Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe

The hotel is so popular among families with children that getting a chance to use the frequently crowded pool and hot tub can be difficult. Past guests have recommended getting up early to avoid a rush at breakfast, particularly on weekends. The rooms of this nine-story hotel are situated around an interior atrium-style courtyard that's lit by skylights during the daytime. There are a series of conference rooms on the ground floor named after ships, in line with the property’s seeming stab at resembling a large cruise line.

The property is located on the southeast end of the lake on the edge of the California-Nevada border, and is within a few minutes' walk to the Heavenly Gondola and to a number of Nevada casinos. Other gondolas in the area are accessible via a free shuttle bus that stops outside the hotel. South Lake Tahoe is a one-hour drive from the Reno airport; there are a number of shuttle services available from the area to the airport that are a cheaper alternative to taxis.

All of the rooms at the resort are suites and have separate living areas with TVs and pull-out sofa beds, making them well-suited for families. Multiple guests have commented that, despite refurbishment, the beds aren't that comfortable. Rooms are plain, but not unattractive, with wall-to-wall patterned carpeting, cream-colored walls, and the occasional framed painting. All rooms have mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. Bathrooms are plain, but come with full tubs and a decent selection of toiletries.

A lovely outdoor sun deck with cushioned lounge chairs allows for lazing outdoors when the weather permits. The hotel also has a small indoor pool that's more suitable for dipping than for swimming, with an adjacent hot tub -- both can get crowded with children. Some guests have noted that the on-site restaurant can be expensive, but fortunately, there are a number of options within walking distance of the hotel. Wi-Fi is available at no extra cost. A hot and cold breakfast buffet is served Wednesday to Sunday from 07:00 - 11:00 in the atrium. There's also a happy hour served in the License to Chill Bar from Sunday to Thursday from 4PM to 5PM as well as at the LandShark Bar & Grill Monday to Friday from 2PM to 4PM.