The Desolation Hotel in South Lake Tahoe, California, offers a top-notch lodging experience amidst a stunning natural setting. Boasting an impressive 9.3/10 rating from 179 reviews, the hotel features a variety of well-appointed accommodations, including King Studios and Family Suites, along with essential amenities such as air conditioning, refrigerators, and flat-screen TVs.
One possible drawback is that the hotel’s restaurant and bar may not be suitable for travelers seeking a more budget-friendly dining option. Plus, the hotel’s proximity to popular attractions like El Dorado Beach and Tahoe Queen could result in occasional crowds and noise.
However, the Desolation Hotel’s impressive array of on-site facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, and hot tub, make it an excellent choice for those seeking a rejuvenating and relaxing getaway.
Conveniently located, the hotel provides a strategic base for immersing in the area’s natural beauty and exploring the top attractions.
About Your Stay

- The Desolation Hotel is located in South Lake Tahoe, California, approximately 700 meters from Lakeside Beach.
- The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including King Studios, Family Suites, Deluxe Suites, and Studio – Disability Access.
- Guests can enjoy on-site amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, bar, sauna, and hot tub.
- The hotel has received an overall guest satisfaction rating of 9.3 out of 10 based on 179 reviews, highlighting its excellent location and service.
- Standard check-in is from 16:00 to 20:00, and check-out is from 10:00 to 11:00, with policies regarding children, pets, and payments.
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Hotel Overview and Location

The Desolation Hotel is situated in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, California, offering guests a prime location just 700 meters from the serene shores of Lakeside Beach.
Rated an impressive 9.3/10 from 179 reviews, the hotel has an excellent location, with easy access to popular attractions like El Dorado Beach, Tahoe Queen, and the Gondola ski lift.
Nearby airports include Truckee Tahoe Airport (64 km) and Reno-Tahoe International Airport (62.6 km), ensuring convenient transportation options for travelers.
The Desolation Hotel’s strategic placement allows guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of the South Lake Tahoe region.
Room Types and Amenities

A variety of accommodations are available at the Desolation Hotel, catering to the diverse needs of travelers.
Guests can choose from King Studios with Sofa Beds, Family Suites with Balconies, Deluxe Suites, and Studio – Disability Access rooms.
All rooms are equipped with essential amenities, including air conditioning, desks, kettles, fridges, ovens, safety deposit boxes, flat-screen TVs, terraces, and private bathrooms.
The hotel also offers excellent facilities, such as an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, bar, sauna, and hot tub.
With free parking, free Wi-Fi, and accessibility features, the Desolation Hotel ensures a comfortable and convenient stay for all its guests.
Hotel Facilities

Desolation Hotel boasts an impressive array of facilities that cater to the diverse needs of its guests. From an outdoor swimming pool to a fitness center and sauna, the hotel ensures guests can stay active and rejuvenated during their stay. The on-site restaurant, Maggie’s, serves American cuisine, providing a convenient dining option. For those seeking relaxation, the hot tub and bar offer the perfect setting. The hotel also provides free parking and Wi-Fi, making it accessible and connected. Plus, the hotel caters to families and guests with disabilities, offering suitable accommodations and amenities.
| Facilities | Description |
|---|---|
| Outdoor Swimming Pool | For refreshing dips |
| Fitness Center | Stay active during your stay |
| Sauna | Unwind and relax |
| Hot Tub | Soothe tired muscles |
Dining Options

Enhancing the guest experience at Desolation Hotel is the on-site restaurant, Maggie’s, which serves American cuisine for breakfast, brunch, and lunch.
The restaurant boasts a family-friendly ambiance, and guests have praised the quality of the food.
Whether starting the day with a hearty breakfast or enjoying a leisurely brunch, Maggie’s aims to cater to the diverse dining preferences of hotel patrons.
With its convenient location and commitment to providing a satisfying culinary experience, the on-site dining option at Desolation Hotel is an essential component of the overall guest experience.
Guest Satisfaction Ratings

Guests who have stayed at the Desolation Hotel have expressed a high level of satisfaction with their overall experience.
The hotel has received an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10 based on 179 reviews. Guests have particularly praised:
- The wonderful staff, who have been commended for their excellent service and friendly demeanor, scoring 9.6 out of 10.
- The cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations, both scoring an impressive 9.5 out of 10.
- The exceptional value for money, with a rating of 8.5 out of 10, reflecting the hotel’s competitive pricing and high-quality offerings.
The Desolation Hotel’s superb facilities, prime location, and commitment to guest satisfaction have all contributed to its excellent reputation.
Guest Highlights

The stunning property, thoughtful design, and convenient location of the Desolation Hotel have garnered exceptional praise from guests. Reviewers highlight the hotel’s beautiful setting and well-appointed rooms, with many commenting on the impressive room layouts and high-quality furnishings.
The hotel’s location, within walking distance of popular attractions like Lakeside Beach and El Dorado Beach, is also noted as a significant advantage. Guests further praise the hotel’s excellent amenities, including the outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
Check-in and Check-out
The Desolation Hotel operates on a standard check-in and check-out schedule. Guests can check-in from 16:00 to 20:00, and check-out from 10:00 to 11:00.
This convenient timeframe allows ample opportunity for guests to settle in and enjoy their stay, while also ensuring the hotel can efficiently prepare for the next arrivals.
- The hotel requires photo ID and a credit card upon check-in.
- Cash is not accepted as a payment method.
- Cancellation policies vary based on the accommodation type, so guests are advised to review the conditions when booking their stay.
Policies and Fees
Along With the standard check-in and check-out procedures, the Desolation Hotel enforces a range of policies and fees to ensure a seamless guest experience.
Children of all ages are welcome, while pets are permitted for a $75 per night charge, with a maximum of 3 pets allowed.
The hotel only accepts cashless payments, requiring a valid photo ID and credit card upon check-in.
Cancellation policies vary depending on the accommodation type, so guests are advised to review the conditions at the time of booking.
These measures aim to provide a comfortable and well-regulated stay for all visitors to the Desolation Hotel.
Booking Your Stay

Nestled in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, the Desolation Hotel offers a luxurious retreat amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. With a stellar reputation for exceptional service, amenities, and location, this hotel caters to both leisure and business travelers seeking a memorable and rejuvenating stay.
The diverse range of room types, from cozy studios to spacious suites, caters to a variety of preferences and budgets. The on-site dining options provide delectable cuisine, while the wealth of leisure facilities, including a spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool, ensure guests can truly unwind and recharge.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a base for your outdoor adventures, the Desolation Hotel is a premier choice for those exploring the natural wonders of the region. With a convenient location and a commitment to providing an exceptional experience, this hotel is a must-consider for your South Lake Tahoe visit.
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