Homewood.
- WHAT TO DO
- WHAT TO SEE
- WHAT TO EAT
Homewood sits on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe, seventy-five minutes by car southwest of Reno-Tahoe International Airport along California State Route 89. The community is built around quiet water access, historic wooden boat culture at Obexer's Marina, and a ski hill that practically drops you onto the highway. Homewood is worth visiting if you want unhurried lake access, uncrowded winter glades, and classic mid-century West Shore character.
Last updated 7 Sept 2026
Field notes
Photographs · Wikimedia Commons
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What to do in Homewood California United States
Life in Homewood stretches along a thin ribbon between the granite spine of the Sierra Nevada and the West Shore waterline. Mornings belong to boaters warming up engines at the dock or skiers loading the Madden chairlift. It is a slow, residential stretch of Route 89 that suits travellers who prefer quiet dock walks, vintage wooden hulls, and pine-shaded cabins over casino neon or manicured resort plazas.
24 hours in Homewood California United States
Grab a breakfast sandwich at Obexer's General Store, then take the Madden Chair at Homewood Mountain or rent a kayak for early lake calm. Spend the afternoon swimming at Chamberlands before settling onto the deck at West Shore Cafe for seared trout and a cold California draft. Select 1 Day above to see it.
2 days in Homewood California United States
A second day lets you head five miles north to Sugar Pine Point State Park to inspect the 1903 Ehrman Mansion. Afterward, hike the peaceful trail through Blackwood Canyon up to Barker Pass, finishing with smoked meats and cold lager back down along Route 89. Choose 2 Days to expand the plan.
3 days in Homewood California United States
With three days, venture south past Meeks Bay into the dramatic cliffs of Emerald Bay and hike down to Vikingsholm castle. Spend your final afternoon lingering along the docks of Homewood, watching vintage Chris-Craft boats motor into the marina as the sun dips behind the ridge.
Homewood California United States itineraries by interest
Downhill Skiing in Homewood California United States
Carve top-to-bottom cruisers at Homewood Mountain Resort with unmatched, unobstructed views looking directly down into Lake Tahoe below.
Maritime History in Homewood California United States
Walk the slips at Obexer's Boat Company, operating since 1911 as Lake Tahoe's first marina and home to classic mahogany runabouts.
Lakeside Dining in Homewood California United States
Order pan-roasted trout and regional pinot noir right on the pier at the West Shore Cafe as the afternoon light settles over the water.
Backcountry Hiking in Homewood California United States
Trek the steep switchbacks up Ellis Peak or into Blackwood Canyon for alpine granite ridges and panoramic views across the Tahoe Basin.
Paddling & Boating in Homewood California United States
Launch kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Obexer's launch ramp in the glassy early morning before the afternoon wind picks up.
Delis & Bakeries in Homewood California United States
Pick up thick deli sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and fresh roast coffee at Obexer's General Store before heading out on the trail.
State Parks in Homewood California United States
Drive ten minutes north to Sugar Pine Point State Park to tour the 1903 Ehrman Mansion and walk among dense stands of old-growth pines.
Winter Snowshoeing in Homewood California United States
Strap on snowshoes along the McKinney-Rubicon Trail, following snow-covered logging roads into quiet fir forests away from the crowds.
Scenic Drives in Homewood California United States
Follow Route 89 south toward Emerald Bay, winding along narrow granite cliffs with dramatic pullouts high above the deep blue bay.
Public Beaches in Homewood California United States
Lay out a towel on the pebble-and-sand shoreline at Chamberlands Beach or nearby Meeks Bay for clear, cold alpine swimming.
Classic Cabins in Homewood California United States
Walk residential lanes lined with 1940s cedar-shingle cabins, stone chimneys, and deep-set porches beneath heavy canopies of pine.
Mountain Biking in Homewood California United States
Ride the dirt fire roads through Blackwood Canyon up to Barker Pass, connecting directly to rugged sections of the Tahoe Rim Trail.