Don't Just Explore

Dig In.

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.

Things to Do in Lake Tahoe

When it comes to things to do in Lake Tahoe’s South Shore, you can shred down the mountain from 10,067 ft. at Heavenly Mountain Resort’s peak or you can dive into the depths of Lake Tahoe. It’s more than 1600 ft. deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in North America. Needless to say, there’s plenty of things to do in Lake Tahoe above and below the surface.

Things to Do

Make a Splash

Things to Do in Lake Tahoe During Summer

When the snow melts, Lake Tahoe fills and the sandy beaches glisten in the sun. That’s when it’s time to trade in your snowboards for paddleboards and snowshoes for hiking boots. Get ready to wander in Lake Tahoe.

Vikingsholm Castle at Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe
Vikingsholm Castle in Emerald Bay

The Unexpected Side of Lake Tahoe

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.

Come Back Again. And Again.

Things to Do in Tahoe for Every Season

Sure, we’re a little biased, but there’s never a bad time to visit Lake Tahoe. Pick a season, any season. Celebrate summer in the Sierra with a hike to Emerald Bay State Park or make a splash at Pope Beach. Discover why Tahoe winters are legendary for skiing and holiday fun at the Heavenly Village and Ski Resort. If you want to avoid the high season crowds, visit Lake Tahoe in the spring to hit the slopes in sunglasses and a t-shirt, or come in the fall when the mountains are painted in autumn colors and hiking is at its best. Regardless of when you visit, there’s plenty of Lake Tahoe activities.

Special Offers

The Landing Resort & Spa

The Landing Resort & Spa

Stay Longer and Save Landing Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe

Expires December 31, 2024

Ciera Steak + Chophouse

Ciera Steak + Chophouse

Ciera Steak + Chophouse Prix Fixe Dinner at Bally’s Lake Tahoe

Expires December 31, 2024

Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe

Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe

Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe Grand Opening Offer

Expires May 31, 2024

Entertainment under the stars

Summer Concert Series

When visiting Lake Tahoe, definitely bring your dancing shoes along with your gear. Summer’s are even hotter here thanks to both the world-renowned and regional musicians that play the many Tahoe stages.

All Live Music
Harveys Outdoor Summer Concert Series

Lake Tahoe Things to Do—365 Days a Year

No matter the season, there are so many fun things to do in Lake Tahoe, you will be hard-pressed to accomplish it all! However, activities 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.

As it lay there with the shadows of the mountains brilliantly photographed upon its still surface, I thought it must surely be the fairest picture the whole earth affords.

Mark Twain
Spring Skiing Heavenly Mountain Resort Lake Tahoe

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.

Boating on Lake Tahoe

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 zip by boat 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! 

Biking Kahle Rabe Meadows Trail Lake Tahoe

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.

Skiing Groomed Run Heavenly Mountain Resort 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.

What 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.

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