Marriage is beautiful, but let’s be real—it’s also work. Add kids to the mix, and suddenly, what used to take five minutes (say, a quick Home Depot run) now takes 45 minutes and three rounds of “Did you pack the snacks?” And then there’s the parenting—the emotional wild ride of highs, lows, and everything in between.
That’s why we believe in intentional time away as a couple. Yes, date nights are important (even if they’re just Chick-fil-A in lawn chairs at the park). But sometimes you need more. A true getaway to recharge, reconnect, and remember why you chose one another in the first place.
This year, that place for us was Lake Tahoe. And friends—it was proof that you don’t need to leave the country to immerse yourself in God’s masterpiece. From alpine peaks to crystal-clear waters, Tahoe gave us adventure, serenity, and a much-needed reset for our marriage.
Whether you’re parents needing a sanity break or a couple craving both outdoor fun and cozy relaxation, this itinerary can be adapted to almost any destination. But if you’re ready to start with Tahoe, here’s how to make it unforgettable.
Why Lake Tahoe Is the Perfect Couples Escape
- Close to home, but feels worlds away: Just a 45-minute drive from Reno airport.
- God’s masterpiece on display: Blue water, snow-capped peaks, sunsets that feel sacred.
- Adventure + relaxation balance: From hikes and kayaking to spa time and stargazing.
- Ideal timing: Visit in September—perfect weather (70s by day, 40s/50s at night), fewer crowds, and off-season rates.
Where We Stayed: Edgewood Tahoe Resort
If you want luxury paired with easy access to nature, Edgewood Tahoe Resort is it.
Highlights:
- Heated pool + hot tub year-round
- Private (easy) beach access
- Daily games, s’mores kits, and shuttle service to Heavenly Village or anywhere within a 2-mile radius
- Concierge for ski, adventure, and transportation planning
💡 Pro Tip: Parking is valet-only ($50/night). Skip the car rental and book resort transportation or a third-party shuttle to save.
Stopover Surprise: Virginia City
On the drive from Reno, take a quick detour to Virginia City, a quirky mining town straight out of the 1800s. Think saloons with bras hanging from the ceiling, Western boutiques, a massive candy store, and historic buildings that make you wonder how they’re still standing.
It’s kitschy, but worth it. Especially if you love a little random adventure.
Our Couples Itinerary: Adventure Meets Relaxation
Instead of a rigid day-by-day plan, here’s a flow you can adapt. Mix and match depending on your mood, but balance adventure with rest—that’s the secret to leaving refueled.
1. Start with Stillness
Before diving into hikes and excursions, give yourselves permission to slow down.
- Take a walk around the resort.
- Order tacos and artichoke dip at Brooks’ Bar & Deck while watching the sunset spill over the mountains.
- Toast marshmallows over the fire with your s’mores kit.
👉 Marriage Lesson: Rest isn’t wasted time. Just like date nights in lawn chairs have value, sometimes the most sacred moments come when you stop rushing.
2. Explore the Trails
Tahoe is a hiker’s paradise, and even if you’re not “hardcore hikers,” there are options for every level.
- Fallen Leaf Lake Trail – A longer, scenic hike with plenty of photo stops.
- Eagle Lake Trail – Stairs + steady climb, but the reward is worth it. Pack water and snacks, and be ready for soul-stirring views.
💡 Pro Tip: Download the AllTrails app. We use the paid version for offline maps—it’s a game changer.
👉 Life Lesson from the Trail: Sometimes life feels like Eagle Lake—steep, sweaty, and full of obstacles. But on the other side of the climb? Views better than you imagined.
3. Get on the Water
You can’t go to Tahoe without experiencing its crystal-clear waters.
We booked with Clearly Tahoe for a glass-bottom kayak tour at Bonsai Rock. Highlights:
- Floating in total stillness mid-lake.
- Guides who double as storytellers (shoutout to Giovanni!).
- Accessibility options: chair lift for shuttles + adaptive kayaks for wheelchair users.
Other options: paddleboarding, catamaran tours, or even stargazing kayak trips.
👉 Life Lesson on the Water: Being on the water reminded us that in relationships, careers, and riding the parent-life–sometimes you just need to drift, be still, and take in the view.
4. Savor Local Flavors
Some standout bites worth sharing:
- The Grove: lakeside dining with epic views.
- Sage Leaf Tahoe: crispy Brussels sprouts (trust me, think “Krispy Kreme veggie”) and juicy burgers!
- Base Camp Pizza (Heavenly Village): worth the wait, or grab a bar seat for faster service.
5. Leave Space for Spontaneity
Our last night we wandered into Heavenly Village by accident—and found live music, shops, and the best wood-carved ornaments. Another night, we relaxed by the pool and ordered food to go from the resort Bistro for a low key night in.
👉 Marriage Lesson: Don’t over-plan. Leave room for surprises—sometimes those are the best memories.
What We Learned (and Why We’ll Be Back)
Lake Tahoe revived our souls, reminded us of the sacredness of slowing down, and proved we don’t need to leave the U.S. to experience God’s masterpiece.
There were moments on the trails and by the water when we both said—it felt like we were living in Psalm 23. The still waters, the green pastures, the quiet peace that restores your soul. Every sunrise and mountain reflection reminded us that God leads us beside still waters so we can truly rest. And also, we are surrounded by His presence.
We came home reconnected, recharged, and already dreaming about returning—this time in the winter with our kids. (Did someone say skiing + hot chocolate by the fire?)
Because at the end of the day, marriage isn’t just about surviving the busy seasons—it’s about carving out intentional time to climb mountains, sit still by lakes, and savor pizza at midnight… together.
✅ Pin or Save This Itinerary for Your Next Couples Getaway
Lake Tahoe reminded us that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that bring us back to peace — to still waters, laughter, and gratitude for the one we get to walk beside through every season.
If this post inspired you to start planning your own couples’ retreat, save this itinerary for later or share it with your favorite travel buddy. And if you’re craving more ideas for joyful spaces and effortless adventures, I’d love to stay connected.
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