For a getaway filled with adventure and stunning views, look no further than Lake Tahoe. With its sparkling blue waters, surrounding mountains, and charming towns, it’s the perfect place to escape the everyday grind. Whether you’re into water sports, mountain hikes, or simply relaxing by the shore, Lake Tahoe has it all.
We’re here to help plan your Lake Tahoe vacation, packed with adventure and relaxation.
Planning your trip to Lake Tahoe? Here are the best tours, hotels, and car rentals:
📸 Best Tours In Lake Tahoe:
- 4 Hour Private Boat Charter With Captain (includes watersports equipment)
- 4 Hour Polaris Slingshot Rentals (no motorcycle license required!)
- Tahoe Helicopter Tour: Lakes and Waterfalls (our favorite activity!)
- Lake Tahoe Photography Scenic Tour (photography tips from a pro)
- Tahoe Coastal Self-Guided E-Bike Tour
😴 Best Hotels In Lake Tahoe:
- Bluelake Inn (💲) (walking distance to beaches & casinos)
- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe (💲💲) (we loved our stay here!)
- Edgewood Tahoe Resort (💲💲💲) (5-star service!)
🚘 Best Car Rental: DiscoverCars (save up to 70%)
Things to Do in Lake Tahoe in Summer
If you’re looking for things to do in Lake Tahoe this summer, look no further. Here’s a list of the top 23 activities that we recommend checking out this summer.
From helicopter tours and boat charters to parasailing and paddle boarding, there’s something for everyone on our list of must-do activities in Lake Tahoe. The list might go on but we’ve narrowed it down to the top 23 things to do in Lake Tahoe this summer.
Unique Things To Do In Lake Tahoe
1. Enjoy A One-Of-A-Kind Experience In Emerald Bay
Being the largest alpine lake in the continent, Lake Tahoe is home to over 8,000 private yachts. Lake Tahoe offers a variety of boat charters: private yachts, powerboats, pontoon boats, or even pedal boats.
We recommend booking a private boat charter in Emerald Bay for a personal experience where you’ll have your own captain and crew dedicated just to you and your group. Here are the three best options to choose from:
Option 1: This 4-hour boat charter takes you to Emerald Bay State Park, Vikingsholm Castle, D.L. Bliss State Park, and Sugar Pine State Park. Admission to Vikingsholm is included. In the end, you’ll see the Fleur du Lac Estate, the famous boathouse that was used in The Godfather Part II.
Option 2: This 2-hour boat charter takes you to Tallac Historic Site, Emerald Bay State Park, Rubicon Bay, and D.L. Bliss State Park. You’ll be able to dock at Fannette Island, the only island in Lake Tahoe, and see Rooster Rock that’s located in D.L. Bliss State Park.
Option 3: This 2-hour sunset boat charter takes you to Emerald Bay State Park, D.L. Bliss State Park, and Rubicon Bay. Enjoy beautiful sunset views with white wine, fruit, cheese, and crackers.
Lake Tahoe has so much to offer boaters of all kinds. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day on the lake or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, you will find what you’re looking for in Lake Tahoe.
2. Fly Above Lake Tahoe
Ever wanted to see Lake Tahoe from above? Take a helicopter tour with Tahoe Helicopters! You will see the most breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding mountains.
There are many different options available when it comes to helicopter tours but we recommend this one: Tahoe Helicopter Tour: Lakes and Waterfalls. We took this 30-minute tour on our wedding anniversary and LOVED IT!
We saw many lakes in South Lake Tahoe including Fallen Leaf Lake, Cascade Lake, and Eagle Lake. We also saw waterfalls including Eagle Falls and Cascade Falls.
There’s nothing like seeing the lake from above in person, especially if this is your first time visiting Lake Tahoe! Take in all of its splendor from above with this helicopter tour over Lake Tahoe. On the day we flew, there was fog above Lake Tahoe and it was magical!
3. Capture The Beauty of Lake Tahoe
The Sierra Nevada Mountains offer endless opportunities for photographers. If you want to make the most of your pictures, consider booking a photography tour around the lake. Different tours offer different angles and photo opportunities.
Book this photography tour: Lake Tahoe Small-Group Photography Scenic Half-Day Tour. We recommend this one because it allows you to see all the best spots in one afternoon and has knowledgeable guides who will explain which settings and techniques will work best for your camera.
You’ll also get tips and tricks to take amazing photos and learn more about Lake Tahoe. You also have the option to choose the full-day tour instead of the half-day one. Avoid the crowds with this tour.
4. Travel To Historic Virginia City & Carson City From South Lake Tahoe
Go back in time to the Wild West with this guided tour. This tour will take you to the historic town of Virginia City, once known as one of the largest silver producers in the world, and Carson City, Nevada’s state capital. You’ll learn about Mark Twain and his connection to Carson City and Virginia City.
5. Take A Narrated Bus Tour To See Lake Tahoe And Squaw Valley
Explore the best of Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley on this 70-mile comfy bus tour. Set off from your hotel in a shuttle bus and head to Squaw Valley, the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics.
See Sand Harbor before heading out to Emerald Bay and Fannette Island and get great views from Cave Rock.
6. Enjoy A Sunset On An Emerald Bay Cruise
Never leave Lake Tahoe without seeing a sunset! It’s vivid with dramatic colors and one of the best ways to experience sunset on the lake is on a sightseeing cruise!
The two-hour sightseeing cruise of Emerald Bay offers a relaxing look at the region’s natural beauty. Not only will you get to see the beautiful Emerald Bay, but also Eagle Falls, the Vikingsholm Castle, Rubicon Bay, and Fannette Island.
Refreshments are included on this tour so you can enjoy your complimentary glass of champagne, beer or wine while listening to informative narration from your guide.
7. Ride The Heavenly Gondola Run & Coaster
Located in South Lake Tahoe, the Heavenly Gondola in Heavenly Mountain Resort will whisk you up the mountain to a sky-high vantage point where you can take in stunning views of the Sierras, including Lake Tahoe and Carson Valley.
It’s a 2.4-mile ride up the gondola. You’ll find yourself surrounded by snow-capped peaks, crystal blue waters, and lush pine forests. You can dine at one of the restaurants or hike a trail, then take the gondola back down.
While you’re at the resort, make sure to ride the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster as well! This coaster uses only gravity and fits 2 people per coaster.
Gondola prices range from $30+ to $60+ per person depending on age. But it’s best to get the combo ticket for the gondola and the coaster that can range from $60+ to $90+. Check out the other activities to do at Heavenly as well.
8. Tour the Vikingsholm Castle
Take a guided tour of the Vikingsholm Castle, a 19th-century castle that’s only available to tour during the summer season. This castle-like mansion is located on Emerald Bay.
It was built in 1929 and has 38 rooms, which you can tour to see an architectural example of Scandinavian design.
Visiting Vikingsholm Castle and its grounds is a must when visiting Lake Tahoe in the summertime. Alternatively, you can skip the tour and just enjoy the exterior architecture, the mansion grounds, and the views of Emerald Bay.
9. Attend the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival is a great way to spend an evening when you’re visiting the lake in summer. Held at Sand Harbor, it’s a beautiful outdoor setting with a backdrop of pine trees and sandstone cliffs.
Sit under the stars and enjoy theatrical interpretations of Shakespeare classics. The festival takes place over the summer, usually between July and August. Tickets sell out fast so try to pick them up ahead of time!
Summer Activities in Lake Tahoe
10. Bike Along The Rim of Lake Tahoe
If you’re looking for something a little more laid back, then Lake Tahoe has many paved biking paths that you can use. If you don’t have a bike, we recommend this mountain bike to use all around Lake Tahoe.
Or you can do a bike tour with someone who knows the best spots and has all the equipment needed for an epic ride. Check out this 4-hour e-bike tour on the East Shore Trail, known as one of the country’s best bike paths.
11. Kayaking
No trip to Lake Tahoe is complete without a trip out on the lake. Kayaking is a great way to see the beauty of this mountain lake up close.
If it’s calm weather in Lake Tahoe with no winds and clear skies—head out early in the morning for glassy waters mirrored by snow-capped mountains painted across summer blue skies!
The best places to kayak in Lake Tahoe include the Sand Harbor, for glorious views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and Emerald Bay, where you can kayak around Fannette Island.
Look for a guided kayaking tour? We recommend this one in Incline Village. If you’re a fan of kayaking, then get this lightweight one.
12. Cruise Through Lake Tahoe In An Eco-Friendly Way
Feel the wind in your hair while cruising around this gorgeous area of California in a sustainable way! Book this 2-hour sailing cruise that includes local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
This tour is offered in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Onboard staff will greet you at the dock and guide you up the ship’s stairs—you don’t need to be an experienced sailor to enjoy this activity! The captain will give a brief introduction before taking off.
Booking a cruise on Lake Tahoe is easy, but because the lake is so popular during the summer, you’ll want to make reservations in advance.
13. Fishing
It’s no secret that Lake Tahoe is an amazing place to fish. It has a wide variety of fish species, ranging from small panfish to trophy-sized trout.
Fishing can be a relaxing hobby for all ages and skill levels; whether you want to catch some dinner or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Trout is one of the most popular fish to catch in Lake Tahoe because they don’t fight as hard as other types of fish and they taste delicious.
The best time to catch trout is when they’re spawning in May and June. You’ll want to use smaller lures like jigs or spinners and if you’re lucky enough you might even find some brown trout during this time too!
Salmon is also very popular because they fight harder than other types of fish so it makes them more fun to catch! You should try using trolling flies or jigs with hooks on them.
Don’t have a fishing pole? We recommend this fishing pole and other fishing essentials.
Also, many stores have staff who can help explain the finer points of catching fish in Lake Tahoe and give suggestions on where to go fishing and what bait they recommend using in each location.
14. Parasailing
If you’re looking for an adventurous way to get a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful Lake Tahoe area, then parasailing is the activity for you. Gaze down at historic sites and breathtaking natural vistas.
The best places to book your parasailing experience are Lake Tahoe Parasail, Tahoe Sports Ski Run Boat Company, and North Tahoe Watersports.
15. Paddle Boarding
If you’re looking for a fun, non-extreme activity to do on the water, paddle boarding is a great choice. It’s easy to learn and can be done just about anywhere there’s a body of water that’s calm enough to paddle around in.
You can paddle around the shoreline or head out into the lake. It’s also a great workout that will help build up your core muscles and improve your balance. The best places to paddleboard are Sand Harbor and North Lake Tahoe.
We recommend getting this paddleboard and its accessories for Lake Tahoe. If you want to just try this once, you can take a self-guided paddleboard tour that includes a paddleboard and lifejackets.
16. Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is one of the few activities that allow you to truly explore Lake Tahoe’s beautiful landscapes without tiring yourself out.
However, it requires a lot of skill and coordination to ride a horse, especially if you have never ridden a horse before but well worth the fun.
The best places to go horse riding in Lake Tahoe are Zephyr Cove Stable and Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides.
Wear comfortable clothing while riding and bring water and snacks with you as it can be a long activity. And don’t forget to wear a helmet!
17. Jet Skiing
You’ll be amazed at how exhilarating it is to zip across the water’s surface with nothing between you and the wind.
Jumping waves, skimming inches above the water—this is what it means to feel free! Cruising through the water at high speeds, it’s going to be cold, even if it’s in the summer.
So it’s best to get a wetsuit for jet skiing. You can use the wetsuit for other water sports activities to protect your skin in water and against strong winds.
A heads up, jet skis aren’t cheap and can cost more than $100/hour for rentals, and buying one will cost thousands of dollars but if you’re a thrill-seeker, then it’s a great investment! Get some jet ski accessories to keep you on the waters for a longer time.
The best places for jet ski rentals are Tahoe Sports Ski Run Boat Company and North Tahoe Watersports.
18. Golfing
If Tahoe is known for anything, it’s for its beautiful weather and picturesque views. So why not take advantage of both while enjoying a round of golf? Popular courses include the Tahoe City Golf Course, Old Brockway Golf Course, and Edgewood Golf Course.
You can play 18 holes or try your hand at mini-golfing at one of the Magic Carpet Golf locations. Many places around Lake Tahoe also offer equipment rentals if you don’t have your own clubs.
Golfing in Lake Tahoe isn’t just about hitting the course for a round or two; this region is also home to some of the best golf courses in the state.
If you’re a beginner golfer who wants to learn more about improving your game or if you’re a seasoned veteran looking to refine your skills, there’s plenty here to offer anyone who loves golf.
Golf rentals will be expensive at Lake Tahoe so get your own before going! We recommend these golf clubs, golf balls, and other golf essentials.
19. Take A Day Trip To Yosemite
Yosemite National Park is about 3.5 hours away from South Lake Tahoe so it is definitely worth the trip! Yosemite is filled with beautiful views and hiking trails that are great for all ages and fitness levels so you can enjoy your time there no matter what kind of hikes you prefer!
While you can definitely visit Yosemite National Park on your own or as a separate trip, we recommend taking a guided tour to Yosemite from Lake Tahoe! You can learn about the history of Yosemite from the tour guide.
The tour is also a great opportunity to ask questions and take in the scenery without needing to drive or navigate. You don’t have to do all of the planning, and it’s definitely worth it because there are so many things to see in Yosemite.
Through this tour, you will see the park’s popular attractions: Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, Half Dome, and Tunnel View.
Since you’re visiting in the summer, Tioga Pass Road will be open and you will also see Tioga Pass’s attractions including Olmsted Point and Tenaya Lake. This tour is conducted in a small group so you’ll get a personal experience while also meeting new people.
Related Post: 7 Epic Road Trips to Yosemite
Free Things to do in Lake Tahoe in Summer
20. Drive Around Lake Tahoe
One of the free things to do in Lake Tahoe is to drive the rim of the lake. It is a 68-mile trip around the lake and is perfect for a scenic road trip.
You can begin at North Lake Tahoe or South Lake Tahoe and stop at most of the lookout points along the way and take in the lake’s natural beauty. Make sure to stop at Kings Beach, Emerald Bay Overlook, and Memorial Point.
21. Beach Day At One of Lake Tahoe’s Beaches
During the summer months, all of Lake Tahoe’s beaches are open and offer a variety of amenities. Beaches are located throughout the area and make for a perfect day at the beach.
No matter where you decide to chill, some of these beaches have restrooms, concessions, showers, and snack bars. Even if you don’t want to spend your entire day swimming, each one is unique in its offerings.
While some beaches have a fee, there are other beaches that are free. Soak up under the sun at Lake Tahoe!
22. Hiking
If you want to explore the lake by foot, then you’re in luck as there are plenty of trails to choose from. There are also plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path and explore Lake Tahoe.
One of the most popular trails is Eagle Falls Trail, an easy-to-moderate hike that you can take to reach a waterfall and hike even further to Eagle Lake. You’ll also find great hiking trails at Van Sickle Bi-State Park and Cave Rock State Park.
23. Spend A Few Hours In Truckee
Located just 12 miles away from Lake Tahoe, Truckee is a small town with plenty of charm and character. If you’re looking for a quick day trip from Lake Tahoe, Truckee is an ideal location to visit for its outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, or boating.
A popular attraction is Donner Memorial State Park which features historical artifacts and memorials relating to the ill-fated Donner Party who found disaster after crossing over a mountain pass en route from Illinois.
There are also ample hiking trails and gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. Also check out the historic Donner Summit Bridge, Donner Lake, Donner Pass Road, and its many S-turns.
What to Pack For Lake Tahoe For The Summer
What should you wear to Lake Tahoe in the summer? Well, that depends on your plans. Will you be spending a lot of time on a boat? You’ll need water shoes and clothes that dry quickly.
Are you planning a strenuous hike through the mountains? Bring plenty of breathable cotton layers.
Plus things like what temperature it is and what type of activities you’d like to participate in will help inform what you should pack for your trip. But don’t forget these essentials:
- Water (carry at least a bottle of water per person with this reusable water bottle)
- Hiking shoes
- Sunscreen
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses
If you’re planning to spend hours out on the beach, bring a small cooler with you.
Where To Stay In Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe has a variety of accommodations: hotels, resorts, campgrounds and more. We recommend these 3 options:
Budget-Friendly Option: Bluelake Inn @ Heavenly Village
Mid-Priced Option: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino
Lux Option: Edgewood Tahoe Resort
Frequently Asked Questions
As you can see, there are so many things to do in Lake Tahoe in the summer. It’s literally a playground, a vacation spot, a summer destination, a camping destination, and more!
The seasons change quickly here in the Northern Sierra and the prime time is now! If you’ve got any more questions about going, look below for frequently asked questions about visiting Lake Tahoe in the summer:
Is Lake Tahoe worth visiting in the summer?
Summertime is the best time to visit Lake Tahoe. It’s crowded during the summer but the weather is warm and sunny and the water is spectacularly clear.
Since Lake Tahoe has many activities to choose from, it’s a great summer getaway spot for anyone: solo, couples, families, and friends.
During the other seasons, Lake Tahoe’s water temperatures can be really cold so it’s best to visit during the summer for warmer water.
Is July a good time to visit Lake Tahoe?
Yes, July is absolutely the best month to visit Lake Tahoe, and here’s why: Peak season at Lake Tahoe lasts from June through August, and July is smack dab in the middle of that.
The weather is fantastic, most bars and restaurants are open, there are tons of fun things to do all around the lake, and you can expect large crowds.
If you really want to enjoy the full experience of visiting Lake Tahoe during the summertime, July is an ideal time to go.
If you can’t stand large crowds or high prices, however, you may want to choose another time for your trip.
During peak months like July, many hotels raise their rates by as much as 40%, so you’ll have to pay more for rooms than if you went at a different time of the year.
It might be harder for you to book a room because there’s higher demand in summer than at any other time of year so reserve as soon as possible.
Is Lake Tahoe busy in the summer?
While Lake Tahoe has people visiting all year, the busiest time of year is the summer months from June through August.
While this traffic volume won’t completely stop you from visiting the lake, it is helpful to know what to expect.
If you don’t have a flexible schedule for your trip and have to drive around during peak times, your best bet is to leave early in the morning as soon as possible—say around 7 am or 8 am.
This will help you avoid some of the heaviest traffic. You’ll also want to try staying in a more remote area away from popular towns (e.g. Kings Beach or Crystal Bay) if possible, as this will limit your chances of getting stuck in traffic on one-way streets.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for great places to hike or fun places to go out, spend your summer in Tahoe for its amazing number of things to do there.
Tahoe is the kind of place that you want to take your family and friends, year after year. With the changing seasons come new activities, restaurants, and attractions in and around Lake Tahoe. Plan your next summer vacation in Lake Tahoe!
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