Two Perfect Summer Days in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe offers memory-worthy settings for family, friends, and couples retreats. With sunny skies, majestic mountains, and shining waters, this bountiful location is a must for adventure seekers and (find the phrase)... alike.
Embrace the mountain's call and fall in love with South Lake Tahoe.
Day One
Welcome!
Take a moment to take in the breathtaking view of the High Sierra mountains and the exquisite Lake Tahoe waters in front of you.
Here in South Lake Tahoe, an array of accommodations are at your fingertips. From a rustic cabin, lake view luxury, roaring casinos, and even furry baby-friendly stays, whatever your heart desires can be found here.
Once checked in, it's time to fuel your adventure!
Hungry for a bite? Head over to Tahoe Keys Deli and pick up some specialty subs, homemade chili, or salad; perfect for sitting and taking in the awe-inspiring atmosphere or take your meal to go and picnic on the beach.
Water activities are in full swing during the summer season. Head over to Lakeside Beach and dip your toes in the lake. Power through the water on a stand-up paddleboard or rent a jet ski and rip through those currants.
Looking for a navigator? Take in the lake air and stupefying views with an MS Dixie II historic lake tour and embark along the 13-mile-wide waters. Try out their evening cruise and enjoy delicious dining and thirst-quenching drinks.
Looking for a more romantic setting for dinner? Edgewood Restaurant, a hidden gem of South Lake Tahoe, offers floor-to-ceiling windows with enchanting views of the mountains and the glistening lake. Complete the ambiance with an order of their tender filet mignon or treat your sweet tooth with a dark chocolate souffle.
After a savory dinner, embrace the stars in the night sky and let them be your guide along the romantic coastline.
After some nightlife action? Lady luck can be found at our exciting casinos! Try your hand at the tables at Bally's, Harrah's, Harvey's and the Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe. Or put on your dancing shoes and rock and roll over to Opal Ultra Lounge inside Bally’s and enjoy the electrifying local and national DJs spin their tracks.
Day Two
Rise and shine, the outdoors await!
South Lake Tahoe has an abundance of ethereal beaches and heart-pumping hikes to choose from. If you prefer two-wheeled adventures, mountain and road biking is world-class here, as well. Bring your own, or rent from any of the local shops.
Before embarking on your second day, grab coffee, tea and a hearty breakfast at Tahoe fave the Red Hut Café Kingsbury. It’s decked out inside with Tahoe nostalgia and makes you feel like you stepped into an old-time diner. Go big, because that’s what we do in Tahoe, with one of their heaping, appetite-busting breakfasts, like the protein-rich Don’s Special, or a plate of pancakes, French toast or waffles.
Filled up, it’s time for your first outdoor excursion of the day.
But which hike to choose?
“Oh, we’ll just have to come back longer next time”, you say to your partner, who vehemently nods in agreement.
The Fallen Leaf Lake hike is great for beginner-to-intermediate hikers, in just a few miles offering views of the smaller alpine lake and its stunning flora and fauna.
But climbing Mt. Tallac seems like it could be exhilarating, you think. The trail challenges hikers with substantial elevation changes over the five-mile ascent to the Tahoe basin’s tallest peak, at 9,738-feet elevation.
But it’s your last day. This trip, at least… No need to show off.
Overhearing so many others talk about the mesmerizing hike to Emerald Bay, you’ve decided to tackle it yourselves. There’s a reason it’s one of the most photographed places in the world.
Allotting time for the just-over-five-mile-roundtrip hike, elevation gains of just 500 feet seem more suited for a full and action-packed day.
Begin by taking the Rubicon Trail from Emerald Bay State Park. Gaze over expansive views of Tahoe’s gorgeous waters, even seeing to the bottom because of its world-renowned clarity. Check out Vikingsholm, an historic estate built in Scandinavian style by a remarkable woman on the banks of Emerald Bay.
You made it! Now to sort through those pics. Sigh. Everything was just so…photographable.
Off to the beach for some cooling down. But first, lunch. And a cold, local microbrew sure sounds mouthwatering. So, Cold Water Brewery and Grill it is.
Pair their crave-inducing pub or comfort foods with any of their exceptional handcrafted beers, all while taking in views from the outdoor patio.
Lounging sounds fabulous now, doesn’t it? Beach time!
If you brought your pooch, Nevada Beach is “fur” you (bad pun totally intended). A half-mile of sand invites beachgoers to play with their furry pals, or simply sit and enjoy some R&R. Or try the slightly rockier but equally exquisite Kiva Beach, also dog friendly.
If you’re looking for a bit more action, journey to Zephyr Cove on the east side of South Lake. From here, you can parasail, paddleboard, jet ski or play volleyball on their vast beach. And if you missed being on the water for your first day, now’s your chance.
The M.S. Dixie takes you on a waterborne journey into eye-popping Emerald Bay by paddlewheel boat. Take an afternoon cruise or try and tear your eyes away from the sunset on its decks later.
Well, the day is winding down, but those brews you tasted at Cold Water piqued your interest in trying more local libations.
Luckily, with the crystalline waters of Tahoe inspiring them, brewers abound ‘round here. Download the South Tahoe Beer Trail Map for a concise guide to finding your newest favorite frothy beverage.
Looking for a more intimate setting and a superb craft cocktail? The Loft features some unusually delicious options to try while imbibing in their moody, mysterious interior seating—fitting for a place also serving up sides of live theatre and magic.
After two full, exciting and romantic days in South Lake Tahoe, you’re already planning your previously discussed return.
There’s just too much you didn’t get to savor quite yet. But oh, those two days were the perfect start to a lifelong love, between both you two, and Tahoe.