South Lake Tahoe is a great spot for vacations, but if golfing is the goal then the Tahoe Paradise Golf Course is hard to resist. This 18-hole course offers so much more than stunning landscapes, full service amenities and facilities, and a well-groomed greenway. It provides visitors with a chance to challenge themselves and their abilities whilst choosing between a more vigorous workout or spending that little bit extra on the creature comforts of a cart.

Most guests like the playful atmosphere of an affordable course where the scenery is as much a part of the game as of the scenery. With a backdrop of pine trees and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the course runs free. In fact, it is no simple game. Dodging between trees and along narrow fairways, the shots re about precise accuracy than any sense of speed. It is a great opportunity for those of all levels to get in some serious practice.

Tahoe Paradise has varied facilities and amenities. Golfers can kick back and relax in the snack bar, enjoying a hot dog, cakes, cookies, sandwiches, soups and seriously delicious cold and warm drinks. There is even a patio for those hot and lazy summer days. If new supplies are required, the Pro-Shop carries all the latest trends in clothing and shoes. Other popular purchases include clubs, wedges, putters, hats, gloves, glove bags, visors and balls. All the major names are accounted for. Friendly staff makes golfing a more fashionable experience. Club rentals are also available, starting at $25 for 18-holes and $15 for 9-holes. Better quality clubs cost $15 extra on top of the regular prices and a deposit from a credit card is mandatory.

Rates for the autumn and spring are divided between walking and riding fees. Full 18-holes start at $28 per person, and lowers to $23 for twilight games. The nine-hole version is the same as the twilight. Summertime see a raise in rates: 18-holes start at $40; 9-holes at $30; early bird at $30; 9-holes for early birds at $19; twilight at $28; and super twilight (after five pm) at $19. Juniors (below 16) and seniors (55+) pay $32 on the 18-holes and $26 on the 9-holes, but no senior rate is available for super twilight plays.

Tee times are reservable for as long as sixty days, but a $5/player deposit fee has to be paid in advance and is not refundable. However, reservations made under seven days require no deposit, but are subject to full guarantee of payment via credit card.

Memberships are available for both men and women in the clubs, costing $60 in the first year and then being reduced to a renewal amount of $50 annually. All NCGA memberships and appropriate handicaps are all-inclusive. Tournaments are held monthly for both men and women. Men meet every Thursday (2pm) and one Sunday every two weeks (7am). Women meet every Tuesday (morning times are announced by phone calls).