Named for the gentle westerly winds that arrive in the afternoons, Zephyr Cove was a special location on the southeast corner of the lake. So coveted in fact, that over the years, some of the most famous names in Tahoe’s history have owned this land.

1862

In 1862 Andrew Gardener claimed 160 acres of beachfront property and built an inn named Zephyr Cove House. The inn catered to the wave of prospectors seeking silver.

1869

The silver boom slowed and lumber was in demand. The property was now owned by Carson and Tahoe Lumber and Fluming Company and expanded services to include cordwood cutting operations.

1900s

It was not until the turn of the century when the potential of the Lake Tahoe Basin as a tourist destination began to get noticed. At a time when “opulent summer retreats” were popping up across the country, Lake Tahoe was no different. A handful of very wealthy families from California built their own massive family vacation homes bordering the shoreline, some so stunning they have since become museums offering tours today. It was at that time, the early 1900’s, when Zephyr Cove Resort began a legacy of hospitality that continues today in South Lake Tahoe. During this time, the property was owned by George Whittell and under the management of Charles F. Wylie.

1950s & 60s

During the ’50s and ’60s, the Zephyr Cove Resort was managed by Gene F. Empey. Empey added marina facilities, built a new pier and expanded the trailer sites.  The lodge and stables also experienced a renovation. 

1979

The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit acquired Zephyr Cove for $4.9 million dollars.

Today

Today, Lake Tahoe welcomes 3 million visitors a year who are seeking the absolute best in winter sports, and summer outdoor recreation. Over the decades, our pristine resort has remained one of South Lake Tahoe’s finest.

Birds Eye view of Zephyr Cove Resort

Our lakeside cabins (still the only ones on all of Lake Tahoe) have been restored to retain their original architecture and character, while being beautifully equipped with modern amenities. Our adjacent Zephyr Cove Marina is the home cruise port of Lake Tahoe Cruises and the famous M.S. Dixie paddle-wheeler, the largest cruising vessel on the lake. And although our updated fleet of power boats and personal watercrafts looks quite a bit different than it did when we started, one thing remains the same – the glistening lake, the majestic mountains, and our awe of nature.  

Lakeside Cabins

We hope you will discover why this location, for more than 150 years, has been the premier spot to enjoy the best Lake Tahoe has to offer.

About Lake Tahoe

Formed 2 million years ago and further shaped during the ice age, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. It is 22 miles long and straddles the state line between California and Nevada, with a staggering surface area of 193 square miles. In addition to its massive size, it is best known for the clarity of its majestic blue water and its breathtaking backdrop of mountain views on all sides.

Lake Tahoe's depth is up to 1,685 feet, with an average of 989 feet. The lake's surface elevation is 6,229 feet above sea level. To help you grasp the size of Lake Tahoe, its waters could cover the state of California to a depth of 14.5 inches!