Living in northern California, Lake Tahoe has become an annual vacation spot for me. While many people love the winter, the snow skiing, and the snowboarding, I actually prefer late summer or early fall where I can enjoy the beach, hiking, swimming, and even some golf.
Lake Tahoe Sightseeing: The View
Lake Tahoe actually sits on the border of Nevada and California and has two different sections – North Lake Tahoe and South Lake Tahoe. Each has its own distinct personalities. Lake Tahoe is accessed by three highways – 89 (which goes to the west side of the lake towards Emerald Bay and the North shore), 28 (the highway around the North shore), and 50 (South Lake Tahoe, the casinos and east side, and the Nevada side of the lake towards the North shore).
Tahoe’s lake is extremely big – 193 square miles and it’s the largest alpine lake in the United States, making room for Lake Tahoe for everybody. The water is extremely beautiful because the area is known for its conservation. For many people, the clear, blue water surrounded by the Sierra mountains is just a beautiful place to enjoy a number of great activities.
Fortunately for me, my wife’s aunt and uncle have a cabin in a secluded area of South Lake Tahoe. So going up there every year is a great time for me to relax and enjoy all the things Tahoe has to offer. Whether it’s boating, water skiing, hiking, swimming, golf, kayaking, gambling, or eating, there is something for everyone in Tahoe.
On the Lake: Tahoe Sightseeing
Boating is very popular and gives you a chance to explore the area. The lake is very big so it’s fun to explore and find your own spots to dock, relax on the boat, and swim. One of the most popular spots for boating is Emerald Bay and Sugar Pine Point State Park. This area has the Ehrman mansion and the Vikingsholm castle which are fun to explore. There are areas to dock, swim, and even camp. In the middle of the bay, there is even a little island where people hang out. All along this area are quiet places to relax and even hike so explore the area and find a great spot to enjoy.
For a different kind of experience on the water, you can enjoy a number of different options including parasailing, a dinner cruise (MS Dixie II), kayaking, or a more adventurous water experience like a Wave Runner. If you don’t have your own boat, kayak, or canoe, you can check out the many rental options at Zephyr Cove. Located on Highway 50 just north of South Lake Tahoe and the casinos, you can choose your own way to enjoy time on the water. And if you get the chance, try out Tahoe’s specialty drink, Blue Tahoe – a mix of blue curacao, tequila, champagne, mint, and citrus.
For the more relaxed beach goer, just enjoy one of the many public beaches. There are beaches for every type – family beaches, party beaches, quiet beaches, an beaches to be seen and have fun. Zephyr Cove is a great beach for those who want a lively scene. Enjoy volleyball, catamarans, water sports, a bar, and more. For quieter, family beaches, drive up Highway 89 towards Emerald Bay to find beaches like Pope Beach, Kiva Beach, Emerald Bay, and Baldwin Beach.
Beaches like Baldwin Beach and Pope Beach have parking close to the beach but you must pay to park. Kiva Beach, my personal favorite, has trails, a visitor center, some shade, a fun aquarium for kids, and free parking.
Lake Tahoe Sightseeing: Outdoor activities
For the outdoor lover, there is no better place to hang out than Lake Tahoe during the summer. Aside from the water sports and activities, Tahoe is known for its many hiking trails, beautiful lakes, bike paths, and outdoor events.
For hiking, there are a number of trails to follow. If you love walking and nature, there is a trail for you. For those who rarely hike to those who want to hike all day to the top of a mountain, Tahoe offers a number of trails and some beautiful scenery. Eagle Falls and Skunk Harbor are short hikes and are great for kids. My favorite, Fallen Leak Lake, leads you to a couple of different lakes, Fallen Leaf Lake and Cascade Lake. This area is very beautiful and is flanked by Mount Tallac. Finally, for the more adventurous hiker, there is Mt Tallac. This is an all day hike with a total elevation change of about 3100 feet. It’s the tallest point in Tahoe and gives you some incredible views. While these are just a few of the many trails in Tahoe, they are some of my favorites.
For those who love to camp, there are numerous camp sites all over Tahoe. One of the most popular is on Highway 89 between Emerald Bay and South Lake Tahoe – Camp Richardson. There are a number of great camping sites with easy access to the water. Many years ago while camping there, we hiked down to the beach and I saw more shooting stars in one night than I had seen in my entire life!
For the sports enthusiasts, South Lake Tahoe has a wonderful golf course – Edgewood. It’s located just past the casinos in South Lake Tahoe and is the site of the annual Celebrity Pro-Am golf tournament in July. From actors to athletes, this is one of the biggest tournaments of the year and many people go to just watch their favorite actor, musician, or athlete hit the little white ball. However, it’s also open to the public and is a great course to play.
Lake Tahoe Sightseeing: Entertainment
For those that enjoy more leisurely indoor activities, there is plenty to do in Lake Tahoe. This area, with its many casinos, is known for its gambling and nightlife. The biggest casinos in South Lake Tahoe are Harvey’s and Harrah’s, both which offer gambling, food, entertainment, and concerts. One of the biggest concerts every year is when Sammy Hagar comes to town to perform at his bar and restaurant, Cabo Wabo Cantina and Mexican Restaurant. While the nightlife options are too many to mention, there is something for everyone’s taste in South Lake Tahoe.
While in Tahoe, everyone will need a place to stay. And whatever your preference in accommodations, you can find it here as well – from luxury hotels to cabins to pitching a tent.
For nature lovers, beach goers, sports enthusiasts, and party goers, South Lake Tahoe has something to offer everyone. There is something unique about visiting Tahoe every year that just gives me a true sense of peace. Lake Tahoe is an area that is carefully preserved, from its natural habitat to its beautiful lake. Whatever Lake Tahoe sightseeing activity you choose to do, never forget the peace and beauty that surrounds you.
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