South Lake Tahoe is known for being a highly touristic ski resort city. Its copious amounts of fine powdery snow and clear blue Lake Tahoe which is surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains make it a picturesque winter paradise. It also has some of the best cabins and top luxury hotels for those looking for places to stay in. Its beautiful beaches make South Lake Tahoe a wonderful summer destination as well. Other places of interest found in the city also include popular casinos and casual dining options. No matter what season you visit, there will be no shortage of exciting activities and outdoor pursuits, such as exploring awesome trails and riding on Heavenly Gondolas. If you’re still wondering what to do in South Lake Tahoe, just read on to learn more about the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe, California.
Where to stay in South Lake Tahoe, California
Surrounded by the most stunning lakes and waterfront villas, Al Tahoe and Bijou are some highly recommended spots if you’re still wondering where to stay.
Al Tahoe
Al Tahoe is a perfect spot for budget travelers and solo travelers to stay since it’s one of the most affordable neighborhoods in South Lake Tahoe. South Lake Tahoe attractions are plentiful - even stunning and are a haven for adventure seekers. This neighborhood sits right between the stunning Lake Tahoe and Trout Creek. Those who have big appetites will enjoy this spot since it’s a place surrounded by promising and unforgettable grub.
Bijou
This part of South Lake Tahoe gives travelers spacious accommodations with amazing lake views to choose from. Bijou is a great rural community that boasts some of the safest and most tranquil neighborhoods. It’s also filled with a ton of natural scenery, and families will appreciate places like Bijou Community Park. There are also several sandy beaches like El Dorado Beach for beach lovers to spend their afternoons in.
For a top-notch vacation in South Lake Tahoe, we recommend booking these amazing places to stay:
1. Emerald Bay State Park
Emerald Bay State Park is one of the top hiking and trekking spots in South Lake Tahoe where guests can enjoy stunning lake views. While hiking in the beautiful park, you can look out and see the clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe surrounded by vibrant, deep green pine trees. The scene is made all the more magical during sunset and sunrise. In addition to admiring the beauty of the area surrounding Lake Tahoe, there are several other activity options. You can visit the Fannette islands, try water sports, go camping, or take a leisurely boat cruise.
Emerald Bay State Park
Address: 138 Emerald Bay Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Phone Number: +1 5305413030
Website: Emerald Bay State Park
2. Hit the slopes
Lake Tahoe is renowned for its winter sports, and for good reason. Its position in the Sierra mountains allows it to receive the coveted fresh powder and several hundred inches of snow per year and plenty of sunshine, making it a perfect spot for skiing, snowboarding, etc. The lake, trees, and mountain peaks provide a wonderful backdrop for your snow activities. There is no shortage of ski resorts in the area, with some of the most popular including Heavenly Mountain Resort, Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, and Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel. Hit the slopes and fresh powder to experience what everyone is raving about!
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Address: 4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Hours: 9 am-5 pm
Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort
Address: 1111 Sierra-At-Tahoe Rd, Twin Bridges, CA 95735
Website: Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort
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3. Relax at the beach
El Dorado Beach, which is also referred to as Commons Beach, is a popular tourist destination in South Lake Tahoe during the warmer months. Family-friendly activities include having a picnic or barbeque at the lakeside beach. Savor your meal while facing the crystal-clear waters and feeling the warm sands between your toes. Water sports equipment rentals on the beach make it convenient to explore the sandy beach by boat or canoe. There is also a designated shallow area for children to swim, so the entire family is sure to have fun! Pope beach is also one of the sandy beaches to consider visiting. It has relatively shallow waters, which is especially good for children and inexperienced swimmers.
El Dorado Beach
Address: Hwy. 50 South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Pope Beach
Address: Pope Beach Rd. (off Hwy. 89) South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
4. El Dorado Wine Country Tour
El Dorado Wine Country vineyards have been producing wine for over 150 years. Take a tour to sample the wines that have been satisfying customers for over a century and a half. Visit as many of the fifty wineries in the area, and learn about their history and the wine-making process. Best of all, taste the exquisite wines and bring home a delicious souvenir of your time in El Dorado Wine Country.
El Dorado Wine Country Tour from South Lake Tahoe
Duration: 7 hours
5. Heavenly Mountain Gondola Ride
You simply cannot visit South Lake Tahoe without going on the iconic Heavenly Mountain Gondola Ride. This gondola is a special one. It does not carry its passengers down a river, or any body of water for that matter. Instead, this gondola ride is a glass cabin that hoists passengers in the air, allowing them to have a magnificent bird’s eye view of the beautiful scenery from high above Heavenly Mountain. Between the height and the view of the Sierra Nevada Mountain and stately pine trees towering above the glistening Lake Tahoe, you will truly feel as if you are in heaven on this scenic gondola ride.
Heavenly Mountain Gondola Ride
Address: 4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Website:
6. Lower Eagle Falls
Lower Eagle Falls is located right above Emerald Bay. The hiking trail that leads to the top is a leisurely one that is not too strenuous. Beginning hikers may find it to be somewhat steep; however, they should be able to complete it. All hikers should wear shoes that are appropriate for walking on a potentially slippery waterfall trail. Once you reach the top, you will be completely surrounded by wilderness and natural beauty. It is the perfect spot to enjoy amazing views, have lots of photo opportunities, listen to the water roar, and take in the aroma of the nearby pine trees.
Lower Eagle Falls
Address: Emerald Bay, South Lake Tahoe, CA
7. Ice skating
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Outdoor snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding are not the only winter sports that South Tahoe Lake has to offer. Head to South Tahoe Ice Arena for some indoor ice skating. Go there with family or friends, skate, play hockey and play the arcade games available at the rink. If you become tired of ice skating, replenish your energy at the snack bar. After refueling, continue to have fun!
South Tahoe Ice Arena
Address: 1176 Rufus Allen Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Phone Number: +1 5305447465
8. Himmel Haus
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
During your time here, you most likely will have been engaging in the plethora of sports and a number of other South Lake Tahoe activities that are available in the area: skiing, snowboarding, swimming, etc. There are a number of hiking trails to explore as well. You may be in need of a hearty meal to restore your strength and prepare for another exciting day in South Lake Tahoe. It’s a good thing that South Lake Tahoe has ample dining options. In Himmel Haus Restaurant, you can enjoy delicious German food. Try some mouthwatering schnitzel, bratwurst, and sauerkraut, and pair them with ice cold, authentic Bavarian beer.
Himmel Haus
Address: 3819 Saddle Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150-8685
Phone Number: +1 5303147665
Hours: Mon-Fri: 4pm–12am Sat: 12pm–2am Sun: 12pm-12am
9. Vikingsholm
Vikingsholm, a Viking-style castle in Emerald Bay, is a spot for history buffs. Tour the castle and visit as many of the 38 total rooms as you can. Learn about the history of the castle starting with its construction in 1929. If you are visiting the castle between May and September, you can take one of the guided tours, where you can learn about the significance and history behind the metal and stonework, wood carvings, and other antiques that you see in the castle.
Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay Cruise on M.S. Dixie II
Duration: 2 hours
10. Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum (from USD 80.0)
Lake Tahoe is a wonderful place with stunning views of nature, beaches, resorts, and plenty of winter sports opportunities. As you enjoy all that the city has to offer, do you ever find yourself wondering what Lake Tahoe was like before it became a ski resort capital? If so, the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum has some answers. The museum has an extensive collection of photographs and films about Tahoe’s history. Transform into a detective as you participate in the Mysteries of the Museum collection. Develop a deeper appreciation for the city and its history.
Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley
Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes
11. Heli-Vertex helicopter tour
See the spectacular scenery of Lake Tahoe in an entirely different light by going on a helicopter tour with Heli-Vertex. Admire the beautiful mountains and the surrounding clear waters from above. View Emerald Bay, the pristine beaches, and some stunning waterfalls, and even witness the gorgeous view of the sunset. Make your Lake Tahoe moments more special by taking the opportunity to tour this magnificent place in an extraordinary way.
Heli-Vertex
Address: 1901 Airport Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, United States
Website: Heli-Vertex
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
12. Marcus Ashley Fine Art Gallery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Marcus Ashley Fine Art Gallery proudly features the creative works of both local and international artists. They showcase plenty of art forms from oil paintings to glass art. Join them in one of their special events and get the opportunity to meet a talented artist. Their events also include some light snacks and refreshments, so you will surely have a great time. Feast your eyes and make your trip to South Lake Tahoe memorable.
Marcus Ashley Fine Art Gallery
Address: 4000 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Suite 23, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Website: Marcus Ashley Fine Art Gallery
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
13. Kayak Tahoe
Lakefront hotels definitely give amazing views, but seeing the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe close up is better. With Kayak Tahoe, you can rent a kayak or a paddleboard, so go ahead and glide through the lake waters and have a truly divine experience. If you are a beginner, fear not, as safety instructions will definitely be provided before you take your lovely ride. You can also join in on a guided tour for an even more enriching adventure.
Kayak Tahoe
Address: 3411 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Website: Kayak Tahoe
Price: Starts at 25 USD
14. Lake Tahoe photography tour (from USD 189.0)
Capture the wonders of Lake Tahoe when you go on this half-day photography tour. Your experienced host will definitely be glad to share some important tips and techniques on how to take the best shots of the scenic places you will be witnessing. See the unbelievable colors of the mountains, the trees, and the clear lake waters. Through this experience, you will learn to appreciate Lake Tahoe’s natural beauty; so ready your cameras and let the adventure begin!
Lake Tahoe Small-Group Photography Scenic Half-Day Tour
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
A city for all seasons
There are a plethora of fun things to do in South Lake Tahoe - rain or shine, hot or cold. With amazing accommodations available, from luxe hotels to the best family-friendly Airbnb vacation rentals and camping spots, you’ll surely find a great home base as you check out the activities on this list to help jump start your South Lake Tahoe vacation!
Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in South Lake Tahoe, California
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