Car rental South Lake Tahoe, CA
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Rental cars in South Lake Tahoe, CA
Rent a car in South Lake Tahoe on Turo
Tucked into the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains on the California-Nevada state line, you'll find South Lake Tahoe – an adventurer's paradise at all times of the year, and a hugely popular tourist destination for this very reason. From snow sports to hiking, biking, and swimming, there's always something to do in South Lake Tahoe, and that's not counting the many restaurants, shops, and spots to relax in the area.
Make hopping from the beach or ski fields to the wilderness and back a breeze by securing a South Lake Tahoe car rental from Turo. Local hosts have boundless vehicles ready to book for any length of time, from sturdy SUVs and pickup trucks to cruisy sports cars and trusty sedans.
South Lake Tahoe, CA car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car in South Lake Tahoe is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across South Lake Tahoe, California and beyond, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.
1. Find the perfect car
Enter a date and location in South Lake Tahoe, CA (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.
2. Select a pickup location
Rent a car nearby or get one delivered to various destinations, including many airports, train stations, hotels, or maybe even your home.
3. Hit the road
Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of South Lake Tahoe, CA! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.
Recent reviews
Car was clean, no issues, Tyler was very receptive to messages Definitely would recommend
Car in perfect condition, very clean, Tyler a great host, always attentive if we had inquiries, I recommend him 100% if you come to visit Lake Tahoe and need to travel.
Rent a car and explore South Lake Tahoe, CA
Things to do and places to see in South Lake Tahoe, CA
Scenic, serene, and full of sights to suit every traveler's taste, South Lake Tahoe, CA, might just be the perfect vacation destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the many nature-based activities to enjoy, from skiing and snowboarding at world-renowned ski resorts, to swimming at the area's many beaches and hiking rugged mountainous trails. If you prefer a chilled-out holiday, there's no shortage of spas to discover, boutiques to browse, and restaurants to try.
Rent the perfect carEmerald Bay State Park
The place to be in South Lake Tahoe for hiking, paddle-boarding, and kayaking, Emerald Bay State Park is a picturesque inlet with turquoise-blue water and miles of towering trees. Spend the morning or the day here exploring the many trails and taking photos of the lush scenery. Once you're all hiked out, cruise on over to Vikingsholm Castle for a cultural fix. This historic, Scandinavian-style residence has cut a striking figure in Tahoe since the late 1920s. Tours of the property run throughout the day, giving visitors an insight into its stunning architecture and the history of the area.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Dubbed one of the most unique ski resorts in the world, Heavenly Mountain Resort is a bucket-list destination and veritable playground for snow sports enthusiasts. A trip to South Lake Tahoe would not be complete without at least a day trip to Heavenly Mountain – hit the ski slopes, take a scenic gondola ride, and warm up with a hot chocolate (or a hot toddy) from one of the resort's many dining establishments. Depending on the year's snowfall, the season sometimes runs as late as April or May – so you can get your ski and snowboarding fix well into the spring!
Pope Beach
Boasting an idyllic three-quarter mile-long stretch of sand, Pope Beach is one of the best spots to chill, swim, and soak in the sun in South Lake Tahoe. With crystal-clear water, convenient picnic spots, and lots of space to play a game of beach volleyball or build a sandcastle, you'll have no trouble spending the whole day here. And, with a car rental in South Lake Tahoe, you're not limited to just Pope Beach – once you're finished with this serene spot, head to Baldwin Beach or Kiva Beach for even more fun.
Why rent a car on Turo?
Cheap South Lake Tahoe, CA car rental
Find deals on all kinds of drives in South Lake Tahoe, CA and throughout the US - from the everyday to the extraordinary. Rent the perfect vehicle for your budget.
Convenient South Lake Tahoe, CA car rental pick up options
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest in South Lake Tahoe, CA, like airports, train stations, and hotels.
Relax with support & damage protection
24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.
Top hosts in South Lake Tahoe, CA
Herick G.
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Guy J.’s vehicles
South Lake Tahoe car rentals for any occasion
Vacation Car Rental
South Lake Tahoe, CA, is a dream vacation destination – which is why an unbelievable 15 million people from all over the world visit every year. Whether you're vacationing in the sunny summer or the chilly winter, ensure you're set to explore from the second you leave the airport by securing a convenient car rental using Turo. Local Turo hosts have cars to suit every occasion and travel style, from the family-friendly Chevrolet Trax to the super-swishy Chevrolet Corvette, the head-turning Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and the reliable, compact Toyota Corolla.
Event car rental
With stunning surroundings and scenic vistas at every turn, it's no wonder many people travel to South Lake Tahoe for major events like weddings, birthday trips, and reunions. Lock in a luxe car rental in South Lake Tahoe when you book with Turo, or simply secure something reliable and convenient that'll get the family from A to B – local hosts have got every occasion covered. Find car rentals, including luxe people movers like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cargo, tech-savvy vehicles like the Tesla Model X, and high-powered head turners like the Ford Mustang.
Long-term car rental
South Lake Tahoe is a beautiful spot to settle for a few months, whether it's for work, play, or something in between. Explore car rental deals that won't break the bank on your extended trip when you book with Turo. You'll find a range of available vehicles that can be booked for a month-plus, such as the Toyota Camry, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mazda CX-50, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, and many more. Check long-term car rental availability by filtering for your travel dates on the Turo app.
Turo vs. Traditional car rental
Turo
App-based experience
No waiting in line
Get the exact car you choose
Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations
Contactless pickup and dropoff available
Traditional car rental
Standard rental counter experience
Waiting in line
Get one type of car “or similar”
Pickup at retail locations
Requires in-person handoff
Rental car pickup locations throughout South Lake Tahoe
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going in South Lake Tahoe, CA, including South Lake Tahoe, CA airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular South Lake Tahoe, CA pickup locations include:
Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)
Ever wanted to skip straight off your flight and sail past the airport car rental counter? Well, when you book with Turo, you can! If you're flying into Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), use the Turo app to coordinate the pick-up of your rental car from one of the approved airport locations: the Rideshare Zone for in-person exchanges, or the Overflow/Blue Lot for contactless vehicle pick-up and drop-off. While everyone else is still navigating the chaos of the airport, you'll be well on your way to exploring Lake Tahoe's breathtaking surroundings and mountain roads.
South Lake Tahoe area
If you'd prefer to settle into your new surroundings before you seek out your new set of wheels, arrange to collect your car from your Turo host in the South Lake Tahoe area. Select from a range of convenient car rental locations, including major hotels like Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino, Hard Rock Hotel Lake Tahoe, and Harrah's Lake Tahoe. Then, when your trip has come to an end, and it's time to drop off the vehicle, coordinate your return from the same spot for a convenient, stress-free rental experience.
Reno, Nevada
Although South Lake Tahoe is located in California, Reno in Nevada is the closest big city. Depending on how you plan on arriving in Tahoe, picking up your rental vehicle here might be the easiest option. This growing city is reachable via Amtrak train and bus from other parts of the United States. Before arriving in Reno, select from available car rental locations on Turo and chat with your host in the Turo app to ensure your pick-up experience goes smoothly before setting off for nearby Lake Tahoe.
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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.
Frequently asked questions about South Lake Tahoe car rentals
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver’s license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada.
In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver’s license for at least two years. In France you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles.
When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s license and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver’s licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn’t accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner’s permit/instruction permits are not accepted.
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
No, you don’t need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo.
In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you’ll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that’s right for you. On each trip, you’re covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.*
In New York state, you’ll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you’re covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
You can get discounts and low cost car rental on Turo.
On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promo codes, discounts, and deals.
Additionally, frequent travelers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totaling 10 days in a 90-day period.
Learn how the loyalty bonus worksIs there long term car rental on Turo?
Is there long term car rental on Turo?
Yes there is - whether you want to rent a car for three days, three months, or even longer, you can on Turo. You’ll find discounted prices on bookings lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days, so you can get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips.
See more about promotions & discountsIs there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Is there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit — you’ll need to check on each rental car individually to see if this service is provided. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Yes, multiple guests can drive the car you rent on Turo, as long as they are all approved to drive. The primary driver (whoever rented the car) can add additional drivers with no fees or additional charges. Only the primary driver can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.
To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.
How much does it cost to rent a car in South Lake Tahoe?
How much does it cost to rent a car in South Lake Tahoe?
The cost of car rental in South Lake Tahoe can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rental in South Lake Tahoe, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
What types of cars can I rent on Turo in South Lake Tahoe?
What types of cars can I rent on Turo in South Lake Tahoe?
From standard SUVs, pickup trucks, and people movers to compact city cars and sporty models, there's something for everyone on Turo. Fit the family in the Ford Escape, tack your bikes or boards on the back of the Rivian R1T, tackle rugged roads in the Jeep Gladiator, or enjoy eco-friendly luxury in the Tesla Model 3. Browse available car rentals on Turo and book with total peace of mind – we guarantee you'll always receive the car you selected at check-out, with no substitutions and no surprises.
* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. In the US, liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.
For questions or information about the third party liability insurance that is included in protection plans, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site.