Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort

Leave it to a family-owned lodge to create a resort with everything you could need to keep the whole crew happy. Nestled in the middle of North Lake Tahoe with 275 feet of private beach and an array of toys and activities for all ages, the Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort is the prime locale for a waterfront getaway. When you get to your inviting studio, your eye will immediately be drawn to the stunning views of the water. The very sight of the lake will have kids in swimsuits and begging to hit the beach before you’ve had a chance to settle in. Follow their lead, dig out the sunscreen and leave the unpacking for later. Once on the beach, park yourself in a cushioned lounger and get lost in that bestseller paperback (finally!). Join the crew for games of corn hole or ping pong between chapters. You won’t need to bring your usual arsenal of beach gear – the resort has everything covered. Loungers and cabanas, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, paddle boats and various games are all at your disposal – not to mention the (famous) water trampoline. When stomachs start rumbling, fire up one of the barbecues and throw on some franks for a quick lunch – or delegate the meal to your crew’s self-proclaimed grill master, and sit back while someone else cooks for you. Once everyone’s thoroughly beached out you’ll be glad to have a homey crash pad (and comfy bed) to return to – perfect for pre-dinner power naps. Thanks to a full kitchen, you have the option of staying in and treating your crew to your signature dish. Over dinner, game plan for tomorrow – SUP yoga? Kayak tour? Maybe the Mountain Survival Game? (Loudest “yessss” wins.) Time your evening just right so you can take your post-dinner beverage out onto your suite’s patio to admire the view as the sun sets on the High Sierras.

Cheery and spacious studios at Mourelatos feel more like your family lake house than a hotel suite. A cushy king bed and convenient queen sofa sleeper are great for small families and friend groups. Every suite has a view of the lake, so go ahead and open the large windows and patio doors and let the fresh air and sunlight work their mood-enhancing magic. Every unit has access to a semi-private patio, or you can book the Lake Front unit and enjoy a larger, private patio and panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierras. (Your Instagram followers will be envious.)

Declaring it a dinner-out night? You’ll find several options nearby, including some of Lake Tahoe’s most beloved eateries. Gar Woods Grill & Pier is just minutes away by car (or by boat!), dishing up California-fresh seafood, classic American fare and a kid’s menu – plus an adjoining speedboat museum. MLR remains a family haven in the winter too, with access to 18 acres for snowshoeing and cross country skiing, fire pits for s’mores and a shuttle to nearby ski resorts.