Hyatt Vacation Club at Northstar Lodge

Part of the Northstar ski resort, this upscale ski-in/ski-out hotel in an alpine-style wood and stone building is 7 miles from Interstate 80, and 8 miles from Kings Beach State Recreation Area on the shores of Lake Tahoe. Rustic-chic studios come with sitting areas, fireplaces and kitchenettes, plus flat-screen TVs; some offer balconies. The 2- and 3-bedroom apartments add separate living rooms, outdoor fireplaces, washer/dryers and pull-out sofas. The resort features shopping and dining options, plus BBQ areas, a gondola and a movie theater. There's also a heated outdoor pool and a kids' pool, along with a hot tub and a spa.