Things To Do
in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe sits on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe, straddling the California-Nevada line. Framed by the Sierra Nevada mountains, it blends alpine scenery with a lively resort vibe. In summer it sparkles with beaches, boat rentals, and hiking, while winter draws skiers and snowboarders to nearby slopes.
Throughout the year, a mix of outdoor adventures, scenic viewpoints, and a friendly, outdoorsy community defines the experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in South Lake Tahoe and complete your check-in at a lakeside hotel. Stroll along the shoreline to shake off travel fatigue and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Capture your first photos of the sparkling water against the Sierra Nevada backdrop.
Enjoy lunch at a casual café overlooking the lake and sample local specialties. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby beach and dipping your toes into the cool water. Relax with a coffee on a shaded patio before heading back to the hotel for a short rest.
Witness your first Tahoe sunset from a waterfront vantage point and watch the sky turn vivid hues above the water. Choose a downtown restaurant for a farm-to-table dinner featuring fresh regional ingredients. Return to the hotel for an early night or a leisurely lakeside stroll under the stars.
Drive west to Emerald Bay State Park and park near Inspiration Point. Hike a short loop trail to reach sweeping panoramic views of the bay and Fannette Island. Take your time to photograph the jewel-toned waters framed by pine-clad slopes.
Venture down to Vikingsholm Castle for a guided tour of this Scandinavian-style mansion built in 1929. Enjoy a packed picnic on the grassy shore while admiring the shoreline vistas. If weather permits, wade into the cool, clear water or rent a kayak for a brief paddle.
Return to South Lake Tahoe for dinner at a lakeside bistro with outdoor seating. Afterward, stroll through the lively streets of the downtown district and browse local shops. End your evening with stargazing by the water’s edge before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $6-9 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $120-250 |