Crystal Bay Casino

Introduction

Crystal Bay Casino is located on the north shore of Lake Tahoe in Crystal Bay, NV.  It is located about one mile east of the California state line.  It originally opened as the Ta-Neva-Ho in 1938.  The casino closed in 2002 as it fell into bankruptcy.  It had fallen into disrepair.  It reopened the next year after an extensive remodeling.

Guests at Crystal Bay Casino should be aware of the travel conditions in the area.  Winters can be long and the area can receive more than one foot of snow in a day on a regular basis during the cold months.  Many of the roads there are narrow and windy.  The road coming from Reno is often closed during major snow storms.  Snow tires or chains may be required, even if it is open.  The state Department of Transportation will post warnings as needed.

Casino at Crystal Bay

The casino at Crystal Bay is tiny.  There are about 200 slots.  About 50 of these games are located in a walled off nonsmoking section. There are no video poker games worth playing at Crystal Bay.  The Tahoe Biltmore across the street offers much better video poker payouts.

There are 8 shoe blackjack tables at Crystal Bay Casino.  The limits are $10 to $100.  Players are paid 3-2 and can double down on any two cards.  Double down after splitting, surrender and re-split aces are not available.  The dealer hits soft 17.  There is a Lucky Lucky blackjack side bet available.  This bet is based on the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s up card.  The jackpot is three suited sevens.

There is one table of double zero roulette and one craps table.  The limits are $5-$100.  The odds are 3-4-5 times at craps and the Field pays double on 12.  There is no poker room available.  There is a small independent sportsbook.

Hotel at Crystal Bay Casino

There is a 10-room hotel on the property.  All are considered suites.  It is called the Border House and is not attached to the casino.  Rooms come with chromotherapy tubs, fireplaces and wireless internet.  Rates start at $200 per night, regardless of the time of the year or day of the week.  Rates are based on the season.

Restaurants at Crystal Bay Casino

The high end restaurant is the Steak & Lobster House.  It is open Tuesday through Sunday and offers tableside preparation of many of the menu items, including steak, seafood and lamb.  It also offers an extensive wine list and full bar.  The Bistro Elise is a diner-style food.  Its breakfast special is $3.33 and includes three eggs, three bacon, potatoes and toast.  It is available until 11am.  There is also a full lunch and dinner menu that includes sandwiches and burgers.

Entertainment

The Crystal Bay Club is home to rotating musical and comedy acts.  There are no nightly performances so make sure to check with the casino about its schedule.  The surrounding area provides snow skiing and water sports, among other outdoor activities. 

Parking

There is a parking deck located just east of the property.  A door to the casino near the nonsmoking area connects to the parking deck.

My Conclusion

The gambling at Crystal Bay is average at best.  Nonsmokers will enjoy the separate area with cleaner air.  The table games are the same as across the street at the Biltmore.  The video poker at the Biltmore is far better than what is offered at Crystal Bay.  The rooms are very nice and unique.  Parking is convenient.  It is a nice hideaway from the more active south shore of Lake Tahoe and Reno.