Car rental South Lake Tahoe, CA

Top tips for renting a car in South Lake Tahoe

While South Lake Tahoe may feel like a sleepy town at times, during other parts of the year, it's bustling with tourists – especially in the height of both winter and summer – so it's critical to drive responsibly and protect the safety of yourself and others. Learn more about driving in the area, including major road rules to be aware of, parking tips, and the top spots to find gas or charge for your rental car.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in South Lake Tahoe?

Like any new destination, it's important to drive carefully when you first arrive in South Lake Tahoe, especially if you're visiting during the winter months. Obey the road rules set out by the state of California, including driving on the right-hand side of the road, obeying road signage, wearing a seatbelt at all times, adhering to speed limits, and only using your cell phone on hands-free mode.

The Golden State also has some unique road rules. For example, you must stay at least three feet away from bicycle traffic at all times, and leave three seconds of space between your car and the vehicle in front of you, regardless of the speed limit. California has strict penalties for driving under the influence of both alcohol and marijuana – the blood alcohol limit is 0.08% whereas marijuana use is completely prohibited. In California, you cannot smoke in the car if you are driving with passengers under 21.

As of late 2024, South Lake Tahoe has enforced reduced speed limits in particular areas to enhance road safety for locals and visitors alike. Many residential roads have speed limits of 25 to 30 miles per hour (mph), whereas highways and some two-lane roads can get up to 55 mph. Always refer to road signage to ensure you're following local speed limits.

Mountain roads can be tricky to navigate as a first-timer in the South Lake Tahoe area, so always exercise caution and ensure your rental vehicle is equipped with snow chains or snow tires in winter – you can filter by vehicles with snow tires on Turo. Drive slowly, especially if there is ice or snow on the roads, and use your headlights at all times. In the summer, driving in Tahoe is generally easier, but traffic can build in the downtown area and create delays.

What is parking like in South Lake Tahoe?

Because South Lake Tahoe is a tourist favorite, parking in the area can be challenging to navigate – so it pays to prepare before you go! Popular destinations like Heavenly Village, Emerald Bay, and the major beaches have limited parking, so head down early to snag a spot. There are metered parking spots in most of the tourist hotspots, but these tend to charge higher fees, so factor this into your budget to avoid surprises. If you're looking for a quick and affordable spot to drop your car short-term, malls and dining precincts, such as the Village Center, often have free parking for a few hours.

Are there toll roads in South Lake Tahoe?

No, there are no toll roads in South Lake Tahoe or the surrounding areas. Highways 50, 89, and 207 are all toll-free – so you won't need to budget for this on your upcoming trip! However, if you're driving to and from other parts of California or Nevada, you may encounter toll roads, especially in cities like San Francisco and Sacramento.

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in South Lake Tahoe?

When you rent a car in South Lake Tahoe, you'll find it easy to locate both gas stations and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to keep your vehicle in check on scenic mountain drives.

The majority of gas stations in the area are located along Lake Tahoe Blvd, which winds through the city center, along the beach, and up into Nevada where it turns into U.S. Route 50. There are also a few places to fuel up along Emerald Bay Rd, which intersects Lake Tahoe Blvd in downtown South Lake Tahoe. Because South Lake Tahoe is pretty small, you're never far from a gas station – just be sure to fill your tank before you embark on any long drives, as the surrounding areas become remote quite quickly.

There are a few EV charging stations in South Lake Tahoe itself, namely downtown at Factory Stores at the Y (intersection of Lake Tahoe Blvd and Emerald Bay Rd) and at Liberty Utilities on Eloise St. However, you'll find many more options when you make the short drive from South Lake Tahoe to the Nevada border. Here, you'll be met with ample stations from reputable brands, including Tesla, Blink, and ChargePoint, predominantly along Lake Tahoe Blvd / U.S. Route 50. There's also a handy cluster of charging stations in Lake Tahoe's main tourist accommodation area, right on the California side of the state line.

Do I need to rent a car in South Lake Tahoe?

While you will find limited public bus routes and a handy free shuttle in South Lake Tahoe, CA, the area is best navigated at your own pace – and the best way to do that is from behind the wheel of a rental car. This is especially important if you plan on adventuring far and wide to neighboring towns, national parks, and even major cities like San Francisco and Sacramento. Book your car rental with Turo and enjoy freedom and flexibility on your trip to 'The Lake of the Sky' and beyond.