Lake Tahoe is one of my favorite areas in all of California. Whether you’re skiing at Squaw Valley during the winter or tubing in Tahoe’s crystal clear lake during the summer, it is easy to relax and unwind with friends and family. In this article, I created a list of fun activities to do while visiting Lake Tahoe, including hiking, boating, tubing, kayaking, and scuba diving, as well as the best areas to stay and picturesque places to eat. Keep scrolling down for a jam-packed summer guide that guarantees a good time!

WHERE TO STAY:

If you want to be close to all the action, consider staying in Incline Village. Situated on the northern tip of the lake, Incline Village is a beautiful town with less than 10,000 people. If you would rather have your own cozy cabin or lakeside lodge, rent an AirBnb or book a hotel in Carnelian Bay, Tahoe Vista, or King’s Beach. These areas are relatively close to Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, and Northstar, as well as the small shops and restaurants in Tahoe City.

THINGS TO DO (#1): HIKING

Tahoe has plenty of awesome hiking trails to explore. During my visit, I checked out the Eagle Rock Hiking Trail. It’s a short but beautiful hike that offers a great view of the entire lake.

WORKOUT EDIT: GET UP AND GO

If you have already hiked to Eagle Rock, you can also check out Eagle Falls, Stateline Lookout, Brockway Summit Tahoe Rim Trail, or the 64 Acres Tahoe Rim Trail.

If you enjoy shooting light trails, hike up to Eagle Rock at night. Eagle Rock has a broad view of the road below, as well as the starry skies above.

THINGS TO DO (#2): BOATING + TUBING

Going out on the lake is a must-do while in Tahoe. If you haven’t yet checked out my Lake Tahoe YouTube video, click here! During my recent visit, my group took the boat out to go tubing. It was my first time riding in an inner tube and I wiped out nearly a half a dozen times. If you need an adrenaline rush (or a workout), try it out!

If you’re staying near Tahoe City, check out Tahoe Water Adventures, Tahoe Jet Boats, or Tahoe Sailing Charters to rent a boat!

Summer Essentials

Looking for a relaxing place to drop your anchor? Cruise on over to Sand Harbor Beach or Secret Cove.

THINGS TO DO (#3): KAYAKING

If tubing, waterskiing, or jet-skiing is a bit too action-packed for you, try renting a kayak instead. Lake Tahoe has incredible kayaking opportunities, including one-day guided kayaking tours that include lunch and free instruction. Tahoe City Kayak, Tahoe Adventure Company, and Adrift Tahoe all offer canoe and kayak rentals.

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THINGS TO DO (#4): SCUBA DIVING

Sand Harbor is located at Sand Harbor State Park, 5 miles south of Incline Village. Sand Harbor is the most popular dive site in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If you are willing to drive to South Lake Tahoe to Emerald Bay State Park for the day, check out Calawee Cove Beach or Emerald Bay’s Maritime Heritage Trail.

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WHERE TO EAT (#1): MOE’S ORIGINAL BBQ

“Tahoe’s best BBQ, Ribs, Wings and Whisky!” I ordered the Pulled Pork Sandwich with Mac and Cheese, Potato Salad, and an IPA.

WHERE TO EAT (#2): ZA’S LAKEFRONT

Za’s is a great pizza option for a large group at lunch. Happy Hour is 3-6PM from Monday through Thursday. Although the menu is relatively simple, the restaurant has a spectacular view of the lake.

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WHERE TO EAT (#3): JAKE’S ON THE LAKE

Family owned and operated since 1978, Jake’s On The Lake also has a great waterfront view of the lake. Their menu is inspired by Californian and Hawaiian flavors and features locally-sourced seafood, grass-fed meats, and seasonal produce.