tahoe. A short drive or easy walk up the trail will take you through beautiful forested areas with lush green plants that dry out as the water does here.

As you approach the pool, you’ll notice there are lots of people soaking in the mineral-filled waters. Some come to relax and have some quiet time, while others enjoy exploring different types of spas.

The best part about visiting Gold Hill is that it is free! You do not need to make reservations unless there is a large group waiting to use the spa.

There is also an interactive museum next to the pool which has information about the history of the area and how the hot springs work.

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3.) Crystal Creek

Located just outside of Stateline, Nevada is one of the hottest hot spring sites in Lake Tahoe. Many people come here to soak in the warm mineral-filled water that flows freely from the area.

Crystal Creek has several different types of thermal features including natural spas, whirlpools, mud baths, and swimming pools. There are even some areas where you can lie down and relax with all sorts of thermal toys at your disposal!

The most popular activity at this site is taking a spa bath or swimming in an open pool surrounded by large loungers. Here, individuals can fully enjoy the heat of the water without having to use additional thermal equipment like heated towels or mats.

Overall, there are quite a few ways to spend time at this hot springs destination. You really do not have to go anywhere else after your first visit if you do not want to.

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4.) Fiddler’s Inn

Located just outside of Stateline, at the base of Mount Rose, you will find yourself surrounded by natural hot springs all year round. There are several different types of baths here depending on what temperature your body can handle. 

The most well-known is the steam or soak bath areas where water is heated to temperatures up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 Celsius). These feel good because as you sit in the warm water your skin gets to relax and tighten at the same time!

The easiest way to get there is to take the CA Highway 89 exit off I-80 in Stateline and make your way down Oak Street towards downtown South Lake Tahoe. 

Once you reach Camino De Oro you will see signs for Fiddlers Restaurant and Casino which has an attached hotel. 

Make a right onto Kirkwood Avenue and then keep going straight until you come to the intersection with Sunrise Boulevard. 

Turn left onto Sunrise Blvd and look out for the Fiddlers Hotel sign.

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5.) Tahoe Vista

Located just off State Highway 89, across from Heavenly Village is one of our favorite hot spring retreats in Lake Tahoe. It’s easy to access this warm natural pool via public transit or by car.

Tahoe Vista has two main pools that are separated by a small waterfall and creek. The larger pool is roughly 4 feet deep and contains around five gallons of water. There’s an elevated platform with seating next to it, making this a great place for some sun-worshiping.

The setting here is truly spectacular! As you look out over Lake Tahoe you get a sense of tranquility and serenity. You also have incredible views of Mount Rose and Emerald Bay beyond that.

In addition to being beautiful, this spot offers something unique. While most people enjoy soaking in the warmer temperatures of the springs, there’s a much cooler temperature source nearby. 

An underwater vent brings cool mineral-rich water to the surface every 30 minutes or so.

This isn’t necessarily unusual, but what makes it special is where the water goes after it comes up through the beach. This water drains into a large cistern before flowing down to the other springs at Tahoe Vista.

It may not be completely clear, as some minerals remain, but once again your body will reutilize these for healing benefits. Give yourself a treat and make a trip here if you’re looking to relax and restore.

6.) Sand Harbor

Located about 30 minutes outside of South Lake Tahoe, this hot spring is one of the most popular places to soak in Nevada. It’s not too difficult to get here if you have your own transportation, as there are many ways to access it.

At first glance, it can be hard to believe that something so beautiful could also work as a relaxation spot. The water looks like glass, with large lumps of white quartz dotting the surface. There’s even an area where you can climb down into the pool and swim for some additional relaxation.

But while these features may look majestic, they’re actually quite harmful to your skin. Due to the size of the crystals, when you enter the water the exposed areas of your skin will become covered in tiny shards.

This isn’t very pleasant, especially if you like to swim or sunbathe frequently. Fortunately, there are alternatives to taking a bath at Sand Harbor. 

You can visit the waterfall, which doesn’t use any thermal springs and therefore does not contain harmful minerals.

7.) Timber Lodge

The Timberlodge Hotel is one of the most popular hot spring resorts in America. With its long history as a ski resort destination, it has quite the following.

The all-inclusive nature of the hotel makes it perfect for people who love to spend time together under one roof. It also allows you to try new things like bathing in natural springs or trying different types of massage.

There are many ways to enjoy your stay at the hotel, and some are even free! All guests get daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with the use of the fitness center, pool, spa, and tennis courts.

In addition to staying here for a week, there are plenty of sites where you can stay for a night or two.

8.) Heavenly Spa & Resort

Heavenly is one of the most well-known hot spring resorts in America. With over 2 million annual visits, it’s no wonder!

Heavenly boasts eight natural mineral springs that are each unique depending upon what element they contain. These include sulfuric acid, calcium chloride, sodium bromide, magnesium sulfate, silica, radium, and calcite.

The sulfur thermal baths have been known to promote relaxation and skin rejuvenation. The mud at Heavenly has also been shown to aid in weight loss and overall wellness.

There are many different massage and body treatment options available at Heavenly. Some of the more popular ones include soaking spa balls, herbal treatments, aromatherapy, dry brushing, reflexology, and water exercises.

Another great way to enjoy the waters at Heavenly is taking an adventure bath or swimming. You can soak all of your extremities (fingers, toes, ears, nose, mouth) or simply dive into the pool fully clothed for some cool swimming.

Which ones are your favorite hot springs in Lake Tahoe? Let me know in the comments below.