The Landing Resort & Spa in South Lake Tahoe is a 77-room boutique hotel that opened as the South Shore’s first five-star property, and it actually welcomes dogs. The location puts you within reach of the lake itself and close to some of the area’s better hiking and outdoor access points.

The rooms are genuinely upscale—you’re looking at the kind of place where details matter, from the bedding to the bathroom fixtures. What makes it worth considering for a dog trip is that they do have designated dog-friendly rooms available, so you’re not squeezing your dog into whatever space is left. They’ve clearly thought about accommodating pets rather than just tolerating them.

The 3,600 square-foot rooftop terrace is the standout feature here. It’s lined with fire pits, and in the cooler months especially, that’s the kind of space where you’d actually want to spend time outside with your dog, away from the bustle. The views of the lake and surrounding mountains from up there are genuine Sierra scenery, not some landscaped approximation.

South Lake Tahoe itself can get crowded, particularly in winter and peak summer season, but this property’s location gives you some breathing room. You’re close enough to everything—shops, restaurants, the lake—but not right in the thick of it. The surrounding neighborhoods are fairly walkable if you want to explore with your dog on leash.

One thing to keep in mind: this is positioned as an upscale property, so pricing reflects that. But if you’re already planning a nice trip to Tahoe and want a solid base where your dog will be genuinely accommodated rather than merely allowed, this works. The rooftop setup means you have actual outdoor space at the hotel itself, which matters when you’re traveling with a dog and need a break from being out in public.