Hyatt Gold Passport - Seek advice on Lake Tahoe vacation

Planning a short family vacation in Lake Tahoe in Aug… debating among Hyatt Regency Resort, Hyatt High Sierra Lodge, and Ritz Carlton. The lowest rate I can get is 340 for a double queen in HR Resort, and 550 for a two bedroom condo (8 ppl) in Hyatt Lodge. The travel consolidator website suggested Ritz Carlton at 320 for a double room. We have four adults and three small kids.

Location

This is my first time to Lake Tahoe. HR Resorts seems right next to the lake, according to the map. I am hoping it has private lake front, ideally beach, for the kids. Hyatt Lodge claims that it has private late front, but I am not sure the condition and the distance to room. Also I noticed the proximity of HR Resort and Hyatt Lodge, so I guess there is a possibility that they share the same lake facility. Ritz, on the contrary, appears to be a ski resort on the mountain.

Cost

I can book two rooms at HR resort, and request diamond suite upgrade for one. Or I can book one two bedroom in the Hyatt Lodge. Three days’ cost, including fees and taxes, are close to 2500 for HR Resort and 1950 for the Hyatt Lodge, so the difference is 180 per day (for two rooms). But I can have lounge access for all 7 people at the HR Resort, which I assume doesn’t exist at the Hyatt Lodge. Also I don’t know the housekeeping service at the Lodge. Ritz Carlton offers double room at 320 and 1 br room suite at 550. Assuming I get one of each, plus taxes, it will be 2950 for 3 days, without any lounge/food benefits of course.

Amenity

Ritz is highly regarded in reviews, not surprisingly, despite its mountain location. With diamond membership, I assume HR Resorts will offer more possibilities than the Lodge.

All in, I am inclined to the HR Resort, but would like to hear what you have to say since I have never stayed in a Hyatt Vacation Club, and never been to Lake Tahoe.

Also any kid activity ideas will be appreciated (my children are 1/4/6).

Thanks.

Your research appears to be in order. I'd go with the plan you have in mind and not wait to make reservations. There is a large kids activity club + recent renovation of rooms. The lake is about 130 yards from the hotel.

If this is your first time in Lake Tahoe.... perhaps camping at Emerald Bay or a renting a private home would be a far better experience... These hotels are better in the winter, not in the summer. The lake is freezing, your kids will spend little time in the water, your hotel pool will be a more enjoyable destination than a beach on the lake.

The Hyatt is an old renovated dated hotel, the Ritz is new. Keep in mind the Hyatt looks better in pictures on it website... the main hotel tower is ugly.

Planning a short family vacation in Lake Tahoe in Aug… debating among Hyatt Regency Resort, Hyatt High Sierra Lodge, and Ritz Carlton. The lowest rate I can get is 340 for a double queen in HR Resort, and 550 for a two bedroom condo (8 ppl) in Hyatt Lodge. The travel consolidator website suggested Ritz Carlton at 320 for a double room. We have four adults and three small kids.

Location

This is my first time to Lake Tahoe. HR Resorts seems right next to the lake, according to the map. I am hoping it has private lake front, ideally beach, for the kids. Hyatt Lodge claims that it has private late front, but I am not sure the condition and the distance to room. Also I noticed the proximity of HR Resort and Hyatt Lodge, so I guess there is a possibility that they share the same lake facility. Ritz, on the contrary, appears to be a ski resort on the mountain.

Cost

I can book two rooms at HR resort, and request diamond suite upgrade for one. Or I can book one two bedroom in the Hyatt Lodge. Three days’ cost, including fees and taxes, are close to 2500 for HR Resort and 1950 for the Hyatt Lodge, so the difference is 180 per day (for two rooms). But I can have lounge access for all 7 people at the HR Resort, which I assume doesn’t exist at the Hyatt Lodge. Also I don’t know the housekeeping service at the Lodge. Ritz Carlton offers double room at 320 and 1 br room suite at 550. Assuming I get one of each, plus taxes, it will be 2950 for 3 days, without any lounge/food benefits of course.

Amenity

Ritz is highly regarded in reviews, not surprisingly, despite its mountain location. With diamond membership, I assume HR Resorts will offer more possibilities than the Lodge.

All in, I am inclined to the HR Resort, but would like to hear what you have to say since I have never stayed in a Hyatt Vacation Club, and never been to Lake Tahoe.

Also any kid activity ideas will be appreciated (my children are 1/4/6).

Thanks.

Thank you. Any thing special for Emerald Bay? My youngest one just passed 1 yr so camping might not the best choice. Any recommendation on vacation house rental?

Also what about kid activities at the Ritz?

I just found out that I ran out of diamond suite certificate, Hyatt CSR can help me upgrade using point, but need 430/night plus 6000 points (for three night)

We are owners at the Hyatt High Sierra Lodge which is a lovely timeshare property. However, even though we are owners, we always opt to stay at the resort property as the pool and spa are wonderful, plus, as you mention, you have use of the club. I am not sure that the RC has been upgraded and thus, it is smaller than most resort RCs. If you can swing a cottage at the HR, you will literally be steps away from the beach. The HR is across the street, and the High Sierra Lodge, steps beyond the HR.

One thing to mention with the HR is that it does have a casino, a small one and featured fairly prominently at the front of the hotel. It can be smoky and crowded, and of course, does not allow kids. You can always bypass it, but there is the gambling crowd, particularly at night. Without children, that does not bother us, but it can be a nuisance to some.

I have to admit that the Lake Tahoe HR is one of our most favorite properties because it does have so much to offer to all visitors. I most enjoy the fresh air, the ability to walk among the pines, enjoy day trips around the lake. You can relax as much as you want or take advantage of all the things nature has to offer.

Enjoy!

Ritz is surrounded by half finished condos with a bunch of construction equipment scattered around (at least that was the case in may). There is absolutely nothing nearby - probably OK in winter when you can ski but I can't imagine staying there in summer

I I were to stay away from the lake I would probably consider northstar - at least the village looks a bit livelier...
I would try to priceline or hotwire Hyatt - normally you can get it for far less than retail.

In Tahoe, I always stay at Brockway Springs (http://www.brockwaysprings.com) (condos), but always go to the Lone Eagle Grille at the Hyatt - well Lanza's in King's Beach also.

Brockway Springs is a good idea and a safe bet. Renting a condo/house at Tahoe can be very risky.

If you do Hyatt, the windows do not open on the top floor. No sense of being in Tahoe if you cannot enjoy the air.
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House is not a bad idea at all. You could probably get a sweet place for what you'll be paying. Check Bay Area Craigslist. IIWY I'd want to be in Incline or the W Shore (Homewood etc). The water on the E Shore is not all that cold in Aug (at least the top 3ft). The kids will be in the water plenty. Make sure to slather on the sun block - your at elevation ! Hyatt has a great beach. The town of Incline has a couple beaches that are just as nice with a pool and picnic tables which you can use if you rent in town, as well as a top notch fitness center, golf course etc. wj

both hyatts share the same beach and it is gorgeous. I just got back saturday from 5 days and it was beautiful. There are lots of gorgeous beaches in tahoe, but having a private one does help- its also nice to have the attendants helping you at the beach. There are no extra amenities at the condo, so if you want upgrades and such go for the hotel. They are just finishing up a remodel at the hotel so i think its probably nicer than before, i saw some of the new furniture they were bringing in so it is quite an investment.

The restaurant on the beach is lone eagle grille, and it is very good but pricey. They did have something new this year, a 3 course price fixed menu for $40 available sunday through wednesday so check that out if you go!

I agree with another post. There is absolutely nothing to do at the Ritz in the summer. It's primarily a ski resort. The closest beach activity would be the public beach at Kings Beach which is 20 minutes away.

The beach at the Hyatt is private. Lake water is ICE cold, but there are still a lot of kids in it and a few shivering adults. It's a short walk from the tower part of the hotel, steps from the lakefront cottages, and a fair amount further from the Hyatt timeshare.

Well you ask for advice on a Tahoe Vacation and you chime in on the Hyatt Board... of course they are going to say STAY AT THE HYATT.... I'm born and raised in Northern California... spent my weekends in Tahoe,.... NO ONE GOES TO THE HYATT... We rent cabins or private homes.... We don't go to the beach... TOO COLD.. rocky or DIRTY SAND... we go for hikes and enjoy the mountains and the lake views.

The Ritz is beautiful, it the newest most glamorous hotel in the entire lake area.... the Hyatt is an old renovated hotel... I spent high school ski weekends there.. back in the late 80s.:D If you want to station yourself at a beach on an alpine lake... stay at the Hyatt:(... if you want to spend time at a beautiful alpine hotel... THE RITZ... I would prefer a private home, cabin or a tent at Emerald Bay... than a weekend at the Hyatt.

http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=506

The Hyatt is ok... Lake Tahoe has so much more to offer...

I maybe the wrong person to ask since Lake Tahoe was my second home.

Have to agree w/A5, except "We don't go to the beach... TOO COLD.. rocky or DIRTY SAND". I have never heard of anybody who spent a great deal of time at LT who did not go in the Lake at every chance. I have been in the water in nearly every square inch of the Lake and there is no "dirty sand". The W Shore is pebbly and colder. The E Shore is warmer and full of huge boulders. I was swimming there Memorial day weekend. It wasn't that cold since there was little snow this year. The boulders are gorgeous because they accentuate the supreme clarity of LT. Let me assure you that N Californians do go in the water and do not find it bone chilling, since it's quite a bit warmer than our ocean beaches. We N Californians are not sissies and we find cold water invigorating. The Lake temperature in Aug in Incline will be near 70. To one from Norcal that's toasty believe me ! wj

Thank you all. Obviously nothing is perfect, but HR is probably the best option.

Here I have another question about Suite Upgrade at this place...

I ran out of all my four diamond suite certificate right now. Currently I booked two rooms at 330 ea. I'd hoped that I have one suite. So here are my options:

1. Upgrade with point, Diamond desk said I need to pay 430/night plus 6000 points for three nights in a suite

2. Or I can pull one certificate from HR Scottsdale later this year... the eStandby Upgrade for HR Scottsdale is only $45/day.

3. Last but not least, eStandby Upgrade for HR Lake Tahoe offers $360/day to one or two bedroom cottage.

My questions:

1. What kind of room can you usually get through diamond suite certificate or point upgrade?

2. Is the two bedroom cottage suite big enough that I can cancel one room? I have four adults and three small kids (1/4/6).

Thanks again.

My biggest concern with booking the cottages would be having to cross the road and go upstairs in the main hotel to get to the RC all the time if that is important to you. I would call the property directly and ask which option they would recommend based on your needs. They can give you specifics about suites, junior suites, connecting rooms, etc. You can also read about and see rooms here: http://www.hyattregencylaketahoe.com/rooms-suitesc4f5.html?icamp=LH-reservations-ss-tvllt They are pretty accurate descriptions and pictures. Sorry I can't help you about the upgrading question.

2 br cottage would be enough (two standard room bedrooms and large living room with kitchen in the middle. However estandby is not a confirmed upgrade so you may end up without it. Suite with connecting bedroom would be about the same sizewise.

I have had several suites here.....large and nice, but no recollection of seperate rooms for privacy. The upgrade suite is a better value here versus Scottsdale, based on what you have written. Calling the hotel to discuss what you might receive for using the upgrade cert is a great idea. However, communicate with the GM. The hotel is loaded with seasonal employees and few have knowledge or power to do what it takes for you to make this a successful stay.

Now, this probably won't make me popular on this thread, but I cringe when I read about these rates. I've stayed at this Hyatt maybe a half dozen times in the last 2-3 years, and it's ok but not spectacular. It routinely comes up -in shoulder season- for ~$120 on Priceline/Hotwire or during sales, and that's about what it's worth. Even during their high season, I've seen it on PL/HW for about $200, and that price would be borderline for me. So I would definitely check into these sites (4* Incline Village); suite upgrades won't be allowed when booked through third parties, but this place just isn't worth $400 a night. JMHO.

Now, this probably won't make me popular on this thread, but I cringe when I read about these rates. I've stayed at this Hyatt maybe a half dozen times in the last 2-3 years, and it's ok but not spectacular. It routinely comes up -in shoulder season- for ~$120 on Priceline/Hotwire or during sales, and that's about what it's worth. Even during their high season, I've seen it on PL/HW for about $200, and that price would be borderline for me. So I would definitely check into these sites (4* Incline Village); suite upgrades won't be allowed when booked through third parties, but this place just isn't worth $400 a night. JMHO.

+++ ! I've gotten upgrades to suites after buying on PL for $80. Not July or Aug though. You can probably get a 3500sf 4bd mansion across the street for $200-250 ! wj

I'm going to throw this out there, Hyatt Northstar Lodge? Get a 2 or 3 bedroom.

We stayed there (family of 4) in a two bedroom, don't remember the rate but I know we got a discount for being timeshare owners in Carmel, a couple of summers ago. It was comfortable, new, breakfast (cold items like cereals, toasts, danishes, etc., but you have a full kitchen)

I know it's not next to the lake, and is just down the mountain from the RC. 20 minute ride to the lake. The people at the hotel are all really friendly and helpful. The village there is nice enough, lots of better and nicer restaurants along the lake.

Looking at three random dates later this month, its 400 for a 2bedroom and 540 for 3, with the following note: Excellent residential-style, self-catering facility. Gold Passport points will be awarded. A Resort Fee of $20 incl. tax per unit, per night will be assessed. The fee covers the following items: self parking heated garage 1st car, wireless internet, incoming and outgoing faxes, local telephone calls, 800/888 telephone surcharges, village swim and fitness center 24 hour access, 24 hour business center, and ski valet.

Worth taking a peek at it at least.

I do a couple of trips to Lake Tahoe a year (summer and winter), and always get a house. With your family of five it's almost a no-brainer. You'll get something much nicer for significantly less money by getting a house, with the slight caveat that there's a bit more messing around involved to book the place, pick up the keys from the agent upon arrival, clear up your own mess upon leaving, and drop the keys back at the agent. On the other hand, if you just want a nice easy hotel-style experience then I guess a suite at the Hyatt won't kill ya. :)

It also depends what a "short" vacation is. If it's two nights then a hotel has something to be said for it, if it's a whole week the house is definitely the way to go.

I've swum in the lake in high summer and it's not that cold; mind you, that was way around the southern edge where there's enormous shallow regions which tend to warm up a bit more during the summer while the deeper parts of the lake remain close to freezing all year round. In Incline Village where the Hyatt is, I can't make any promises.

addendum: I just noticed you said three nights. I'm inclined towards getting a nice house around South Lake.

I surely wouldn't do S Lake. There isn't a lot to like in S Lake IMO. Between Stateline and Incline on the E Shore would be the exception (Round Hill, Cave Rock, Glenbrook etc). The water on the E Shore and Incline feels way warmer to me because the prevailing winds come from the opposite side of the lake and blow the warmer surface water E. The water on the W shore is way colder. Maybe up to 10 degrees.The why is pure speculation on my part, but I'm pretty good at guessing water temperature. wj

How to get to GM? Directly ask the operator for him?

I googled and the GM's name appears to be Fred Findlen

I have had several suites here.....large and nice, but no recollection of seperate rooms for privacy. The upgrade suite is a better value here versus Scottsdale, based on what you have written. Calling the hotel to discuss what you might receive for using the upgrade cert is a great idea. However, communicate with the GM. The hotel is loaded with seasonal employees and few have knowledge or power to do what it takes for you to make this a successful stay.

A few personal observations as we are currently staying at the Hyatt in a 2 bdrm suite in the main tower of the hotel. We have "paid" for accommodations with a combination of GP points and special casino rates.

First, I cannot imagine going to Tahoe and not staying by the lake, unless you are there in the winter for skiing, snowboarding, etc. The mountains are indeed gorgeous, but what sets Tahoe apart for almost any place else is the lake. The beach at the Hyatt is excellent, and while the water is indeed on the cold side, there are other water activities, including kayaks and sea-doos. The food and beverage service on the beach is also excellent and the views are beyond great.

Second, I have lived in N Calif for more than 30 years, and we have stayed at many places over the years. In the opinion of our entire family, the Hyatt is without any doubt the best place to stay, especially for a family with kids. After staying on the south shore for many years - Harrahs, Caesars, Harveys, Embassy Suites - we have settled on the Hyatt for the past 7 or 8 years and now cannot imagine going anywhere else. We have a number of other friends who always stay at the Hyatt, so I think Andaz5 is a bit off when saying no one who lives in N Calif stays at the Hyatt.

The condos are on the lake side of the road, and it is a disadvantage if you are planning on going to the casino a lot, as it is in the hotel across the road as is the RC. The offerings in the RC are decent in the morning, but the afternoon selections have been seriously downgraded - in the few days we have been here, nothing but veggies and dip. Incidentally, if your status doesn't qualify you for access to the RC, it is an extra $100/day. IMO, definitely not worth it.

The restaurants in the Hyatt are not our preference. The flagship Lone Eagle Grill is very upscale, and, IMO, way overpriced. It has a spectacular view of the lake, but the food does not warrant prices with entrees in the $30-40 range. There are many really good small restaurants within a 5 minute drive of the Hyatt, and we rarely eat in. This is another advantage of staying at Incline Village.

I agree with those who say don't stay at the South Shore. It is crowded and minimizes your experience of being at Tahoe. The only thing I can say about the south shore is that if you drive into the area on Highway 50, your first view of the Lake will be unbelievable.

Edit to add the names of a couple of restaurants in Incline within 5 min of the Hyatt - La Fondue (exactly what the name says), Azzarro's (Italian), Bite (American tapas), Frederick's Fusion Bistro (eclectic mix of Calif cuisine and sushi).

Great review and spot on. The one other item I enjoy from the beach area is the firepit at night. About 10 Chairs and you can usually find a seat and talk to people in a beautiful environment. Sad to hear the regency club has cut back on the offerings during the evenings.

Do they still have wonderful fruit/berry buckets in the morning with blueberries, strawberries, etc? That was a wonderful good touch even in the winter months.

A few personal observations as we are currently staying at the Hyatt in a 2 bdrm suite in the main tower of the hotel. We have "paid" for accommodations with a combination of GP points and special casino rates.

First, I cannot imagine going to Tahoe and not staying by the lake, unless you are there in the winter for skiing, snowboarding, etc. The mountains are indeed gorgeous, but what sets Tahoe apart for almost any place else is the lake. The beach at the Hyatt is excellent, and while the water is indeed on the cold side, there are other water activities, including kayaks and sea-doos. The food and beverage service on the beach is also excellent and the views are beyond great.

Second, I have lived in N Calif for more than 30 years, and we have stayed at many places over the years. In the opinion of our entire family, the Hyatt is without any doubt the best place to stay, especially for a family with kids. After staying on the south shore for many years - Harrahs, Caesars, Harveys, Embassy Suites - we have settled on the Hyatt for the past 7 or 8 years and now cannot imagine going anywhere else. We have a number of other friends who always stay at the Hyatt, so I think Andaz5 is a bit off when saying no one who lives in N Calif stays at the Hyatt.

The condos are on the lake side of the road, and it is a disadvantage if you are planning on going to the casino a lot, as it is in the hotel across the road as is the RC. The offerings in the RC are decent in the morning, but the afternoon selections have been seriously downgraded - in the few days we have been here, nothing but veggies and dip. Incidentally, if your status doesn't qualify you for access to the RC, it is an extra $100/day. IMO, definitely not worth it.

The restaurants in the Hyatt are not our preference. The flagship Lone Eagle Grill is very upscale, and, IMO, way overpriced. It has a spectacular view of the lake, but the food does not warrant prices with entrees in the $30-40 range. There are many really good small restaurants within a 5 minute drive of the Hyatt, and we rarely eat in. This is another advantage of staying at Incline Village.

I agree with those who say don't stay at the South Shore. It is crowded and minimizes your experience of being at Tahoe. The only thing I can say about the south shore is that if you drive into the area on Highway 50, your first view of the Lake will be unbelievable.

Great review and spot on. The one other item I enjoy from the beach area is the firepit at night. About 10 Chairs and you can usually find a seat and talk to people in a beautiful environment. Sad to hear the regency club has cut back on the offerings during the evenings.

Do they still have wonderful fruit/berry buckets in the morning with blueberries, strawberries, etc? That was a wonderful good touch even in the winter months.

Sorry, haven't seen the fruit/berry buckets all week.

The offerings in the RC are decent in the morning, but the afternoon selections have been seriously downgraded - in the few days we have been here, nothing but veggies and dip.

IIRC,

Hyatt promised to compensate for the loss of free alcohol in the club lounges with a hot option for both breakfast and afternoon appetizers...

Did they change the rules or is the property just cheap ( despite the high rates in the peak summer season...)