Lake Tahoe Summer Activities

Best Things To Do at Lake Tahoe in Summer

There are more Lake Tahoe summer activities than you could ever fit into one trip. Seriously, we can’t make this up! Explore the Sierra by foot or by pedal, splash in turquoise water that’s so clear it looks tropical, take a swing on manicured golf courses, and zip by boat or jet ski to secret coves. With so much to choose from, it can be hard to decide what things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer. Luckily, Lake Tahoe is here to help make your decision a little easier. Here is an overview of the best Lake Tahoe summer activities. If you’re planning on coming during a different season, check out all things to do in Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe Summer Sports

Take a hike. Get out there! With stunning mountain vistas, meadows painted in wildflowers, and pristine alpine lakes, it’s no wonder that one of the most popular Lake Tahoe summer activities is hiking. You can explore near Tahoe’s south shore on mellow, scenic paths, or ascend into the Sierra when you hike on the Tahoe Rim Trail or into Desolation Wilderness. Regardless of which trail you choose, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles whenever you wander in the woods. 

One of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe in summer is to explore from the water. Lake Tahoe has plenty of water sports for adventure seekers. This is a must-do Lake Tahoe summer activity! You can rent a speedboat or jet ski and zip to Emerald Bay, soar over the lake on a parasailing adventure, kayak or paddleboard along the shoreline to hidden beaches, or get your thrill on when you try wake-surfing and wake-boarding. Pro tip – the lake is smooth as glass in the morning, so head out early!

Cast your line into the crystal waters of Lake Tahoe. There are plenty of fishing charters on the south shore and these seasoned captains know the secret spots to get your line-jumping. Additionally, the rivers and streams that feed Lake Tahoe teem with trout, so whether you’re a fly-fishing expert or a spin-casting extraordinaire, you’re sure to land a big one on the south shore of Lake Tahoe.

Bikers get ready! The Lake Tahoe summer season is rife with biking opportunities. As a designated Bike Friendly Community, there are plenty of trails for every ability, from paved paths for social spins to single-track for downhill demons. Speed down heart-pounding trails and try to appreciate the mountain scenery as it whizzes past on Corral Trail and the infamous Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. Prefer a leisurely pedal with family and friends? Take a cruise down the South Lake Tahoe Bike Path where paved trails wind to all the best beaches on the south shore. You’re never far from the water when biking in Lake Tahoe, so take a plunge after a sweaty ride.

Lake Tahoe Summer Relaxation

Looking for relaxing activities during your Tahoe vacation? Lake Tahoe has got you covered. There are tons of Lake Tahoe summer activities to enjoy without having to wear a helmet. 

Sip artisanal cocktails at a waterfront restaurant, shop til you drop at the Heavenly Village, and enjoy live music at South Lake Tahoe summer concerts. Don’t miss seeing your favorite band play at the Harveys Summer Concert Series, which brings Grammy-winning musicians to the south shore, and check out the Live at Lakeview Summer Music Series for jamming tunes right on the beach. 

Honestly, you just can’t beat a beach day in Lake Tahoe. Our beaches are simply divine with fine-grain sand and the clearest water you’ve ever seen. Don’t feel guilty if you scrap the hiking plans and decide to laze the day away on a Lake Tahoe beach – there are few summer activities that can compete with such high-quality beach-bumming.

There are so many things to do during a Lake Tahoe summer, you will be hard-pressed to accomplish it all! If you need help planning your trip, check out our summer activities guide to hash out the perfect itinerary for your Tahoe vacation. 

Cause a little bit of summer is what the whole year is about.

John Mayer