Activities for Every Season
Things to Do in Lake Tahoe
Explore the seemingly endless things to do in Lake Tahoe, including hiking on scenic trails, exploring state parks and sandy beaches, skiing and snowboarding at world-renowned ski resorts, and taking in the views of Emerald Bay or Zephyr Cove.
Don't Just Explore
Dig into all that Lake Tahoe's South Shore has to offer. Natural scenery coupled with non-stop nightlife. Big-name entertainment on the edge of sandy beaches. That's just the beginning of things to do in Lake Tahoe.
All Things to Do
Lake Tahoe’s south shore combines outdoor adventure and vibrant entertainment. Pristine beaches are located minutes from the slopes of Heavenly Ski Resort and trails into the Desolation Wilderness. Local breweries, acclaimed restaurants, and a year-round calendar of events keep the energy high after the sun sets.
Browse Things to Do
Emerald Bay State Park is a must-see on any visit to Lake Tahoe. Take your sight-seeing to the next level at Cave Rock, or try kayaking and paddleboarding on the lake. Explore the Sierra Nevada’s mountain biking trails, try rock climbing at Luther Pass, and hike to alpine lakes.
Heavenly Mountain Resort, with its spectacular views of the lake, delivers world-class skiing and snowboarding, plus numerous shops and restaurants at Heavenly Village, and the Tallac Historic Site, a restored 1920s resort that offers guided tours and kid-friendly programs. Nearby, Sierra at Tahoe Resort offers long, scenic runs and opportunities to ski with a ranger.
The south shore of Lake Tahoe offers some of the best, family-friendly beaches. Pope Beach stands out as one of South Lake Tahoe’s most beloved shorelines, offering nearly a mile of sandy beach with calm, shallow waters perfect for families. Kiva Beach draws crowds with its expansive shoreline and dog-friendly policy, while Lakeside Beach provides convenient access from the downtown area.
South Lake Tahoe comes alive at night with high-energy casinos like Harrah’s and Hard Rock Lake Tahoe offering gaming, live music and entertainment, and vibrant nightclubs where visitors dance until dawn. Don’t miss the Summer Concert Series or the diverse dining scene ranging from casual brewpubs to upscale restaurants.
There’s a lot of history here. While you take in the modern amenities, soak in the Lake Tahoe area the way Mark Twain did. From Zephyr Cove Resort, built-in 1900 in response to the Comstock silver mining boom to Camp Richardson Resort offering city-folk a lakefront retreat since 1924, to Vikingsholm Castle, another grand estate of the 1920s, we can tell a story or two about life at the Lake in yesteryear.
You’ve got options
More Things to Do in Lake Tahoe
Sometimes, it’s the simplest just to list out all the awesome reasons to visit Lake Tahoe. So, here it is: a list of every amazing, awe-inspiring, adrenaline-rushing things to do in Tahoe.
WHAT LAKE TAHOE HAS TO OFFER
Winter Fun
Ski and Snowboard Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe winter is unparalleled. Here, you’ll discover that a fresh blanket of snow contrasts dramatically with Lake Tahoe’s famously clear blue waters – a gorgeous backdrop for skiing, snowboarding, or snow angel-ing.
Ski and Snowboard
No matter the season, there are so many fun things to do, you will be hard-pressed to accomplish it all! However, activities in Lake Tahoe change with the seasons. Here’s our roundup of all the things to do in Lake Tahoe throughout the year, so you can start planning your mountain getaway.
Spring is a time for multisports. The days are longer and the snow is melting, but there’s still a lot of snowpack in the mountains. Locals’ go-to activity is spring skiing in a t-shirt and sunglasses and sprawling in the sun at a snow-beach bar. Spring is also perfect for snowshoeing adventures, paddleboarding on the lake without another soul around, or taking a swing at Tahoe’s legendary golf courses. Regardless of which activity you choose, it’s likely you’ll have it all to yourself.
Summer promises legendary, heart-pounding downhill single-track and bike paths for social spins. Hike your heart out, dive in and discover the best Lake Tahoe water activities and get your booty to the beaches, or snag a boat rental and zip over to iconic Emerald Bay. Whether you’re in search of a family-friendly vacation, relaxing on a sandy beach on the shore of Lake Tahoe, or an all-out mountain adventure, there are plenty of Lake Tahoe summer activities. The hard part is deciding how you’re going to possibly pack it all in!
In the fall, temperatures cool down, but things to do in Lake Tahoe don’t. Grab a sweater, some hiking boots, and your friends for a trip to the south shore. Fall is the perfect time to take a swing at the world-class Edgewood golf course and watch the sunset over the Lake. It’s also the best season for hiking and mountain biking – you’ll fall in love with Tahoe’s colorful autumn foliage, mild temperatures, and sunny days. From biking to golfing to hiking, get ready to wander in Lake Tahoe.
When winter rolls around, ski and ride some of the best snow at world-renowned resorts such as Heavenly Mountain Resort, Kirkwood Resort and Sierra-at-Tahoe, and catch a one-of-a-kind view of the lake. Things really heat up after the last chair. Find out how South Lake Tahoe does après ski at local breweries and bars. Don’t forget to squeeze in sledding, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or sliding around on some ice skates.
Stay a While
Lake Tahoe Things to Do FAQs
View All FAQsWhat are the top attractions to visit in Lake Tahoe (California)?
Some of the top attractions to visit at Lake Tahoe (California) include Emerald Bay State Park, known for its crystal clear waters and stunning views of Eagle Falls and Fannette Island, Heavenly Mountain Resort with its spectacular views of the lake, world-class skiing and snowboarding, and numerous shops and restaurants at Heavenly Village, and the Tallac Historic Site, a restored 1920s resort that offers guided tours and kid-friendly programs.
What is Lake Tahoe popular for?
Lake Tahoe is a popular vacation spot known for its clear blue waters, scenic views, and world-class outdoor recreational activities such as skiing, hiking, boating, and fishing. It’s also known for its luxury resorts and casinos. It’s a famous spot for outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers looking for a picturesque getaway.
What are the top things to do in Lake Tahoe?
There are endless things to do at Lake Tahoe including hiking and exploring the various state parks and scenic trails, skiing and snowboarding at one of the many world-renowned ski resorts, and visiting one of the endless spots Lake Tahoe is known for such as Emerald Bay, Cave Rock, or Zephyr Cove.
