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?

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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 Summer Trip to Lake Tahoe 

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 between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.

If you’re not attached to the summer-only activities and can visit after most tourists leave once school starts, September is ideal.

It’s the perfect time to experience Lake Tahoe with fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and all the beauty of late summer.

That said, you won’t find as many tourist-driven activities, since much of the entertainment and summertime amenities end on Labor Day.

It’s also important to keep in mind that much of the roadway that rings the lake is just two lanes, so traffic can back up and slow down when driving slowly.

How Cold is Lake Tahoe in Summer?

Lake Tahoe stays cold even in summer — the water rarely gets warmer than 68°F. Its high elevation (6,225 feet) and constant flow of melted snow keep it icy and refreshing, even on hot days.

Shallow areas near the shore tend to be slightly warmer, while deeper parts stay chilly. And remember, “Tahoe” often refers not just to the lake but also to the surrounding forests, towns, and parks that make up this stunning mountain region.

Weather in Tahoe in Summer

Summer in Tahoe is warm but not scorching, with daytime temperatures usually in the upper 70s from late June through August.

Evenings and early mornings are much cooler, often chilly enough for a jacket or sweatshirt.

By mid-September, daytime temps drop to the lower 70s and can dip down to freezing at night — so pack extra layers, especially if you’re camping!

Parking

The beaches that surround this enchanting turquoise-blue and emerald-green lake fill up fast in the summer. 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 is in the order of how you’d drive from one spot to the next if you were to begin in Incline Village, Nevada, and circle the lake clockwise through California. 

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

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

2. Tour Historic Thunderbird Lodge (NV)

Tours leave from the North Tahoe Nevada, Welcome Center in Incline Village (see #1), and reservations are usually necessary.

But if you don’t have a ticket, ask the kind folks at the visitor center if there happens to be a spot available.

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.

It sits at the bottom of a private road on the lake and is not accessible any other way except by reserving tickets.

It’s well worth the price of admission if you have a few hours to spare, but not really suitable for young children.

3. The Tahoe East Shore Trail (NV)

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Walk or bike ride 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 see, and this trail is known as 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. But walking the trail is perfectly acceptable and equally wonderful.

4. Memorial Point Scenic Overlook (NV)

This is a pull-off along Highway 28 worth stopping for — just past Incline Village.

You’re allowed to park your vehicle for 20 minutes free of charge and head down the stairs to walk part of the Tahoe East Shore Trail or hike down to the huge iconic boulders in the water.

The views are stupendous, and you’ll have enough time to at least take a few photos of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountain range.

5. Sand Harbor Beach (NV)

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The three beachfronts at this park all have different landscapes and views. The Nature Boardwalk here is a must! You’ll see so much wildlife and water views for miles in every direction.

The beach furthest south inside Sand Harbor has very shallow water pretty far out into the lake, making it perfect for stand-up paddleboarding (you can rent one right there.)

The middle beach is where the Visitor Center and nature boardwalk entrances are. The middle and northernmost beach contains so many gigantic boulder formations in the water to climb upon or paddleboard around. It’s a photographer’s dream.

There’s also a really cool cafe at this park where you can dine on a deck overlooking the lake.

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

Photo by Joy Strotz

The sunset performances take place at an outdoor amphitheater in Sand Harbor. Reserve your tickets in advance for these outdoor summer performances.

The seats overlook both the stage and the lake! But you’ll also have to get there early enough to score a parking spot!

7. Logan Shoals Vista Point (NV)

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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 panoramas! 

8. Cave Rock Beach (NV)

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Another must-see stop! For just a couple of bucks, you can opt for a 10-minute photo opp here. You’ll drive through the cave tunnel, then immediately turn right to head down to the shoreline.

From there, you’ll find yourself looking up from the lakefront and the foot of the cave as it looms above you. It’s a marvel, for sure, and one of the most recognizable spots on Lake Tahoe! 

9. Zephyr Cove Beach (NV)

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Once you pull into the entrance, bear left for the restaurant and general store and park there. Then take a few minutes to explore this gorgeous beachfront and the forest surrounding it, 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)

Departing from Zephyr Cove beach, this large, old-fashioned steamship takes you on a dinner cruise on Lake Tahoe all the way to Emerald Bay. Advanced reservations required.

11. Nevada Beach (NV)

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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 try to find a parking space along the fence line.

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

12. Heavenly Village (CA)

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As you approach Stateline, Nevada, which leads into South Lake Tahoe, California, the area near the border of the two states gets more commercial.

Because this is where the casinos are. Once you get past Stateline and the casinos, though, South Lake Tahoe is beautiful!

But it’s certainly one of the most crowded towns on the lake — full of resorts, restaurants, shopping, and festivities.

In the winter, South Lake Tahoe becomes ski central, because towering above it is Heavenly Mountain — the highest mountain on Lake Tahoe and the only ski resort directly on the lake.

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. The Heavenly Gondola (CA)

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Walk inside the main entrance of Heavenly Lodge to purchase tickets for a summertime gondola ride up the mountain for a birds-eye view of the lake.

This is quite an experience. Although the gondola ride is open in the summer and (of course) the winter, keep in mind that the gondola closes the day after Labor Day and doesn’t open again until the start of ski season. 

14. Explore Tahoe Visitor Center (CA)

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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.  

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

For large-scale, stadium-style concerts in South Lake Tahoe, 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.

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

Once you drive through the bustling center of South Lake Tahoe, turn right onto Highway 89 to remain on your clockwise course around the lake.

You’ll be heading back toward the lakefront through the forest, and passing a series of small roads that each lead down to the lake.

Here’s the order in which you’ll come to each of the beachfronts and attractions along Highway 89 and what each one offers:

18. Pope Beach (CA)

This beach off Highway 89 has a sandy shoreline, with excellent swimming and kayak rentals. 

19. Camp Richardson Resort Beach (CA)

You’ll know where to turn for this beach off Highway 89 because of the adorable Camp Richardson General Store log cabin on the corner. Be sure and stop inside this cozy place.

On a chilly day, the fire will be roaring, and you can even grab a hot breakfast or lunch from the little cafe inside, along with shopping for souvenirs.

From there, you can drive down to the very popular Camp Richardson beachfront, dotted with log cabins surrounded by forest.

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 lakefront view. 

20. Rum Runner Cruise (CA)

Board a yacht from the pier at Camp Richardson to experience Lake Tahoe’s Emerald Bay from the water. Advanced reservations are required.

21. Valhalla (CA)

Also on a side street along Highway 89, Valhalla is the name of a historic theater and performance venue featuring all kinds of festivals and entertainment in the summertime. 

22. Tallac Historic Site (CA)

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Take a side road from Highway 89 to Tallack Historic Site to walk forest trails leading to old summer estates of a bygone era.

These mansions and their landscaped grounds along the water are just so picturesque with lake views.

You may even come across a reenactment taking place! Just beware of the black bears and keep your distance if you see one!

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

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

The road off of Highway 89 (just after Tallac) leads to a visitor center and nature trails. (If you come here during spawning season in the fall, this place is jam-packed with families trying to spot the bright orange salmon swimming upstream!)

Follow the Rainbow Trail to walk a boardwalk above the marshland and creek, and you’ll reach 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 also start from there.) 

24. Baldwin Beach (CA)

Another lovely beachfront off of Highway 89. 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 way up a mountain, 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 along the route that beats the band! Inspiration Point gifts you with a jaw-dropping view of Emerald Bay.

This bay is sort of like a “teardrop” cove at the southwest edge of Lake Tahoe. And inside that cove to the only island on the lake — Fannette Island. 

26. Eagle Falls (CA)

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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 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.

Either way, you get a million-dollar view of the lake from high above it. It’s a very popular hiking trail.

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

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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. (Your best bet is to arrive early in the morning.)

In order to reach the beachfront castle, you’ll have to hike down a rather steep path. It takes about 20 minutes but is totally doable.

This switchback trail down the mountain wends its way through gorgeous forests and granite ledges – full of pocket waterfalls and rugged cliffs.

It’s 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 on the same day!

28. Vikingsholm Castle at Emerald Bay (CA) 

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Once you’ve made it down to the Emerald Bay shoreline, you’ll come to Vikingsholm Castle.

Between the emerald-green bay, the white-sand shoreline, the tiny island in the middle of the bay, and the castle itself, the photo ops down here are stupendous!

Tours of the castle run every half hour in season, and you don’t need a reservation.

So if you want to see the interior of the castle, just walk past it to the next building — a small museum/gift shop — to purchase a ticket. 

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

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Upon arriving at this state park, you’ll come to a sweet little visitor center. Stop inside for souvenirs, maps, and to talk to a ranger or volunteer.

Ask for directions to Balancing Rock, a must-see. Drive along the park’s forested road to reach three sights inside the park, which are the next three on this list:

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

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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!

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

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This is a pretty spot of shoreline where you can walk among those iconic Tahoe boulder formations, or just relax on the beach.

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

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Just past Lester Beach (still inside D.L. Bliss) you’ll continue the drive uphill to the very popular and highly-rated Rubicon Trail entrance.

It's a super long trail, so you may not want to walk the whole thing, but I’d recommend you hike it for at least ten minutes just to see the view of the lake from so high up the forest cliffs.

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.

Also from the Rubicon Trail, there’s a path that leads to an abandoned lighthouse, but that’s a little more challenging.

33. Meeks Bay Beach (CA)

Located on national forest land, this is a sprawling beach that you’ll come to after D.L. Bliss as you continue clockwise around the lake.

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 entrance fee.

Also, this is a public beach, not to be confused with the private Meeks Bay Resort. 

34. Hike the Meeks Creek Trail (CA) 

On the opposite 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) 

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Once you reach the main parking lot for this park, look for the tall fire-lookout-style nature center. Walk just past that (or stop inside first, if you like) to the Hellman Ehrman mansion and estate grounds.

Step up on the back porch of this former summer home for a lovely view of Lake Tahoe, then head down the sprawling lawn and walk out along the pier.

You may even want to tour inside the mansion. 

While you’re down by the water, 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 to reach them from the mansion, and you’ll love the photo op.

With the clarity of the water, you can literally follow the tracks almost to the bottom of the lake floor!

36. Tahoe City (CA)

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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 with the volunteers 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 over to the Lake Tahoe Dam (where the Truckee River begins) and peer out over Fanny Bridge to spot the giant trout.

Then walk the path that leads along the lake. It’s just so lovely and picturesque.

Other things you may want to do while at the end of Tahoe City include visiting the Gatekeeper’s and Basketmaker’s Museums, or renting a bike at Willard’s to pedal along the Truckee River Bike Path. You can also float the Truckee River on a raft!

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

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On the east side of Tahoe City (and yes, you can walk from one end of town to the other—it’s that small) sits Watson Cabin, the oldest log cabin in Lake Tahoe.

Nearby, check out the Penny Bear statue—get up close to admire the thousands of pennies that make up this giant sculpture!

If you head down the steps from that statue (or down through the adjacent parking lot), you can walk out onto the long public pier over the lake.

On a clear day, you’ll spot Heavenly Mountain all the way on the far side of the lake — 22 miles away and sometimes capped with snow!

There are some wonderful lakefront restaurants here in Tahoe City if you’d like to dine while overlooking the water, and some adorable shops and cafes along the main street of this precious town.

38. Carnelian Bay (CA)

As you continue your drive clockwise around the lake from Tahoe City, 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)

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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 after you visit the beach.

Just keep in mind that Kings Beach (both the town and shoreline) is really crowded in the summertime.

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 Nevada), the roads leading up to this local hiking trail are not well-marked.

But it’s actually only a short distance from the beachfront, and when you reach the top, you’ll thank me once you see the stupendous view.

If you’re driving from Kings Beach heading clockwise around the lake, you’d reach the Fire Lookout path by turning left on Reservoir Road and then making the second right.

From there, drive up the steep hill, bear left. Parking is legal along the right side of the road.

The trail begins behind the locked gate (to keep cars out) and the hike is similar (in distance, terrain, and incline) to the trail leading to and from 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 of the Fire Lookout trail, you’re standing at well over 7,000 feet elevation (but remember — you’d already be pretty high up the mountain at the start of the trail, so you’re not climbing that whole way.)

The payoff is a view overlooking Lake Tahoe that you won’t find anywhere else. 

41. Watersports like Parasailing & Jet Skiing

If you love outdoor activities, there are plenty of summertime adventures you can have on Lake Tahoe. You’ll find a variety of options, including parasailing for awesome aerial views of the turquoise shores below, or jet skiing for an action-packed activity on the water. 

42. Stand-Up Paddleboarding 

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For a more tame lake activity, try stand-up paddleboarding. Pick a spot, grab a board, and enjoy the solitude and beauty of the lake with the mountains surrounding you.

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. 

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, and Kings Beach.

There are log cabin rentals in the forests on the beaches of Zephyr Cove and Camp Richardson.

And many one-of-a-kind motels, inns, and private cabin rentals around the lake that you’d need to carefully comb through to decide if their reviews meet your standards.

Or, 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. 

Here are nine areas where you might consider staying on your summer vacation in Tahoe: 

1. Camp Richardson Beach Resort Log Cabin Rentals

I have seen these cabins on the California side of the lake, and location-wise, they are pretty great, if you’re into nature and camping in a forest on the beach, right on the lake.

2. Zephyr Cove Beach Resort Log Cabin Rentals

I have also seen these cabins, and they are similar in description to those at Camp Richardson, except that these cabins are on the Nevada side of the lake.

3. Hotels in Incline Village

Incline Village is an upscale town in Nevada on the north end of Lake Tahoe that doesn’t have any public beaches (unless you score yourself a resident pass.)

But there are some fancy hotels in this town that grant you private beach access.

4. Hotels near Heavenly in South Lake Tahoe

A lot of the action happens in South Lake Tahoe. So, if you’re looking for more of a bustling vibe rather than peacefulness and nature, this is the area for you.

From this side of the lake, you have lots of entertainment options in the summertime, plus amazing sunset views.

There are a ton of restaurants, shops, and it’s an easy walk if you want to hit the casinos (or stay in one of the resort casino hotels) in Stateline next door to South Lake Tahoe.

5. Hotels in Tahoe City 

This is my absolute favorite small town on Lake Tahoe. It’s the polar opposite of South Lake Tahoe, both in location and vibe.

There is enough to see and do, all within walking distance, but it’s got a small-town feel when it comes to cozy restaurants on the lake and local festivals, little museums, and local shops.

The feel in this town is rather peaceful, and it’s downright beautiful with 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, shop, 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 a more rural area of the lake on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, 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, with a lot of natural land that hasn’t been built upon.

So, many of the rentals available to book aren’t hotels (they’re more like private cabin rentals) and wouldn’t necessarily be directly on the water/beachfront. 

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 and functional, yet reasonably priced, located within walking distance of most activities (one hotel is on the north end of the lake and one is on the south end of the lake.) 

• Basecamp Hotel (in Tahoe City)
• Basecamp Tahoe South (in South Lake Tahoe)

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

You can rent almost all of your summer needs once you reach Lake Tahoe — from beach chairs and umbrellas to stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and even motorboats.

But here’s a list of the basics that you may want to pack for your Lake Tahoe trip:

• 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 restaurants, 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 Lake Tahoe Itinerary

Without stops, you can probably drive around the whole lake in 3-4 hours, if you don’t run into summertime traffic on the two-lane roads that circle the lake.

However, there are so many things to experience along the way that you should really take at least two or three days to immerse yourself in all there is to see and do around Lake Tahoe.

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 Route. 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, making all the stops along the way suggested in this article and by downloading the Shaka Guide self-driving app tour.
• Stay overnight in South Lake Tahoe, CA. 
• On Day 2, continue clockwise around the lake from South Lake Tahoe to Tahoe City, again, making all of the suggested stops along the way. 
• Stay overnight in Tahoe City, CA. 
• On Day 3, continue from Tahoe City around the lake to Incline Village, making all the recommended stops along the way. 

If you’re planning to stay longer than three days in Tahoe, 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.

You’ll also have the opportunity to visit some of the most amazing places near Lake Tahoe. Read on!

Additional Places to See While You’re in Tahoe

There are so many other great places to visit near Lake Tahoe. So if you have the time, do yourself a favor and add these places to your must-see list:

• Olympic Valley and 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!)
• Genoa, the oldest and sweetest little town in Nevada, is located in the Carson Valley with the Sierra Nevada mountains towering over it.

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. And don’t forget to download the Shaka Guide Lake Tahoe tour for step-by-step directions and entertaining stories along the way!

About the Writer: Lizzie Gerecitano

Lizzie lives on the northeast coast but is an explorer at heart whose biggest challenge is staying in one place. She finds fulfillment in discovering the beauty that lives in every nook and cranny throughout the world, and often captures those images in photos.

She's continuously in search of new paths to walk, hidden adventures to uncover, local flavors to taste...and she wants to share it all with you.

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