The most popular time of the year to visit one of the most iconic vacation destinations in America is – you guessed it – Lake Tahoe in the summertime! But it can get quite overwhelming to navigate this lake and all there is to see and do, where to stay, and what events and landmarks to prioritize.

This article will walk you through everything, including how to see it all in three days and two nights, and a complete list of the best things to see around the entire lake. Plus great ideas on finding lodging of all kinds.

What is Lake Tahoe known for?

Shutterstock Image

Lake Tahoe is a popular crystal-clear aquamarine lake – a mosaic of coves and bays, sandy shorelines, and soaring cliffs. Gigantic boulders dot the lake, creating shapes and patterns in and around the water that give it such depth, dimension, and character. The lake itself is surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and alpine forests of towering pine and sequoia trees.

In this guide, we’ll share loads of tips to help you plan your summer trip to Tahoe. You’ll find: 

• Know Before You Go 
• 42 Things to Do in Lake Tahoe in Summer 
• Where to Stay in Tahoe in Summer
• What to Pack
• 3-Day Itinerary 

Know Before You Go: Planning a Trip to Lake Tahoe in Summer

So … where exactly is Lake Tahoe? For those who don’t live nearby, this question can seem confusing. Is it in Nevada … or is it in California? 

The answer is that this enormous lake straddles both shores. There are incredible beaches, parks, and towns surrounding the entire 22-mile-long, 12- mile wide lake. For a great self-driving tour with detailed information about the best 24+ stops around the entire 72-mile perimeter, do yourself a favor and download the Shaka Guide Lake Tahoe Tour. You won’t be sorry.

In order to successfully plan a trip to Tahoe in the summer, you must make your reservations well in advance – at least three to four months ahead of time if you want to secure lodging in June, July, or August.

But if you’re not attached to all of the actions and activities that only occur during the summer season and can get away to Lake Tahoe after the bulk of the tourists have gone home once school is back in session, then September is the best time to visit. That said, you won’t find as many outdoor concerts and shows, and some of the other tourist-driven activities end on Labor Day.

How Cold is Lake Tahoe in Summer?

Shutterstock Image

Also keep in mind that Lake Tahoe’s waters, while staggeringly beautiful, are not very warm. If you’re a glass-half-full type, you could say the water is ‘refreshingly cool’ on a warm summer day. But even at its warmest,  you’re lucky if this deep alpine lake reaches 68  degrees. When you’re strolling along a white, sandy beach on the shoreline of this lake, it’s sometimes hard to remember that you’re not at sea level, as you would be on an ocean beach.

This is way higher up – 6,225 feet in elevation, to be exact – so you’re walking, hiking, and swimming at a pretty high altitude in the Sierra Nevada mountains of Tahoe! So, with the snow of those mountains melting into the lake, it’s like adding ice cubes to a glass of water. 

Yet there are areas around the lake where the water remains shallow before gradually deepening, and so those waters will be a bit warmer than the deeper sections of the lake. 

The entire area surrounding the lake itself is commonly referred to as ‘Tahoe.’  So when someone says they’re visiting Tahoe, that’s an awfully wide net to cast. Tahoe is made up of three national forests, several quaint mountain towns within five counties, and 11 state parks! Plus, of course, the lake itself: Lake Tahoe. 

Weather in Tahoe in Summer

It doesn’t get scorchingly hot in the summer in Tahoe. From late June through August, temperatures are usually in the upper 70s during the day and cooler in the evening and early morning hours. By mid-September, the temperatures average in the lower 70s and can get down to freezing in the evening and early-morning hours. So it’s important to bring extra layers – especially if you’re camping!

Parking

The beaches that surround this enchanting turquoise-blue and emerald-green lake fill up fast in June, July, and August. That means parking lot gates close once capacity is reached. Weekends in the summer are the busiest. So aim to arrive early in the morning, preferably on a weekday, if you want a better shot at nabbing a coveted parking spot!

42 Things to Do in Tahoe in Summer 

*This list includes both Nevada and California. It begins in Incline Village and circles the lake clockwise.* 

1. The North Tahoe Nevada Welcome Center in Incline Village (NV)

 Pick up souvenirs and free maps of the area and speak with some local volunteers behind the counter. They’re there to help you enjoy Lake Tahoe and are a wealth of information.

2. Tour Historic Thunderbird Lodge (NV)

Tours leave from the visitor center in Incline Village (see the bullet point above) and reservations are necessary. If you don’t have one, ask the kind folks at the visitor center if there happens to be room!

The tour costs a bit more than any other tour in Tahoe, but the funds go to a non-profit for upkeep of this incredible estate which sits at the bottom of a private road on the lake and is not accessible any other way other than by reserving tickets. It’s well worth the price of admission if you have a few hours to spare, but not suitable for young children.

3. The Tahoe East Shore Bike Trail (NV)

Walk or pedal along the Tahoe East Shore Trail, which runs from the Tunnel Creek parking lot in Incline Village, past Memorial Point Overlook, all the way to Sand Harbor Beach – three miles each way. These are some of the most glorious views of Lake Tahoe that you will ever see and this trail has been called the most scenic bike path in the western U.S. 

Grab a bike rental at Flume Trail Bikes (no reservation necessary) behind the Tunnel Creek Cafe. 

4. Memorial Point Scenic Overlook (NV)

This is a pull-off with a parking lot along Highway 28 just past Incline Village with spectacular views of the lake and mountains. You can park your vehicle for 20 minutes free of charge and walk down the stairs to walk part of the trail or hike down to the huge iconic boulders right on the water. Grab some photos and enjoy that view! But don’t fall in!

5. Sand Harbor Beach (NV)

Shutterstock Image

This beach is stunning. It’s actually got three beachfronts that all have different landscapes and views. The Nature Boardwalk is a must! It’s a gorgeous walk loaded with wildlife and water views for miles in every direction.

The beach furthest south has a sandy shoreline and very shallow water pretty far out into the lake, making it perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (you can rent one right there.) The middle section of this beach is where the Visitor Center and nature boardwalk entrances are.

There’s also a really cool cafe where you can dine on a deck overlooking the lake. The two beaches on the north side of the park have those huge iconic Tahoe boulder formations that are a photographer’s dream.

6. The Lake Tahoe Open- Air Shakespeare Festival (NV)

Purchase tickets for these outdoor summer performances in advance. This outdoor theater is an amphitheater in the sand overlooking the lake at Sand Harbor Beach. 

7. Logan Shoals Vista Point (NV)

Located along Highway 50 between Incline Village and Cave Rock, this overlook is very popular for those taking wedding and engagement photos. Park and walk up the short paved path for the views. It’s high above Lake Tahoe with breathtaking panoramic views! 

8. Cave Rock Beach (NV)

Shutterstock Image

Another must-see stop! For just a couple of bucks, you can opt for a 10-minute photo opp. Head down to the shoreline and look up at the entire rock formation and cave. It’s a marvel, for sure, and one of the most recognizable spots around Lake Tahoe! 

9. Zephyr Cove Beach (NV)

Once you pull into the entrance, bear left for the restaurant and general store and park there just to get out for a few minutes for a peek at this gorgeous beachfront and the forest surrounding it and dotted with log cabins. Or, park at the beach and spend some time relaxing and soaking up the sun. Water activity rentals and volleyball are available for your enjoyment. 

10. Take a Cruise on the M.S. Dixie II Paddlewheeler (NV)

This large, old-fashioned steamship takes you around Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay, and Fannette Island. Cruises depart from Zephyr Cove. If you know when you’ll be coming, be sure and make a reservation in advance. 

11. Nevada Beach (NV)

This is another must-see beach that’s astoundingly beautiful. From Highway 50, turn right down Elks Point Road to get there. You’ll see a wooden fence along the road as you approach the beach, so if you don’t want to pay to park in the lot, you can turn your car around and try to find a parking space along the fence line.

Then, take the beautiful walking path down to the shoreline. The view of all the mountains and soaring trees on the beach makes this unique landscape simply glorious! 

12. Heavenly Village (CA)

Once you approach Stateline and South Lake Tahoe, this area near the Nevada/California border is more of a commercial/casino zone. You’re not in the woods and out in nature anymore, at least for a little while. South Lake Tahoe is, comparatively, the most crowded town on the lake – full of resorts, restaurants, shopping, and festivities.

It’s a large, fun town – and it’s loaded with character, but more bustling than quiet. (In the winter, this is ski central, because above it is Heavenly Mountain – the highest mountain on Lake Tahoe and arguably one of the most popular ski resorts.) But even in the height of summer, Heavenly Village is chock full of shops, places to eat, and summer activities including a mountain coaster and ropes course.  

13. Heavenly Gondola (CA)

Walk inside the main entrance of Heavenly Lodge to purchase tickets for the gondola rides up the mountain for birds-eye views of the lake. This is quite an experience. Although this enclosed gondola ride is open in the summer and (of course) the winter, it closes from Labor Day until the start of ski season. 

14. Explore Tahoe Visitor Center (CA)

Right next door to the Heavenly Lodge lobby entrance is the Explore Tahoe Visitor Center. It’s loaded with exhibits and free hiking maps, plus friendly local volunteers who can give you all kinds of advice, directions, and information. 

15. South Lake Tahoe Summer Music Series (CA)

At Lakewood Commons in South Lake Tahoe, there are free live concerts every Thursday, including art and food concessions on El Dorado beach, from late afternoon into the evening during the summer season.  

Ready for a travel adventure like no other? Our exclusive audio tour of Lake Tahoe is your ticket to the ultimate travel experience.

16. The Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series in South Lake Tahoe (CA) 

For large-scale, stadium-style concerts in South Lake Tahoe, these shows take place at the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harvey’s Lake Tahoe. See the hottest music acts under the stars. You’ll want to purchase tickets through Ticketmaster in advance if you know when you’ll be there. 

17. Visit One – or All – of the Beaches in South Lake Tahoe (CA) 

Once you drive past the ‘city center’ (and entertainment center) of South Lake Tahoe, continue along the lake (clockwise) and turn right onto Highway 89 to head back into the National Forest. You’ll come to a series of small roads leading to several beachfront. Here’s the order in which you’ll come to them and what they offer:

18. Pope Beach (CA)

This beach has a sandy shoreline, with excellent swimming and kayak rentals. 

19. Camp Richardson Resort Beach (CA)

You’ll know what street to turn down for this beach because of the adorable log cabin Camp Richardson General Store on the corner. Be sure and stop inside this cozy place. On a chilly day the fire will be going and you can even grab breakfast or lunch from the little cafe inside, or shop for souvenirs and shirts.

Then, drive down to the very popular beachfront. It sits in a forest with log cabins among the trees. Rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard for some fun on the lake. There’s also a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating on a deck right in the sand for enjoying a cocktail or meal with a lake view. 

20. Rum Runner Cruise (CA)

Boarding a yacht is one of the best ways to experience Lake Tahoe, the gorgeous Emerald Bay, and Fannette Island (more about those locations when you scroll down). Boats depart from Camp Richardson. Make an advanced reservation if you know when you’re coming. 

21. Valhalla (CA)

A historic theater and performance venue featuring all kinds of festivals and entertainment in the summertime. 

22. Tallac Historic Site (CA)

Shutterstock Image

Walk the trails to meander old summer estates of a bygone era. These mansions and their landscaped grounds along the water are just so picturesque – all inside a gorgeous forest along the lakeshore. You may even come across a reenactment taking place. 

One of the buildings at Tallac is the Baldwin Estate and Museum – a large historic log home that you can visit and tour while you’re there. 

23. Taylor Creek Nature Trails & Visitor Center (CA)

The road after Tallac leads to a visitor center and nature trails. If you come here during the spawning season, this place is jam-packed with families trying to spot the bright orange salmon swimming upstream!

In the summertime, follow the Rainbow Trail to walk through an aquarium-type Stream Profile Chamber where you can see what’s happening underwater. The trailhead begins from the Visitor Center (along with three other nature trails that begin from there.) 

24. Baldwin Beach (CA)

Another lovely beachfront. In the summertime, this is a popular launching point for kayakers who want to paddle to Emerald Bay and Fannette Island, with kayak rentals available on-site.

25. Inspiration Point (CA)

After you pass Baldwin Beach, Hwy. 89 heads uphill until you reach about 8,000 feet or so above sea level. Keep your eyes on the road and your wheels on the pavement … because if you look over the edge (there are no guardrails) you’ll see just how steep that drop-off is. Lake Tahoe is way, way down below.

But the payoff is an overlook that beats the band! Inspiration Point gifts you with a jaw-dropping view of Emerald Bay. From a map, this bay looks sort of like a ‘teardrop’ cove of the lake. And it's home to the only island in all of Lake Tahoe – Fannette Island. You can reach the island by kayak if you want to hike around it and see the old tea house that still stands there. 

26. Eagle Falls (CA)

Shutterstock Image

If you’re visiting Lake Tahoe in the spring or early summer, you may want to hike up to Eagle Falls – a roaring waterfall that flows when the snow is melting off of the mountains above it. But if you’re visiting toward the end of the summer or in the fall, you may only see a trickle of water since all the snow has already melted. The Eagle Falls hike sure is nice, though, if hiking is your thing! 

27. Emerald Bay & the Hidden Castle – Vikingsholm (CA)

Practically across the street from Eagle Falls is the parking lot for Vikingsholm Castle and Emerald Bay. You’ll be super lucky if you score parking here since it’s such a popular spot. But this is a must-see, even if you have to drive around a little and wait for a spot.

But it requires a hike down a steep path that’ll take you about 20 minutes to get down. And then, of course, you’ll have to hike back up that steep path when you’re finished. So take it slow and steady. You can do it!

This switchback trail down the mountain wends its way through gorgeous forests and granite ledges – full of pocket waterfalls and rugged cliffs along a well-worn, wide path with peek-a-boo views of the lake along the way. This is the only means of reaching the shoreline of Emerald Bay without a boat. Part of the reason Emerald Bay is so pristine is that you’re not allowed to drive down there! 

Reminder – once you pay for parking at the Emerald Bay Vikingsholm lot, keep your receipt. Because you can use it again at the other state parks in California if you visit them within the same day. 

28. Vikingsholm Castle at Emerald Bay (CA) 

Once you reach the Emerald Bay shoreline, you’ll come to the hidden Vikingsholm Castle. Between this emerald-green bay, the white-sand shoreline, that tiny island, and the castle itself, the photo ops are stupendous!

This is an experience you don’t want to miss out on. Tours of the castle run every half hour in season, and you don’t need a reservation. So if you want to see inside, just walk past Vikingsholm to the next building – a small museum/gift shop – to purchase a ticket. 

29. D.L. Bliss State Park (CA)

Shutterstock Image

There’s a sweet little Visitor Center that you’ll come to upon arriving at this state park – stop inside for souvenirs, maps and to talk to a ranger or volunteer. Ask for directions to Balancing Rock. Drive along the park’s forested road to the next three sights:

30. Balancing Rock at D.L. Bliss Park(CA)

Follow the signs to this short nature trail that leads you up to a unique formation that looks like it’s going to topple at any second! A must-see!

Insider's pro tip! Maximize your travel experience with our exclusive audio tour of Lake Tahoe and discover a world of hidden wonders.

31. Lester Beach at D.L. Bliss Park (CA)

This is a sweet shoreline where you can walk among those iconic Tahoe boulder formations, and relax on the beach if you have time to spare.

32. The Rubicon Trailhead from D.L. Bliss Park (CA)

Shutterstock Image

Just past Lester Beach, you’ll continue the drive uphill to the very popular and highly-rated Rubicon Trail. It’s super long and you don’t need to take the whole thing, but I’d recommend you hike it for at least ten minutes just to see the view of the lake from high up on the cliffs through the trees.

Just be careful and stick to the path! There’s also a trail to an abandoned lighthouse, but that’s a little more challenging and time-consuming. On the other hand, if you love to hike and you have a whole day to do so, this trail leads all the way to Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm Castle (and beyond)! Over five miles each way. 

33. Meeks Bay (CA)

Located on National Forest land, this is a sprawling beach between D.L. Bliss and Sugar Pine Point State Parks. It’s also a popular spot for camping on the beach. But it’s not part of the California State Park system, so it would require a separate fee. This is a public beach, not to be confused with the private Meeks Bay Resort. 

34. Hike the Meeks Creek Trail (CA) 

On the other side of Highway 89, across from the Meeks Bay Campground and Marina, you’ll find the Meeks Creek Trail, a popular hiking spot through a forest and along a pretty creek. Trailhead address: Forest Rte. 14N42, Tahoma, CA.

35. Sugar Pine Point State Park & the Hellman Ehrman Mansion (CA) 

Shutterstock Image

Once inside the main lot, look for the tall fire-lookout-type nature center.

Walk just past that (or stop inside first) to the Hellman Ehrman mansion and estate grounds. Step up on the back porch of this former summer home for the view of the lake, then head down the mega-lawn and walk out along the pier. You may even want a tour inside the mansion. 

Be sure and follow the path along the lake heading south (with the lake to your left) until you see the railroad tracks that head right into the lake. It won’t take more than a few minutes, and you’ll love the photo op. With the clarity of the water, you can literally see the tracks almost to the bottom of the lake floor!

36. Tahoe City (CA)

This adorable one-light mountain town is one of the prettiest small towns in all of North America. On the west side of town, start with the North Lake Tahoe Visitor Center to collect some maps and speak to the volunteers about the best dining options, and to find out what entertainment is on the agenda for Commons Beach and Heritage Plaza.

Then, park anywhere along the main street, or in the Commons Beach public lot. Walk to the Lake Tahoe Dam (where the Truckee River begins) and peer out over Fanny Bridge to spot the giant trout. There’s a path that leads along the lake that is just so lovely and picturesque.

If you have time, check out the Gatekeeper’s and Basketmakers Museums, walk along the main street to peruse the shops, or rent a bike at Willard’s and pedal down the Truckee River Bike Path alongside that pristine river. You can also float the river on a raft!

37. Tahoe City Public Pier, Watson Cabin, Penny Bear (CA)

On the east side of Tahoe City (you can walk from one end of town to the other) is Watson Cabin (the oldest log cabin in Lake Tahoe) and the Penny Bear statue (get up close to see what covers this sculpture!) If you head down the steps from there (or down through that parking lot) you can walk out on the public pier over the lake.

On a clear day, you’ll spot (sometimes snow-capped) Heavenly Mountain 22 miles across the lake! There are some wonderful lakefront restaurants here in Tahoe City if you’d like to dine while overlooking the water.

38. Carnelian Bay (CA)

As you continue your drive around the lake from Tahoe City toward Incline Village, you’ll pass picturesque Carnelian Bay. Make a quick stop for a photo or two, or stay a bit longer and rent a kayak or do some stand-up paddleboarding. 

39. Kings Beach (CA)

This is a super popular beach with a gradually deepening shoreline, so the water stays shallow (and thereby warmer) longer than at some of the colder, deep-water beaches around Lake Tahoe. With a small, quirky town of the same name, you may want to take a walk up and down the main strip. https://tahoe.com/kings-beach

40. Historic Stateline Fire Lookout (CA)

Now this is a stop you should not pass up. Located in Kings Beach (although, technically, the drive to get there is just a scooch across the Stateline in NV), the roads leading up to this local treasure are not well marked. But it’s actually only a short distance from the beachfront.

Directions:

• Turn left on Reservoir Road and then make the second right.
• Drive up a steep hill, then park and hike up to the jaw-dropping lookout.

Parking is legal along the right side of the road. The trail begins behind the locked gate (you can walk up there, but no cars are allowed), and the hike is similar (in the distance, terrain, and incline) to the trail to Vikingsholm Castle. Except this time it’s uphill on the way to the overlook, and downhill on the way back.

When you reach the top, you’re standing where an old fire lookout once perched, at well over 7,000 feet elevation (but remember – you’re already pretty high up before you start along the trail, so you’re not climbing up that many feet.)

The payoff is a view overlooking Lake Tahoe that you won’t find anywhere else. Just pace yourself and enjoy the forested views along the way. And make sure you stay on the path – it’s a long way down! 

41. Parasailing & Jet Skiing

Ready for an outdoor adventure on the lake? You’ll have a variety of options including parasailing for awesome aerial views of the turquoise shores below or jet skiing for an action-pack activity in the water. 

42. Stand-Up Paddleboarding 

Shutterstock Image

For a more tame laking activity try stand-up paddleboarding. Pick a spot, grab a board and enjoy the solitude of the mountains around you. 

Level up your travel game with our exclusive audio tour of Lake Tahoe! Gain insider knowledge and enjoy the best travel experience.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

The lodging possibilities surrounding Lake Tahoe seem endless, especially if you factor in private cabin and cottage rentals and all of the online rental services like Airbnb. Remember, we’re talking about five counties worth of towns in two states that surround Lake Tahoe.

And if you want the option of gaming, remember that gambling is legal on the Nevada side of the lake, but not the California side. So, here’s what you’re looking at:

You’ve got plenty of upscale, luxury, all-inclusive hotel resorts – some with pools and private beaches – especially around South Lake Tahoe and Incline Village. You can find more moderately-priced hotels around South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, Tahoma, and Kings Beach.

There are log cabin rentals in the woods on the beaches of Zephyr Cove and Camp Richardson. And many, many one-of-a-kind motels, inns and cabins around the lake that you’d need to carefully comb through to decide if their reviews meet your standards.

And finally, In addition to all of that, you could even choose to stay in one of two towns that are just a half hour away from Lake Tahoe but a relatively easy drive to the lake. (Those towns are Carson City, NV, and Truckee, CA.) 

So, let’s get started, here are 8 areas where you may consider staying on your summer vacation in Tahoe. 

1. Camp Richardson Beach Resort Log Cabin Rentals

I have been to these cabins and, location-wise, they are pretty great. But I haven’t stayed there myself. To me, it seems like you’d be ‘glamping,’ but hey – you’re in a forest, on the beach, right on the lake!

2. Zephyr Cove Beach Resort Log Cabin Rentals

I have been to these cabins as well (read my description above about Camp Richardson’s log cabins – These seem similar.)

3. Hotels in Incline Village

Incline Village is an upscale town on the north end of the lake that doesn’t have any public beaches (unless you score yourself a residential pass.) But you can stay in a number of fancy hotels with private beach access.

4. Hotels near Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe

A lot of the action happens in this area. A. Lot. So, if you’re looking for more of a  bustling place rather than peacefulness and nature, this is the area for you. And on this side of the lake, you get killer sunset views. There is also some lakeside dining in this area.

5. Hotels in Tahoe City 

This is my absolute favorite small town on the lake. There is enough to see and do, all within walking distance, with restaurants on the lake and small festivals, museums, and shopping, yet it still feels rather peaceful and downright beautiful. And it’s got excellent sunrise views.

6. Hotels on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe 

This is a more rural and forested area of the lake. There are some biking/walking trails, but it’s further away from a lot of the activities and entertainment options, so you’d have to use your car a lot more to dine out, etc. In this location on the California side of the lake, you’re between Tahoe City to your north and South Lake Tahoe to your south.

7. Lodging on the East Side of Lake Tahoe

This is the Nevada side of the lake, between Incline Village to the north and South Lake Tahoe to the south. There’s a lot less commercialism on this side of the lake until you head toward Zephyr Cove and all points south to South Lake Tahoe. This area has a lot of natural land that hasn’t been built upon, so many of the places you’d stay aren’t hotels and wouldn’t necessarily be directly on the water/beachfront. So you’re looking at private rentals. 

8. Lake Tahoe Cabin Rentals

Here are more cabin rental ideas.

Pro Tip! Basecamp Hotels: 

I can personally recommend these hotels. This is where I have stayed. They are trendy yet functional, located within walking distance of the most activities (one hotel is on the north end of the lake and one is on the south end of the lake.) 

• Basecamp Hotel
• Basecamp Tahoe South

Need more help choosing an accommodation? Check out this article Breaking Down the Hotel Scene Around Lake Tahoe.This is good to read if you’re still feeling lost about where to stay.

What To Pack for a Summer Trip to Lake Tahoe

With rentals available for almost all of your summer needs – from beach chairs and umbrellas, to stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and even motorboats, here are the basics of what you’ll need:

• Sunscreen
• Hat for shade
• Sunglasses
• Lip balm with SPF
• Waterproof rain jacket
• Warm layers for cool mornings and evenings, including a sweatshirt/hoodie
• Bug spray (for those summer hikes through the Tahoe forests at dawn and dusk)
• Hiking Gear (boots/shoes, hydration pack/backpack/extra water bottles)
• Swimsuits (including a rash guard shirt for extra protection from the sun and cold water)

As for outfits, Lake Tahoe is all about outdoor activities. It’s a pretty ‘sporty’ place and most folks are casual about their dress. That said, if you want to plan your evenings dining in fancy outdoor venues along the water (you’ll find the best variety of these types of restaurants in South Lake Tahoe and in Tahoe City) then maybe you’ll want a couple of casual-yet-dressy summer evening looks. Just make sure to bring a nice sweater, wrap, or jacket. 

3-Day Itinerary

Without stops, driving around the whole lake would take you 3-4 hours. But there are so many things to experience along the way that circling the lake is best done in at least two or three days.

My Personal Advice? Plan to stay one night in South Lake Tahoe (on the south end of the lake) and one night in Tahoe City (on the north end of the lake). This will give you enough time to see both ends of the lake – and all areas along both the east and west shorelines – without having to drive all the way back around the lake to one singular hotel. Here’s how:

Shaka Guide Itinerary

This sample itinerary follows the Shaka Guide Tour that begins in Reno and takes you on a drive to Lake Tahoe via scenic Rt. 431/Mount Rose Highway. You’ll then circle the lake clockwise starting in the town of Incline Village.

• On Day 1, begin your drive around the lake in Incline Village, NV, and circle the lake in a clockwise direction (making it easier to pull off at all of the stunning overlooks). 

• Head south along the east shore of Lake Tahoe until you reach South Lake Tahoe. 

• Stay overnight in South Lake Tahoe, CA. 

• On Day 2, continue clockwise around the lake from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City. 

• Stay overnight in Tahoe City, CA. 

• On Day 3, continue from Tahoe City around the lake to Incline Village 

• Scroll down for the complete list of every stop to make and ideas for things to do during this trip around the lake.

If you’re planning to stay longer in Tahoe than three days, you’ll have time to book some tours of historic mansions and castles, see some shows, and take boat rides and cruises on the lake.

Additional Suggestions

In addition to all of that, there are so many other great places to visit near Lake Tahoe, including:

• Olympic Valley
• The Village at Palisades Tahoe (shopping, entertainment, and Olympic history),
• Historic downtown Truckee (local shops, dining, and Donner Memorial Park)
• Virginia City (old-fashioned boardwalk shops, saloons and silver mines in a town that’s like stepping back in time!)

And now, Folks, it’s time for you to get out there and enjoy Lake Tahoe! You are armed with information, but you need to experience it all for yourself. So get on up there, take it all in, and make it your own. Here’s to making many memories. Cheers!

We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.

For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Lake Tahoe National Park Itinerary and Know Before You Go article!

Ready to explore Lake Tahoe in the summer? Download Shaka Guide's Scenic Lake Tahoe Tour!

Like this article? Share it on Pinterest!

RELATED ARTICLES:

Lake Tahoe To Yosemite: The Only Guide You'll Need

15 Best Hikes Around Lake Tahoe

17 Things To Do Near Lake Tahoe

Airports Most Convenient to Lake Tahoe

Best Time to Visit Lake Tahoe

Top 6 Best Lake Tahoe Hot Springs

The Best Restaurants in Lake Tahoe

How long does it take to drive around Lake Tahoe?

How to Get From San Francisco to Lake Tahoe