What to expect: Piney Incline Village is Lake Tahoe's most exclusive neighborhood, where lakefront vacation homes begin at $10 million. On site, the hotel showcases huge ceiling beams, wrought-iron chandeliers, leather seating, river rock and rough-hewn timber, and massive fireplaces. Clientele is a mix of international travelers.

Amenity highlights: In summer, a private, 500-foot beach of golden sand is furnished with padded lounges. Hiking, biking, and jogging trails take guests deep into the alpine environment. Adirondack chairs surround firepits on a terrace fronting the resort's celebrated beachside restaurant.

All guestrooms and public areas of the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort have high-speed wireless Internet access (surcharge). In winter, shuttle service is available to select ski resorts.

Insider tip: The bar at the end of the resort's 275-foot floating pier is the place to be for watching the sunset reflected on the lake before the sun slips below the western horizon.