An Exciting Travel Guide to Lake Tahoe in the Summer
Are you visiting Lake Tahoe this summer? Well, I think that’s the best time to experience this gem along the California/Nevada border. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Lake Tahoe captivates travelers with its pristine waters, alpine scenery, and a myriad of outdoor adventures. So how deep is Lake Tahoe? It’s approximately 1,645 feet (501 meters) at its deepest point making it one of the deepest lakes in North America. Did you know you’d be able to fit the Empire State Building in the lake and not see the top? Yeah, it’s wild! But the remarkable depth contributes to the lake’s captivating beauty.
One of the best times to visit Lake Tahoe is the summer. As summer unfolds, it transforms into a playground for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re drawn to the crystalline waters, the towering pine trees, or the endless recreational opportunities, this travel guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of a perfect summer getaway at Lake Tahoe.
In this Lake Tahoe Summer guide, we’ll showcase the diverse offerings that Lake Tahoe presents during the summer months. From water adventures on the lake to invigorating hikes in the surrounding mountains, we’ll unveil the best-kept secrets and must-visit spots. Ensuring that your summer escape is filled with unparalleled beauty and unforgettable experiences.
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II. How to Get to Lake Tahoe?
For my Californians, I recommend you drive because you’ll want a car while exploring. The travel time from Los Angeles is 7.5 hours, from San Diego 9 hours, and from San Francisco it takes 3.5 hours. If you plan on flying to Lake Tahoe the closest airport to Tahoe is the Reno-Tahoe International Airport located roughly 45 minutes from North Lake Tahoe. When visiting it’s best to rent a car because you’ll it’s best to be ahead of the curve and have your form of transportation.
III. Best Hotels in Lake Tahoe
Booking.comThere are plentiful options to choose from when staying in Lake Tahoe. Accommodations such as resorts, cabins, hotels, and even campgrounds if that’s more your vibe. When choosing where to stay, consider your preferences for activities, scenery, and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Lake Tahoe has options to suit various tastes. The most popular areas to stay in Lake Tahoe are South Lake Tahoe, West Shore, and Incline Village.
Top Accommodation Picks
The Landing Resort & Spa: This luxury resort & spa is located on the lake with a semi-private beach. Located in South Lake Tahoe with easy access to Heavenly Village. Book your stay here!
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe: This waterfront resort is nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains just steps away from the lake. Located in Incline Villages you’ll have access to endless trails, a casino in the hotel, and award-winning restaurants. Book your stay here!
Station House Inn (Budget Friendly): Boutique hotel with the perfect throwback mountain decor. It’s located within walking distance from the lake and close to South Lake Tahoe’s main jaunt. Book your stay here!
IV. Outdoor Activities in Lake Tahoe
Beaches and Swimming Spots (Easily Accessible)
- Sand Harbor Beach (Nevada): One of the most popular and scenic beaches on the Nevada side of the lake, Sand Harbor offers golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and excellent swimming conditions. It’s also known for its Shakespeare Festival during the summer. Sand Harbor Beach has a paid parking lot that fills up quickly however there is no hiking to access the beach.
- Zephyr Cove Beach (Nevada): Located on the southeastern shore of Lake Tahoe, Zephyr Cove Beach is a picturesque spot with a wide sandy beach. Visitors can enjoy various water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Zephyr Cove has a paid parking lot that fills up quickly (we arrived at 5 pm and were not able to get access for sunset). Finally, there is no hiking to access the beach.
- Meeks Bay Beach (California): Meeks Bay is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and soft sandy beach. The shallow waters make it a great spot for swimming, and the surrounding pine trees add to the natural beauty.
- Pope Beach (California): Situated on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe, Pope Beach boasts a long stretch of sandy shoreline. The gradual slope of the lake bed makes it an excellent place for swimming and playing in the water.
- Baldwin Beach (California): Baldwin Beach is divided into two sections, the North and South beaches. Both offer expansive sandy shores, and South Beach is known for its dog-friendly policy. The clear waters make it a great place for swimming.
Beaches + Swimming Spots (Hiking Involved)
One thing I did not realize before visiting Lake Tahoe is that most beaches and viewpoints require a short hike to access. However, it does provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the stunning natural surroundings before reaching the shoreline. Here are a few beaches that involve a hike:
Emerald Bay State Park (California)
While Emerald Bay is famous for its stunning views and the historic Vikingsholm mansion, it also offers opportunities for swimming in the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe. The beach here is rocky but provides a unique experience. You can find street parking easily and we hiked down via the Vikingsholm Trail. It’s 1.7 miles out and back and you’ll have access to visit Vikingsholm Castle. Along with that, Eagle Falls is a quick walk from the castle. Finally. make sure to save energy for the way back up because it’s all uphill.
Secret Cove (Nevada)
Secret Cove is hands down the most picturesque place in all of Lake Tahoe. It features a mixture of sandy and rocky areas along the shoreline and huge boulders in the water that jut out because the water is renowned for its clarity and deep blue color. The surrounding pine trees and boulders add to the natural beauty of the area. Finally, it’s a short hike (20ish minutes) from the parking lot but there is a descent down.
Whale Beach (Nevada)
Whale Beach is a beach on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe in Nevada, within the city limits of Carson City. It was hands down my favorite beach in all of Tahoe. You can easily visit both Secret Cove and Whale Beach on the same trip. Whale Beach is only a short 15-minute hike past Secret Cove. It is known for being a nude beach (however we did not see any nudity when we visited on a weekend). It derives its current name from the large rocks near the water’s edge that look like a whale. In the above picture can you spot the rock? Finally, the water was so crystal blue here I could not believe my eyes!
Explore Heavenly Mountain Resort
Heavenly Resort in Lake Tahoe offers an array of exciting summer activities. Visitors can explore the stunning mountain landscape through activities like hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. Furthermore, the resort’s gondola rides offer breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tahoe, making it an ideal way to enjoy the scenery. For adventure seekers, the Epic Discovery Park features thrilling attractions such as a ropes course and an alpine coaster. Additionally, the nearby beaches and water activities on Lake Tahoe provide a refreshing contrast, ensuring a diverse and memorable summer experience at Heavenly Resort.
V. Water Activities in Lake Tahoe
Boating and Sailing
Consider these boat tours below for an unforgettable Lake Tahoe Summer experience:
Clear Kayaking
Clear kayaking in Lake Tahoe provides an excellent way to explore the pristine, crystal-clear waters of this iconic alpine lake. With transparent kayak bottoms, adventurers can witness the depth and clarity of Lake Tahoe. Marveling at the visibility of submerged rocks, vibrant aquatic life, and the stunning blue hues that characterize the lake. This experience was truly unforgettable. 10/10 recommend it!
Best Hikes in Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe offers quite a few beautiful hikes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. Here are some of the best hikes in the Lake Tahoe area:
Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake Trail (Emerald Bay State Park): This moderate 2-mile hike takes you to Eagle Falls, a picturesque waterfall, and continues to Eagle Lake. The trail provides stunning views of Emerald Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Rubicon Trail (D.L. Bliss State Park to Emerald Bay State Park): The Rubicon Trail is a scenic 5.5-mile trail along the western shore of Lake Tahoe. It provides stunning views of the lake, opportunities to swim in secluded coves, and access to Vikingsholm, a historic mansion.
Cascade Falls Trail (Emerald Bay State Park): This trail takes you to the beautiful Cascade Falls, offering breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe along the way. The hike is moderate in difficulty and is approximately 1.5 miles round trip.
Mount Tallac Trail (South Lake Tahoe): For those seeking a more challenging hike, Mount Tallac is a popular option. The trail takes you to the summit of Mount Tallac, offering panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains. The round trip is approximately 10.2 miles, and the trail is rated as strenuous.
Skyline Trail (Incline Village, North Lake Tahoe): The Skyline Trail is a popular and moderately challenging hike that starts at the Tahoe Rim Trail (TRT) trailhead near the Mount Rose Summit. It provides panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding areas. The complete Skyline Trail loop is approximately 4.5 miles, but it can be extended by connecting with the Tahoe Rim Trail.
Dining in Lake Tahoe
Here are a few notable restaurants in the Lake Tahoe area:
Edgewood Restaurant: If you are looking to impress then you must visit Edgewood Restaurant. Their floor-to-ceiling windows offer the prettiest unobstructed views of the lake. Along with that, it offers a sophisticated dining experience coupled with a menu featuring contemporary American cuisine.
The Divided Sky: If you’re a fan of live music, then you must visit this hidden gem located just outside of South Lake Tahoe. They also pride themselves in fresh, healthy, un-traditional bar food using organic ingredients as often as possible and doing their best to build everything from scratch.
Riva Grill: Situated on the South Shore, Riva Grill offers lakefront dining with a diverse menu featuring seafood, It’s name is an ode to the Riva runabout which is a wooden boat company from Italy. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and a spacious deck overlooking the water that is perfect for those summer evenings.
Sprouts Café: For those looking for healthier and vegetarian options, Sprouts Café in South Lake Tahoe is a popular choice. It’s known for its fresh and organic offerings.
Zephyr Cove Restaurant: this cozy, casual eatery is housed in a historic building. Surrounded by TVs & a fireplace serving American comfort food, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day filled with activities.
Packing Essentials for Lake Tahoe
Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable activewear
- Multiple swimsuits
- Shorts and T-shirts
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
- Water shoes
Accessories + Outdoor Gear
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent
- Hiking shoes and gear if you plan to explore the trails
- Backpack for day trips
- Water bottle
- Beach towel or blanket
Well, there ya have it fam! Enjoy your fun-filled trip to Lake Tahoe. One of California’s most beautiful destinations. If you have any further questions, leave them in the comments below. Finally don’t miss more of my California Travel Guides.
XX,
Courtney
CJ says
Sounds like the perfect summer getaway guide! Can’t wait to explore all that Lake Tahoe has to offer.