Searching for things to do in South Lake Tahoe? Discover its top activities, from thrilling outdoor adventures to relaxing spots by the lake. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for your annual trip, our guide highlights the must-see attractions and hidden gems to make your trip unforgettable.
While the entire lake is really impressive, we’re partial to South Lake Tahoe with incredible lake views in the summer and fantastic slopes in the winter.
Haven’t booked your accommodation yet? Booking a vacation rental home with BranchVR will add a special touch to your stay. With a variety of homes to choose from, you can find the perfect home base for your upcoming getaway.
Now let’s dive into the absolute best things to do in South Lake Tahoe each season.
Best Things to Do in the Spring
Spring in South Lake Tahoe is a magical time when the snow begins to melt, revealing lush landscapes and blooming wildflowers. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, making it an ideal season for outdoor exploration and adventure.
If you visit South Lake Tahoe in the spring, we recommend:
Hiking at Van Sickle Bi-State Park
Photo Credit: Galyna Andrushko
Van Sickle Bi-State Park offers a range of scenic trails perfect for spring hiking. As the snow melts, the trails reveal stunning views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. The park’s diverse terrain caters to all hiking levels, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
DL Bliss State Park
DL Bliss State Park is another must-visit destination, known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities. The park features scenic hiking trails and beautiful beaches perfect for picnicking and swimming.
DL Bliss State Park’s tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make it perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Exploring Heavenly Village
Heavenly Village comes alive in the spring with various activities and events. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment in this bustling hub. The Heavenly Gondola ride is a highlight, providing panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains as the landscape transitions from winter to spring.
Depending on the weather each year, spring skiing is possible.
Biking the South Lake Tahoe Bike Path
The South Lake Tahoe Bike Path offers a scenic route for cycling enthusiasts. As the weather warms up, the path provides a beautiful way to explore the lake’s shoreline and enjoy the fresh spring air. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, the bike path is a delightful way to experience the area’s natural beauty.
Enjoying a Picnic at Pope Beach
Pope Beach is an ideal spot for a spring picnic, with its sandy shores and stunning views of Lake Tahoe. The mild weather makes it perfect for relaxing by the water, enjoying a meal, and taking in the serene surroundings. Picnic tables and ample space make it a great choice for families and groups looking to unwind in nature.
Best Things to Do in the Summer
Summer in South Lake Tahoe is a vibrant season, characterized by warm, sunny days and cool, refreshing evenings. With temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, it’s an ideal time to enjoy outdoor adventures and explore the area’s natural beauty.
Beach Day at Pope Beach
Photo Credit: Janice Chen
Pope Beach is a summer favorite, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and fun. With its sandy shores, picnic tables, and stunning views of Lake Tahoe, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a family picnic. The clear waters and gentle waves make it a safe and enjoyable choice for families with children.
Hiking the Rubicon Trail
For hiking enthusiasts, the Rubicon Trail is a must-visit. This scenic trail runs along the lake’s shoreline, providing breathtaking views of the crystal clear waters and surrounding mountains. The trail is accessible for hikers of all levels, offering a rewarding experience with jaw-dropping views at every turn.
Exploring Emerald Bay State Park
Although also great in spring, summer is a fantastic time to visit this state park. Visitors can explore the historic Vikingsholm Castle, hike to Eagle Falls, or simply relax on the sandy beach. The park’s natural beauty and rich history make it a top attraction for summer visitors.
Whether hiking the scenic trails or relaxing on the sandy beach, the park’s spectacular views make it a top attraction for everyone.
Biking the South Lake Tahoe Bike Path
This is another activity that’s fun in pretty much all seasons!
The path is perfect for all skill levels, providing a beautiful way to explore the area while enjoying the fresh summer air. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, this bike path is a delightful way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Touring with Clearly Tahoe
Clearly Tahoe offers a unique way to explore the lake’s clear waters through transparent kayak tours. During the day, these tours provide unmatched visibility, allowing you to see the vibrant aquatic life beneath you.
Experience the magic of glow-in-the-dark night kayak tours, paddling under the stars in illuminated kayaks.
Transparent kayak tours with Clearly Tahoe combine fun and adventure, allowing the whole family to appreciate Lake Tahoe’s natural beauty.
Hanging at The Hangar
The Hangar Lake Tahoe is a vibrant venue that hosts live music events and food trucks, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for family outings. During the summer months, families can relax and enjoy the entertainment while sampling a variety of delicious foods.
The Hangar Lake Tahoe’s family-friendly environment and fun activities make it ideal for a summer outing, ensuring a great time for everyone.
Going on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Photo Credit: drewthehobbit
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over Lake Tahoe. These rides typically begin at dawn, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
The bird’s eye view of iconic locations like Emerald Bay and the Sierra Nevada mountains makes this adventure a highlight of any summer visit to South Lake Tahoe.
Best Things to Do in the Fall
Fall in South Lake Tahoe is a picturesque season, with the landscape transforming into a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and gold hues.
The weather is cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, making it a perfect time for outdoor exploration and enjoying the region’s natural beauty.
Leaf Peeping at Hope Valley
Hope Valley is a must-visit for leaf peeping enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, offering a breathtaking display of colors. Take a scenic drive or hike through the valley to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Exploring Taylor Creek Visitor Center
The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is a fantastic spot to witness the annual kokanee salmon run, which typically occurs in the fall. Visitors can learn about the local wildlife and ecosystem while enjoying the vibrant autumn colors along the creek.
Hiking Eagle Lake Trail
Photo Credit: Janice Chen
The Eagle Lake Trail offers a moderate hike with rewarding views of the alpine lake surrounded by fall foliage. The trail provides an opportunity to experience the tranquility of the changing season and enjoy the crisp autumn air.
Visiting the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum
Fall is a great time to explore the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum, where you can learn about the area’s rich history and culture. The museum’s exhibits provide insights into the region’s past, making it an educational and enriching experience.
Attending Fall Festivals
South Lake Tahoe hosts various fall festivals that celebrate the season’s bounty and community spirit. From Oktoberfest celebrations to harvest festivals, these events offer fun activities, delicious food, and live entertainment for all ages.
Things to Do in South Lake Tahoe in the Winter
Winter in South Lake Tahoe transforms the area into a snowy paradise, offering a host of activities for visitors to enjoy. With temperatures ranging from the high 20s to mid-40s Fahrenheit, guests can expect crisp, cool weather perfect for winter sports and cozy relaxation.
Here are the top five things to do in South Lake Tahoe during the winter months:
Skiing and Snowboarding at Heavenly Mountain Resort
Photo Credit: Alisa_Ch
Heavenly Mountain Resort is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. With world-class slopes and stunning views of Lake Tahoe, it offers an unforgettable winter sports experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the resort’s diverse terrain caters to all skill levels.
Not only will you get great lake views, at other angles from the top of the slopes, you can get impressive desert views over the Nevada side. There’s something really special about being in the snow looking out into the desert.
Snowshoeing at Adventure Mountain
For those who prefer a quieter winter activity, snowshoeing at Adventure Mountain is a fantastic option. The resort offers scenic trails that wind through the snow-covered landscape, providing a peaceful way to explore the beauty of the Tahoe Basin.
Ice Skating at Heavenly Village
Heavenly Village boasts a charming outdoor ice skating rink, perfect for families and couples looking to enjoy a classic winter pastime. Glide across the ice surrounded by festive lights and the vibrant atmosphere of the village.
Visiting Adventure Mountain
Adventure Mountain is the perfect destination for winter fun with the family. It offers designated areas for tubing, sledding, and snow play, making it a great spot for kids to enjoy the snow. As the highest tubing resort in the Tahoe Basin, Adventure Mountain boasts abundant snowfall, ensuring plenty of opportunities for winter activities.
Families can also try snowshoeing on scenic trails, adding extra adventure to their visit. Adventure Mountain’s variety of winter activities guarantees a memorable day for all.
Relaxing in a Hot Tub
After a day of winter adventures, there’s nothing better than unwinding in a hot tub. Many vacation rentals in South Lake Tahoe, such as those offered by BranchVR, feature private hot tubs with stunning views of the snowy landscape, providing the perfect way to relax and warm up.
Embrace the winter magic of South Lake Tahoe, where outdoor adventures and cozy retreats combine to create an unforgettable experience.
Shopping & Dining in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe offers a vibrant shopping and dining scene that reflects the area’s rich cultural offerings. From boutique shops to diverse culinary options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Discover these top shopping and dining spots in South Lake Tahoe.
The Shops at Heavenly Village
The Shops at Heavenly Village is a bustling hub of activity, offering over 40 shops and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere with a variety of shopping options, from unique gifts and art to fashion and accessories. The village also features seasonal activities like live music and ice skating, adding to its charm.
Shopping, dining, or entertainment, The Shops at Heavenly Village offer a dynamic experience for everyone.
Savvy of Lake Tahoe
Savvy of Lake Tahoe is a chic boutique specializing in women’s fashion. The store offers a curated selection of clothing, footwear, and accessories, making it a popular spot for style-conscious shoppers.
Village Center – South Lake Tahoe
The Village Center in South Lake Tahoe is a vibrant spot featuring a range of dining options, ski rental shops, and live music events. It’s a popular destination for food lovers, offering a variety of eateries that cater to different tastes.
Visitors can also find ski rentals and enjoy live music throughout the year, making it a hub of activity and entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Lake Tahoe worth visiting?
Absolutely, South Lake Tahoe is worth visiting! With its stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and exciting nightlife, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What is the prettiest spot in Lake Tahoe?
Emerald Bay is definitely the prettiest spot in Lake Tahoe, known for its stunning views and iconic scenery. You can enjoy the breathtaking sights right from the lookout at Emerald Bay State Park.
What are the top attractions in South Lake Tahoe?
You can’t miss Emerald Bay State Park, Heavenly Mountain Resort, and DL Bliss State Park in South Lake Tahoe—each spot is packed with breathtaking views and fun activities!
What family-friendly activities are available in South Lake Tahoe?
You’ll love the family-friendly activities in South Lake Tahoe! Check out Adventure Mountain for winter fun, enjoy transparent kayak tours with Clearly Tahoe, and don’t miss summer outings at The Hangar Lake Tahoe.
What outdoor adventures can I enjoy in South Lake Tahoe?
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures in South Lake Tahoe, including hiking the Rubicon Trail, kayaking, parasailing, and even taking a hot air balloon ride. In the winter, we definitely recommend skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating. It’s a great place to get active and explore the stunning scenery!
Enjoy the Best Things to Do All Year in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe offers a diverse array of attractions and activities that cater to all interests and ages. Whether you’re exploring the scenic trails, enjoying the water sports, or immersing yourself in the local culture, there’s no shortage of things to do.
The area’s unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant community spirit makes it a top destination for travelers. Plus, with so many great vacation rental homes, you’ll be in for a great trip whether you’re relaxing or outside exploring.
Plan your visit today and discover why South Lake Tahoe is a beloved destination for so many.
