With its mountainous backdrop and cobalt-blue water, Lake Tahoe is a striking sight. It’s situated in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which makes it a magnet for winter-sports enthusiasts. When the snow melts, the crowds keep coming for summer activities. Choose between skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and much more. Vacationers will also enjoy fishing, fine dining, spa time or visiting a casino.
Lake Tahoe has 72 miles (116 kilometers) of shoreline. It straddles the border of California (west) and Nevada (east) and is the second deepest lake in the United States. The sun shines most of the year and the snowfall averages 600 inches (15 meters) per year.
Shuttle buses from Reno-Tahoe International Airport will bring you to all sides of the lake. The wider area is best explored by car, while the water shuttle is great for hopping between docks along the shores in summer.
Sprawling forest reserves, such as Emerald Bay State Park, cover the Californian side of the lake. Tahoe City and Kings Beach offer good lake-side attractions. Nearby ski resorts are Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows and Homewood Mountain. The Bavarian-style Sugar Bowl Resort is located near Truckee. Heavenly Mountain Resort in South Lake Tahoe spreads from California to Nevada and beats all the other resorts in size and attractions.
The Nevada side of the lake has casinos and more resorts and beaches. In summer, swim at Sand Harbor or Zephyr Cove Beach.
Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for its easy access, amazing scenery and year-round activities. Arrive early in the day and ride the slopes or kayak on the lake. By afternoon, try horseback riding or simply relax and read a book by the shore. In the evening, dine in one of the restaurants overlooking one of America’s most beautiful lakes.
Tahoe City, CA
Travel Guide
Visit Tahoe City
Tahoe City Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Tahoe City
Dollar Point
If you're spending some time in Dollar Point, Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area and Tahoe City Field Station are top sights worth seeing.
Downtown Tahoe City
If you're spending some time in Downtown Tahoe City, Tahoe City Marina and Tahoe State Recreation Area are top sights worth seeing.
Lake Forest
While visiting Lake Forest, you might make a stop by sights like Tahoe City Field Station and Burton Creek Nature Preserve.
Tahoe Park
While Tahoe Park might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Granlibakken Resort Ski Area and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park.
Tahoe Tavern Heights
While Tahoe Tavern Heights might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Granlibakken Resort Ski Area and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park.
Pineland
When in Pineland, you can plan a visit to Granlibakken Resort Ski Area and Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
evo Hotel Tahoe City
There is no breakfast and the loby microwave is small. In room microwwaves would help considerbly.
Reviewed on Nov 15, 2025
Pepper Tree Inn
Great
Reviewed on Nov 11, 2025
Basecamp Tahoe City
Staff was incredibly welcoming. Room was spotless and exactly what we expected. We will be back.
Reviewed on Nov 17, 2025
Waterfront Beachfront Beach Access Pets Allowed Hot Tub Lake House Outdoor Space
The cabin was an excellent choice for our large family gathering. Hard to find a place with this many bedrooms, all of which were clean and ready. The huge dining table was great to be able to have the whole family sit together. The view from the hot tub is incredible. We also used the beach access ...
Reviewed on Oct 10, 2025
Fabulous Cabin Block away from<br>Private Beach
Very nice house. Lots of parking for our 3 vehicles. The kitchen was very well appointed and we were able to cook our meals for 6 people with ease. Comfy beds! I would call the property 'pet tolerant.' Friendly neighbor dogs roam free which our dogs did not appreciate. It is RIGHT ON the busy highway ...
Reviewed on Sep 22, 2025
Rustic Lake Front Family Cabin with Beautiful Views
Good space. Wonderful deck and lake view. Kitchen was somewhat disorganized. And coffee maker was far too small for 6 adults. Coded door lock stopped working mid-stay. Loose railings could become a safety issue for the infirm.
Reviewed on Sep 29, 2025
Popular places to visit
Granlibakken Resort Ski Area
Hit the slopes in Tahoe City with a visit to Granlibakken Resort Ski Area. Wander the lakeside and beautiful beaches in this quaint area.
North Lake Tahoe Visitor Center
After visiting North Lake Tahoe Visitor Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Tahoe City. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.
Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park
Enjoy a trip to Tahoe Treetop Adventure Park and popular activities like skiing in Tahoe City. Wander the lakeside and beautiful beaches in this quaint area.
Lakeview Ski Lift
Enjoy a trip to Lakeview Ski Lift and popular activities like skiing in Tahoe City. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.
North Tahoe Regional Park
Catch an event at North Tahoe Regional Park, and enjoy other activities in Tahoe City such as skiing. Amble around this quaint area's lakeside, or seek out the hiking trails.
Tahoe State Recreation Area
You can take time to visit Tahoe State Recreation Area during your travels to Tahoe City.
Things to do
Lake Tahoe: Scenic Sunset Cruise with Drinks and Snacks
California Adventure Bundle: 8 Self-Guided Audio Tours
Lake Tahoe: Sunset Dinner Cruise
