12 Stunning Lake Tahoe Small Wedding Venues

While elopements can totally be something you share between just the two of you, a lot of couples can’t imagine their day without celebrating with friends or family. At Mindful Media Photography, we understand the importance of capturing those special moments with loved ones. If you’re planning your elopement, you’ll find plenty of Lake Tahoe wedding venues small enough to create an intimate reception. 

You can have dinner and kick off the beginning of your marriage with the people you love most, choose to have a private ceremony and celebrate later, or spend the entire day with your loved ones. Here are 12 of the best Lake Tahoe small wedding venues.

The Party Boat

This one isn’t a traditional wedding reception venue – it’s a boat that takes off into the clear blue water of Lake Tahoe, so you can celebrate on the water! The Party Boat is a unique small wedding venue on Lake Tahoe where you can spend the evening, with indoor and outdoor decks, a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and plenty of space, whether you want to turn it into a dance floor or a place to relax.

What makes The Party Boat awesome: 

• This is such a fun and unique way to celebrate! Your guests will be talking about it long after the wedding.
• With space for up to 49 guests, it’s perfect for an intimate Lake Tahoe wedding that still feels like a party.
• The boat has full-service catering, so you’ll have plenty of delicious options for your celebration.

Two-hour rentals start at $2,100, with options to extend up to five hours. You can check out more details and book The Party Boat here!

Nevada Beach Day Use Pavilion

For a small wedding venue in Lake Tahoe that is casual and outdoors, one of the best venues in Lake Tahoe is the Nevada Beach Day Use Pavilion. It’s located in the Lake Tahoe Basin of Nevada, just a few minutes away from the bright blue water. The pavilion is tucked in a woodsy area full of pine trees and evergreen shrubs, which makes the perfect backdrop to celebrate with your loved ones outdoors! 

Why we love the Nevada Beach Day Use Pavilion:

• The beach itself is just steps away, giving you the best of both worlds: a forest backdrop and stunning lake views.
• The woodsy setting is perfect for couples who want a laid-back picnic-style reception. 
• There’s also a campground nearby, so for an extra adventure, you can camp and roast s’mores, enjoying the great outdoors on your wedding day.

South of North Brewing Co.

With a vintage Airstream as its backdrop, South of North Brewing Co. has so much character. Its outdoor fire pits and small reception area are some of my all-time favorites for micro weddings in Lake Tahoe. It’s also a full brewery and restaurant that caters in-house. Plus, the Airstream has been converted into a small stage perfect for live music and speeches.

Here’s why we enjoy South of North Brewing Co.:

• Their craft beer selection is top-notch, and the cozy fire pits make it a great place to unwind with your loved ones.
• The outdoor seating creates a fun, laid-back atmosphere, with tables surrounding the live music area.
• It’s a dog-friendly spot, so your pup can join in on the fun.

Tahoe Bleu Wave Yacht

We can’t think of a better way to celebrate your micro wedding in Lake Tahoe than taking a private charter out on the blue water of Lake Tahoe! One of the best small wedding reception venues is the Tahoe Bleu Wave, a yacht that can be rented for a private reception. Imagine having dinner looking out onto the gorgeous water, and dancing the night away under the stars! 

What’s great about Tahoe Bleu Wave:

• You can choose from several destinations, including the scenic Emerald Bay.
• The yacht has space for up to 47 guests, making it perfect for an intimate wedding celebration on the water.
• With indoor and outdoor seating, you’ll have incredible lake views no matter where you are on board.

Wedding cruises start at $999. You can learn more and book your wedding here.

See our Emerald Bay Elopement Planning Guide for everything you need to know!

Gar Woods

Located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, Gar Woods has been a local favorite for nearly 40 years. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a bigger reception, this spot has plenty of options for your celebration.

Why we love Gar Woods:

• You can make a grand entrance by boat if you want!
• Live music is allowed, whether you’re hiring a band or a DJ.
• The views of Lake Tahoe are stunning, and the public pier right outside is perfect for sunset portraits.

There’s no room rental fee for private dining, but there is a food and beverage minimum. Reach out to their banquet team for details!

Rojo’s Tavern

Rojo’s Tavern is a great restaurant and bar, popular with locals and visitors! It’s one of the best Lake Tahoe small wedding venues for intimate receptions, and if you’re looking for a delicious place to grab a bite and spend some time with your friends and family. Downstairs, you’ll find a private room that can host small receptions, with room for dancing, live music, and of course, food!

What makes Rojo’s Tavern amazing:

• The cozy, rustic atmosphere makes it a fun and laid-back place to celebrate with family and friends!
• A local gem since the 1920s, this spot is full of charm and history.
• It’s known for its warm, welcoming staff and seriously good comfort food.

Zephyr Cove Resort

Though the Zephyr Cove Resort hosts big weddings as well, it’s also one of the best small wedding reception venues in Lake Tahoe! There are adorable cabins that can host anywhere from 2-10 people, so you can rent one for you and your guests and celebrate your marriage on the gorgeous shores of the lake. During your stay, there are several restaurants at the resort, along with fun adventures like parasailing, kayaking, horseback riding, and more!

Why we love Zephyr Cove Resort:

• It’s a year-round venue with a private beach and marina, which offer a stunning backdrop for your wedding festivities!
• There are tons of nearby options for dining and outdoor adventures, making it perfect for out-of-town guests.
• You can stay right on-site in a cozy cabin or at the lakeside lodge.

Chart House

Chart House sits on a hill near Kingsbury Grade, offering incredible views of Lake Tahoe. It’s known for its fresh seafood, steaks, and classic cocktails, making it a great spot for a wedding reception or intimate dinner. With its warm, upscale atmosphere and panoramic windows, you’ll get a front-row seat to Lake Tahoe’s famous sunsets.

What’s great about Chart House:

• The modern dining room makes a stylish backdrop for your reception photos.
• There are several private and semi-private dining spaces, so you can find the perfect fit for your group.
• The location offers magical sunset views over the lake.

The Station House Inn

The Station House Inn is a stylish boutique hotel just a short walk from Lake Tahoe. It’s the perfect spot for couples who want a cozy and intimate celebration without a traditional venue. The hotel’s main lobby transforms into a private reception space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere with its fireplace, comfy couches, and relaxed vibe. Many couples keep things simple by bringing in their own decor and catering—like a taco bar—to create a laid-back and personal experience. Plus, with on-site lodging, your family and friends can stay right there with you for a full weekend of fun!

Why we love Station House Inn:

• The reception space feels cozy and welcoming, with a fireplace and lounge seating.
• Couples can customize their day with their own decor and catering, making it an affordable and flexible option.
• Guests can stay at the hotel, so everything is in one convenient location.

Big Water Grille Reception Venue

Big Water Grille is a restaurant with amazing food and incredible views! It’s located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, and you can see panoramic views of the water through the big windows. It’s one of the best restaurants if you are looking for fine dining. You can reserve a spot for your small wedding reception overlooking Lake Tahoe and enjoy delicious food and wine – in addition to a stunning sunset over the water!

What to love about Big Water Grille:

• The atmosphere is cozy yet upscale, making it the perfect spot for an intimate and memorable wedding celebration.
• The views of Lake Tahoe are absolutely stunning, giving you a breathtaking backdrop.
• The fine dining here is top-notch, with a menu full of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Jake’s on the Lake Reception Venue

If you love seafood, celebrate your elopement at Jake’s on the Lake! This micro wedding reception venue is right on Lake Tahoe’s coast, with local and sustainable produce. It’s the perfect intimate venue to celebrate with your loved ones, and you can rent out the banquet room for a private experience.

Why we love Jake’s on the Lake:

• The lakeside patio offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe.
• The menu evolves with the seasons, so your guests can enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes year-round.
• The dedicated event staff will take care of everything, ensuring your celebration goes smoothly from start to finish.

Valhalla Tahoe

Valhalla Tahoe is a charming venue on the south shore of Lake Tahoe. It has great views of the water and is surrounded by tall pines. The history here adds so much character, too! You can have a cozy indoor celebration or take it outside for a beautiful ceremony with the lake in the background.

What is great about Valhalla Tahoe:

• The venue is perfect for couples who want a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces.
• You get the natural beauty of the lake and trees while still having a historic, elegant vibe.
• It’s a perfect spot for an intimate ceremony, with lots of space for photos in the garden and near the lake.

Saturday rentals at Valhalla Tahoe are $11,000, with lower rates for Friday, Sunday, and weekday rentals. For all the details on having a wedding at Valhalla Tahoe, check out this blog post.

Need Help Finding the Perfect Lake Tahoe Wedding Venue or Elopement Location?

At Mindful Media, part of our job as your elopement photographer and videographer team is to help you plan the perfect elopement! We’ll help you out with ceremony spots, as well as personalized recommendations for places around Lake Tahoe where you can host an intimate celebration.

Find out more about our all-inclusive elopement packages in Lake Tahoe. We include everything you need to cover your day. As your micro wedding and elopement photographers, we’ll do all the heavy lifting. You pick your dream destination for your elopement, date, and travel while we handle the rest!

Contact us if you’re ready to start planning!

This post was originally published on February 2, 2022 and was updated on March 26, 2025.